Passing the Bipartisan Budget Agreement (BBA) was a critical step forward for our country, state, and community. Preventing a default is key to building our economy and maintaining American economic leadership in the world, and that is exactly why I voted to pass the BBA.

Here is why I voted for the BBA On Wednesday night:

It prevents a catastrophic default by suspending the debt limit through January, 2025.

It protects veteran benefits by fully funding medical care for veterans, and investing an additional $15 billion in the PACT Act's toxic exposure fund.

Further, the BBA protects the historic investments in infrastructure and green jobs that we passed in the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

It has been clear from speaking with small businesses, nonprofits, and community stakeholders that a default would devastate our community. The critical services we rely on, such as affordable housing, nutrition initiates, veteran and retiree benefits, health care, and banking services, would have fallen apart.

With those folks in mind, I voted to prevent a default, preserve our economy, and protect our community.

Rick