WASHINGTON, DC . . . Today Rep. Ralph Hall (TX-04) voted with a House Majority in favor of H.R. 5652, the Sequester Replacement Reconciliation Act of 2012. The bill passed 218-199.

"Fighting to balance America's debt and deficit has been - and continues to be - a top priority for House Republicans," said Hall. "While cutting overreaching federal spending, we must make sure we do so in a way that does not put America's national security and the safety of our troops overseas in danger."

Hall continued, "Under current law, across-the-board cuts are scheduled for January 3, 2013. These cuts, known as a 'sequester,' would severely limit necessary funding our troops require to perform their duties effectively. A strong national defense is one of the federal government's responsibilities, and people on both sides of the aisle agree that deficit reduction can and should be achieved through other means."

If automatic defense cuts are not replaced, disastrous consequences for soldiers, veterans, and national security would include:

• The smallest ground force since 1940;
• The smallest fleet of ships since before the U.S. entered World War I;
• The smallest tactical fighter force in the history of the Air Force; and
• Reductions of 20% in defense civilian personnel.

America's struggling economy would also face major setbacks. According to the Armed Services Committee, cuts to spending for the acquisition of military equipment alone would lead to the loss of over 1,000,000 private sector jobs and could push unemployment back up to 9%.

"I am pleased that today's bill maintains responsible funding for our troops and replaces the scheduled defense cuts without increasing our deficit. The freedom America enjoys is a result of our troops' courage, commitment, and determination. For their sacrifices, we have an obligation to provide them with adequate funding. I believe that a balanced budget and a strong defense are not exclusive which is why I will continue to support our troops as Republicans fight for reining in federal spending."

 

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