WASHINGTON - Congressman Adam H. Putnam (FL-12), a member of the House Budget Committee, today issued the following statement following passage of the fiscal year 2005 budget resolution:

“This budget is built on the principles of strength, growth, and opportunity as it focuses on America’s priorities while taking important steps to restrain spending.  This budget reflects two realities. First, we have an obligation to protect our homeland from terrorists who want to attack us. Second, we must act in a fiscally responsible manner in order to expand the economy and restrain the growth of government spending to dramatically reduce the deficit.

To secure our nation and win the war on terror, the FY 2005 budget increases defense spending by 7.1 percent over last year. It also increases the Department of Homeland Security funding by 9.5 percent over last year, recognizing that national defense starts with safety at home.  Additionally, it freezes non-security discretionary spending at current levels, so that while we meet our existing needs, our economy will have room to grow and create new jobs.

Fiscal discipline is not just a good idea.  It is an economic necessity.  This budget is a step in the right direction by cutting the deficit in half in four years.  Congress must make the tough choices to help restrain spending, so that our budget is brought back to balance. We must not bankrupt the futures of our children and grandchildren.

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