Granger Remarks at FY23 Commerce, Justice, and Science Subcommittee Markup

Jun 22, 2022
Statements

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for yielding and for your work on the fiscal year 2023 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill. I also want to recognize and thank my friend, the ranking member of the subcommittee, Mr. Aderholt. I know both of you have worked together to address priorities of Members on both sides of the aisle.

The Commerce-Justice-Science bill supports initiatives that:

  • Strengthen the ability of the United States to be competitive around the world;
  • Invest in cutting-edge research and technology; and
  • Protect children and our communities.

It also contains vital funding for NASA, which is critical to maintain our path toward renewed dominance in space. Unfortunately, while this bill funds many important programs, it is based on a funding level that passed the House without Republican support.   

With inflation at historic levels, we must find ways to reduce spending. Instead, this bill expands the federal government. It provides double-digit percentage increases for many accounts and funds dozens of new programs that have not yet been proven to help our communities.

For example, state and local grant programs – many of which do not have bipartisan support – are increased by 22 percent. Instead, the bill could do more to stop the endless flow of dangerous drugs coming across our southern border. I hope we can work together to get our priorities in the right order as this bill moves through the process.

In addition to these spending concerns, there are also some troubling policies proposed in the bill. For example, the bill does not include a long-standing pro-life provision regarding the use of Justice Department funds. It is also very disappointing that language carried for many years to protect Second Amendment rights is removed.

In closing, I want to be clear that this is an important bill that we must find a way to get enacted into law. The Commerce-Justice-Science bill funds agencies that combat criminals, counter illegal drugs, ensure compliance with our trade laws, and enable us to counter China. 

If votes are needed from Members on our side of the aisle to get a bill to the president’s desk, changes are going to be required. We will work to improve this bill as this process moves forward.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, I yield back.