Mikulski Statement on Vote to Oppose Cuts to Federal Workers, Hospitals in Payroll Tax Cut Conference Report

February 17, 2012

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.) today made the following statement after she voted to oppose cuts to federal workers' pensions and assistance to hospitals that serve the poor included in the payroll tax cut conference report:  

"I'm volcanic that this bill is not fully paid for and that we're using permanent solutions to solve temporary problems. I'm flabbergasted that Republicans are more willing to protect billionaires and add to the debt than keep our economy rolling and provide a safety net for those going through very tough times.  

"I support what we want to accomplish by extending the payroll tax break, continuing Unemployment Insurance and stopping a pay cut to doctors who care for the aged and infirm.   

"But I'll be darned if I agree to pay for it by cutting payments to hospitals that serve the poor and asking civil servants to take another cut in their pensions when billionaires don't have to contribute a dime."