Political Quotes

“I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentlelady from Colorado, Diana DeGette, who serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee. Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Chairman, do we really want to bind Congress to more votes so we can play Monday morning quarterback for the executive branch every time it tries to finalize a rule? Don't we have enough gridlock around here? Look around. The REINS Act would grind our government to a halt and stymie the implementation of regulations to protect consumers and protect public health and well-being. Now, look, this bill would add a feedback loop to require Congress to approve major rules that it has already specifically directed an agency to promulgate. What we really need are smart people and streamlined regulations regardless of which party is in charge of Congress. In 2010 alone, Federal agencies finalized important rules related to energy efficiency, community disaster loans, weatherization assistance for low-income people, truth in lending, and better pay for teachers. All of those rules would be considered major rules under the REINS Act, and all of those rules would have required congressional approval. Good luck there with this Congress. Who would oppose final approval of these rules that protect everyday Americans? Well, based on the track record of the 112th Congress, some special interest group would find a way.…”