On the recordSeptember 30, 2023
There has been some indication of concern because the bill on the floor lacks language to prohibit a cost-of- living increase that doesn't exist, that was not given, and which has no appropriation in the existing fiscal year budget. Normally, that would be the end of the discussion. However, I guess, being generous here, out of an abundance of caution and respect for those bill-drafting experts in the Senate, fixing that to include the Senate's genius language in this measure is something that is eminently doable in short order unless it becomes midnight because we have to have a couple more September State of the Unions. Therefore, even though it was not included in our legislation, even though there is no existing COLA or appropriation for it, if that is the only thing--I am going to say that real slowly--if that is the only thing that is wrong, then it is eminently fixable for that belt-and- suspenders insurance policy for those who would support the bill but for the lack of that language. We shall see. Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.
