Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement today after voting for a bipartisan budget agreement that would reverse some of the indiscriminate budget cuts that have hurt families and small businesses while helping prevent another costly government shutdown. The agreement passed the House by a vote of 332 to 94.

“After months of brinksmanship and bitter partisanship, it’s encouraging to see both parties engaged in good-faith budget negotiations. This proposal is far from perfect, but it’s a modest first step that will help move us beyond the cycle of manufactured crises and short-term decision-making that has put a drag on our economy and hurt middle class families.

“This agreement would reverse some of the indiscriminate budget cuts that have hurt New Hampshire families and small businesses, while helping prevent another government shutdown that costs jobs and damages our economy. With that said, I am gravely disappointed that this agreement does not include an extension of unemployment insurance benefits, and I will keep pushing for a vote on legislation to protect this vital economic lifeline for Granite Staters who are looking for work.

“No budget proposal is perfect, and this plan is no exception. But it will prevent another devastating government shutdown, restore some normalcy to our budget process, and clear the way for Congress to focus on helping create jobs and opportunity for middle class families.”

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