PEARCE CALLS ON SENATE TO TAKE ACTION, NOT VACATION

Washington, DC (December 19, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce, along with other Members of the House of Representatives, returned to Washington to vote down the Senate’s plan to limit the payroll tax cut extension to two months. Congressman Pearce continued his support for New Mexico’s middle class and New Mexican families by rejecting the Senate’s plan, and calling for a one-year extension to the tax cuts.

“The Senate vote is unacceptable and unworkable,” said Pearce. “It creates uncertainty and confusion, and experts say that a two month extension will not work. The House is here to find a solution, and we are dedicated to making sure that this issue is settled now--for a year. We are working to find a path forward that will create economic security for Americans.”

“The environment of increased economic uncertainty that the Senate bill provides is unacceptable,” Pearce continued. “At a time when unemployment is still at 8.6 percent and American families are struggling financially, it is inexcusable to only extend these tax cuts for two months. The House worked diligently last week to pass bipartisan efforts that would benefit hard working Americans; yet party politics have once again blocked genuine solutions. We are committed to work through Christmas until a solution is reached that will put money back in the pockets of Americans—for our nation, for the hope of our economic future, and for our families across the nation.”

Last week, the House of Representatives passed a bipartisan bill, the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act, which extended payroll tax cuts for a year. The Senate responded with a bill that only extends the tax cuts through February, which would place a hardship on middle class families, especially at the holiday season. The House has returned to session and plans to work until this issue is resolved.

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