On the recordSeptember 6, 2017
I thank Ranking Member Lowey. I wish we could be here under other circumstances. The process to consider the CJS portion of this bill as part of an omnibus package is not in keeping with how the appropriations process should work. Each bill should be given individual consideration under an open rule. Some on the other side are cheering this floor process, which is ironic given their years of opposition to such a lumped-together package. I am not sure what has changed their minds today, and at this point we don't even know if Members will be allowed to offer amendments that are necessary to improve half of the bill and rein in this out-of- control administration because the Rules Committee has not yet provided us with that information. I also wish that the substance of what we are considering this week were better. As the ranking member of the CJS Subcommittee, I can say that the CJS portion of this bill received an inadequate allocation. After scorekeeping adjustments, the bill includes an approximately 1 percent cut below fiscal year 2017. This is far below the level needed to adequately fund the programs in this bill which are crucial to economic development, scientific innovation, and protecting our Nation's cherished constitutional values. Before we touch upon these serious problems, let me mention some areas where both sides agree. I do want to commend Chairman Culberson for rejecting several of the worst ideas in the Trump administration's budget.…
