FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, November 3, 2005

Isakson Praises Senate Passage of Bill to Cut Spending
Legislation Will Produce Savings of $39 Billion Over Five Years for American Taxpayers  

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) today praised the Senate’s passage of legislation that will save the federal government an estimated $39.1 billion over five years and an estimated $109 billion over 10 years.                

“Balancing the federal budget is an obligation that those of us in Washington owe to future generations of Americans, and this legislation is a first step in the right direction” said Isakson. “Congress must become better stewards of the taxpayers’ money.”

The Deficit Reduction Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 2005 will reduce mandatory spending, which accounts for 56 percent of all federal spending. Left unchecked, that number would grow to more than 62 percent of all federal spending in 10 years.

“Although I’m pleased with the Senate’s efforts today to reduce mandatory spending, I still believe we need fundamental reform of the budgeting process,” Isakson said. “I will continue to work for spending restraint and fiscal responsibility.”

Among Isakson’s key votes today were:

• A vote in favor of an amendment to put the brakes on federal spending by capping discretionary federal spending at fiscal year 2006 levels. The amendment failed 32-67.
• A vote against an amendment that would have prevented oil and gas development in a portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). The amendment failed 48-51.
• A vote in favor of an amendment to use excess funds to protect coastal areas where energy is being produced to help the United States become less dependent on foreign energy sources. The amendment passed on a voice vote.
• A vote in favor of an amendment to create a five-year pilot program that would allow disabled veterans who live with their families to qualify for up to $10,000 to install wheelchair ramps, widen hallways or make other adaptations to their homes. The amendment passed by unanimous consent.

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