WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), Chair of the House Republican Conference, released the following statement today after the House passed the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013, the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2014 (NDAA), and a one-month extension of the farm bill.

“Today we acted to put our country on a path toward economic security. While the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 isn’t perfect, it reflects the ability of a divided government to reduce the deficit without raising taxes. 

“Approving the NDAA is vital to our Department of Defense operations to keep us safe at home and abroad. This bill allows us to enhance our national security and modernize our armed forces, including making critical investments in key programs like the Air Force’s KC-46A refueling tanker. It will promote readiness at Fairchild Air Force Base and at all bases across the globe.

“The House also passed a one-month extension of the farm bill. This will give Congress additional time to tailor the bill – ensuring that our farmers get the certainty they need. I remain committed to passing a five-year farm bill for the protection and security of Eastern Washington’s farmers and growers.

“In the year ahead, I will continue to pursue policies that will bring greater financial and economic certainty to moms, dads, young people and seniors in Eastern Washington.  We will do everything we can to get people back to work and make life easier for Americans in every corner of this country.” 

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