Political Quotes

“Madam Chair, I now make a point of order against the amendment because it provides an appropriation for an unauthorized program and, therefore, violates clause 2 of rule XXI. Clause 2 of rule XXI states, in pertinent part: ``An appropriation may not be in order as an amendment for an expenditure not previously authorized by law.'' Madam Chair, the amendment proposes to appropriate funds for a program that has not been reauthorized. And I agree with the gentleman; it probably should have been reauthorized. It was last authorized in 2009. The amendment, therefore, violates clause 2 of rule XXI. I ask for a ruling from the Chair. The Acting CHAIR. Does any other Member seek to be heard on the point of order? If not, the Chair will rule. The proponent of an item of appropriation carries the burden of persuasion on the question whether it is supported by an authorization in law. Having reviewed the amendment and entertained argument on the point of order, the Chair is unable to conclude that the item of appropriation in question is authorized in law. The Chair is, therefore, constrained to sustain the point of order under clause 2(a) of rule XXI. {time} 1615 The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will read. The Clerk read as follows: General Provisions--Department of Justice Sec. 201.…”