On the recordMarch 28, 2012
1 week ago today, I introduced H.R. 4232 with my colleague from Ohio, Congressman Tim Ryan. The Restore the Freedom of Information Act is a commonsense, bipartisan bill that would make it easier for American taxpayers seeking information from the Federal Government's multibillion-dollar bailout programs. When the executive branch ceases to function as an arm of the government and begins taking ownership of private enterprise, they should not be able to hide behind the Freedom of Information Act restrictions and keep secret their dealings and the use of taxpayers' dollars. In the auto bailout, the administration actively took away the pensions of Delphi's salaried retirees and now refuses to release documents to tell the taxpayers how this happened. Mr. Speaker, whether it's the auto industry, the financial sector, or even a future bailout, taxpayers deserve access to this information, and H.R. 4232 will do just that. The Restore the Freedom of Information Act will ensure that the administration can not continue to hide its decisions from public scrutiny and deny American taxpayers the access they deserve. ____________________
