House Passes Budget for Fiscal Year 2018

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.Con.Res.71, which will balance the national budget within 10 years and produce a $9 billion surplus in 2027. The budget legislation also opens the door for tax reform.

LaMalfa said: "Two of our top priorities in Congress this year are balancing the budget and providing tax relief for all American families and small businesses. By unlocking the mechanism for tax reform, this legislation opens the door to achieve both. This budget also supports our military and creates an economy that will offer far more job opportunities for middle income families. Our national debt has reached $20 trillion – a figure that has nearly doubled in the last eight years. Reducing spending and balancing the budget are critical so that our children aren't forced to suffer the irresponsible consequences of inaction. This legislation takes steps towards accomplishing all of these goals, and I hope the Senate will expedite its passage."

Highlights of H.Con.Res.71:

Balances the Budget and Cuts Spending:

• $6.5 trillion in total deficit reduction in 10 years.
• Sets overall discretionary spending for fiscal year 2018 at $1.132 trillion.
• $621.5 billion in defense spending.
• $511 billion in non-defense spending.
• Instructs House committees to achieve a minimum of $203 billion in mandatory spending savings.
• Aims to reduce government-wide improper payments by $700 billion.

Promotes Job Creation:

• Provides reconciliation instructions to allow for tax reform.
• Reforms major regulations that stifle job growth.

Secures the National Defense:

• Provides funding to secure our borders.
• Reaffirms Congress's commitment to provide troops with necessary resources to carry out their missions.
• Calls for increased accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Strengthens Health Care:

• Incorporates the House-passed American Health Care Act.
• Lowers costs for Medicare through increases competition while preserving the option of traditional Medicare.
• Reforms Medicaid to allow states to tailor the program to meet their unique needs and care for the most vulnerable.

Congressman Doug LaMalfa is a lifelong farmer representing California's First Congressional District, including Butte, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou and Tehama Counties.