FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Doug McGinn February 1, 1999 (202) 225-3031 RYAN RESPONDS TO PRESIDENT'S BUDGET REQUEST
WASHINGTON - First District Congressman Paul Ryan today responded to President Clinton's budget request for the coming fiscal year. Ryan noted that while he is encouraged by the President's commitment towards Social Security, he differs on how best to preserve this important program. -- Social Security and Tax Relief Top Ryan's List of Priorities --
"While I welcome the President's entrance into the debate over saving Social Security, I am disappointed that he intends to continue the destructive practice of dipping into the Trust Fund to pay for new government programs," said Ryan. "All payroll taxes should go directly into the Trust Fund - period."
"Any non-Social Security surpluses where general government revenues exceed expenditures should be returned to the taxpayers. Too many people in Washington are using today's economy to justify new and expanded government programs. We must be careful we do not create an environment where today's new spending initiatives become tomorrow's new tax increases."
"We have an historic opportunity to implement some much-needed fiscal discipline in our budgeting process, while preparing Social Security for the impending Baby Boom retirement wave that will soon be upon us. Any additional revenue should be kept in the paychecks of hardworking Wisconsin families."
Ryan also expressed disappointment that the Administration failed to address the current inequity in Medicare reimbursement rates. Hospitals and health care facilities in Wisconsin already operate at reimbursement levels far below the national average.
For additional information, or to schedule an interview with Congressman Ryan, please contact Doug McGinn at (202) 225-3031.