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The Continuing Resolution passed by the House today does nothing to address the irrational cuts imposed by sequestration, which could be very harmful to our economy, our local defense community, and our national security over the coming weeks and months. While I do not believe we should allow our government to shut down and I would have liked to have voted for the defense funding included inthe package, this legislation did not stop the sequester or address the need to invest in our priorities in a thoughtful way.

The reckless, across-the-board spending cuts known as the sequester could have a disproportionate impact on critical programs that serve our most vulnerable communities in Maryland and across the country.

As our economy continues to recover, Congress must remain focused on supporting sustained growth and job creation.

Over the next few weeks and months, unless Congress takes action to replace sequestration, our national security will see severe reductions in funding, threatening jobs and impacting programs domestically and abroad.

I thank Secretary Duncan and Secretary Sebelius for visiting the Silver Spring Judy Center today and highlighting the full range of services that Judy Centers provide to students and families across our state.

I know the automatic spending cuts known as sequestration, which could have a harmful impact on our economy and national security, are of great concern to our local defense community, including our contractors who support our men and women in uniform.

Unless Congress takes action, in just a few days, the irrational, automatic spending cuts imposed by sequestration will take effect. These cuts, which are arbitrary and do not reflect our national priorities, will harm our economy and our national security.