Pearce Votes Against Increasing the Deficit

Statement

Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted against a costly proposal extending the temporary payroll tax holiday through December 31, 2012. The plan would also create offsets that negatively affect hospitals.

"Today's vote was a difficult decision for a number of reasons, however in the end, I voted for what is best for our nation's long term economic future." said Pearce. "While I am always in favor of putting money back in the pockets of New Mexicans, we simply cannot continue spending money we do not have. This plan would add around $93 billion to the deficit. I also have concerns that this bill only provides a short-term fix for Medicare reimbursements to doctors, which is a critical issue that must be addressed long term. Additionally, the bill contained offsets which will negatively affect New Mexico hospitals. Although today's vote was difficult--and I support efforts to cut ObamaCare and fix doctor's reimbursements--I will not quit working to make sure that fair solutions are reached."

"Importantly, this plan establishes that unemployment extensions must be paid for, which is vital," Pearce continued. "This plan also allows for states to drug test recipients of unemployment benefits, which is a topic of concern I hear frequently in New Mexico and one I have introduced legislation to fix. Essentially, while I support some facets of this plan, I could not vote to continue down the dangerous path of increasing our deficit. We have a lot of work ahead, and the fight is not over. I am here to stand and fight for New Mexicans."

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