Ernst Statement on Short Term Spending Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) today released the following statement after voting in favor of the short term spending bill that funds the government through April 28, 2017.

“While this is not the process through which our government should be funded, it is a temporary bridge to the spring when we can put common-sense legislation on our new president’s desk that otherwise would have been vetoed by this current administration.

“Currently, every Iowan’s share of the national debt exceeds $60,000, so Congress must work to ensure our government is running efficiently. In staying true to our commitment to preventing excessive spending, this bill includes blocking any pay raises for Members of Congress. The bill also permits the USDA Farm Service Agency to make loans to farmers in proportion to demand during the winter and spring months when loan demand peaks, to avoid the application backlog previously experienced.

“Additionally, this bill strengthens critical aspects of our national defense, including funding to continue supporting the Kurdish Peshmerga forces, who are a critical partner to the United States in our fight against ISIS.

“We must work together to cut spending and make the tough decisions that the American people elected Congress to make. Although I do not approve of this process to fund our government, I am optimistic about the year ahead, which I hope will begin a new era for the American people, one where we can usher in fiscal responsibility, as well as a renewed focus on our national security.”