FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Doug McGinn March 23, 1999 (202) 225-3031 RYAN VOTES NO ON INCREASING COMMITTEE BUDGETS & SAYS NO TO PAY HIKE
WASHINGTON - First District Congressman Paul Ryan today voted against a measure to increase House committee budgets. Ryan also voiced his opposition to the House Republican and Democratic leadership proposal to provide a cost-of-living-increase (COLA) or a living per diem of about $18,000 per year for Members of Congress. "We must make do with what we have. Our constituents expect no less of us."
"In proving to the American people that we can make tough decisions and that we can enforce some needed discipline within our federal budget process, we must hold ourselves in check," said Ryan. "Members can do without pay raises and committees can do without funding increases. While Congressional committees may lack some resources, I know plenty of businesses in Southern Wisconsin that would envy their budgets. We must make do with what we have. Our constituents expect no less of us."
"As Congress is set to begin debate on the tough spending decisions that need to be made in crafting the federal budget, some Members are now claiming they need a pay raise. If Members of Congress want to make more money they are simply in the wrong business."
For additional information, or to schedule an interview with Congressman Ryan, please contact Doug McGinn at (202) 225-3031.