WASHINGTON, DC - House Energy and Commerce Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) today released the following statement after the House approved H.R. 1217, a bill to repeal $17.75 billion in mandatory spending, and the unaccountable prevention and public health fund for which it was authorized, under the president’s controversial health care law. The Secretary of Health and Human Services was granted full authority to spend the funds without any further Congressional action, making the program a virtual slush fund that could be used for practically any purpose the Secretary identifies as preventative, regardless of whether Congress considers it a priority.
“Today the House demonstrated we understand the dire condition of Washington’s spending addiction and stripped a $17.75 billion slush fund tucked away in the 2,900 page health care law. With the federal government borrowing 42 cents of every dollar it spends, Congress should not abdicate our authority and responsibility by handing a perpetual blank check to the Secretary of HHS.
“I applaud Rep. Joe Pitts for introducing this important piece of legislation that continues to defund the health care law and reasserts Congress’ role to set spending priorities."
