Lower Bucks Today

Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick from Pennsylvania's 1st congressional district issued a statement about a recent procedural vote on the Budget Resolution. This resolution is part of ongoing negotiations between the House and the Senate concerning the extension of the current federal tax code, which is due to expire. The latest version of the budget aims to provide maximum flexibility during discussions, as the Byrd Rule, which limits non-budgetary provisions, applies only to the Senate and not to the House. Consequently, the budgetary numbers in the House's budget are discretionary rather than mandatory.

Congressman Fitzpatrick emphasized that "the word Medicaid is not mentioned or addressed anywhere in the text." As negotiations continue, he assured his commitment to protect benefits relied upon by seniors, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups through Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. "We can—and must—achieve meaningful positive reform to ensure the long-term sustainability of these essential programs, without compromising the integrity of these essential programs."

Fitzpatrick concluded by stating his intent to "continue to closely monitor these negotiations to ensure that any final agreement reflects genuine cooperation, fiscal responsibility, protection of our essential social safety net programs, and, above all, the best interests of our PA-1 community."