First District Congressman Tim Walz issued a statement after voting in favor of the Senate-passed bill to avert the fiscal cliff saying that while it was not the 'Go Big' type of bill he advocated for, it's a good first step.
                
Walz says he favored it because it will protect the middle class families from an income tax hike and it will protect the nation's economy.
                
He said it also extends many vital tax incentives for businesses including the Wind Production Tax Credit, which will create jobs in southern Minnesota, and continue to move the economy towards energy independence.
                
It also includes a so-called 'Doc Fix' which ensures that Medicare providers won't see a 27% cut to their reimbursements.  Walz said he is deeply disappointed with the Farm Bill extension. which does not include funding for the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Program.
                
He said he will continue to advocate for a big, balanced deal that will work to tackle the debt, grow the economy, and give certainty to businesses and middle class families.