Hearing of the House Administration Committee - "Committee Funding for the 112th Congress"
Statement
Good Afternoon. I know that you have many committees coming before you today, so I will be brief. As Chairman of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I am committed to meeting the needs of our Committee Members, the Members of Congress, and the American people. The Committee's jurisdiction is quite broad and diverse, covering Federal non-defense research and development in agencies such as the Department of Energy (DOE), the National Space and Aeronautics Administration (NASA), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Over the next two years, the Committee will engage in a great deal of oversight over the many programs in our jurisdiction to ensure that they are working efficiently and effectively. We will also be examining programs with expiring or expired authorizations. As you can imagine, the Committee's staff on both sides of the aisle need to have sufficient technical expertise and know-how to handle this diverse jurisdiction. I am sure that Ranking Member Johnson would agree with me that we have a very talented and skilled staff capable of delivering for our Members.
We are mindful that our nation faces challenging economic times and that we all need to cut back. The budget before you reflects a 5% cut in overall spending from the 111th Congress to the 112th Congress. Many of the savings come from tightening our supplies budget and deferring the purchase of new computers for one year. I think that this budget reasonably achieves savings while protecting our highest priorities. As in years past, we have been diligent about making sure that the Minority receives one-third of the total staff slots as well as control over one-third of the personnel/salary budget.
I look forward to a great Congress with Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson. While we may disagree on specifics, we share many common goals, including protecting our space assets, advancing America's energy security, and promoting our nation's competitiveness.
I am happy to answer any questions that you may have.
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