DeLauro Statement on Omnibus Bill to Keep Government Funded

Statement

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement regarding the FY 2017 omnibus legislation.

"Budgets reflect our values and I am pleased that with this omnibus bill, we are able to build on our progress, not dismantle it. From investments in health and education, to funding for environmental and jobs programs, Democrats fought to secure additional resources for issues that touch the lives of millions of Americans.

"The additional $2 billion provided for the National Institutes of Health ensures that critical, life-saving research can continue at our nation's top research institution. The additional $3 million for senior nutrition programs and Meals on Wheels is critical to the health of our seniors. The $15 million increase for Job Corps and the $5 million increase for apprenticeships create economic opportunity for working families.

"The restoration of year-round Pell Grants means that more of our students can have affordable access to higher education. The additional $85 million for Head Start ensures that we make an early investment in the long-term health of our nation's children. The $25 million increase for after school programs will provide enrichment opportunities for children in low-income school districts. And the additional $95 million for child care gives more of our working families access to a service that helps lift them out of poverty.

"This bill contains funding to support Connecticut's skilled defense manufacturing workforce, including $1.2 billion for 62 UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters, which will support our nation's military readiness. And the bill includes $8 million for the Long Island Sound, which doubles the commitment we made in last year's bill.

"Democrats also fought to ensure that we could eliminate more than 160 Republican poison pill riders, ranging from undermining a woman's right to reproductive health, to dismantling Wall Street consumer protections. We also fought against any funding for President Trump's outrageous multi-billion dollar wall and a cruel, new deportation force.

"The funding in the omnibus bill will make a real difference in the lives of millions of Americans and is a strong step away from the Trump Administration's alarming budget proposal. Going forward, we must continue to prioritize policies that will save lives and create jobs, not fund President Trump's dangerous, misguided policy ideas."

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