Scott Klug: “I rise in support of the Metcalf-Tiahrt-Luther amendment which will freeze the cost-of-living adjustment [COLA] for…”

“I rise in support of the Metcalf-Tiahrt-Luther amendment which will freeze the cost-of-living adjustment [COLA] for members of this body, judicial branch, and senior executive branch officials. When we, as Members of Congress, make more than three-fourths of this country's workforce, there is absolutely no reason to give ourselves a raise. We took the first steps towards a fiscally sound Nation last fall by passing a budget that would bring us into balance in 7 years. I believe we can and should show the American people that we mean business by voting to hold our own salaries at 1993 levels. As we ask all other Federal departments to tighten their belts, we should do our part by not accepting this COLA. I just cannot see, nor can I justify, giving myself a raise in the midst of a $5 trillion national debt. Voting to freeze our pay at 1993 levels will have a direct effect on the debt because it will lower our pension burden on the American taxpayer. Members of this body, Mr. Chairman, voted in 1989 to give themselves this COLA. Had I been a Member of Congress at that time I would not have supported a pay raise then and I will not support a pay raise now. I urge my colleagues to support the amendment.”