WASHINGTON, MAY 10, 2007 - "We are in the midst of implementing a new strategy in Iraq - a strategy drawn up by the new commander in Iraq General Petraeus, who was approved in the Senate without opposition - yet this funding bill likely would cut off the funding needed to fully implement this new strategy," stated Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala). "This two-month funding bill would prevent our commanders from planning and conducting future operations to achieve success in Iraq. It is a political statement that undermines our troops and our ability to defend this nation."??The House today approved H.R. 2206, providing $42.7 billion for ongoing operations in Iraq, enough for 60 days. In July, Congress would have to approve additional funding to continue operations in Iraq past those 60 days. Added Stearns, "I support establishing benchmarks to measure progress in Iraq, but our military needs the certainly of funding in order to make the progress we demand. In addition, instead of focusing on the specific needs of our troops and veterans, this bill includes $6.8 billion for Hurricane Katrina recovery, $663 million for efforts against pandemic flu, and $400 million for non-emergency energy programs.”