    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)]
    [March 15, 2000]
    [Page 466]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Congressional Budget Resolution
    March 15, 2000

        Today the Republican Congress took a first step on a risky budget
    that threatens to undermine the fiscal discipline that has led to our
    current economic prosperity. The budget blueprint they have endorsed
    fails to strengthen Social Security or Medicare, takes us off the path
    to paying down the debt by 2013, and threatens to slash key priorities
    like education, law enforcement, and the environment. It was the wrong
    approach for America last year--it is the wrong approach for America
    this year.
        Republican leaders should work with me on a responsible budget that
    strengthens Social Security and Medicare, adds a prescription drug
    benefit, pays down the debt by 2013, and invests in education and other
    key priorities. Let's work together to meet America's long-term
    challenges and keep our economy strong.