House Debates Budget Resolution
In early April, the full United States House of Representatives debated a budget resolution intended to set overall spending levels for fiscal year 2010 (H. Con. Res. 85). Budget resolutions like H. Con. Res. 85 do not actually spend any money. Rather, they set overall goals for spending by the federal government. In addition, provisions in the budget resolutions—called “reconciliation instructions”—allow some spending measures to pass the Senate without the 60 votes typically required to stop debate and amendments.
Opponents of H. Con. Res. 85 pointed out that the resolution proposed to increase overall non-defense discretionary spending by 12%, an amount far greater than the rate of inflation. In addition, the reconciliation provisions contained in the resolution would allow for expedited consideration of major legislative initiatives related to health care and energy. Opponents of H. Con. Res. 85 argued that such significant bills should be subject to ordinary debate and amendment.
Congressman Todd Platts voted against H. Con. Res. 85. However, the measure passed by a vote of 233-196. Differences between the House resolution and a Senate version must now be resolved by a joint House-Senate conference committee. After the adoption of the budget resolution, Congress will begin work on the twelve annual appropriations bills that provide actual funding for the federal government.
Web Page Highlights (www.house.gov/platts)
Floor Statement on H.R. 1256 - The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act
On April 2, 2009, the House passed legislation by a vote of 298-112 to better prevent tobacco advertising to children. The legislation would also ensure that tobacco products marketed as safer than other tobacco products are, in fact, demonstrated to be safer. Congressman Platts’ statement in favor of the bill on the House floor is posted on the web site.
(http://www.house.gov/apps/list/speech/pa19_platts/tobacco2009.shtml)
Congressman Platts to Host “Doing Business with the Federal Government”
Local businesses looking to pursue contract opportunities with the federal government will be able to learn more about the process at the forthcoming “Doing Business with the Federal Government” workshop hosted by U.S. Congressman Todd Platts on May 7th. Additional information is posted on the web site.
(http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/pa19_platts/doingbiz.shtml)
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