WASHINGTON, D.C.: Oregon Congressman Kurt Schrader joined with a bi-partisan group of lawmakers yesterday to introduce legislation reducing his salary and that of his 534 colleagues in the House and Senate by 5%. If adopted it would be the first time in nearly 80 years that Congress has cut its own pay.

The legislation was introduced on the same day Schrader also voted to cut Congressional budgets by 5%.

“Oregon families are tightening their belts and members of Congress should do the same,” said Schrader. “With our current debt situation it’s irresponsible for Congress to continue to accept automatic pay increases. We need to reduce our own spending and that includes salaries.”

The pay cut would reduce member salaries immediately following the 2012 elections. The 27th Amendment prohibits Congress from reducing salaries until the current Congressional session has concluded.

Schrader has voted against Congressional pay raises every year he has served in Congress.