Political Quotes

“Today, we are considering my bill, H.R. 2371, the Western Area Power Administration Transparency Act. This bipartisan bill simply requires the Western Area Power Administration, known as WAPA, to establish a pilot project to allow for a more detailed understanding of how it uses both taxpayer and ratepayer dollars. This bill is the result of calls from some of WAPA's customers given rate increase trends and other financial discrepancies. H.R. 2371 requires WAPA to develop a publicly available website that contains a detailed accounting of its rates, expenditures, staffing, and other operational and financial dealings. Since cost increases are ultimately borne by its customers, WAPA needs to be more transparent about its business practices. That is exactly what this bill seeks to achieve. H.R. 2371 will increase transparency and afford ratepayers with the necessary information to positively engage with WAPA about its operation and spending decisions. I urge adoption of the measure. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”