WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) issued the following statement on President Trump’s FY 2019 budget.
“Last week, we did what was necessary to fully fund and rebuild our neglected military and provide relief for flood disaster victims. This investment was absolutely crucial, and I stand by that vote. Ideologically, I support the reduction in size and scope of the Federal Government and its role in the lives of Americans. Thus, I certainly support fiscally conservative budget reform. Closer to home, I am glad to see GOMESA funding included in President Trump’s budget proposal. The Louisiana delegation worked very closely with Secretary Zinke and other Administration officials last year to preserve GOMESA funding and expand revenue sharing provisions. That funding is critical to coastal restoration projects in our state, and this is a major win for South Louisiana.
Although I support many of the President’s proposed spending reductions, I have concerns about the Administration’s proposed cuts to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Our ports and waterways… long neglected… are essential to Louisiana’s energy and agriculture economies as well as international trade and fabrication. The COE already lacks the resources for sufficient maintenance and dredging of existing water infrastructure…much less to invest in new projects required to support industrial growth in our state. I look forward to continue working with my Congressional colleagues and the Administration to ensure crucial Corps projects have the funding they need.”
