Warren and Markey Praise Massachusetts Priorities in Budget Appropriations Package
Washington, DC - Massachusetts Senators Elizabeth Warren and Edward J. Markey today commended passage of the FY 2014 Omnibus Appropriations bill, including several provisions that will help the Massachusetts economy, environment and its vital fishing community.
"Today's agreement came at a critical time for Massachusetts, and I'm very grateful to Chairwoman Mikulski for her work fighting for appropriations that reflect our values," Senator Warren said. "I'm glad we were able to pass an agreement that avoids another government shutdown and that rolls back some of the mindless, meat-ax cuts of the sequester, and I'm particularly pleased that many important projects and groups in Massachusetts will get the boost they need. MIT's fusion energy program received funding that will allow operations to continue; our hardworking fishermen will finally see disaster relief assistance; NIH's funding will increase, which will help support Massachusetts' leading scientists and researchers; and Hanscom Air Force Base and Joint Base Cape Cod both received funding for construction and infrastructure developments. We still have a long way to go to make sure we are making the kinds of investments that will create opportunities for all of our kids and strengthen the middle class, but today we made a positive step forward."
"After sequestration and a shutdown, there is certainty in this bipartisan budget package for the people, programs and industries on which the people of Massachusetts rely," said Senator Markey. "Disaster relief for our fishermen will provide critical funding that will help keep this important economic and cultural industry alive when it needs it the most. Investments in the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation mean our Bay State hospitals, universities and research institutions can continue supporting and creating jobs in our innovation economy. Funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program will help our seniors, veterans and low-income families avoid the terrible choice between heating and eating this winter. The students of soldiers and staff at Hanscom Air Force Base will soon be able to study and succeed at a new school built for the 21st century. Many of our beautiful and vital environmental treasures will receive funding for restoration and protection. This deal is an important reminder that when Congress works together on a bipartisan basis, we can get things done for the people of this country. I will continue to work with Senator Warren and all of the Massachusetts congressional delegation to ensure that the priorities and values that matter most to the people of the Commonwealth have a voice in Congress."
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