Kent Conrad: “I am pleased the Senate has begun debate on the extension of several critically important budget enforcement tools. I…”

“I am pleased the Senate has begun debate on the extension of several critically important budget enforcement tools. I want to thank the majority leader, Senator Daschle, for bringing up this important matter and for finding the time for this Senate debate. I know that floor time is scarce and there are many other important priorities for this Senate, but I believe this amendment, authored by myself, Senator Domenici, Senator Gregg, and Senator Feingold, is one of the most important measures the Senate will vote upon this year. The amendment that we offer today represents a major step in preserving fiscal discipline in the Senate. The bipartisan amendment includes a 1-year extension requiring 60 votes in the Senate to waive certain Budget Act points of order. The extension would continue the 60-vote waiver of these points of order against legislation that would, among other things, decrease the Social Security surplus, increase spending, or cut taxes beyond levels specified in the most recent budget resolution.”