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Washington, DC -- Congressman John Sarbanes, MD-03, expressed frustration and concern today over the President’s fiscal year 2008 budget submission. President Bush sent up a $2.9 trillion budget this morning that would increase military spending and decrease funding to eight major departments. “The worst part is, he also reiterated his priority of making permanent tax cuts for the wealthy. I can’t imagine a leader more out of touch with the needs of a nation.”
“Last year alone, more people entered into bankruptcy than graduated from college. Maryland’s working people are getting a bad deal from the Bush administration. Still, I find hope in the resiliency and persistence of Americans to rise above and succeed. With a little help from the new majority, I think we can turn things around in this country.”
In the midst of many missed opportunities, there are a few reasons for Marylanders to celebrate:
• Civilian and military employees would receive a 3 percent pay raise on average next year.
• Pell Grants would be increased by nearly 14 percent, or $550, next year, and by 33 percent, or $1,350, over the next five years.
• $28 million has been allotted to improving Chesapeake Bay conditions though, as the Washington Post reported last week, $28 billion is needed to actually clean up and conserve the Bay.
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