Washington, DC—Today, Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement after voting for H.R. 2055, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Consolidated Appropriations Act, which passed the House today by a vote of 296-121:

“Today, I voted in favor of H.R. 2055, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Consolidated Appropriations Act which will fund the government through September 2012. While not a perfect bill, this bipartisan measure will ensure that the federal government is funded through the end of the 2012 fiscal year and provide essential services for families, seniors, veterans, small businesses and our communities.

H.R. 2055 funds the government as agreed upon in the previously-passed Budget Control Act. Likewise, this bi-partisan measure does not include many controversial elements that have been a part of previous funding measures.

In these tough economic times, we must all tighten our belts and there must be shared sacrifice from everyone.  This bill makes some difficult, but necessary cuts.  However, it also increases funding for many programs important to families, students and workers in the 7th Congressional District, including a $2 billion increase in Pell Grant funding and a $2.2 billion increase for job training.

It is our responsibility in Congress to keep the Federal Government fully functioning for American families.  This bill represents a long-term solution that avoids a government shutdown and allows Congress to focus on job creation and economic development.”

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Contact:  Allison Abney;  (202) 225-2665;  Allison.abney@mail.house.gov