Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-Laredo) a Deputy Whip of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition, joined President Barack Obama at the White House today where the President announced a new initiative to reign in government excess by requiring lawmakers to offset new spending with budget cuts and other revenue enhancements. The new spending rules, known as “pay-as-you-go” or “PAYGO”, aim to slash the soaring $1.8 trillion national debt and could save American taxpayers up to $40 billion a year.

“In these difficult economic times, Americans are tightening up their budgets and Congress must do the same. It’s time to balance the books and stop short-changing future generations,” said Congressman Cuellar, as a member of the Blue Dog Budget Task Force, has been working to reduce the national deficit by sponsoring legislation similar to the President’s plan unveiled today. “President Obama and the Blue Dogs are committed to bringing back the spending rules from the 1990’s, when Congress could only spend a dollar if it saved a dollar first, which led to a budget surplus”

President Obama invited Congressman Cuellar, the Blue Dog Coalition and other fiscally conservative Senators and Members of Congress to attend the announcement at the White House this afternoon. This is the first piece of legislation President Obama has ever transmitted to Congress. 

“I’m pleased that President Obama shares my belief in bringing our books to balance and addressing the issue of our nation’s long-term fiscal sustainability. By making PAYGO the first bill he sends to Congress, President Obama is making a strong statement about the colossal importance of restoring our nation’s economic security.  I look forward to working with the President and my congressional colleagues in the coming weeks to reenact this vital initiative into law.” Congressman Cuellar added.

The Blue Dogs work with a core commitment to the nation’s financial stability. This April, Congressman Cuellar was a lead sponsor of the Fiscal Honesty and Accountability Act, pay-as-you-go legislation that restores fiscal responsibility in Congress. These initiatives are similar to action taken in the late 1990’s when budget rules proved instrumental in producing budget surpluses.

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Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the U.S. House Homeland Security, Agriculture, and Government Oversight & Reform Committees in the 111th Congress.  Accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development, and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Senior Whip and member of the Blue Dog Coalition.