Congressman Gallego’s Statement on Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013: Bipartisan End to a Very Partisan Year
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Pete P. Gallego (TX-23) today voted in support of the bipartisan budget deal. The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 sets overall discretionary funding for the current and next fiscal years. The agreement provides relief from sequestration for two years and represents a bipartisan compromise between Senate and House budget levels. The measure passed the house by a vote of 332 to 94. Rep. Gallego’s statement is below:
“Like all compromises, this is not a perfect deal. However, failing to act today would be far worse for our military and our economy. A bipartisan compromise brings certainty to the market and the economy for the weeks and months ahead. The government shutdown in October was not exactly a brilliant move. We cannot repeat it.
“I am disappointed that budget negotiators included changes for certain retirees in the legislation. This was wrong, though there is a ‘catch-up adjustment’ when retirees reach age 62. These cuts were difficult, but averted budget cuts for certain active duty military personnel.
“Given the challenges that our country faces, Texans know there are no easy answers. Today’s vote demonstrates those difficult decisions that are necessary to improve Congress and move our country in the right direction. It takes a strong backbone – not a wishbone.
“I am certain to work to get Republicans and Democrats to start working together. While the budget deal today is not ideal, working together for bipartisan agreement should be the rule rather than the exception.
“This is a bipartisan end to a very partisan year though we have a long road ahead; today’s vote truly makes this a season of hope.”
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This agreement:
· Does not raise taxes.
· Provides for $63 billion in discretionary spending in 2014 and 2015, in exchange for a permanent deficit reduction of $85 billion. Overall, it reduces the deficit by an additional $23 billion and cuts spending in a smarter way.
· Increases defense and non-defense funds in equal amounts; both are increased by about $22 billion in fiscal year 2014 and by $9 billion in fiscal year 2015.
For more information on this agreement, please visit the House Republican Budget Committee websites:
Setting the Record Straight – The Bipartisan Budget Agreement
