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September 7, 2012

"So long. Thanks for all the fish:" The Congressional Death Gratuity

Under current practice, the Congress provides out of the U.S. Treasury, a death benefit
equal to one year’s salary payable to the survivors of a Member who dies in office. Specifically, the Senate handbook says that upon the death of a senator who had been serving in office, “in the next appropriations bill, an item will be inserted for a gratuity to be paid to the widow(er) or other next- of-kin, in the amount of one-year’s compensation.” After Senator Byrd’s death, his family received $193,400 from United States taxpayers. After Senator Kennedy’s death, his family received $174,000 from United States taxpayers. -- The Death Gratuity

Posted by gerardvanderleun at September 7, 2012 8:39 AM. This is an entry on the sideblog of American Digest: Check it out.

Your Say

I'm in favor of doubling it if it will serve as an incentive.

Posted by: Joan of Argghh at September 7, 2012 9:50 AM

I would pass the hat for Reid, Schumer, Durbin, Murray, and Boxer Shorts.

Posted by: Fat Man at September 7, 2012 10:56 AM

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