Republican Leadership Blocks Substitute from Floor of House

December 15, 2005

Late Breaking News from Capitol Hill:

The Republican-run Rules Committee (the Committee that determines how much time and what votes will be allowed on the House floor) voted along strict party lines to prevent the Miller-Rangel substitute to HR 2830 from coming up on the House floor.

It appears that our efforts were paying off and the Republican leadership was worried that they would lose on this vote and that the Miller-Rangel substitute would prevail.

MEC President Greg Davidowitch released a statement about this development which states in part:

“When the Republican Leadership realized they were going to lose the vote on the House floor they blocked the substitute legislation from coming up for a vote… The same Republican Leadership who is calling for the right to vote in Iraq has blocked our Representatives’ vote on this important legislation.  The hypocrisy of their actions is palpable.  Democracy in Iraq - but not in America.”

A heated debate on the issue is taking place now and there is an effort underway to pass a motion to recommit the substitute.  Keep up the calls – your efforts are working. 

Along with all of the House Democrats, there are House Republicans who support our efforts to preserve our pensions.  We need to appeal to their Republican colleagues to join the effort to preserve workers’ retirement security and we need to invigorate the Democrats who are leading this fight with calls to their offices as well.

Call now and continue our simple message:

“Remember United Flight Attendants and support the Miller-Rangel substitute to HR 2830.”

If you called yesterday, call again today.  Call Now!

Find Your Representative’s Contact Information>

Non-US citizens: Call the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dennis Hastert at 202-225-2976. 

Any Member may also call the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121

Background:

The Miller-Rangel substitute to HR 2830 would:

  • provide employers with pension fund stability;
  • encourage employers to maintain defined benefit plans without cuts in workers' pension benefits;
  • protect American, Continental, Delta, Northwest, and United Airlines employee pensions;
  • protect multiemployer pensions; protect pensions of military, public sector and disabled individuals;
  • encourage fair treatment between workers and executives;
  • improve 401(k) plans and middle class retirement savings incentives;
  • and fully pay for all the costs without increasing the Federal Deficit.