Washington, DC (WIBX) - Congressman Richard Hanna has issued a statement on the debt ceiling bill, which passed the House on Monday.

Hanna says he's pleased that both sides came together to responsbily raise the debt ceiling and for the first time in history, cut government spending at the same time.

He says more importantly, the bi-partisan legislation does not include cuts for Social Security or Medicaid beneficiaries.

The Barneveld Republican says defaulting on our debt was never an option and those who aren't voting for thoughtful change are voting for failure.

Hanna says he stated publicly months ago that it is necessary to raise the debt ceiling, but it should be accompanied by spending reforms to put or nation on the path to long-term fiscal responsibility.

More From WIBX 950