On the recordFebruary 16, 2011
I am proud to offer this amendment with my colleague from Colorado (Mr. Perlmutter), a strong advocate for commonsense policies. Mr. Chairman, this amendment simply changes the date by which the bill rescinds obligated funds. By moving the date to the end of the fiscal year, September 30, it allows for everyone, from local government to innovative clean-tech companies, the ability to plan for the rest of their fiscal year and not have grants yanked from under their feet. We should not change the rules on people in the middle of the game. It really calls into question the reliability of the Federal Government. There are so many grants in the queues of these agencies. And calling all funds unobligated after February 11 will be devastating to local communities and small businesses that are just looking for long-term stability throughout the rest of the fiscal year. Changing the rules after the fact is never a strong, good practice. Mr. Chairman, this amendment is pro-business, pro-infrastructure, pro-local government, and deserves to be supported. The amendment is also fiscally responsible and meets the House budget rules.





