Pelosi Statement on House Passage of Omnibus Appropriations Bill

Washington, D.C. - Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on House passage of the fiscal year 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act, which will fund the federal government through September 30:

"By completing the appropriations bills that the previous Administration delayed, and by rejecting the deep cuts affecting our children, our workers, and our economy that President Bush proposed, Congress can now focus its full attention on the pressing challenges facing our nation.  In this legislation, and because of the condition of our economy and the financial crisis, Congress also rejected a cost of living increase for Members for next year.

"The American people expect bold and rapid action that will create jobs and strengthen our economy for the long-term, reform our health care system to reduce costs and increase coverage, move our nation toward energy independence and a green economy, and modernize education to foster innovation and competitiveness in the global economy.

"As Americans have seen since President Obama took office just five weeks ago, Congress has already taken major actions on each of those issues.  We look forward to continuing to work with President Obama to make our shared vision of a renewed America a reality."