Congressman Charles Bass

February 17, 2012

WASHINGTON – Congressman Charles F. Bass (NH-02) issued the following statement this morning after the House of Representatives passed bipartisan compromise legislation to extend the payroll tax cut through the end of 2012. The legislation also extends and reforms unemployment benefits and prevents a 27.4 percent cut in Medicare physician reimbursement rates by freezing rates at their current level through the end of this year.

Bass said:

"This legislation prevents a tax increase on hardworking taxpayers and ensures seniors will still be able to see their doctors by preventing a massive cut in physician reimbursement rates. It also extends unemployment benefits for the millions of Americans who are struggling to find work in this tough economy. We can now continue our focus on making it easier for the private sector to grow and create jobs and get our economy moving again in the right direction.

"I'm also pleased that the legislation includes provisions that I strongly support to expand broadband technology, create jobs and grow the economy, and create a nationwide network for public safety by auctioning spectrum. This will help us meet the growing demand for mobile data and encourage innovation in technology and broadband services.

"I hope the Senate will consider and pass this legislation without delay so we can give families and businesses the certainty they need and prevent a tax increase from taking effect at the end of this month."

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