Critical service positions in the Northern Marianas, such as doctors, nurses, police and firefighters could also have their wages cut by 16-hours per pay period from October the 24th, because the new budget law hasn't specifically exempted them from the cuts.
But lawmakers say they should be exempt.
A Representative, Teresita Santos, says lives and livelihood will be jeopardised if there are disruptions for critical service workers.
The government has been struggling financially, has made the cuts, which will mean wage reductions or around 25 percent for more than four thousand workers, to try and reduce its expenditure.
