FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Doug McGinn July 15, 1999 (202) 225-3031 RYAN VOTES AGAINST CONGRESSIONAL PAY HIKE
WASHINGTON - First District Congressman Paul Ryan today voted against a procedural motion that provides members of Congress an annual cost-of-living-adjustment. Despite Ryan's vote, the motion passed clearing the way for a 3.4% increase near the amount of $4,600. Following passage, Ryan announced that he plans to donate the proceeds of the increase to Wisconsin charities in the name of his late father, Paul Murray Ryan. The charities will be identified later this summer. "I simply feel that I must earn the trust of my constituents in Wisconsin before I could even contemplate the thought of increasing my own salary."
Unless blocked by a majority of votes, members receive an annual cost-of-living-adjustment each year.
"This borders on the absurd," said Ryan. "To have to vote not to get a pay raise does not represent how most Americans go about increasing their take home pay. In Southern Wisconsin, the people I represent work day-in and day-out to earn more for their families. As a freshman member, I simply cannot justify taking a pay raise after serving just six months in office and therefore plan to make these additional funds available to charitable organizations in Wisconsin."
"If Congressional members feel worthy of a pay raise it should be done in the light of day, not hidden behind some procedural vote that they hope no one will notice. Further, I believe Congress lacks the moral authority to provide itself a cost-of-living-adjustment at a higher rate than Social Security recipients receive."
"There are good people in Congress who serve their constituents well and I do not wish to insult their accomplishments by my vote. I simply feel that I must earn the trust of my constituents in Wisconsin before I could even contemplate the thought of increasing my own salary."
Ryan plans to announce the charities that will receive donations in the near future.
For additional information, or to speak to Congressman Ryan, please contact Doug McGinn at (202) 225-3031.