WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) released the following statement after passage of the Senate Budget Resolution earlier today:

“American families must live within a budget, states must adhere to a budget, and it is time for the federal government to do the same. Earlier today, the U.S. Senate passed a responsible, balanced budget that funds a strong national defense, invests in our nation’s transportation and energy infrastructure and promotes job growth - all without raising taxes.

“According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, the Senate’s balanced budget will boost economic growth by $500 billion and create more than 1.3 million jobs over the next 10 years. The benefits will be felt by hard-working American families, including in West Virginia where Mountaineers will see an increase of more than 7,300 jobs by 2025.

“I applaud Senate Majority Leader McConnell and Senate Budget Committee Chairman Enzi for allowing an open amendment process throughout the budget negotiations. I was proud to put forward several amendments that will create a stronger future for West Virginia and the nation as a whole.

“For too long, the U.S. Senate has failed to pass a budget that balances without raising taxes. It is an honor to be a part of this new chapter in the U.S. Senate, one that is focused on creating a stronger and more prosperous nation for American families.”

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Two of Senator Capito’s amendments were included in the budget proposal passed by the Senate:

Amendment 416: Deters EPA from issuing any regulation that would reduce the reliability of the electricity grid. This amendment will strengthen our energy security, allow our economy to benefit from America’s vast energy resources and protect West Virginia’s vital energy jobs.

Amendment 420: Helps to combat the increase of heroin and methamphetamine use.  West Virginia is one of the states severely suffering from this drug epidemic, and this amendment is an important step toward reigning in the growing drug problem.

For more information on the GOP Balanced Budget’s economic impact on West Virginia, click here