Steve Womack: “I rise in support of the consolidated appropriations package before the House today. With this legislation, we are a…”

“I rise in support of the consolidated appropriations package before the House today. With this legislation, we are a step closer to completing full-year appropriations that rightsize our priorities with updated funding levels. As chair the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee, I would like to highlight that division of this package. Before I do, Madam Chair, I want to say something about my friend, Jim Clyburn. He is my friend. Though we sometimes differ in our political beliefs, friendship transcends politics. Jim's words this morning on the floor inspire me. I am grateful. Madam Chair, the Transportation division is a deliberate shift away from bloated bureaucracy and unfocused spending and back toward the core responsibilities of the Federal Government. This agreement supports the President's America First agenda by cutting waste, eliminating unnecessary and underperforming programs, and codifying reforms that significantly reduce the size and scope of the Federal bureaucracy across all agencies. The bill refocuses taxpayer dollars on priorities that matter to the American people: safety, mobility, economic growth, and housing affordability. We make aviation safety a top priority by providing $22.2 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration, fully funding air traffic control, hiring 2,500 new controllers, and modernizing outdated facilities and equipment to ensure the safety and reliability of our national airspace system.”