Tiberi: Federal Government Must Prioritize Spending

Statement

U.S. Congressman Pat Tiberi (R-OH) today issued the following statement regarding President Barack Obama's upcoming visit to Columbus:

"This is a good local project, but it's only a stone's throw away from the I-70/I-71 interchange, one example of the thousands of outdated federal highways needing to be fixed. In Congress, there have been hearings upon hearings upon hearings about critical federal infrastructure needs, and many have suggested a gas tax increase up to 10 cents a gallon to help fund them. Considering the current federal transportation funding shortfall, it's baffling the federal government is using millions of dollars to fund local projects. While good for Columbus and good for Nationwide Children's Hospital, the $15 million improvements being highlighted by President Obama have no federal nexus. Our country is $13 trillion in debt and has racked up the highest deficit ever; we need to be setting federal spending priorities.

"It's the lack of prioritization that has taxpayers outraged and our economy off track. While Ohio's unemployment rate remains above 10 percent and new unemployment claims are mounting, a focused, responsible use of taxpayer dollars, aimed at creating good-paying permanent jobs is what will turn our economy around and get people back to work."

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