Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13) today issued the following statement after the President submitted his Fiscal Year 2009 budget request:

             “This budget proposal holds the line on wasteful spending and rejects tax increases – two objectives with which I wholeheartedly agree.  To put our economy back on solid footing, we need to pass a budget that will prevent a return of the marriage penalty, death tax and Alternative Minimum Tax, along with higher taxes on income, dividends, and capital gains.  We should also take this opportunity to reform the earmark process and restore some confidence in Washington’s ability to spend money wisely.

             “I think the best news in this budget is the support it shows for America’s technological competitiveness, specifically for research on the physical sciences.  I was extremely disappointed that Congress short-changed key programs like High Energy Physics in fiscal year 2008, including research at places like Fermi and Argonne National Laboratories in Illinois.  That’s why I, along with Senators Durbin and Obama, last month sent a letter to the Office of Management and Budget urging a significant increase for the Department of Energy’s Office of Science in the President’s fiscal year 2009 budget request.  Thanks to strong, bipartisan support, this budget includes a 17 percent increase for the Office of Science and will help get research at our nation’s primer laboratories back on track. 

             “In total, the President’s proposal could increase the operating budgets of Fermi and Argonne National Laboratories by as much as 18 percent and 10 percent, respectively.  This would effectively reverse cuts made by Congress last year; however, urgent action is still needed to prevent furloughs and layoffs from affecting our nation’s top researchers during the current fiscal year.  That’s why I’m calling on the Administration to include additional resources for High Energy Physics and other important science programs in his upcoming fiscal year 2008 emergency supplemental appropriations request.

             “I’m also pleased that the Department of Energy’s budget reflects a continued commitment to the development of alternative energy sources.  Nuclear, solar, clean coal, hydrogen and other technologies are absolutely critical for reducing carbon emissions and achieving energy impendence.  Given the impact of high energy prices on our economy, we can’t let up -- even for one year -- on the pursuit of clean alternatives to foreign oil.

             “I’m far less thrilled about the President’s proposed budget numbers for housing of the elderly and disabled.  As a member of the housing subcommittee, I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact that programs like Section 202 can have for seniors at places like Mayslake Village in DuPage County.  I’m also disappointed that the budget would cut Community Development Block Grants by almost a billion dollars next year.  But it’s important to remember that Congress has historically rejected cuts to these programs, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on a budget that reflects a wide range of priorities.  Congress must also work to ensure that the McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program, as well as IDEA funding for students with disabilities, receive a strong federal commitment.

             “A few other bright spots in the President’s request include increased funding for housing counseling, additional resources for the FBI to combat sexual predators and identity theft, and nearly $500 million for 2,200 new border patrol agents.  As Co-Chair of the Financial and Economic Literacy Caucus, I’m also encouraged that the budget supports the new Advisory Council on Financial Literacy, a public-private partnership that will help bring financial savvy and money management skills into more homes and schools.

             “At the local level, I’m pleased to report that the budget includes at least $6.25 million for the invasive species dispersal barriers that protect the Great Lakes from Asian Carp.  The President also proposed $28.6 million to replace the Lockport Lock and Dam on the Chicago Ship and Sanitary Canal.  This project will improve safety near the dam and help facilitate the movement of goods and commerce along the canal.

             “The President’s proposal is just the beginning.  Now Congress needs to step in, and work in a bipartisan way to balance spending without unnecessary tax increases.  I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do just that.”

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