We are in uncharted territory. We are experiencing a humanitarian, medical and financial crisis due to the coronavirus. Workers have lost jobs. Families are trying to figure out how to survive the next month while we combat this virus. People are scared due to the uncertainty. While Congress is deciding on a coronavirus stimulus package, is it fair that Congress still gets paid? They are not worried about paying their mortgage or where their next meal is coming from. At least 1 member of Congress feels this way. In an edition of the publication "The Hill" March 24, 2020 - 07:13 PM EDT Sen. Martha McSally (R-Ariz.) has introduced legislation that would withhold pay from all Senate members until the chamber passes a coronavirus stimulus package in response to the national outbreak.
"If Americans aren't getting paid, then neither should the Senators failing to support the workers and families who need help making ends meet," McSally said in a statement on Tuesday.
"Today, I introduced legislation to have Senators' pay withheld until relief is passed. It is despicable that millions of Americans are without a paycheck in this time of crisis, while the Senate wastes precious time playing political games," she continued. "The Senate must pass this relief package now in order to get cash straight to the people."
Under the measure, which McSally's office also dubbed the "No COVID-19 Relief, No Pay" bill, all U.S. senators would see their salaries held in escrow until the chamber advances legislation "that appropriately addresses the COVID-19 outbreak," the bill states.
I think we should do one better. I think we should ask them to withhold 3 months pay. It will be at least this long before we start to see life pre-coronavirus. If they are serious about helping the United States citizens, wouldn't it be nice to see them put their money where their mouths are?
