On the recordSeptember 8, 2017
The sue-and-settle practice cuts stakeholders and the public out of the regulatory process. It undermines the Article I authority we hold here in Congress. By restricting the payment of legal fees, we protect taxpayer dollars, reduce Federal spending, take away the incentive of these environmental advocacy groups to sue the Federal Government, and protect public input in the rulemaking process. Madam Chair, I urge a ``yes'' vote on my amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time. Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Chair, once again, I rise to object to this. The Equal Access to Justice Act already caps the hourly rate--it already caps it--and requires that the parties be paid a prevailing wage. Madam Chair, I believe we do not need this redundant provision to a bill that is already overburdened with harmful legislative riders. Madam Chair, I encourage my colleagues to reject the amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Smith). The amendment was agreed to. Amendment No. 73 Offered by Mr. Mullin The Acting CHAIR. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 73 printed in House Report 115-297.
