Democratic lawmakers scrambled Wednesday to secure backpay for federal contractors before President Trump and congressional leaders strike a deal to resolve the ongoing budget stand-off and prevent another government shutdown. Supporters fear that if they don’t get the legislation while fear of another federal shutdown is fresh, then any congressional interest in helping the contractors will fade out.

“A deal to keep gov’t open is almost done. One of the last issues on the table: back pay for contractors (like custodians & security guards),” tweeted Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn. “800k federal workers got backpay. This is no different. We only have a few hours. Make your voices heard so we can get this done.”