[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 96 (Wednesday, June 24, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1548]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2010

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                               speech of

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 19, 2009

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the H.R. 
2918, and I commend Chairwoman Wasserman Schultz for crafting a bill 
that acknowledges the importance of a well-funded legislative branch 
while at the same time considers the challenging economic environment.
  The bill provides a modest increase for the Government Accountability 
Office, which I would like to see increased, possibly in conference 
with the Senate. A robust and healthy GAO is vital if Congress is going 
to be able to execute our mandate of rigorous oversight.
  I am also glad that the bill addresses the issue of staff-led tours. 
I, with my staff, take great pride in hosting constituents when they 
visit Washington, D.C. In years past constituents have told me and my 
staff that their staff-led tour of the Capitol was the highlight of 
their trip to the city. I make sure that staff-led tours are relevant 
to my constituents, something that Capitol Tour Guides, while very 
knowledgeable, simply cannot do when conducting tours with people from 
all over the country.
  I am disappointed, however, in the success of the motion to recommit, 
which would eliminate funding for the Wheels 4 Wellness program. Wheels 
4 Wellness was created to give House staff an alternate mode of 
transportation around the Hill campus during the business day. As we 
also prepare to debate climate change legislation, programs that lessen 
our carbon footprint should be encouraged and supported, not 
eliminated. I agree with the Committee Report and with the Chairwoman's 
comments, and I hope to see the shortcomings of the program addressed 
so that staff will have access to a stronger and more viable Wheels 4 
Wellness program.

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