The funding bill is a win for Republicans. Here's why, as laid out in documents from our office:
10 Things You Should Know About the Funding Bill
1. It is a game-changer for our military.
2. It reforms government and prioritizes defense.
3. It targets terrorism and foreign threats.
4. It strengthens our borders.
5. It reforms the IRS.
6. It protects life.
7. It tackles crime.
8. It encourages American energy development and limits EPA overreach.
9. It supports local communities and education.
10. It fights against the nation's opioid epidemic.
A CONSERVATIVE APPROACH
As conservatives, we believe that the federal government should have a strong role in national security and a secondary role in domestic policy. This philosophy shapes our government-funding priorities.
ENDS PARITY FOR DEFENSE/NON-DEFENSE SPENDING
Democrats have long demanded that any increase in defense funding must be equally matched with more non-defense spending. That harmful precedent ends this week--a significant departure from the Obama years, and a big win for the new administration.
NO NEW MONEY FOR OBAMACARE
It eliminates cost-sharing reductions.
It prevents a taxpayer-funded bailout of insurance companies.
It eliminates funding for the Independent Payment Advisory Board.
It prevents the Prevention and Public Health Fund from being used as an Obamacare slush fund.
It restricts federal funds from being used to lobby for Obamacare.
A STRONGER BORDER
It provides for the biggest increase in border security funding in a long time. This means more boots on the ground, the end of "catch and release," and stronger investigations. It also provides Trump administration limited flexibility in approaching H-2B visas.
EXPANDS SCHOOL CHOICE
It promotes the start-up, replication, and expansion of high-quality charter schools. It funds implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act, which shifts control and accountability for schools to states and local districts.
FIGHTS THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC
The bill provides a big boost in resources for fighting the opioid epidemic--including grants, treatment and prevention, and support for law enforcement.
STRONGER AND SAFER
America will be stronger and safer because of this government funding bill. It acts on President Trump's commitment to rebuild our military for the 21st century and bolster our nation's border security to protect our homeland.