Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024

Floor Speech

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Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairwoman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, as chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, I rise in support of the appropriations act that we are considering today.

The fiscal situation facing the Nation requires Congress to make significant spending reductions while maintaining strong commitments to the safety, security, and well-being of the American people.

After tough but fair bipartisan negotiations, we have produced a strong bill that prioritizes everyday Americans while rightsizing the bureaucracy.

Make no mistake, Mr. Speaker, many agencies with important missions face reductions under this legislation. We believe it is important to reverse the out-of-control growth of the Federal Government and that is reflected in this agreement.

The CJS bill scales back spending by holding most agencies to `23 levels or lower. Agencies must refocus on their core missions and responsibilities.

Despite limited resources, we maintain robust funding that prioritizes the fight against fentanyl, support for local law enforcement, and efforts to counter China by supporting innovation, space exploration, and scientific research.

We do this while also utilizing the power of the purse to address the weaponization of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the overreach of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. To that end, the FBI and ATF will be receiving less money than last year.

In addition, the CJS bill contains two new policy riders to protect the American people. One prohibits the Department of Justice from targeting parents who exercise their right to free speech at local school board meetings. The other prohibits the Department of Justice from investigating churches on the basis of their religious beliefs.

The bill supports local law enforcement by including critical funding for Byrne Justice grants and COPS hiring grants.

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Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. This assistance will help empower our local police departments and ensure they have the resources they need to safeguard our neighborhoods. Law enforcement plays an important role in the well-being of every American in every congressional district. Passage of this bill today sends a strong message: We have their backs.

In closing, I thank Chairwoman Granger for being a trouper in tough circumstances and has done a wonderful job. I congratulate her. I also thank the subcommittee ranking member, Mr. Cartwright. He has been a valued partner and colleague in this effort. I also thank all the members of the subcommittee for their help and assistance, as well as Ranking Member DeLauro.

This legislation is a product of good-faith, bipartisan negotiations. It is a win for the American people. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

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