There's an old saying that "A lie can go around the world before the truth can get its boots on."  Advances in information technology, while mostly positive, have made this adage even more true.  Lately, much has been made across many media platforms about some myths surrounding Congressional benefits.  For the sake of clarity -- and getting the truth's boots on -- I would like to set the record straight.

Members of Congress today do not receive any special retirement benefits. My benefits are the same as any federal employee. I participate in Social Security through taxes deducted from my paycheck as any federal employee. I also pay into the Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS) program, which will provide me with a pension when I retire. The amount of my pension will be calculated using my years on the federal payroll and my highest salary over a three-year period, like any other federal employee. In addition, I am offered the same health care plans as any federal employee.