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Hearing of the Committee on Rules

"Biennial Budgeting: A Tool for Improving Government Fiscal Management and Oversight"

Statement of Congressman Pete Sessions,
Member of the Committee on Rules

 

I am pleased that the Rules Committee is meeting today to consider an important measure that I believe will improve efficiency and reduce the amount of tax dollars the Federal Government consumes.

As Chairman of the Results Caucus, I am constantly looking for ways to reduce waste and mismanagement in Government. Clearly, biannual budgeting is consistent with these principals.

Undoubtedly, establishing a two-year budget process and appropriation cycle would cause a sea change in the way Congress and government agencies approach funding.

Enacting biannual budgeting will also decrease public cynicism about government. Currently, Congress and the Administration begin budget negotiations for the next year as soon as the complete negotiations for the previous year. This process is confusing for the public and often creates a mad year-end rush where politics often trumps sound policy. Biannual budgeting will reduce the number of year-end train wrecks, which reflect negatively on the institution, particularly in election years.

I am a strong supporter of biannual budgeting and I was pleased to work with Chairman Dreier to secure 244 cosponsors for H Res 396 calling for Congress to enact biannual budgeting.

I look forward to the testimony by the distinguished panel today.

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