The main purpose of this resolution is to establish a policy that would withhold the pay of U.S. Senators during any government shutdown. A government shutdown occurs when there is a lapse in funding for federal agencies, which can happen if Congress fails to pass necessary appropriations. The key provisions of this resolution include a clear definition of what constitutes a government shutdown and the process for withholding Senators' pay. When a shutdown occurs, the Secretary of the Senate is responsible for holding back any payments that would normally be made to Senators.