Jim Nussle: “I rise in support of H.R. 5121, a bill to provide promotions for the legislative branch. I want to compliment the…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 5121, a bill to provide promotions for the legislative branch. I want to compliment the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Young) and the chairman of the subcommittee, the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Taylor) for their cooperation in making sure that this bill complies with the House-passed budget resolution for fiscal year 2003. It provides $2.7 billion in budget authority and $2.9 billion for outlays for fiscal year 2003. If this measure is enacted, spending will have increased on an average of 11.1 percent for each of the last 3 years. Consistent with longstanding practice under which each House establishes its own priorities, the bill does not include appropriations for the other Chamber, which will be incorporated into the bill during conference. I am pleased that the bill is within the subcommittee's 302(b) allocation and is fully consistent with the provisions of the 1974 Budget Act. It does not designate any emergencies that would increase the 302(b) allocation or rescind any previously enacted budget authority. Let me also mention the Moran amendment that will be on the floor to cut $590,000 from the Joint Committee on Taxation. As the chairman of the Committee on the Budget, we rely on the estimates of this important committee. Particularly at this very difficult time for our country in estimating revenue, it would be unconscionable and irresponsible to cut the budget for the Joint Committee on Taxation.”