Related Posts: Statement by Ron Paul: The Emerging Surveillance State, Ron Paul Statement on Money, Inflation and Government From March 31, 2008, Ron Paul Statement on HR 5512 to Change Pennies from Copper to Steel - The following is an excerpt of Ron Paul's April 10, 2008 statement on earmark abuse:
Madame Speaker, abuses of the earmark process by members of both parties demonstrate the need for reform. However earmarks are hardly the most serious problem facing this country. In fact, many, if not most of the problems with earmarks can be fixed by taking simple steps to bring greater transparency to the appropriations process. While I support reforms designed to shine greater sunlight on the process by which members seek earmarks, I fear that some of my colleagues have forgotten that the abuses of the earmarking process are a symptom of the problems with Washington, not the cause. The root of the problem is an out-of-control federal budget. I am also concerned that some reforms proposed by critics of earmarking undermine the separation of powers by eroding the constitutional role Congress plays in determining how federal funds are spent.
Contrary to popular belief, adding earmarks to a bill does not increase federal spending by even one penny. Spending levels for the appropriation bills are set before Congress adds a single earmark to a bill. The question of whether or not the way the money is spent is determined by earmarks or by another means does not effect the total amount of spending.
Click here for Ron Paul's full statement on earmark abuse.
Source: http://www.house.gov/paul/congrec/congrec2008/cr041008h.htm
Related Posts: Statement by Ron Paul: The Emerging Surveillance State, Ron Paul Statement on Money, Inflation and Government From March 31, 2008, Ron Paul Statement on HR 5512 to Change Pennies from Copper to Steel
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