Issues

Congressional Pension Plan

If you are familiar with my record, you will know that I have historically opposed pay increases and excessive benefits for Members of Congress.  I fight hard to ensure your tax dollars are spent wisely.  As a fiscal conservative, I have repeatedly voted against pay raises for Members of Congress.  Since the 1983 reforms to federal pension programs, the congressional pay raise has been automatic unless the House passes legislation prohibiting the increase. 

    During consideration of the Fiscal Year 2005 Treasury-Transportation Appropriations bill (H.R. 5025), I voted against the rule to bring the bill to the floor because the rule did not allow for an amendment to be offered to block the congressional pay raise.  Notwithstanding my vote, the rule for the bill passed, as did the appropriations bill itself.  Currently, I am a cosponsor of legislation (H.R. 31), introduced by Rep. Jeff Miller (R-FL), that would nullify last year’s pay raise for Members.  H.R. 31 has been referred to the House Committees on House Administration and Government Reform. 

    In case you did not know, I have refused to participate in the congressional pension program.  I have labeled it a taxpayer rip-off.  It is a much bigger abuse of the taxpayers than is a pay raise.  I do not think you owe me a retirement package just because I decided to go into public service.  I also refused to participate in the legislative retirement plan when I served in the N.C. General Assembly in Raleigh.