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Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 5856, the Fiscal Year 2013 Defense Appropriations Bill.
This essential bill provides more than $519 billion dollars in critical resources for a strong national defense, supporting our warfighters and protecting the American people. This is an increase of $1.1 billion over last year and more than $3 billion more than the President's request. This is also more than $8 billion over what the Senate Democrats would like to provide.
This nation – with all the opportunities it provides and the rights it grants – would not be the bastion of freedom it is without the greatest defense system in the world. Freedom isn't free. As we continue to face threats to our safety and way of life, we must deal with the costs of war, keep our military at the ready, and stay constantly vigilant.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman for yielding. We have before us the bill to fund the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and related agencies for Fiscal Year 2013. The members of the Subcommittee and staff have worked diligently to put forward a good bill that balances the realities of our dire fiscal situation with the need to protect our most vulnerable citizens in the face of these continued economic woes.
Overall, this bill right-sizes these departments and agencies, providing roughly $150 billion in funding, which is $6.3 billion below last year and some $8.8 billion below the President's request. Through Chairman Rehberg's keen eye, the Subcommittee has endeavored to fund proven and effective programs covering everything from workplace safety, to rural health care, to early childhood education. A lot of thoughtful work has gone into the discretionary accounts in this bill.
Good morning, welcome to the Labor, HHS, Education and Related Agencies Subcommittee for consideration of legislation making appropriations for fiscal year 2013.
This legislation appropriates $150 billion in discretionary funds, which is a little more than $6 billion less, or 4% below, fiscal year 2012 levels.
The American people are well aware that runaway government spending is slowing economic recovery and costing jobs. For the first time in U.S. history, our credit rating has been downgraded. If we do not act now, we, our children, and grandchildren will pay a heavy price for our lack of discipline.
Real leaders make difficult choices. The Senate, which has not passed a budget in three years, has shown no leadership. This legislation represents a clear step toward returning to fiscal responsibility, while still ensuring that funding for critical and high-priority programs are maintained.
