Skip to main content
Representative Tom Cole logo

Budget Deal Restores Regular Order, Averts Shutdown

December 12, 2013

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the House of Representatives successfully passed H.J. Res. 59, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013. This legislation comes several weeks after a bipartisan budget conference committee, led by Chairman Paul Ryan and Chairman Patty Murray, was formed to negotiate a deal before December 13. Cole served as a conferee.

"I am pleased that the House voted in favor of the Bipartisan Budget Act," said Cole. "Since 2009, the federal government has depended on short-term agreements, rather than passing a long-term budget plan. While this bill doesn't address everything, it is a starting point that represents true compromise and sets the stage for future reform. By working together and engaging in real negotiations, Chairmen Ryan and Murray found targeted, smarter cuts that retain more than the total savings previously achieved through sequester. But most importantly, passage of this legislation in both chambers will restore regular order to the budget and appropriations process. It will also remove the threat of another government shutdown in the near future.

"I am encouraged that we agreed to talk and listen to each other in order to reach this compromise. It should serve as a welcome reminder that, even in divided government, we can work together and find common ground."

###