Political Quotes

“These communities are openly committed to providing high-quality public services to the residents, but as a result of the numerous unfunded mandates and restrictive time schedules, are sacrificing other local priorities. The intent of Congress in passing environmental statutes was not to deplete our States' economic resources. If we are truly committed to changing the future of unfunded mandates in our legislating, we should be willing to go a step beyond, and that is what I am prepared to do. So, Mr. President, reform of unfunded mandates is not a job well done until we have provided relief from those regulations now in effect, and I am committed to finding that balance which raises the quality of public service for Americans at a reasonable cost. If a less costly course of action is available to achieve the same result, we should not limit that window of opportunity but encourage the cost savings. This is possible when solutions are tailored to fit the local needs, not mandated by an out-of-control Washington bureaucracy.”