Walter B. Jones: “we were elected to represent the people of our districts, and that means changing business as usual. Changing business…”

“we were elected to represent the people of our districts, and that means changing business as usual. Changing business as usual means no more unfunded mandates. Every community in America is suffering at the hands of Congress. Currently, State and local governments must comply with 185 Federal mandates. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, in 1993 alone more than 150 new mandates were introduced in Congress. How can a community that spends approximately 13 percent of its revenue on these mandates afford to finance everyday priorities? Communities are being forced to postpone public safety programs and programs for children and senior citizens. They have reached their limit and have started fighting back. Some are even challenging Congress' authority to impose these mandates, and others are simply refusing to comply. Mr. Speaker, let us join the fight and pass the unfunded mandate reform legislation for the good of our country.”