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Letter to House Opposing Entitlement Commission & Fast-Tracking

May 16, 2008

Dear Representative:

On behalf of the 1.4 million members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), I am writing to express our opposition to legislative proposals to create an "entitlement commission," or other similar entities designed to fast-track wide-ranging legislation on federal taxes and entitlements.  We are concerned about the potentially damaging impact such proposals could have on Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and other key federal safety net programs. 

AFSCME also opposes creating new congressional rules to fast-track this type of legislation.  The affected services and programs are too important to not receive full consideration and attention.  Moreover, we think it is inappropriate to sidestep or ignore congressional committees that have oversight and authorizing powers over these programs. 

Another major flaw is the scope of these bills.  Given the importance of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid to working families, the disabled and seniors, it would be difficult to attempt to make major modifications to them in one bill.  Similarly, a wholesale change in federal tax policies should not be shoehorned into one legislative vehicle.  It would be unwise to set a precedent of attempting sweeping changes in either tax policy or in benefit programs of this nature without full and careful consideration.

Many existing entitlement commission proposals that have been introduced are also problematic for a number of other reasons.  Some such proposals have internal timelines, which would extend from one election cycle to another.  Given that American voters will soon elect a new President, it would be inappropriate for the current President to appoint members to a commission or task force when the appointees would serve under the next President.

For the foregoing reasons, AFSCME opposes efforts to create a new commission or task force on entitlements, and we have serious concerns over efforts to create fast-track legislative consideration of these important programs.  The ultimate consequences are too high to sidestep regular congressional procedures and the views and input of experienced lawmakers.

Sincerely,
Charles M. Loveless
Director of Legislation

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