RSC Update

Just one week into the House’s six-week recess, Speaker Pelosi has called Representatives back into session to vote on a $26.1 billion bailout to state and local governments. Democrats are attempting to portray this payoff to teachers’ unions as “stimulus,” but even the members of The Washington Post’s editorial board (certainly not known for conservative viewpoints) know better. They recently wrote:

“The crusade for an education jobs bill, led by the Obama administration and Democratic leaders in Congress, has always struck us as more of an election-year favor for teachers unions than an optimal use of public resources. Billed as an effort to stimulate the economy, it's not clearly more effective than alternative uses of the cash. Yes, school budgets are tight across the country, but the teacher layoff ‘crisis’ is exaggerated.”

This bailout will not solve the long-term budget imbalances of states, nor will it create the private sector jobs needed to fuel a real economic recovery. It simply kicks the can down the road – perpetuating the cycle of state governments spending more than they can truly afford. When the money from Washington (your money) runs out, they’ll be right back at square one.

At least one good thing will come from this special session, however. House Members will also have an opportunity to support a vote on a resolution I introduced pledging not to hold a post-election lame duck session for the purpose of imposing a national energy tax, card check, and other liberal policies upon an unwilling public. Be sure to check the vote tally Tuesday evening to see where your Representative stands.

Sincerely,

Congressman Tom Price
Chairman, Republican Study Committee