Republicans Ignore Economic Opportunities with Sequester-Level Funding Appropriations Bills, Failure to Reauthorize Export-Import Bank

Leader's Report
For Immediate Release:
2015-06-05T00:00:00
MESSAGE FROM THE DEMOCRATIC WHIP

This week, House Republicans brought to the Floor two appropriations bills that once again rely on irresponsible sequester level funding. Instead of working with Democrats to replace the sequester and make smart investments in America’s future, Republicans passed a Commerce, Justice, and Science appropriations bill that cuts funding for public safety and research. They also voted to make drastic cuts to funding for transportation and public housing in their Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill. It is time for Republicans to work with us to replace the sequester so we are able to make responsible decisions that will strengthen our economic future.

Instead of moving from manufactured-crisis to manufactured-crisis, Republicans have an opportunity to start governing responsibly by scheduling a vote to reauthorize the Export-Import Bank before the Bank’s charter expires at the end of this month. The financing assistance that the Bank provides to small and medium-sized businesses helps these businesses compete in the global marketplace. However, House Republican leaders continue to ignore the proven economic benefits – as well as Members of their own party and business community leaders – in order to pander to the far-right wing of their party. A long-term reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank enjoys strong bipartisan support and would pass the House if given a vote on the House Floor. As the June 30 deadline nears, I will continue to urge Republican leaders to let the House work its will on this important issue so we can support U.S. job growth and keep our nation competitive.

Sincerely yours,

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DEMOCRATIC NEWS UPDATE

On Reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank