Why is Congress still paid during a government shutdown?

WASHINGTON — The federal government has shut down after lawmakers in Congress failed to strike a deal on a funding bill, forcing agencies to furlough their “non-essential” employees.

Under the shutdown, federal employees in critical positions are required to stay on the job. Many others will be forced to stay home. Both groups will have their paychecks delayed until Congress approves more spending, however, members of Congress will still continue to be paid.

According to the Constitution , Congress is required to set its own salaries to be paid by the Treasury.

Article I, Section 6 of the Constitution says “The Senators and Representatives shall receive a Compensation for their Services, to be ascertained by Law, and paid out of the Treasury of the United States.”

This means they