Congresswoman Betty McCollum Statement on Senate-Passed Continuing Resolution

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Dean of the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement on Monday upon Senate passage of a continuing resolution that fails to extend tax credits that millions of Americans depend on to access affordable health care.

"Donald Trump and Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the White House. For 40 days, they have chosen to shut down government, because they refuse to extend tax credits that help millions afford their health care. They have chosen to use hunger as a weapon against the American people by withholding SNAP food assistance.

"I strongly oppose the Senate's government funding bill, because it does nothing to address these Republican crises. It is a bad deal for Americans. In fact, their bill cuts $18 billion more from SNAP, and fails to include any guardrails to prevent the Trump Administration from continuing their illegal and unconstitutional misuse of congressionally appropriated funds.

"There is no reason to believe that House Republicans will take action to reduce health care costs for the American people. Speaker Johnson has said himself that he will not hold a vote on extending Affordable Care Act tax credits. The Republican failure to extend these tax credits will force millions of Americans to choose between feeding their families or taking their sick child to the doctor.

"What I want is for Minnesotans and all Americans to have an open and transparent government that works for them, have access to quality affordable healthcare, be able to have enough money for their groceries, and to live in welcoming communities. It is unfortunate that President Trump and my Republican colleagues do not share those priorities."