Cole Supports Legislative Branch Funding Bill

Press Release

Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5325, the Legislative Branch Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2017. The measure responsibly funds Capitol complex operations, safety measures and critical renovations to historic buildings.

It specifically funds the U.S. House of Representatives, Architect of the Capitol, Library of Congress, Capitol Police, Congressional Budget Office, Government Printing Office, Government Accountability Office and House committees. As part of funding for the U.S. House of Representatives, the legislation maintains the pay freeze for members enacted in 2010 and continues to reduce expenses to the taxpayer elsewhere.

"Ever since Republicans reclaimed House majority in 2011, members have been leading by example and making do with less right here on the Capitol grounds. In fact, funding for House operations and member offices has been reduced by 13.2 percent to date," said Cole. "I am pleased that the funding bill passed this week reflects fiscal responsibility and also reassures the American people that the buildings and facilities that serve as a symbol of freedom and democracy will be properly maintained and protected."

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