Washington, DC (January 15, 2014) – Today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce voted against H.R. 3547, the Consolidated Appropriations Act. The bill does not provide for Payment in Lieu of taxes, or PILT funding, an important payment from the federal government to Western states, nor does the bill correct the reduction in receipts from commercial activities on federal land that was set forth in the Ryan-Murray budget agreement.
“Today’s vote was a difficult one,” said Pearce. “While today’s legislation includes increased funding for many key New Mexico projects and resolved some issues with last month’s budget agreement, it also slashes vital funding that New Mexico counties rely on, and it keeps the nation on a dangerous path of debt and insolvency. We must not sacrifice the long-term health of the nation for temporary gains. If Washington keeps overspending, then eventually there will be no money left for New Mexico’s labs and bases and the jobs that depend on them. Furthermore, today’s bill still penalizes some military retirees, even while other government retirees receive their full pay. It is offensive and unacceptable that Washington continues to target those who have put their lives on the line. While many of the bill’s provisions are good ones, I cannot support this bill in its entirety, especially while Washington continues its reckless overspending at the expense of New Mexico communities.”
Last month, Pearce voted against the related Ryan-Murray budget agreement, which slashed vital federal payments owed to New Mexico and cut pension payments to Department of Defense retirees, while taking no steps to reduce the federal debt. Pearce is an original cosponsor of legislation to restore this funding, so that the government keeps its promise to these retirees and their families.
washington has kept very little that helps most states. they are in need of prayer but am sure it wont make the change that is needed right now. it is important to continue in prayer as Job did.
Great reminder Candy! God Bless