[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 3]
[House]
[Page 3643]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




              SETTING PRIORITIES AND BALANCING THE BUDGET

  (Mr. PAULSEN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, this week, I had the opportunity to hold a 
Congress on Your Corner event with my constituents in Bloomington, 
Minnesota. During one-on-one conversations, I was able to discuss the 
issues that my neighbors feel are important in Congress.
  The number one issue that did come up, Mr. Speaker, was the awareness 
that for far too long Americans have been tightening their belts only 
to watch as Washington's addiction to spending continues to grow along 
with our Nation's debt.
  This week, the House Budget Committee passed a budget that the House 
will vote on next week. This is important, Mr. Speaker, because it is a 
budget that addresses the serious fiscal challenges that are facing our 
Nation.
  First, it outlines tax reform so that it is simpler, fair, and more 
competitive to grow our economy. Secondly, it actually produces a 
balanced budget. Why is this important? A balanced budget will give 
young people more opportunity; a balanced budget will protect programs 
and preserve programs that are essential for seniors; and most 
importantly, Mr. Speaker, a balanced budget will encourage and promote 
a healthier economy.
  Mr. Speaker, it's time for Washington to take a lesson from Minnesota 
families and deliver on a balanced budget.

                          ____________________