Story perspectives
Trump Administration's Backpay Reinterpretation Faces Legal Challenges
10/9/2025
42 4
1 of 1
Story summary
- The Trump administration may reinterpret the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act to deny backpay after a shutdown, claiming it covers 2019.
- Sam Bagenstos, former General Counsel of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), criticized the interpretation; Sen. Tim Kaine is considering legal action.
- Attorney General Pam Bondi deflected questions at a Senate hearing and blamed Democrats for the shutdown.
