Rep. Peters’ Statement on Continuing Resolution and ISIL Amendment

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.J.Res. 124, which funds the government through December 11, 2014. Rep. Peters also voted in favor of an amendment to the bill, authored by Rep. Buck McKeon, that authorizes the training and arming of moderate rebel forces in Syria as part of the continuing fight against ISIL:

“Funding the government is the very least that the American people expect from Congress. While I would prefer to follow the regular budgeting and appropriations process to avoid the constant uncertainty that short-term funding bills like this cause, passing this continuing resolution keeps the government from shutting down like we saw last Fall.

“The threat presented by ISIL is very dangerous and very real; I voted for the McKeon amendment because it is the course of action recommended by the commanders of our armed forces who believe it is in the best interests of our national defense. It gives them the authority over the next three months to train and equip moderate forces in Syria so they are capable of countering ISIL on the ground.

“The McKeon amendment also strengthens congressional oversight by requiring detailed reporting on the strategy, the vetting process, and measures to prevent equipment we provide from falling into enemy hands, which remains a concern. While I continue to support airstrikes in Iraq that have already proved successful in thwarting ISIL’s advance, this amendment does not authorize, nor do I support, American combat ground troops in Iraq and Syria. It is the responsibility of Congress to carefully examine, debate, and decide on any broader authority that would put our soldiers directly in harm’s way.”

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