As the end of the year quickly approaches, so does the possibility of the "fiscal cliff."

The combination of expiring tax cuts and across-the-board government spending cuts are scheduled to go into effect on Dec. 31, and many experts say they will have a detrimental effect on the U.S. economy.

In response, some local residents are stepping up, speaking out and asking Congress to support a budget deal they said will help curb the federal deficit.

In Belmont County, the topic was brought up at the United Mine Workers Association in Bellaire on Monday morning. Residents are calling on U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson to support ending tax cuts for the wealthiest 2 percent of Americans and go back to tax rates much like when Bill Clinton was president.

Those at the meeting said in addition to Johnson, they are also urging Sen. Rob Portman and Sen. Sherrod Brown "to get the job done. Working families depend on it."

According to Ed Good, 6 percent of residents in Belmont and Monroe counties earn more than $200,000.

John Debonis said, "Belmont County at the present time is economically depressed. The mills have shut down. The mines are in a decline. So it would help tremendously the middle and the working class people of Belmont County."

District field representative Larry Vucelich said, "It's time to get this gridlock, put it away, and let's take care of this country."

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