[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 2]
[House]
[Pages 1821-1822]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        RETURN TO FISCAL SANITY

  (Mr. FITZPATRICK asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, this week marks an important turning 
point in restoring fiscal sanity to our country as we begin 
consideration of a measure that will reduce Federal spending by over 
$100 billion. Many Members of Congress committed to this reduction, 
which would return Federal spending to 2008 pre-stimulus levels. This 
is more than just a promise, Mr. Speaker; this is fundamental to the 
health of our economy and the future security of our Nation.
  The consideration of spending cuts must be careful and deliberate. 
The budget of every department must be scrutinized while keeping in 
mind the promises made to our constituents, mine in the Eighth District 
of Pennsylvania and the millions of Americans who showed concern with 
our growing deficit.
  It is notable that, for the first time, this resolution will be 
considered under an open rule to allow this process to be 
collaborative. I am sure at times it will

[[Page 1822]]

be trying, but I am looking forward to working with my colleagues 
towards the collective goal of reducing our deficit.
  The Federal deficit did not get out of hand overnight, and it 
certainly will not be fixed overnight, but serious and substantial cuts 
must be made. The $100 billion mark is not arbitrary but, rather, marks 
an important milestone on the road to a sustainable Federal budget. It 
requires tough choices, but choices that must ultimately be made for 
the economic health and security of this generation and the next.

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