HOUSE APPROVES BILL FUNDING GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS FOR THREE WEEKS WITHOUT MAJOR SPENDING REDUCTIONS
 

Washington, Mar 15 -

“The American people want a change in the direction of our nation, especially in controlling government spending and reducing the debt,” stated Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Sixth).  “Millions of Americans are struggling with the family budget and Congress must make tough decisions to restore some order to federal spending.These short-term spending bills do not address the fiscal crisis facing our nation.”

Stearns today voted against H.J.Res. 48 that extends the current Continuing Resolution funding government programs through April 8, 2011.  “Last month, I joined the House in approving spending cuts of $61 billion, which was only a modest step toward fiscal responsibility,” explained Stearns.  “Although this measure contains $6.1 billion in savings, this does far too little in fixing the spending trajectory that will produce a deficit of $1.6 trillion this year.  The measure saves only $6.1 billion by rescinding unneeded money from the Census Bureau and other accounts, ending the few programs proposed for termination by President Obama, and emptying accounts set aside for lawmakers’ earmarks.This is not enough and fails to impose any substantial deficit control.  It merely delays the process for another three weeks.  I think we must do better.”