Reed Statement on the President’s Fiscal Year 2017 Budget Proposal

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed today issued the following statement in
response to President Obama’s Fiscal Year 2017 budget proposal:

“The President’s budget proposal offers a solid blueprint to help grow our economy,
expand opportunity, and keep Americans safe.

“While staying within the confines of the two-year agreement known as the Bipartisan
Budget Act, it makes critical investments in education, infrastructure, job
training, and preventing opioid abuse and combatting the spread of infectious
diseases. It also proposes significant funds for readiness needs of our military
and focuses on future threats. The President also commits needed resources for the
fight against ISIS and the European Reassurance Initiative to counter Russia.

“Members of Congress may disagree about the budget, but I am disappointed some are
trying to stifle debate. I urge Republican leaders to reconsider their decision to
break with decades of tradition and allow Office of Management and Budget Director
Shaun Donovan to testify before Congress on this proposal. Even if they disagree
with the President, they shouldn’t shut the process down. The American people
deserve better.

“I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find common ground and
pass a budget that strengthens our economy.”