Randy's Roundup: Congress Continues Government Funding into December

Statement

Congress Continues Government Funding into December
Last week, the House and Senate passed identical pieces of legislation to extend government funding at current levels through December 9. The short-term Continuing Resolution, or CR, keeps the federal government open for the new fiscal year, which began on October 1, while giving Congress additional time to make federal funding decisions.

I certainly support keeping the government running, but I also have to stay true to the conservative values of the people of the 19th District. While this government funding extension is now law, I could not vote for it. I believe this legislation kicks the can down the road, without solving any of the problems confronting our nation, and I could not support pushing Congress' job even further down the line.

I also had some concerns with additional funding included in the CR to combat the spread of the Zika virus and to provide flood relief in Louisiana and other states affected by natural disasters. Some of the money allocated to fight the Zika virus has the potential to create a new funding stream for Planned Parenthood in affected states. Planned Parenthood has not been a good steward of your tax dollars, and I believe public health funds should be directed through other health care providers.

When Congress returns in November, we have significant unfinished business to address, including finding a way to responsibly fund the federal government for the full fiscal year. I will advocate for Congress to complete its responsibilities in the open and transparent manner the taxpayers deserve.

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