Matheson Says Pay Raise Freeze Appropriate
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
MATHESON NEWS
2nd DISTRICT
For Further Information
Alyson Heyrend: (801) 455-5593
Jan. 31, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Matheson Says Pay Raise Freeze Appropriate
Washington D.C.-Congressman Jim Matheson, who has waged a six-year battle in the House to get an up-or-down vote on the automatic Congressional pay raise, said he welcomes this year's salary freeze. The current annual salary is $165,200.
"It sends a message that we're willing to live within our means, just as most Americans do when they balance the family checkbook," said Matheson. "I'm not saying Congress should never get a raise. But instead of following some hidden agreement, we should have an open, honest discussion about whether or not a pay hike is appropriate, in a time of staggering U.S. debt."
The Congressional Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 1.7% or $2,800 is not included in H J Res 20-the fiscal 2007 spending bill. That bill is necessary to keep a large portion of the federal government from shutting down after Feb. 15 th, when a temporary funding measure expires. Last year, Congress completed just two of 11 appropriations bills. Since Oct. 1, much of the federal government has been operating under stopgap spending bills known as continuing resolutions.
Matheson has been the sole voice in the House of Representatives every year since his 2000 election, asking colleagues to support setting aside the obscure agreement that provides a salary increase, without requiring them to vote on it.
"However this year's decision to freeze the automatic raise was reached, I welcome it as progress in my effort for more accountability," said Matheson.