[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 29 (Tuesday, March 9, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E328]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR H.R. 3213, THE COMMISSION ON THE ACCOUNTABILITY 
                     AND REVIEW OF FEDERAL AGENCIES

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ANDER CRENSHAW

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 9, 2004

  Mr. CRENSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for 
H.R. 3213, the Commission on the Accountability and Review of Federal 
Agencies (CARFA) Act.
  The use of hard-earned taxpayer dollars on duplicative, inefficient, 
and failed federal agencies and programs is a serious problem facing 
our Nation today. Over and over, we see programs that are authorized by 
Congress become institutionalized; and then, though no longer 
necessary, they become a permanent fixture receiving more tax dollars 
year after year. If we could cut out unnecessary programs, we would 
make a strong statement that we are serious about controlling 
government spending.
  On October 1, 2003, Congressman Todd Tiahrt introduced the Commission 
on the Accountability and Review of Federal Agencies Act. This 
legislation would establish a presidentially-appointed commission to 
review domestic agencies and programs, making recommendations for the 
elimination of unnecessary programs. Congress would subsequently take 
an up-or-down vote on these recommendations.
  As a strong supporter of eliminating wasteful spending, today I rise 
to add my support to this proposal by cosponsoring this important 
legislation. If enacted, the Act will help to ensure fiscal 
responsibility and accountability in the federal government. While 
Congress should always be dedicated to ensuring the maximum benefit of 
every tax dollar that comes to Washington, now more than ever Congress 
must take steps to assure taxpayers that their hard-earned money is 
being well spent.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting passage of 
the Commission on the Accountability and Review of Federal Agencies 
Act.

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