[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 58 (Wednesday, May 1, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E683]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                THE FIRST STEP TOWARD A BALANCED BUDGET

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                            HON. RON PACKARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 1, 1996

  Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, last week my Republican colleagues and I 
passed an historic bill which will save the American people $43 
billion. It eliminates over 200 wasteful programs--more than 100 in the 
Labor, Health and Human Services bill alone. And it puts us on target 
for a balanced budget in 7 years.
  In his attempt to put his best spin on this bill, President Clinton 
demanded we present him with a balanced budget. Apparently, he forgot--
we did. He vetoed it. The President has shown little sign that he is 
truly committed to balancing the budget. He refuses to make tough 
decisions that count--like real welfare reform and saving Medicare from 
bankruptcy.
  My Republican colleagues and I are now looking toward next year's 
budget. We are committed to real budget reform that balances the 
budget, creates real jobs and ensures a bright future for our children. 
We remain committed to the five keys to a balanced budget--genuine 
welfare reform, real reductions in spending, tax relief for families 
and job creation, moving power out of Washington, and saving Medicare 
from Bankruptcy.
  Mr. Speaker, my Republican colleagues and I have proven our resolve 
for a balanced budget. When, the President presents us with a budget 
that really balances and tackles the tough issues, we will know he too 
is serious about saving our children's future.

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