Gerlach Votes for Plan to Avoid Default, Enact Real Solutions for Eliminating Wasteful Washington Spending

Statement

Congressman Jim Gerlach (PA-6th District) issued the following statement Friday after the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation to ensure the United States meets its obligations and addresses the staggering debt hampering job growth and the financial stability of our nation:

"This legislation incorporates the key elements that a majority of my constituents have said are important to them. The United States will continue paying its bills on time -- just like families and small businesses must do each month. And the House makes a serious commitment to eliminating $3 trillion in wasteful Washington spending. The plan accomplishes these goals without putting the additional strain of higher taxes on anyone. Raising taxes and prolonging uncertainty about whether the U.S. will meet its obligations would simply make it harder to create jobs for the 14 million Americans out of work.

We are granting the President's request to raise the debt ceiling, but we are not handing him a blank check. This legislation requires any increase in the debt ceiling be balanced by corresponding spending cuts greater than the borrowing limit increase. This is responsible reform that ends the cycle of limitless borrowing and reckless spending. And by guaranteeing a vote on amending the Constitution to require a balanced federal budget, this plan offers a chance for real change that would make Washington more accountable to taxpayers."

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