Cutting Lifeline of Institute of Museum and Library Services

Floor Speech

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Ms. McBRIDE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn this administration's harmful and illegal efforts to gut the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Let's be clear. This is a direct attack on rural families, veterans, caregivers, and children, including thousands of Delawareans who rely on libraries not just for books but for help with job applications, disability forms, and housing assistance.

In Dover, librarians are helping my neighbors navigate Social Security delays. In Lewes, they are supporting unhoused jobseekers. In Harrington, they are guiding caregivers through pages of red tape just to access basic support.

This isn't just morally wrong. It is a violation of the law. Congress appropriated these funds. This administration is not only defunding vital community programs. It is defying the will of the American people.

With just $1.93 million per year, Delaware libraries are able to preserve our history, strengthen our workforce, and meet people where they are to deliver critical services. Cutting this lifeline isn't efficiency. It is cruelty.

Mr. Speaker, I urge the administration to reverse course, and I stand with my colleagues in demanding full funding for the services our communities need and deserve.

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