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TO: U.S. Elected Official

I am writing to you to express my concern and disappointment with regard to the Treasury & General Government Appropriation’s Act, which became effective on January 1, 2001. This Bill provided an increase in annual pay to elected officials to $141,300 plus benefits which also includes $3000.00 per year housing-allowance deduction. In addition to this increase, U.S. Senators and Representatives are allowed to earn an additional 15% of their salary from outside sources through various revenue generating activity such as, consulting, legal practice and speaking engagements. In addition to this compensation, elected officials are also allowed to receive unlimited income from book royalties during their tenure – all while serving their constituents. Retirement benefits offered to elected officials far exceed those provided by social security to constituents. Currently, most elected officials participate in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) which offers social security and a defined-contribution benefit plan that is similar to a 401(K) and an automatic cost-of-living increase of about 3.4% each year. Members of Congress pay 1.3% of their salary into the benefit plan which is matched by the government (vis-à-vis tax payers dollars) by approximately 11% annually.

As a taxpayer, I am concerned that the focus of elected officials has shifted toward personal gain, instead of serving the interest of constituents. I don’t believe elected officials should engage in any outside work assignments. There positions are and should be full-time. They should be paid as “public servants” and leave the book writing, consulting and any other outside activity to when they vacate their positions.

If serving constituents is a part-time job, perhaps they should receive a reduced amount of pay, as opposed to a raise. I am concerned that the quality of my government will be compromised if the abuse of taxpayer dollars continues. I work hard for each dollar I earn and I expect my elected officials to commit to being a full-time public servant through the use of my tax dollars. Please acknowledge this message, and please let me know what your position is on this very serious matter. This is important to me and to your other constituents.

My personal message to you is:

Sincerely,

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