WASHINGTON, D.C. - Montana's Congressman, Denny Rehberg, today released his Fiscal Year 2013 (FY13) Labor, Health & Human Services and Education Appropriations bill for public review and feedback in anticipation of a subcommittee markup.  The $150 billion bill includes a $6.2 billion reduction compared with FY12 and is $8.8 billion below the Senate’s FY 2013 allocation.  Rehberg's draft legislation was able to preserve and prioritize important health and education programs.

“This bill is about making tough choices, setting priorities and doing the right thing,” said Rehberg.  “By reining in spending and controlling over-regulation, this bill supports job creation and economic recovery.  We funded effective programs while trimming waste and duplication, and while I’m sure there will be a lot of discussion throughout the process, this bill is a good starting point.  With powerful interests vested in every dollar and every program, spending cuts aren’t easy, but they are absolutely necessary if we’re going to get our country back on track.”

The Subcommittee held 7 open, public hearings in preparation for the introduction of this legislation – the second largest Appropriations Bill in discretionary spending and the largest in federal spending oversight.  In addition, Rehberg had more than 100 meetings including at least 78 with Montanans since January, 2012.