Senate bills to pay air traffic controllers during shutdown fail

(FOX40.COM) —A bill in the Senate that would have paid air traffic controllers, who have been working unpaid during the government shutdown, failed.

Video Above: Politicians rally with TSA workers over government shutdown

The Shutdown Fairness Act, led by Senator Ron Johnson from Wisconsin, was introduced to establish pay for federal employees who are required to work amid the shutdown. The vote was 55-45, with the bill needing 60 votes to pass.

Those who were against the bill argued that it gave the White House too much authority over which federal workers do or don’t get paid. The Democrats’ alternative solution was the True Shutdown Fairness Act, which also did not receive enough votes to pass.

Sponsored by Senator Van Hollen from Maryland, the True Shutdown Fairness Act would not only pay federal workers during the government shutdown but also prevent the Trump administration from attempting mass layoffs.

Since neither bills were approved, air traffic controllers will continue to be required to work despite not receiving paychecks. The federal shutdown’s impact on federal workers, especially air traffic controllers, continues to raise worries about staff shortages.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that travelers will feel the strain, with more flights possibly delayed or canceled.