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RFH 2010, News

Owens Votes Against 'Cut, Cap, Balance'

Wed, Jul 20, 2011

Congressman Owens votes against debt ceiling law that would also impose a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Congressman Bill Owens, whose district includes the Greater Hamilton Metroplex -- last night voted against H.R. 2560, legislation that would, among other things, raise the nation's debt ceiling to allow the government to pay its bills.

The legislation passed the House by a vote of 234-190.

The bill, which now goes to the Senate, places a statutory cap on federal spending and requires the passage of a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution before increasing the nation’s debt ceiling. The Cut, Cap, and Balance Act excludes national defense from spending caps. 

Owens said the legislation was a second attempt by House Republican leadership to enact deep cuts into Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security.  

“I voted against this legislation because, not only does it include the Ryan budget proposal which would cripple Medicare and Social Security, but it caps spending at a specific percentage that does not take into account the cost of war or the management of the current economic crisis.  This plan is dangerous for Fort Drum, the nation’s security, and local job creators. It is does not reflect Upstate New York values," said Owens.

“Most leading economists – as well as the general public – believe Congress must craft a plan that includes spending cuts and revenue increases in the ongoing debt limit debate. For months, I have called for this type of compromise that will protect programs important to Upstate New York, and I will continue to do so until it is done.”

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