Randy's Roundup (Dual Reforms Provide Transparency and Accountability)

Dual Reforms Provide Transparency and Accountability

The House approved two important reforms last week that make federal spending more transparent and Congress more accountable to taxpayers. The first reform requires that the federal government establish a searchable website that lists all recipients of federal grants, contracts and loans. This "Google-like" database will allow the public and the media to determine who is receiving taxpayer funds and doing business with the government. The second reform mandates that each bill that comes to the House floor must list all earmarks and which member of Congress requested the earmark. Should this reform become law, no longer will sponsors of wasteful "Bridges to Nowhere" be able to hide behind the legislative process.

These are both much needed reforms as I believe strongly that if a member requests money for a program, then he or she should be able to defend the merits of that request on the floor of the House of Representatives. Together, these reforms will provide the tools for taxpayers to hold the federal government accountable for how it uses their money.

Drought Relief Update

During August, I toured the district and got a first-hand look at the widespread drought affecting 19th District producers. Now back in Washington, I joined more than a dozen of my fellow colleagues representing both political parties in a united call for drought relief for our farmers and ranchers. From West Texas to North Dakota, the lack of rain over the past year has crippled crop yields and decimated livestock operations.

As the crop year comes to a close, we have a clearer picture of the nationwide impact of this latest drought. Our group of farm state legislators will now move forward in working to move a drought relief package through Congress this year.

Border Security Update

The House also passed legislation that calls for a security barrier to be built along the southern U.S. border. This same bill provides for a study to be conducted that will determine the need and feasibility of constructing a similar barrier along the northern U.S. border. More information on this legislation can be found on my website, www.randy.house.gov.

This House will follow up last week's action by taking up three more bills this week that will help secure our nation's borders. These measures will, among other things, focus on enacting criminal penalties for constructing tunnels under the border and reaffirming the authority of state and local law enforcement officials to track down and detain those who have entered the country illegally.

http://www.house.gov/list/hearing/tx19_neugebauer/morenews/RR091806.html