GOP Bill Would Slash Congressional Salaries Until Budget Is Balanced

Proposed Legislation to Cut Pay

The concept is simply one of accountability. It would decrease congressional salaries annually until the national budget is balanced. It demands responsible budgeting from congress, just as individuals must be responsible when they allocate personal spending. Currently, political leaders on both sides promote their favorite programs, parcel out political favors, and wrangle over the spoils. There seems to be no focus on balancing the budget, given that Congress can “borrow” the money if they overspend, thus driving the nation deeper and deeper into debt. The solution is not increasing taxes, it is learning to live on what we take in. Unfortunately, the other challenge will be whose programs get cut to limit spending.

It seems worth a try, and at least it will embarrass lawmakers if they refuse to put it up for a vote.

Iowa Republican Rep. Rod Blum introduced legislation Friday that would decrease congressional members’ salaries annually until the national budget is balanced.

Lawmakers’ pay would be docked 5 percent the first year and an additional 10 percent each year after, according to the legislation. The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2016 would restore compensation levels upon the closure of the deficit.

“As a career small businessman, I know firsthand the consequences when businesses mismanage resources. But unlike the private sector, Congress faces no penalties for failure,” Blum said in a statement. “Year after year we’ve seen the same thing: grand promises of future savings while our national debt continues to skyrocket. For the sake of our children and grandchildren who will be stuck paying off our $19 trillion debt, it’s time we make our politicians face the reality of our fiscal crisis by hitting them where it counts: their own pocketbook.”

Of course the bill does not consider the ridiculous retirement, health programs, and endless perks afforded the pols, but there is at least some potential that this will get their attention. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the U.S. will run a $544 billion deficit in 2016, and the prestige and fiscal health of the United States depends on Congress getting control of spending and recognizing that they cannot give away goodies to every possible group from which they seek votes.

The easiest way to cut costs is to recognize that government is too big, and too expansive. So three cheers for Rep. Rod Blum, may he find success and support in his efforts. Due to his proposal, however, he may find he is eating lunch alone without the company of his fellow congressmen.

Source: dailycaller.com