By Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-5th)
This week, the House passed the House Democratic budget, which reflects the priorities set forth by the President, including targeted, strategic investments to create jobs and ensure economic prosperity over the and long-term. This budget makes a down payment on health care reform, creates a path to energy independence, reforms and invests in education, and also reduces the deficit by nearly two-thirds by 2013. I applaud this budget for making the tough choices necessary to help reverse years of irresponsible Republican policies and put us back on a fiscally sustainable path.
A key part of our plan for the long-term prosperity is a clean energy economy. This week, Chairman Henry Waxman of the Energy and Commerce Committee and Chairman Edward Markey of the Energy and Environment Subcommittee unveiled a clean energy discussion draft that begins our work on sweeping energy legislation. This initiative will create new ‘green collar’ jobs for American workers, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and help households and businesses save money on their electricity bills. I expect the Energy and Commerce Committee to report a bill out of committee by Memorial Day, and I look forward to working with the Administration to enact a comprehensive plan for a cleaner, more energy independent future.
The House is now adjourned for two weeks to allow Members to return to their districts for our scheduled April district work period, during which Leadership encouraged Members to hold health care town halls.