House Passes Troop Funding Bill

Yep, it's true, the US House of Representatives passed a troop funding bill. Again.

Republican Leader, my Congressman and a Great American -- John Boehner -- had this to say:

“This legislation represents a major victory for our troops and their families. The men and women in uniform protecting our nation in Iraq and Afghanistan have made remarkable progress against a determined enemy. This bill rightfully gives them the resources they need to continue their success and return home after victory, not defeat, and will help them and their families obtain a better education after they have completed their mission. Equally as important, the measure provides this critical funding without bogging it down with politically-motivated surrender language supported by Democratic leaders in Congress.

“The supplemental funding bill also represents a victory for American taxpayers. Not only were House Republicans successful in blocking the massive tax hike Democrats planned to include in the bill, but we also forced the Majority to remove some $8 billion in wasteful Washington spending added into the legislation by the Senate. Furthermore, the bill includes a responsible extension of unemployment benefits for those truly in need while protecting taxpayers by maintaining the 20-week work requirement in order for individuals to receive extended benefits.

“Under Gen. Petraeus’ strategy, our troops have made tremendous gains, and forcing them to reverse course – as most in the Democratic Majority want them to do – would be both irresponsible and reckless. I am pleased this troop funding bill keeps our mission in Iraq and Afghanistan on track so our troops have the resources they need to keep America safe.”

And here is a statement from OH-05's Rep. Bob Latta:

“This supplemental package ensures our troops have the necessary funding they need while in harms way without deadlines or withdraw requirements that could have an adverse affect on their mission. This bill also provides important educational G.I. benefits for our veterans when they return home from serving our country, and the bill further extends the benefits to their family members,” Latta said after tonight’s vote.

H.R. 2642 also contains unemployment insurance benefits that include a 20-week work requirement and a maximum extension of 13 weeks.

“In addition to the supplemental package, this bill provides important unemployment insurance that assists those who are truly in need,” Latta added.

Alright, so earlier today, I asked what we had to give up in order to get this bill done. This is a deal I can live with...