On the recordJune 9, 2016
I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to support the Legislative Branch Appropriations bill that is before us. This is the third of the 12 bills to make it to the floor. We have passed eight of the bills through the full committee, and 10 of them through the subcommittees. But this bill provides the important funding that Congress needs to do our work on behalf of the American people. From maintaining the hallowed halls of this very building, to providing services for our constituents, to funding the agencies that keep us informed and in check, the $3.48 billion in this bill supports the largest and freest democracy the world has ever known. In total, our funding is increased slightly--$73 million above current levels. That increase is directed to essential health and safety improvements to aging or damaged facilities as well as to the Capitol Police to protect Members, staff, and our visitors. At the same time, this bill keeps the belt tight, continuing our trajectory of trimming funding for the House of Representatives by 13.2 percent since 2011 and extending the pay freeze for Members of Congress. The funds provided for House operations will allow Members of Congress to continue serving the American people to the fullest extent and representing their voices in Washington, D.C.…
