Washington, D.C. — Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement on the current government shutdown.

“The defense of our nation must be Congress’ first priority. Period. I urge the Senate to join the House and pass H.R. 695, the Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2019, which includes President Trump’s requested funding to build an effective wall on our southern border and protect the American people. Any vote against this funding is not only a vote for this unnecessary government shutdown, but also a direct vote against secure borders and national security.”