Olson Votes For Budget Paves Ways For Tax Reform

Washington, DC – Rep. Pete Olson (TX-22) today voted for a strong budget, which sets overall discretionary spending levels for FY2018, balances the budget, and provides reconciliation instructions for tax reform and mandatory spending reductions. The House passed H. Con. Res 71, the FY2018 Budget Resolution by a vote of 219-206.

“This budget is a critical step in the right direction to setting our nation’s fiscal house in order,” Rep. Pete Olson said. “Not only does it balance our budget within 10 years by cutting spending, reforming government, and growing the economy, but it produces a $9 billion surplus in ten years. This budget strengthens our national defense, responsibly addresses mandatory spending and opens the door to desperately needed tax reforms. It’s been 40 years since we had meaningful tax reform in America. This budget kick starts the process to reduce tax rates, simplify the tax code, and empower job creators and hardworking Americans.”

Budget

  • Sets overall discretionary spending for FY2018 at $1.132 trillion, with $621.5 billion for defense discretionary and $511 billion for non-defense discretionary
  • Balances the budget within 10 years
  • Provides robust funding to support a strong national defense
  • Achieves $6.5 trillion in total deficit reduction over 10 years
  • Makes structural reforms to Medicare’s long-term financial condition, ensuring it will be there for future generations
  • Produces a $9 billion surplus in FY2027
  • Aims to reduce government-wide improper payments by $700 billion
  • Provides significant funding to secure the border and protect the country and calls for increased accountability at the VA
  • Calls for major reform of regulations that hinder job creation and economic growth
  • Reforms Medicaid to return more control to the states and reform the program so it protects the most vulnerable