Fiscal Year 2016 Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill Approved
Press Release
The House Appropriations Committee today approved the fiscal year 2016 Legislative Branch Appropriations bill. The bill will now head to the House floor for consideration. The bill provides annual funding for the offices of Members of the House of Representatives, the support agencies of Congress, security, services for visitors, and Capitol operations and maintenance.
The total included for the House and joint operations, excluding Senate-only items, is $3.3 billion. This is the same as the 2015 level and $172.3 million below the President's request. In all, funding for the House of Representatives has been reduced by 14% since Republicans gained its control in January 2011.
The legislation also includes a provision to freeze the pay of Members of Congress, preventing any pay increases in fiscal year 2016. A freeze on the salaries of Representatives has been in place since 2010.
"This is the smallest Appropriations bill, but it is hugely important for the continued functioning of the Nation's Capitol and our democratic process. It provides security for Members, staff, and visitors alike, continues day-to-day operations that give visitors access to this great institution, and allows each and every Member's office to best serve their constituents," Chairman Hal Rogers said. "Our Capitol is an important symbol of the world's greatest democracy at work, and this bill will help preserve and honor that legacy."
Congressman Tom Graves, Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman, stated, "The United States Capitol is a source of pride for every American and a symbol of freedom that is recognized around the world. This bill preserves the beauty and structures of the Capitol grounds, provides essential security for visitors and employees, and ensures that the people's business is carried out in a fiscally responsible way. I'm grateful to all the subcommittee members for working in a thoughtful and bipartisan way to craft a bill that honors and respects taxpayers today and preserves this institution for future generations."
Source