WASHINGTON, DC – The House Budget Committee advanced legislation on Thursday to establish a bipartisan fiscal commission with the goal of addressing the government’s budget issues. The bill was approved 22-12, with three Democrats joining Republicans in passing the measure.
The proposed commission would be responsible for creating a report and drafting legislation aimed at improving the government’s fiscal condition. Despite the advancement of the legislation, concerns were raised about the potential impact on programs like Medicare and Social Security.
House Budget Chair Jodey Arrington expressed the importance of addressing the unfunded liability that could bankrupt the country. He emphasized the need to develop a plan that would provide future generations with the same opportunities and freedoms. However, Democrats have expressed opposition to the bill, fearing that it could lead to funding cuts for programs such as Social Security and Medicare.
Ranking member Brendan Boyle urged members to consider increasing the funding for Medicare and Social Security to ensure the sustainability of these systems for the rest of the century. Democrats argued that the focus should be on making the wealthy and well-connected pay their fair share, rather than implementing benefit cuts for the programs.
The commission has been given a deadline of Dec. 12 to issue a report and propose legislation that would be subject to a vote in each chamber. The debate over the bill reflects the ongoing tensions between Republicans and Democrats on how to address the government’s fiscal challenges.