Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jeff Fortenberry today supported H.R. 1363, a bill that would provide funding for American troops and avert a government shutdown at the end of this week. The bill passed the House of Representatives on a vote of 247 to 181.

"Those serving our country, particularly military service members in the field and their families at home, should not fear missing a paycheck due to Washington's failure to plan," Fortenberry said. "I am hopeful that a reasonable and responsible solution to our current budget situation will be reached soon so we can move forward on solving the serious challenges of our budget crisis and fix long-term structural deficits. In any event, this bill ensures that our troops will receive their pay in full and on time."

H.R. 1363 provides appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year, ending September 30, 2011. The legislation also provides for a one week (through April 15, 2011) extension of funding for the remaining portions of the government, with $12 billion in reductions from current levels.

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