Post by bot on Nov 1, 2013 21:25:22 GMT -5
Negotiations Begin on Budget, Farm Bill
MESSAGE FROM THE DEMOCRATIC WHIP
This week, the budget conference held its first official meeting, an important step forward in bipartisan negotiations. Democrats urged the Republican leadership to go to conference for months and I remain hopeful that we can reach a balanced agreement that puts our nation back on a fiscally responsible path. Wednesday also marked the first meeting of the farm bill conference. It is essential that the final version of this legislation includes adequate funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – which helps millions of American families facing food insecurity.
I was disappointed that House Republicans voted on legislation this week that would undermine our nation’s ability to pay its bills. All responsible economists and policy advisors have warned against threatening the debt limit, and I hope House Republicans will stop their reckless tactics that threaten our national and global economy, and instead work towards real fiscal solutions.
I’m very pleased that yesterday, the Senate unanimously passed my bill, the School Access to Emergency Epinephrine Act, which I cosponsored with Rep. Dr. Phil Roe (R-TN). This bill will save lives by ensuring that students suffering from food allergies have access to life-saving epinephrine. I have been advocating on behalf of this legislation for several years, and I look forward to President Obama swiftly signing it into law.
With four legislative weeks remaining this year I hope that the Republican-led Congress will take bipartisan action to move forward on critical legislation, including acting to create jobs, comprehensive immigration reform and restoring important protections for American voters.
Sincerely yours,
STENY H. HOYER