Benishek Votes for Fiscal Cliff Solution

From Congressman Dan Benishek’s office in Washington, DC:

Dr. Dan Benishek (MI-01) today released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed a compromise bill from the U.S. Senate to prevent automatic tax increases and spending cuts known as the “fiscal cliff:”

“Today, taxes are slated to increase on every hard-working American. To prevent this, I was proud to support this bill that permanently reduces tax rates for the majority of Northern Michigan families. In addition, this bill contains provisions to avert a sharp rise in milk prices that moms and dads in Northern Michigan cannot afford right now.

While this bill’s permanent tax relief is a positive step toward protecting America’s economy, it does not change the fact that we have a federal government we can’t afford. The federal government is still spending trillions more than it takes in. Washington is still borrowing over 40% of every dollar it spends. Frankly, this irresponsibility is putting our children’s futures at risk and I remain committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to reduce wasteful federal spending and solve America’s debt crisis.

There is much work still to do. In the coming days, a new Congress will be seated and President Obama will be sworn in for his second term. We will continue to have a divided government. Now is the time for leaders from both parties to work together, find common ground, and tackle the enormous challenges facing this country.”