Lowey statement at full committee markup of FY 2019 Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill

Thank you, Chairman Yoder, Ranking Member Ryan, and Chairman Frelinghuysen, for your work on this bill.

The FY 2018 Omnibus was an important first step in digging many agencies in our legislative branch out of the hole caused by sequestration.  This bill continues on that path with a $180 million increase, though it falls $24.9 million below the revised budget request.  These investments are critical steps to improve the efficacy of the Legislative Branch; however, I cannot say that everything in this bill is perfect.

For example, aspects of this bill prioritize property over people. The Library of Congress would receive $709.9 million, $3.8 million above the revised request.  However, outside of the $20 million for the Librarian’s worthwhile Visitor Experience Initiative, the Library’s salaries and expenses would be $6.2 million below the request – which would require the Library to absorb employees’ mandatory cost of living adjustments.  It is irresponsible to force the Library to leave positions unfilled and stall workforce investments when we have the ability to fund them adequately.

I also wish it invested more in Congress as an institution.  When we don’t keep pace with the private sector, the Executive Branch, and frankly the Senate, we lose, or fail to attract, talented professionals who are essential to the legislative process, and we strain the House’s ability to serve the American people.  I hope the majority will work with us on these concerns.