Goodlatte: State of the Union Lacks Real Solutions

Statement

Congressman Bob Goodlatte released the following statement in response to tonight's State of the Union address:

"Here we go again. Tonight's speech was more of the same -- chock full of policies that would result in more regulations, further intrusion into the lives of the American people, and a tax plan that unfairly burdens the middle class by taxing college savings accounts. This was the agenda the American people soundly rejected in November, and pushing these failed policies once again is not the solution.

"Tonight's speech makes it crystal clear how out of touch the President is with the needs of American families. To take a successful college savings program, one used by millions of middle-class Americans to save for their children, and find new ways to tax it out of existence speaks volumes as to the President's priorities. The bottom line is that Americans are insecure about their own futures. Taxes on college savings only makes the problem worse and hurts everyone hoping to further their education and advance their career.

"The good news is that in just the first two weeks of the 114th Congress, the House has already passed legislation to create job opportunities, lessen the regulatory burden, and help pave the path towards a healthy economy. These are real American solutions -- not new ways to grow the size of government at the expense of personal liberty and financial freedom.

"His remarks and new policy ideas tonight make it clear that President Obama's agenda is out of touch with reality. The House has acted, and will continue to act, on policies that help middle-class Americans advance their hopes and dreams. Where we can find areas of common interest that help our constituents, I am ready to work with President Obama, but his pattern of overreach and tax hikes is not the way forward."

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