On the recordMarch 1, 2011
Today's legislation proposes to extend Federal Government operations for an additional two weeks while cutting roughly $4 billion in spending from FY 2011, if the proposed cuts are ultimately extended for the rest of the fiscal year. Democrats understand the need to get serious about our deficits and debt, but we also understand the difference between making smart, deliberate cuts to spending while maintaining targeted investments that create jobs, grow our economy and strengthen our international competitiveness. In that regard, I am especially disappointed that the majority did not make in order an amendment offered by ranking Member Dicks, which would have restored some of the education cuts in today's bill by finding the necessary savings in unused Census funds. It seems to me those are the kinds of distinctions, priorities and choices this body should be able and willing to make. Furthermore, based on our experience with H.R. 1, I am concerned that the majority is ignoring the explicit advice of two fiscal commissions and a growing chorus of bipartisan commentators warning that we must not in the guise of fiscal discipline cut so indiscriminately, so fast that we sabotage job creation and weaken our ongoing economic recovery. Madam Speaker, sooner rather than later, we need to come to a final agreement on federal spending for the rest of FY 2011.
