Taxpayers:
You Have the Right to Know My Earmark Requests

When the federal government isn’t responsive, members of Congress have the responsibility -- and the right -- to fight for the needs of their constituents.

For example, local veterans and I together have been at odds with the U.S. Veterans Administration because we believe they are dragging their feet in establishing new local health care clinics to provide veterans in Texas and across the nation with more convenient and accessible health care locally. Recently, thanks to strong community support and action by the U.S. House of Representatives, VA Secretary Jim Nicholson - a decorated veteran himself – has given the go-ahead for the Conroe regional clinic to serve veterans living north of Houston.

Sometimes, when out-of-touch bureaucrats think they know better than local communities, the only recourse left is to direct the federal government to act. Unfortunately, these “earmarks” have exploded in number and cost over the years. Some are snuck into bills without public scrutiny, others are plain outrageous to taxpayers, especially with America’s large budget deficit.

These local project requests need to be reformed: requested in full view of the public, in moderation, and ideally within a balanced federal budget.

Taxpayers are smart. I believe you have the right to know and to weigh the value of projects or earmarks that I request on your behalf. Listed below are the projects I have requested in the 2007 Appropriations process. These are by no means all the requests our office receives from local agencies and organization, but are the highest priorities this year.

I’ve included for you a description, the cost, and a link to the sponsoring organization so you know who is asking their federal government for help. If you have any questions, please contact my office toll-free at 1-877-441-5700.