On the recordJanuary 5, 2011
I appreciate the gentleman from California recognizing me. Every time we talk about rules, I realize for the majority of people, their eyes kind of glaze over. But every kid who has spent time in an elementary yard realizes that the rules are important to the game. We are here, though, on this floor doing the people's business, and it is not a game, and the rules become significant. And the rules are significant because they are responsive to what the people have said. People told us very clearly they are interested in jobs, they are interested in spending. The rules package before us right now facilitates the growth of the former and helps in the limitation of the latter. True, PAYGO will be replaced in this rule. PAYGO was the process that was honored in its breach and suspension as often as its application, and it is replaced with CutGo, a process that zeroes in on the real problem, which is spending. And if indeed we suspend CutGo as frequently as PAYGO was suspended, then it would be justified to criticize us at that particular time. This rule says committees are important. It's not just a box you check to say you have done regular order. We have now provided for time for committees to do their job. We have provided for pre-meeting requirements and post-meeting requirements and accountability, and respect for the product of the committees will be here on the floor.
