U.S. Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick (R-8th) issued the following statement on the extension of middle class tax relief:

“I have supported, and will continue to support, a long-term extension of the important middle class tax relief, unemployment insurance, and a two-year extension of predictable reimbursements for physicians so that they can continue to provide medical care for seniors.  This is a matter of good public policy and not of politics.”

“In light of the Senate’s failure to return from their holiday vacation and negotiate a full-year extension of these measures, however, an agreement has been reached to ensure that taxes are not raised on middle-class families on January 1st and to prevent small businesses from being burdened by complicated reporting requirements included in the Senate’s original bill.  In return for supporting this compromise, the Senate will immediately appoint conferees to work with the House in the weeks ahead to reach a 12-month extension.”

 “This new bill protects Pennsylvania families and small businesses in the short term, while providing for my goal of a long-term extension.  Most importantly, this deal will bring all parties back to the table and we can get back to doing the work of the people.”