Congresswoman Susan W. Brooks (R-Ind.-05) provided the following statement Thursday after the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress passed its final recommendations to make Congress more effective, efficient and transparent for all Americans:
Brooks
“As a member of the Select Committee, which consists of six Republicans and six Democrats, I am extremely proud this bipartisan group of members unanimously passed a total of 97 recommendations to improve the way the House of Representatives works for the American people.
“One of the reasons I ran for Congress in 2012 was to work towards restoring confidence in Congress. Since my first election, I have strived to be a leader who promotes civility and cooperation across party-lines. Over the past 18 months we developed strong bipartisan recommendations that will strengthen the working relationships and civility within Congress.
“Other important recommendations include reclaiming constitutional authorities to make Congress work better. Article I of the Constitution gives Congress the authority to tax and spend – or the ‘power of the purse’ – arguably one of the body’s most essential constitutional responsibilities. By setting up a program, such as the Community-Focused Grant Program, we would enhance Congress’ ability to exercise this authority to appropriate federal funds. This competitively awarded grant program would fund projects that have the broad support of local communities throughout the United States.”
Click here to watch Rep. Brooks and other committee members speak about the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress’ work to provide these recommendations.
Click here to watch Rep. Brooks give remarks on the final passage of recommendations in the hearing.