On the recordJune 4, 2013
I understand the objection. I have no ill will toward my chairman or ranking member for their objection. What this amendment does is during sequester, it prohibits performance awards in the Senior Executive Service. We are paying performance bonuses right now during sequester. The Office of Management and Budget has ordered a freeze on most bonuses for Federal workers during sequestration, but the current law provides an exemption for members of the Senior Executive Service who are among the most highly paid Federal Government employees. This amendment closes that exemption loophole. If we are all going to suffer, everybody is going to suffer. Just because you work in the Senior Executive Service doesn't mean you should not have to participate and lead on the sacrifice this country is going to have to be making and is making. This treats SES personnel just like every other Federal employee. I ask the pending amendment be set aside--actually, I think I will stop with that--one other. Mr. President, I ask amendment No. 1152 be called up. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there objection?
