[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 38 (Wednesday, March 4, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E549]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        A CALL FOR CONGRESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND TRANSPARENCY

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                            HON. JERRY MORAN

                               of kansas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 4, 2009

  Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to a cost-
of-living increase for Members of Congress. Across our country, the 
faltering economy is closing businesses and leaving many without jobs. 
Our national debt is climbing to levels that future generations will be 
responsible for. I believe it is past time for Congress to be 
responsible. One action we can take is to cancel the automatic pay 
increase.
  Without a direct yes-or-no vote on this provision, we add to the 
impression that too many people have of Congress. If Congress is to 
vote itself a raise in pay, it should be done in full view.
  This process should be reformed. Members of Congress should not be 
able to receive an automatic cost-of-living increase. Each of us should 
be on the record with the citizens of our districts whether we believe 
an increase to our own salary is justified. In this time of increased 
economic hardship, I am going on the record in firm opposition to this 
increase in pay. Since I was not allowed to directly vote yes or no, 
this forum has become my only recourse. We will not have the 
transparent process promised to my fellow Americans until we cease this 
automatic system. I only wish I could do more to right this injustice 
to the American taxpayer. We have a long way to go in gaining the 
people's trust. Ending this unfair practice would help.

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