Hoyer Statement on President Obama's Fiscal Year 2017 Budget
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) released the following statement today on President Barack Obama's Fiscal Year 2017 Budget:
"I'm pleased that President Obama's budget released today lays out a vision that will continue to strengthen our nation and our state's economy by making key investments that will increase access to economic opportunities, expand access to education, and address pressing infrastructure and transportation needs. This budget provides federal funding for the construction of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) new, fully consolidated headquarters, which I have been advocating to be located in Prince George's County.
"The President's budget also includes funding for the construction of the Purple Line light rail project that will stretch from the New Carrollton Metro station in Prince George's County to the Bethesda Metro station in Montgomery County. It supports the federal government's commitment to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority's (Metro) ongoing safety and capital improvements to help the system function more safely and efficiently. In addition, the budget makes progress in protecting the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary waters, as well as improving the lives of Maryland children through Preschool Development Grants.
"While there are many investments in the President's budget proposal that I support, I am deeply concerned that it calls for just a 1.6 percent pay increase for both uniformed personnel and civilian federal employees. I am proud to represent more than 62,000 federal employees in Maryland's Fifth District, and I believe that a 1.6 percent increase is not enough to make up the ground that has been lost by these dedicated employees who have endured sequester furloughs and pay freezes. The pay gap between federal employees and private-sector employees continues to grow and I will continue to advocate on their behalf to ensure they receive the pay and benefits they deserve.
"I urge my colleagues in the House to consider the proposals in the President's budget that will invest in our country's future and help Maryland workers and families access the opportunities they need to get ahead."