Frank Lautenberg: “we are at a time in the calendar that usually is a time of excellent anticipation. Christmas is coming. The holidays are…”

“we are at a time in the calendar that usually is a time of excellent anticipation. Christmas is coming. The holidays are coming. People are trying to get their families in order, do the shopping, and all the things we have to do. It would seem this is a moment of fairly happy days and the holiday season is here. But these are not happy times for many Americans. Across our country, families are fighting to keep their heads above water. Some parents do not know how they are going to put food on the table tonight, much less presents under the Christmas tree or during the Hanukkah holidays. That is why our side of the aisle is fighting to continue and expand a tax cut that has benefited millions of working families this year. This is a tax cut for people who need it--families who depend on a paycheck. With the payroll tax cut, the typical family in my State, the State of New Jersey, would receive an extra $40 a week, starting next year. That is what a typical household in the Northeast pays for gasoline or health care each week. Mr. President, $40 a week adds up to $2,100 a year. For parents who are struggling--as many are--to make ends meet, an extra $2,100 goes a long way to help buy groceries or pay the electric bill or purchase medicines. It can help pay for childcare, preschool or college tuition--the necessities that help ensure children succeed in life.…”