GOP's Proposed CR is Reckless and Irresponsible

Statement

Today Maryland Congressman Chris Van Hollen, Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, issued the following statement on the House Republicans' proposed Continuing Resolution to fund the federal government for the remainder of FY 2011:

"House Republicans' proposal to cut $100 billion from the budget for the remainder of the year is reckless. It will put more Americans out of work at a time when too many families are still struggling, and these deep cuts do virtually nothing to address our nation's long-term structural deficit. Democrats want to rein in spending, but know that we also must make targeted investments to create jobs, grow the economy, and ensure America remains competitive. That is why the President has proposed a responsible five year freeze on non-security discretionary spending -- which will save $400 billion over the next decade -- but remains committed to investing in our future.

"We need to get serious about debts and deficits in this country -- but while Democrats propose smart, precise cuts, the GOP wants to blindly slash in the short-term and has no plan for long-term fiscal sustainability. It is simply irresponsible on the part of the new Republican majority."

"In the House, Republicans have now been given the keys to the car. Unfortunately, they are driving under the influence of a rigid ideology that threatens to slow economic growth and cut jobs."

Source