A new proposal in Congress could shake up Washington in a way few lawmakers ever expected.
Republican Rep. Chip Roy of Texas is backing a plan that would cut off taxpayer-funded salaries and strip leadership power from members of Congress who have served more than 12 years in the House or Senate.
The proposal targets what many Americans view as one of Washington’s biggest problems: career politicians who spend decades in office while gaining more influence, more authority, and more control over taxpayer dollars.
For voters frustrated with the political establishment, the proposal could represent one of the boldest congressional reform efforts in years.
Lawmakers Could Lose Their Pay After 12 Years
Under Roy’s proposal, members of Congress who reach 12 cumulative years of service in their chamber would no longer receive congressional pay funded by taxpayers.
The legislation would also prevent those lawmakers from serving in powerful leadership positions or acting as committee chairs and ranking members.
That means longtime lawmakers could continue serving if voters keep electing them, but they would do so without collecting a congressional salary or controlling key positions of power.
A Direct Challenge To Career Politicians
Roy argues that Washington has created a system that rewards politicians simply for staying in office longer.
Roy argued that Washington has long operated under a system where lawmakers who remain in office for decades gain more influence, larger taxpayer-funded compensation, and increased control over the legislative process.
He believes elected office should be about public service rather than building a lifelong political career.
Supporters say the proposal would encourage fresh leadership and reduce the influence of entrenched political insiders who have dominated Congress for decades.
Why Many Conservatives Support The Idea
Calls for congressional term limits have remained popular among conservative voters for years.
Many Americans believe Washington has become disconnected from everyday citizens and that longtime lawmakers often prioritize political survival over solving problems.
By limiting the benefits and authority that come with extended service, supporters argue the proposal would make Congress more accountable to voters and less attractive to career politicians.
The plan stops short of imposing official term limits, but it seeks to create powerful incentives for turnover and new leadership.
Constitutional Questions Could Follow
The proposal is expected to spark debate among legal scholars and lawmakers.
The U.S. Constitution gives the House and Senate broad authority to establish their own rules and procedures. However, it also states that members of Congress are entitled to compensation established by law.
Because of that, critics are likely to argue that portions of the proposal could face constitutional challenges if enacted.
Even so, supporters contend the measure is a serious attempt to address concerns about government accountability and political entrenchment.
What Happens Next?
The legislation would apply beginning with the 121st Congress, which is scheduled to begin in 2029.
Whether the proposal gains enough support to advance remains uncertain, but it has already reignited a national conversation about congressional reform, term limits, government spending, and the growing influence of longtime Washington insiders.
For millions of Americans who believe Congress has become a permanent political class, the proposal raises a simple question:
Should elected office be a temporary public service—or a lifelong career funded by taxpayers?
