Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Appropriations, today issued the following statement regarding the House majority's introduction of a Continuing Resolution for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2013 along with FY2013 Defense and Military Construction-VA Appropriations bills:
"More than five months after the beginning of Fiscal Year 2013, I am pleased the Republican majority is finally advancing the long-delayed appropriations process. I am disappointed, however, the proposal would lock most of the federal government into outdated plans and spending levels.
"Although the proposal includes FY2013 Appropriations bills for Defense and Military Construction-VA - which enjoy broad bipartisan support - it is extremely disappointing that the proposal would fund the remainder of the federal government's critical services and investments for the American people under FY2012 plans and spending levels, enacted 15-18 months ago.
"Governing by continuing resolution limits the ability of federal departments and agencies to respond to changing circumstances, implement laws enacted by Congress, eliminate unnecessary spending, and budget responsibly. It has an adverse effect on federal efforts to improve schools, health care, and homeland security; protect the environment; and create jobs and grow the economy. I am hopeful the Senate will consider and pass a 2013 funding package that better reflects the needs and priorities of the American people.
"Congress' failure to replace sequestration with a balanced and responsible package of spending cuts and revenue increases before March 1st is inexcusable. The discretionary spending cuts mandated by sequestration will result in job loss and furloughs, slowed economic growth, and diminishment of services and investments that are critical to middle-class families and those who are striving to reach the middle-class. I am hopeful that an agreement can be reached in the coming weeks to restore these irresponsible cuts while reining in long-term debt and deficits."
Source: U.S. Department of HCA
