Pay Freeze for Certain Senior Political Officials During Lapse in Appropriations

As Congress considers next steps on appropriations, agencies are being directed to maintain frozen pay rates for certain senior political officials. OPM advises that the previously established freeze should remain in effect past September 30, 2025, unless new legislation explicitly changes it. Any adjustments will only occur once Congress provides clear direction, and OPM will issue updated guidance at that time. In the interim, agencies must treat the frozen rates as the official pay levels to ensure consistent compliance.