Matsui Statement on House GOP Agreeing to Extenders Package

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, December 22, 2011

CONTACT: ALANA JUTEAU
(202) 225-7163

Matsui Statement on House GOP Agreeing to Extenders Package

Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) released the following statement upon House Republicans agreeing to pass a two-month extension of the two percent payroll-tax cut, unemployment insurance, and fix for Medicare physician payments.

"I am pleased that House Republicans have decided to finally put aside partisan games and pass the two-month extension, so that we can work on a year-long compromise. Their brinkmanship nearly caused a thirty percent cut to Medicare doctors' payments that would have endangered care for millions of seniors, an end to unemployment benefits for two million Americans, and a tax increase on 160 million Americans.

"Of all times, the holiday season is one in which we should be able to put aside our differences and work for the betterment of the country. Americans expect nothing less, and expect that we provide them with the certainty they need during this time. By passing this package, we will be able to assure America's seniors that they will have continued access to needed care, our unemployed that they will continue to receive benefits while actively seeking a new job, and our middle class that they will not see a sudden tax hike in the new year.

"Going forward, I hope to work with my colleagues in a bipartisan manner to pass a long-term deal that protects American workers and seniors, and ensures our economy is able to continue on its path towards recovery."

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