Lowey Statement on GOP Budget

Appropriations Ranking Dem: Political Document Illustrates Majority’s Extreme Goals, Draconian Cuts to Critical Services and Investments

Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY), Ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on the House budget resolution, introduced today by Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI):

“The political document introduced today by Chairman Ryan illustrates the extreme and draconian cuts to critical services and investments the House majority aims to impose on working American families. 

“At a time when non-defense discretionary investments are at their lowest levels in sixty years, a framework that would result in further severe cuts to schools, roads and bridges, and scientific research is indefensible.  By eliminating the Medicare guarantee and turning Medicaid into a block grant, this so-called budget demonstrates a callous indifference to senior citizens and vulnerable Americans.

“Total 2015 discretionary spending levels for defense and non-defense services and investments were set in law by the Bipartisan Budget Act, enacted in December 2013.  I am pleased the Appropriations Committee is moving quickly to evaluate the Administration’s budget request and begin consideration of annual spending bills.  I will continue working to enact thoughtful legislation that invests in our future, creates and protects jobs, and supports critical services.”