Granger Remarks at Legislative Branch FY22 Full Committee Markup

Jun 29, 2021
Statements

Thank you, Madam Chair, for yielding.

I want to thank Chairman Ryan and Ranking Member Herrera-Beutler for the work they have done to address critical issues that affect the Congress.

This bill before us today takes steps to make the House of Representatives more effective, efficient, and transparent on behalf of the American people.

This bill recognizes the service and sacrifice of our Capitol Police and supports the department’s evolving mission.

This bill also allows the Architect of the Capitol to maintain and better protect the Capitol Complex, as well as promote the health and safety of the people who work and visit here.

Unfortunately, I have concerns that will prevent me from supporting this bill in its current form. 

This bill is based on a funding framework that the Majority Party developed without Republican support.

In fact, in this proposal, total spending for the Legislative Branch increases by more than thirteen percent.

If we want to fund the good things contained in this bill, we must work together to develop spending levels both sides can support. 

In addition, there are riders that are more appropriately addressed by other committees, specifically related to immigration policy.

I am concerned that this difference of opinion on funding priorities and on policy positions could needlessly slow down our appropriations process this year.

In closing, I want to thank the subcommittee members for their work on this bill. I also want to thank the Majority and Minority staff, specifically our subcommittee clerk, Michelle Reinshuttle, and the Majority clerk, Steve Marchese.

Thank you, Madam Chair, I yield back.