Thank you, Chairman Graves, Ranking Member Wasserman Schultz, and Chairman Rogers.
Today we consider the smallest of the appropriations bills, which funds the operations of our nation’s legislative branch. Without Senate items, the bill is $3.341 billion. Despite years of “tightening our belts," the Majority has yet again kept funding flat and further damaged this institution’s reputation and ability to function at the highest level.
This bill would slash Open World by more than 80%. While at first glance it might seem wise to reduce funding to a program that traditionally works with Russia, I would caution the Subcommittee to not hastily cut this initiative. Open World fosters democratic principles, and we should be engaging, not dismissing, young Russian leaders who are not part of the Central Russian Government. Additionally, in a time of great need, we should not dismantle efforts to engage Ukraine and other Russian protagonists.
Member representational allowances, or MRA’s, would be frozen for a third consecutive year, and are now $106 million below 2010 funding levels. Those reductions have severely strained the House’s ability to serve the American people, due to fewer staff for constituent casework, the inability to effectively communicate with our constituents, and fewer district offices.
Finally, I am distressed that the Majority continued funding for a partisan lawsuit against the President. This waste of taxpayer dollars only distracts us from the serious work Congress has to get done.
Notwithstanding my misgivings, I want to congratulate the Chairman for putting forth his first bill and working with the Ranking Member where possible.
Thank you.
Source: U.S. Department of HCA
