Jay Rockefeller: “I want to take a few moments to talk about the uniquely negative impact a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution…”

“I want to take a few moments to talk about the uniquely negative impact a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution would have upon the brave men and women who have defended this country. Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces make up a select group within American society, and our Nation could never have enjoyed the strength and security it is blessed with today without the tremendous contributions they have made. As chairman of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I cannot ask America's veterans to forsake the benefits and services they earned through military service because of the Federal deficit. Mr. President, I support the idea that each American must do his or her part to help solve our economic problems. Everyone's belt must be tightened. This year's budget submitted by the President does just that. We have an obligation, however, to ensure that veterans of this country don't bear an undue burden from our effort to get the Government's fiscal house in order. Many of America's veterans depend on VA's programs and services, much like America once depended on them. To reward the loyalty and service veterans have given with a hollow promise is unacceptable. What would this balanced budget amendment to the Constitution mean for the men and women who have given so much of themselves to their country already? It would mean, Mr. President, that they would be forced to give of themselves again.”