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Show STATEMENT OF SENATOR FRANK E. MOSS REGARDING PROPOSED SALARY INCREASES JANUARY 7, 1969 Economy in government is a prime goal, and costs must be kept as low as possible. Federal salaries are paid by federal taxes. The recommendations to increase the pay of the President and other top level government officials has come from a lengthy study by a non-goveznmental and non-partisan commission. These re commendatfons deserve thought- ful consideration, and I will give them just that. I am inclined to favor the increase for the President. His is the most dernanding job in the entire world, and the compensation should be based on those demands. The suggested increase may not be too much; after all; George Washington was paid $25,000 per yea r to be our first President, and $25,000 J in those days (200 years ago) was a lot more money than $200,000 is today, Many individuals in private industry, with far less demanding pb artibn s, receive much more money than the More suggested amount for the President. study is needed for the recommended increases for the Cabinet, Judicial Officers and Members of Congress. figures for these positions are too high. is to bring closer Off-hand, But again, I think the announced the purpose of the increase together the salaries paid governmental officials and those in private industry who do comparable work. Cabinet Officers, for often give up tremendous salaries to example, accept responsible positions in government service. Most of the announced Cabinet appointees of President-elect Nixon will take a huge cut in they becorne federal officers. salary if Some increase oiter the present amount is probably needed for them. Similar jobs should be compensated at approximately the so same rate, it is difficult to raise salaries for one class of top leaders and not for others. I expect that a ddrHona.l some lesser salary figures will be suggested and even then study will be needed before a final decision can be reached. # |
