Congresswoman Duckworth Returns Congressional Office Funds

“As Members of Congress, we lead by example,” said Duckworth. “With so many working families trying to make ends meet, it is important that we make sure every taxpayer dollar is put to good use and that’s why I am proud to return these funds to the taxpayers.  Since being elected, my office has helped our neighbors receive thousands of dollars in constituent services, obtain Federal assistance to rebuild after last year’s flooding and helped secure grant money for organizations like the Greater Elgin Family Care Center, all while conserving taxpayer dollars. It is my hope that these funds will be used to reduce our deficit and that Members on both sides of aisle can work together to find our constituents more savings.”

Duckworth has made accountability a priority since taking office.

In February 2013, Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth took an 8.4% pay reduction, the same percentage that most discretionary programs were cut as a result of the sequester.  In total, she gave back more than $10,000 to the U.S. Treasury to help reduce the debt. She was the first Member of Congress to do so.

Duckworth is a cosponsor of the No Budget No Pay Act, which would prevent Members of Congress from being paid if they fail to pass a budget.

In May 2014, Duckworth introduced legislation that would prevent lawmakers from booking first-class airline seats using their congressional allowances.

This month, Duckworth introduced the “Stop the Frank Act,” with Rep. Robert Woodall (R-GA). This bipartisan legislation would eliminate the Franking privilege for Members of Congress.  Specifically, the bill repeals an antiquated federal law that exempts Congress from the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) prepayment requirement.