Congresswoman Gwen Moore Votes No on H. R. 1102— Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024

“It is vital that Congress does everything in its power to avert a partial government shutdown. As a member of Congress, I understand the importance of compromise and negotiating in a divided government. And while this legislation does include important efforts, such as funding to fight HIV/AIDS both at home and abroad, a $275 million increase for Head Start, a $725 million increase for child care, boosted funds to support mental health and suicide prevention outreach, and includes community projects from Senator Baldwin that would benefit Milwaukee, I am deeply concerned that we acquiesced too much in our efforts to keep the government fully open.

Unfortunately, Republicans were able to add some of their poison pills, including their harmful cuts to the IRS, continuing their aggressive misinformation campaign and their decades long sabotage of the IRS, attacking the pride flag, and on immigration funding. I was proud to support the Inflation Reduction Act as a member of the Ways and Means Committee, which provided much-needed monies to the chronically underfunded IRS. Thanks to these funds, this agency has been able to ensure our tax laws are followed and has been able to collect close to $500 million in recoup taxes from millionaires who didn’t pay their fair share. This funding has also improved their taxpayer assistance service. That’s why I am firmly opposed to this extreme provision slashing more than $10 billion from the IRS.

This legislation also continues the GOP war on diversity, equity and inclusion, cutting DEI efforts in our government agencies, which aim to support a workforce that reflects our nation’s diversity. I also have concerns about blocking U.S. funding for United National Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). To be clear: I support full accountability to get to the bottom of the serious allegations that have been raised about employee involvement in Hamas October 2023 attacks on Israel, including steps to fire those employees and the ongoing investigation to make sure this does not happen again. However,  this organization provides crucial aid, medical supplies and supports schools not just in Gaza, but in Lebanon, Jordan, and elsewhere throughout the region. Aid organizations and even the Biden Administration have emphasized how important UNRWA’s operations are in the region and the humanitarian crisis could become worse without U.S. support of UNRWA. We shouldn’t punish the many for the actions of a few. I am also disappointed that the Speaker continues to renege on critical legislation to support our ally Ukraine as they bravely fight against Russia’s brutal invasion.

I always want to work across the aisle but saw these compromises as going too far. With that being said, I understand the gravity of the situation and the importance of averting a partial government shutdown. I am already looking ahead to the next fiscal year to ensure that we can meet the needs of our communities.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.