Peter Visclosky: “I thank the chairwoman for yielding and her kind remarks. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues support H.R. 133. The…”

“I thank the chairwoman for yielding and her kind remarks. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues support H.R. 133. The Defense portion of this bill continues to focus on the well-being and morale of those in uniform. For example, the bill provides an additional $116 million for upgrades to childcare facilities and directs the military services to present innovative ideas to address the serious backlog for childcare. However, I must also share my concerns over DOD and its lack of compliance with many congressionally directed reporting requirements. For example, last year, the committee directed the Department to submit a report on its contracts for advertising services with socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses. The report was 5 months late. The Department has also habitually redirected funding in contravention of congressional intent. One DOD official referred to these transfers of billions of dollars as anomalies. I refer to them as habitual abuses. I hope in the future it will recognize Congress' constitutional prerogatives. Mr. Speaker, finally, since it was mentioned, this will be my last floor statement after nearly 44 years of working in the House. I want to thank all of the wonderful staff who have made what successes we have enjoyed possible.…”