Fischer Statement on Vote to Avoid Government Shutdown

Statement

This evening, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) supported a procedural vote to advance legislation that will keep the government funded. The bill would allow more time to debate and approve appropriation bills for the coming fiscal year. Senator Fischer released the following statement after her vote this evening:

"For the first time in six years, Senate appropriators have passed all twelve funding bills out of committee. I have spoken twice on the Senate floor calling on my colleagues to debate these bipartisan measures, focusing especially on the need for legislation to provide resources for our men and women in uniform. Despite my efforts, Senate Democrats blocked us at every turn. The result of this Democratic intransigence is the need for more time to negotiate a long-term spending bill.

"To provide the required time for discussion and avoid a government shutdown, I am supporting a short-term funding measure. I share the frustration of so many Nebraskans, but I also believe this is the only responsible course of action. A government shutdown is an ill-conceived strategy that jeopardizes national security, hurts our seniors and veterans, and, as we learned in 2013, it accomplishes nothing.

"Last week, I voted in favor of a bill that would have eliminated discretionary spending for Planned Parenthood. I remain steadfastly committed to eliminating all funding for this scandal-plagued organization. Even with a government shutdown, mandatory spending -- or Planned Parenthood spending associated with Medicaid -- would continue. National Right to Life recognizes this truth, and they are opposed to a shutdown. The only way to eliminate both discretionary and mandatory funding is by passing S. 1881, a bill I cosponsored with Senator Joni Ernst.

"My support for an upcoming long-term spending bill will rely on maintaining important spending caps. Advancing a conservative, reform-oriented agenda is painstaking work, particularly with President Obama in the White House. I remain fully dedicated to fighting for conservative principles and restoring the spirit of shared optimism that is desperately needed across our nation."

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