Hal Rogers: “Mr. Chairman, the notion of reducing arrearages at the United Nations is a good idea. The only problem is that in the…”

“Mr. Chairman, the notion of reducing arrearages at the United Nations is a good idea. The only problem is that in the Gilman-Helms authorization conference report which we refer to, this credit has already been used to reduce the amount of arrearages that will be paid, so these funds have already been used up. Agreeing to this amendment will do nothing more than undermine the authorization bill that is currently pending. So it puts at risk the entire scheme to obtain reforms, reduce the U.S. assessment rate, write off remaining arrears, and cap appropriations to international organizations, which this subcommittee has been trying to do for many years. So the gentleman's idea is a good idea. In fact, it is such a good idea, we have already done it. It assures that the U.N. makes good on what it owes the U.S., but it has already been done. So, consequently, I oppose the amendment and urge Members to vote 'no'.”