Elton Gallegly: “As the chairman knows, the Committee on Resources has approved H.R. 1332, which would eliminate the Office of…”

“As the chairman knows, the Committee on Resources has approved H.R. 1332, which would eliminate the Office of Territorial and International Affairs [OTIA] and terminate its programs. This action will save taxpayers $16 million in fiscal year 1996 and $117 million over the next 7 years. This authorization bill, which I introduced, received widespread bipartisan support and is currently awaiting floor consideration. Mr. Speaker, when the floor considered H.R. 1977, the Interior appropriations bill, I offered an amendment to delete the funding for the OTIA and its programs in accordance with our committee's work. The chairman graciously accepted my amendment. Unfortunately, the other body has gone in just the opposite direction in their appropriations bill by preserving in some ways and enhancing this unnecessary office in other ways. It is my hope that the Chair and other House conferees will stick firm to the House position in trying to eliminate this piece of bureaucracy.”