Washington, D.C. -  The US House of Representatives passed a new rule yesterday to ensure that any “earmark” in an authorizing bill includes the name of the Member sponsor. U.S. Rep. Tim Johnson strongly supported its passage.

“The American taxpayer has a right to know where his or her money really goes,” said Johnson.  “If a Member does not want to put his name on the project, then it isn’t right to ask my constituents to pay for it.”

In all types of legislation, Members have opportunities to ensure that federal money flows to special projects in their district. Though he understands that some Members abuse the process, Johnson believes that some earmarks are very useful and even necessary.

“My role as a Representative in the House enables me to try and help my constituents obtain assistance for the things they need most. I am more than happy to have my name attached to projects that help build a new tower at the local airport, construct a new wastewater treatment facility, or repair unsafe roads.”

Earlier this year, the House passed HR 4975, the Lobbying Accountability and Transparency Act, which included a provision mandating that names be attached to earmarks in annual spending, or appropriations bills. Since other types of bills can also carve out special projects, a second bill was considered to include both authorizing bills and tax legislation.

“Sunshine is the best disinfectant,” Johnson acknowledged.

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