SHERROD BROWN DOES THE RIGHT THING

I don't think Sherrod Brown would mind my sharing his letter to me.  I'm so thankful that Sherrod Brown was re-elected to the Senate.  He  is an excellent example of the kind of public servant we want to represent us.

 

 

"Dear Elaine:

 

Thank you for getting in touch with me about the salaries and benefits provided to lawmakers and federal workers.

 

 

During these tough economic times, working families are making their own difficult decisions on how to reduce their personal budgets. With this in mind, it is clear that the government must lead by example and share in the sacrifices required to reduce its budget.

 

 

In December 2010, President Obama introduced a plan to freeze salaries for federal civilian workers for two years. According to projections, the proposal saved the federal government $5 billion.

 

 

 

In addition, with the understanding that lawmakers should not be receiving a raise as working families are struggling to make ends meet, I am a cosponsor of legislation that would prevent members of Congress from receiving an automatic pay raise. This bill would reduce spending by $80 million over the next decade. Lawmakers have not received a cost-of-living adjustment for three years.

 

 

Furthermore, with some in Congress considering substantial changes to Social Security, there is no reason that lawmakers should be exempt from the same reforms that could cause financial hardship for the middle class. I am proud to have introduced the Congressional Retirement Age Act, which would amend federal employee pension laws so that members of Congress can no longer receive their federal pensions before individuals can receive their Social Security retirement benefits.

 

 

Lastly, when I first came to Congress, I refused participate in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program because too many Americans had no health coverage at all. Only after Congress passed health reform legislation in 2010 — which provides Americans the same type of insurance options that members of Congress currently receive — have I opted to participate in the Congressional health plan.

 

 

As the Senate considers legislation that would cut salaries or benefits for federal workers and lawmakers, I will be sure to keep your views in mind. Thank you again for getting in touch with me.

 

 

Sincerely,

         

Sherrod Brown

United States Senator"