GOP backs temporary hike in debt ceiling

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WASHINGTON, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- Republicans in the House will pass a three-month increase in the U.S. debt limit if the Senate agrees to approve a budget by April 15, GOP leaders said.

Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, announced the plan Friday on the final day of the Republican retreat in Williamsburg, Va., The Hill reported.

"Before there is any long-term debt limit increase, a budget should be passed that cuts spending," Boehner said. "The Democratic-controlled Senate has failed to pass a budget for four years. That is a shameful run that needs to end, this year."

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, R-Va., said the debt-ceiling vote would be held next week.

He and Boehner promised to push for a resolution that would stop congressional pay if there is no budget.

"If the Senate or House fails to pass a budget in that time, members of Congress will not be paid by the American people for failing to do their job. No budget, no pay," Cantor said.

Jay Carney, a spokesman for President Barack Obama, called the Republican announcement a move in the right direction. The president has been pushing for an increase in the debt ceiling not tied to cuts in programs.