Whitfield Calls for Return of Fiscal Responsibility to Government | News | Congressman Ed Whitfield

News | Congressman Ed Whitfield | United States Representative

Whitfield Calls for Return of Fiscal Responsibility to Government July 22, 2009 WASHINGTON - Committed to promoting fiscal responsibility in the federal government, U.S. Representative Ed Whitfield (KY-01) introduced a Resolution today which would require Congress to have a means to pay for any legislation passed in the House of Representatives.

"During these tough economic times, Kentuckians have been forced to tighten their belts and cut back on spending to make ends meet," Whitfield said. "The federal government should be required to do the same thing. It is essential Congress curb its runaway spending habits before our national debt becomes an insurmountable burden for future generations."

Whitfield introduced a Resolution to amend the rules of the House of Representatives to require that the pay-as-you-go (PAYGO) rule be upheld. The PAYGO rule requires that legislation be either "budget neutral" or include an offset for the cost of the proposal from existing funds. However, currently this rule is not mandatory and is often waived. With the adoption of Whitfield's resolution, the House would be required to have a separate debate and vote on the specific question of allowing the legislative body to waive PAYGO.

The purpose of the PAYGO rule is to prevent legislation from passing the House that would increase the federal debt. However, PAYGO was waived 12 times during the 110th Congress exempting $420.1 billion in non-offset deficit increases. With the national debt at a record high, Whitfield wants to ensure the 111th Congress does not follow this dangerous precedent.

The Congressional Budget Office projects that this year the government will run a $1.84 trillion deficit, which is about 12% of all the goods and services that the U.S. produces. Whitfield's resolution will ensure that taxpayers are aware anytime Congress chooses to increase federal spending and the size of the national debt.

Whitfield spoke on the House floor today in support of his legislation.

To see a video clip of this speech, please visit the Congressman's You Tube page at http://www.youtube.com/WhitfieldKY01

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