Speaker Ryan and House Republicans Fail to Act on Any of the Issues Facing American People
MESSAGE FROM THE DEMOCRATIC WHIP
It’s been six months since Speaker Paul Ryan took the Speaker’s gavel, and though he has discussed the need to build a more “Confident America,” the American people have not seen any action from House Republicans that inspires confidence. Deep division and dysfunction among House Republicans has prevented the House from getting things done for the American people. Not only have they failed to pass a budget, but they have also refused to act on any number of pressing issues, including Puerto Rico’s debt crisis; emergency funding to address the Zika virus; resources to help Flint recover from its drinking water crisis; and legislation to address the opioid epidemic.
In just a few days, Puerto Rico will default on $422 million worth of debt. I am deeply disappointed that House Republicans left town for the district work period without passing legislation to address the island’s debt crisis. The crisis is having a real impact on the 3.5 million Americans who live in Puerto Rico, and it’s critical that Congress act soon to provide relief. I urge Republican leaders to work with Democrats to bring a bipartisan bill to the Floor as soon as we return from the district work period.
Finally, this week House Democrats introduced an emergency supplemental funding bill to combat the threat of the Zika virus. Instead of acting immediately to address this growing public health crisis, House Republicans have blocked emergency funding twice and have refused to bring a bill to the Floor. It’s time for Republicans to take this emergency seriously and work with Democrats to take action to keep Americans healthy and safe.
Sincerely yours,
Steny H. Hoyer
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