Hoyer Statement After Voting Against Republicans' Minibus Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement after voting against House Republicans’ “minibus” appropriations bill, which passed out of the House of Representatives this afternoon:

“I'm extremely disappointed that Republicans in the House of Representatives passed their security ‘minibus’ today, which includes $1.6 billion for President Trump’s ineffective border wall. While I’m glad provisions attacking the hardworking federal employees at the Congressional Budget Office were ultimately voted down, this legislation does nothing to lift the caps on spending set under current law, and could ultimately lead to a 13% across-the-board reduction in defense spending.

“Such action would have severe consequences on military installations in the Fifth District, and would create uncertainty within the Department of Defense. Our civilian defense employees have already endured furloughs as a result of the 2013 sequester, and this legislation could force this unnecessary action to be taken once more.

“I urge Republicans to set aside their partisan antics, and instead return to regular order and work with Democrats to pass a fiscally responsible budget that works for all Marylanders.”