WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), a member of the Senate Budget Committee and Senate Appropriations Committee, voted Thursday evening for a federal funding bill that supports investment in a number of key Delaware priorities.
“The appropriations bill approved by the House on Wednesday and the Senate tonight is a compromise,” Senator Coons said. “It is by no means a perfect bill, but it does make important investments in our country’s economic growth. After years of governing on autopilot with continuing resolutions, it is also a small but important step toward a responsible and regular fiscal process.
“In Delaware and across the nation, the bill invests in our workforce, makes our communities safer, and builds a circle of protection around the most vulnerable in our society. Together, these investments make up the foundation of a safer, more just, and more inclusive nation. By combining them with key investments in research, innovation, and infrastructure, we are laying the groundwork for growth and shared prosperity today and tomorrow.”
“The omnibus appropriations bill will keep federal meat inspectors from being furloughed and once again endangering Delaware’s poultry industry. It will prevent deeper cuts to the operations of Delaware’s federal courts, and it will prevent steep reductions in Amtrak service and personnel. The bill also provides $20 million for the deepening of the Delaware River — a critical project that is necessary to keep the Port of Wilmington competitive with the coming expansion of the Panama Canal.”
“It is my sincere hope that by passing this bipartisan funding bill, we can put an end to a cycle of manufactured crises. I hope it means we can and will work together to confront the many challenges that remain in front of us.”