Lynn C. Woolsey: “I rise in support of the Obey/Miller Amendment, which would protect millions of workers from losing their overtime pay.…”

“I rise in support of the Obey/Miller Amendment, which would protect millions of workers from losing their overtime pay. If the Bush Administration's proposed changes take effect, 79 percent of the workers in this country will lose their guaranteed right to overtime pay, 79% (8 out of every 10 workers). This is not just bad policy, it's piracy. It is a slap in the face to any effort for economic recovery. Mr. Speaker, how many CEO's do you know who would work without their pay? Under the Bush Administration's proposal, workers will be working the same long hours they now work--in fact, probably longer hours, without overtime compensation. That's why the Obey/Miller Amendment ensures that "no" public funds can be used to take away the overtime rights of workers. It is tough enough on families that are forced to spend long hours away from their families to earn a living, and commute long distances, now under this bill they won't even be compensated for their extra time. Join me in voting for this amendment to make certain that workers and families are not shortchanged by the Bush policies.”