Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today after the release of President Biden’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 budget:
“If a budget is an expression of values, President Biden’s budget is proof of what this Administration values most: the health and safety of the American people, our children, our environment, and our future. This budget prioritizes critical investments in our public health infrastructure as we work to end the COVID-19 pandemic and to revitalize our economy for the future.
“I’m thrilled that President Biden’s budget calls for reining in the soaring cost of prescription drugs by finally empowering the federal government to negotiate fair prices. The days of Americans paying three to four times more than people in other countries for the same prescription drugs are numbered, and I’m looking forward to working with the President to put an end to this unfair practice.
“The President’s proposal to make the Affordable Care Act’s expanded premium assistance permanent will increase access to health care for millions of Americans for years to come by making health insurance coverage much more affordable. Similarly, the plan to expand Medicaid will provide a lifeline to millions of people who lack access to care through no fault of their own.
“The President’s budget also endorses a public option, which would ensure that health care is affordable and accessible for all Americans. Earlier this week, I announced plans to begin work on crafting a comprehensive public option bill and I look forward to working with the Biden Administration on this legislation.
“I’m also delighted that President Biden’s plan calls for transformative funding and a national Clean Electricity Standard that will help us move toward a clean economy. This budget recognizes the climate crisis for what it is: not just a challenge, but also an opportunity to rebuild our country from the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic. It sets us up to create millions of new, good paying jobs in clean energy, technology, manufacturing, and construction right here at home - connecting Americans with jobs that serve the dual purpose of slashing greenhouse gas pollution. From crucial investments in renewable energy and electric vehicles, to much needed funding for safe drinking water and frontline communities, this budget will protect public health and American workers at the same time.
“Likewise, the Biden Administration’s call for investments in reliable, affordable broadband comes at a time Americans need it most. Our increasing reliance on telework and telehealth options proves that high-speed internet isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity, like any other utility. I applaud the Biden Administration for putting forth a budget that recognizes access to internet means access to opportunity."
