Kuster Signs Petition to End Government Shutdown

Editor's Note: This statement was provided by U.S. Rep. Ann McLane Kuster's office in D.C.

Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) announced that she has signed a petition that would force a vote on a bipartisan bill to end the government shutdown and restore important services to Granite State families and businesses. In recent weeks, Speaker Boehner has repeatedly refused to bring this bill to a simple vote even though it enjoys bipartisan support from a majority of Congress.

“Nearly two weeks into this damaging shutdown that’s hurting Granite State families and businesses, it’s time for a simple vote to reopen the government,” Kuster said. “We need to put an end to the gamesmanship, reopen the government, and move on so that we can focus on creating jobs and opportunity for middle class families.”

The special congressional procedure, known as a discharge petition, allows a majority of members to force an up or down vote on a bill to reopen the government. This petition only needs a majority of House members to sign on and does not require any action by the Republican leadership.

In an op ed earlier this week, Kuster called on Speaker Boehner to allow a vote on this measure so that Congress can move on and start working together to reduce the deficit, create jobs, and strengthen the middle class.