Politics & Government

Reps. Moran and Connolly Oppose Budget Cuts to Federal Pay and Benefits

Congressional negotiators continue working to reach a deal that would avert another government shutdown.

U.S. Reps. Jim Moran and Gerry Connolly said Thursday they will oppose a budget deal that makes "unfair and indiscriminate cuts" to federal employee pay or retirement benefits.

The two Northern Virginia Democrats cited reports they said indicate Republican budget negotiators are demanding a reduction in federal employee retirement benefits in an attempt to offset sequestration cuts.

“No other group has been asked to make the same sacrifice as our federal workforce," the lawmakers said in a joint statement.

Read an update on how the budget negotiations could affect federal workers in this Washington Post report. Congressional negotiators are working to reach a deal before the Jan. 15 deadline for another government shutdown.

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Moran and Connolly continued: "To date, they have contributed $114 billion to deficit reduction, endured a 3-year pay freeze, had retirement benefits reduced for new hires, lived through a 16-day shutdown, and lost pay as a result of furloughs. Per capita, that’s nearly $50,000 per employee - far more than any other American has been asked to contribute towards deficit reduction."

Moran represents the 8th District, while Connolly represents the 11th District.

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“Enough is enough," they said. "Congress must find a budget deal that protects federal employees, removes sequester level spending caps, and finally acknowledges the value of federal service.”


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