WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today Congressman David Wu issued the following statement about the recent votes in the House of Representatives to address the reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools program:

“I have been and continue to be a staunch supporter of county payments, and very much want to see a bill signed by the president before Congress adjourns that includes a reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools program.

The votes that Rep. Walden is calling ‘opportunities’ were sheer political moves that were against the rules of the House of Representatives.    

When it became clear that the current bill was not going to move forward with county payments included due to the House rules, I chose to vote in favor of supporting the important provisions that it contained, focused on tax relief for families and businesses, energy independence, and creating new, green jobs for our economy.

I will continue to push for any vehicle that can actually move through the House with a reauthorization of county payments included.

It’s important to remember that a bill focused solely on county payments was on the floor three and a half months ago, on June 5.  That legislation was within the rules of the House and would have extended county payments, providing funds for essential services in rural counties across our nation—and Representative Walden voted against it.  I supported county payments with my vote then, as I do now, and hope to see progress this session.”

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