Source:  US Rep. Patrick McHenry (NC-10), 12/12/14


This past week marked the final week in session for the 113th Congress.  One final piece of business to complete was passing legislation to maintain funding for the federal government.  On Thursday the House passed -- and I supported -- legislation to maintain funding of our government for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Throughout the week, I heard from numerous concerned constituents who felt this legislation did not do enough to address President Obama's executive actions on immigration.  While I share your frustration -- and have strongly expressed my anger -- about the president's action, a government shutdown would not have stopped his action.  Instead, House Republicans have crafted an agreement that will ensure this issue is addressed come February when funding for the Department of Homeland Security will lapse.  At that time, Republican majorities in both the House and Senate can truly address this illegal action.  

Additionally the funding legislation passed Thursday includes a number of important changes including cuts to EPA funding and staffing, cuts that will drop the agency to levels last seen in the 1980s.  It also maintains the lowest discretionary spending levels in almost 10 years and prevents a taxpayer funded bailout of big insurance companies.  You can read about other important programs included here.  

While I do not expect every person to agree with this vote, I felt it was the correct decision to maintain government funding while also leaving us better positioned to fight the President's illegal executive action.  As always, I welcome and encourage your feedback.