Derek Kilmer: “I thank the gentleman for yielding. For the past several years, I have been part of an effort to modernize the…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding. For the past several years, I have been part of an effort to modernize the legislative branch to ensure that this institution is working better for the American people. The Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress passed 202 recommendations. Roughly two- thirds of them have been fully or partially implemented. We looked at everything from congressional capacity to outdated technology to rising polarization. Chair Valadao, Ranking Member Espaillat, and their staffs have been invaluable partners in these efforts. Importantly, the FY 2025 bill includes funding for something called the Modernization Initiatives Account, which helps implement some of the open recommendations made by the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress. It also includes language to address a range of other recommendations, including training for Members and staff, improving constituent services, and better use of data. These are important efforts because it helps this institution build its capacity to better serve our constituents. While a lot has been accomplished, lots of work on implementation remains, and this funding helps. Now, I am disappointed that I can't vote for this bill given the partisan riders; however, I remain grateful for the worthwhile investments that are in this bill, the investment that Congress makes in itself not just for the institution but for the institution's ability to serve the people we represent.…”