Assemblyman Katz Calls Sen. Schumer's Comments on Veterans' Pay Cuts "Deplorable"

Assemblyman Katz today responded to Senator Schumer's remarks regarding veterans' pay cuts, calling them "deplorable" and "misguided."

The senator commented that he should not have to take a pay cut because he has not seen a pay increase "in a long time."

"Civilian federal employees have been cut, cut, cut. I think there was a feeling, if you're going to cut them further, which was done, that the military retirees should have about an equal amount,"Schumer said.

The plan would cut over $6 billion from veterans' benefits over the next 10 years.

"This type of action just before the holidays is absolutely tasteless," Katz continued. "Every senator makes $174,000, but the budget has to be balanced on the backs of those who defend and sacrificed for us because he hasn't gotten a raise 'in a long time?' This is why the American public has no faith in its government. I have consistently advocated for pay cuts to the legislature in New York, but clearly professional politicians in Washington have a different agenda. Our veterans deserve better."