BY SCOTT LEFFLER
scott.leffler@eastniagarapost.com

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U.S. Rep. Chris Collins

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Chris Collins, R-Clarence, voted Wednesday to support  H.J. Res. 124 and the coinciding amendment, funding the government, extending the Export-Import Bank’s authorization, and providing President Barack Obama authorization to combat ISIS.

Representatives voted 319-108 to pass the resolution One hundred fourty three Democrats and 176 Republicans voted in support of the measure, while 55 Democrats and 53 Republicans voted against it.

The continuing funding portion of the bill authorizes $1.012 trillion in spending to keep the government funded for just under three months. The ISIL portion of the bill, meanwhile, allows the Obama administration to equip Syrian rebels for the intended purpose of fighting ISIS.

Collins statement follows below in its entirety.

Although far from perfect, this legislation takes steps towards achieving a number of necessary initiatives. Ensuring the government has the funding necessary to operate provides stability for the country. Additionally, extending the Export-Import Bank’s authorization is a big win for small businesses across the country. I have been leading the fight on this topic from the onset, and will continue to push for a long-term reauthorization of the program. This extension allows the Export-Import Bank to continue its operations while Congress considers reforms to the program.

In our current economic atmosphere, we need to be doing all we can to promote business growth and create job opportunities. Extending the Bank’s charter affords businesses access to services that are vital for their operations.

In regards to authorizing the President to combat ISIS, we are taking immediate action to destroy a grave threat to our country’s security. The current events in Iraq and Syria prove that the absence of American leadership enables and emboldens our enemies, and puts our country and citizens at risk. It is an unfortunate situation, but America must stand tall and provide the leadership warranted to secure a positive outcome.

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