Charles Rangel: “this Budget reconciliation spending cut bill asks those with the least to sacrifice the most, while providing the most…”

“this Budget reconciliation spending cut bill asks those with the least to sacrifice the most, while providing the most fortunate with even more. Today's Bill: This Budget reconciliation charade is such an affront to working and lower-income families that our nation's religious leaders have stepped in to say `enough is enough.' The Lutheran Bishops sent a letter saying this bill is contrary to Biblical teachings. The Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church has said this reconciliation bill is ``tantamount . . . to blasphemy.'' And the Conference of Catholic Bishops have said they are ``deeply disappointed'' with this legislation, especially ``its lack of concern for children.'' The conference report before us includes a number of cuts that would hurt children, the disabled and poor Americans. This bill picks on our most vulnerable citizens who depend on Medicare, Medicaid, SSI, child support, welfare and a host of other critical programs. Some of the most egregious items in the conference report include: Unfunded Welfare Policies: includes new work requirements in the TANF program without providing adequate funding for child care. According to CBO, the bill is far short of the nearly $11 billion needed to implement the new work requirements and keep child care funding even with inflation.…”