Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, this is a simple amendment which will ensure the Department of Homeland Security is being accountable to Congress--and more importantly, the American people. Earlier this year, it was reported that DHS solicited bids for some 1.1 billion rounds of ammunition. This was more than 10 times the amount that the Department purchased in fiscal year 2012. Given this large purchase, the American people and Members of Congress rightfully had concerns and questions. The Appropriations Committee has recognized these concerns by including language in this bill to address the ammunitions purchased by requiring DHS to report the cost and the need to Congress. This initial report is required to be submitted at the time of the President's budget. I commend the Appropriations Committee for their work in this area, and my amendment would complement their efforts and prohibit any new purchases of ammunition until the required report is submitted to Congress. It does not prevent existing contracts for procurement from being carried out. This is a responsible amendment which ensures that Congress and the American people are aware of the necessity and the cost of ammunition prior to entering into new contracts for procurement. On April 15, 2013, DHS had an inventory of almost 250,000 rounds of ammunition. In fiscal year 2012, DHS purchased 103,178,200 rounds. This is less than half the inventory that they have on hand.…”