“Ronald Reagan once said about the federal bureaucracy that ‘a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we’ll ever see on this earth,’” Shuster commented.  “This bill takes remarkable steps toward disproving that claim in a manner that I believe Ronald Reagan would have approved – reforming the federal government to be more economical, cost-effective and responsible.”  

The Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 lays out a plan, in addition to other fiscally responsible policies, to effectively reduce the federal deficit by 22 percent.  Over the last five years the government has grown at a clip of 6.3 percent, but last year Congress held non-national security spending to 1.4 percent – part of the plan to reduce the deficit and reform the government. 

The legislation takes into consideration programs that have been helpful and effective.  For example, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which many Pennsylvanians depend on during the winter months, is increased by 50 percent under this bill.  Recent spikes in fuel costs have made it difficult for people to heat their homes and legislators wanted to make sure those in need have the resources necessary to stay warm.  All while saving the taxpayer $50 billion by slowing the growth of the government in areas that have become inefficient. 

“This is a fiscally responsible solution that reigns in frivolous bureaucratic spending but continues to provide essential services for those most in need.  LIHEAP is an example of that commitment,” said Shuster.  “The Deficit Reduction Act reforms the government to eliminate wasteful programs and makes the best use of taxpayer dollars.” 

The bill passed 217 – 215 with no support from Democrats, who endorsed their typical tax and spend policies.  Even the Blue Dog Coalition, consisting of conservative anti-spending Democrats whose members have posters in front of their offices showing their commitment to cutting the deficit, did not vote for this bill.  Yet another example of the Democrats playing partisan politics and ignoring the issues Americans want action on.