A proposal to end the dysfunction in Congress, polarized by radicals on both sides who refuse to compromise for the good of our country: With a few days left to avoid catastrophe, one would think our senators and representatives would be meeting 24 hours a day to find a solution.

Unbelievably, they were all on recess for nine days, schmoozing with the folks back home to collect votes.

We should begin paying all members only for the days they are actually in their offices or on the floor. If they are on recess or "fact-finding" trips abroad or stumping for votes--no pay. I know of few companies that would not object to employees taking a few days off whenever they feel like it.

If our representatives and senators do not submit timely budgets or solve urgent issues before they become catastrophic, they will be fired, and an election will supply a replacement from their state who will last only as long as the issues are completed.

This resolve would apply also to the president and Cabinet if they do not supply expected budgets or recommendations.

When our elected officials act like juveniles and ignore their responsibilities, they should be replaced, which would be the case in any other venue. No wonder no one wants to leave Congress.

The private sector would never put up with them.

Judith Murray

Locust Grove