Earmarks: Time for Reform

Earmarks aren't all bad - but they are out of control today in Washington

When the federal government isn’t responsive, your representative in Congress has the responsibility and the Constitutional authority to fight for the unique needs of their congressional district.

For example, without the ability to earmark money East Texas communities would have been left out of critical Hurricane Rita recovery help, and our local veterans would not be enjoying the new veteran’s health care clinic located outside of Houston.

Unfortunately, earmarks have grown out of control in Washington.

When a single member of the House can seize $170 million for their district, fund a Hippie Museum at Woodstock or even earmark funding for organizations their families work at – something is wrong. New reports show earmark funding has grown 30% this past year alone.

"I believe we need a one-year moratorium on earmark spending so that we can take a look at the system, reform the practice, and bring it back into perspective: open, honest and within a balanced budget."

-Congressman Kevin Brady

We need to “reboot the computer” and remove the excess we are seeing today.

As one of the first members of Congress to publicly publish their requests for local projects on their congressional website, I am trying to lead by example.

This year I have trimmed my requests by 75%, limiting them to projects that are mid-completion so that past investments aren’t wasted. While we had many local requests for new projects, we did not submit them this year.

Taxpayers are smart. I believe you have the right to be informed and the opportunity to weigh the value of projects I request on your behalf. Listed below are the seven projects I have requested in the 2009 Appropriations process.

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.