Rep. Meeks Statement on FY2017 Continuing Resolution

Rep. Meeks Statement on FY2017 Continuing Resolution

Washington, D.C.— After details of the FY2017 Continuing Resolution were announced, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05) released the following statement:

"Due to their inability to pass a budget, Congressional Republicans are now pushing through a continuing resolution (CR). While the proposed CR contains prudent public policy, it also has a major shortcoming: of the $35 million it will have cost NYC to protect PEOTUS Trump, the CR reimburses the city for only $7 million. Before they take off for the holiday break, Republicans are sticking New Yorkers with 80% of the bill for PEOTUS’ security. The Republicans are deserting established precedent in allowing a city’s local tax revenue to be spent—without reimbursement—on protecting an incoming federal official. For example, when then President-elect Barack Obama was protected by the Chicago Police Department, the federal government reimbursed the city.

"The people have paid their NYC taxes to help keep our streets safe and our emergency services intact. The $28 million tab the city is forced to pick up could be used for things that would benefit taxpayers, like community policing, drug rehabilitation programs, and counterterrorism efforts.

"In future funding bill negotiations, I will partner with my colleagues in the New York City delegation to adequately reimburse the city for fulfilling what is ultimately the federal government’s responsibility."