Van Hollen Introduces the Reduce Unnecessary Spending Act of 2011

Press Release

Today Maryland Congressman Chris Van Hollen, Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, joined by 27 co-sponsors, introduced the "Reduce Unnecessary Spending Act of 2011," at the request of President Obama. The legislation will establish an expedited rescission process to keep America on a responsible path and enforce greater fiscal discipline. This will enable the President to effectively propose the elimination of unnecessary spending from legislation that arrives on his desk for signature and send those items back to Congress for expedited votes on whether or not to rescind funding. It will add another tool to make sure the investments are targeted and designed to maximize economic growth. Senator John McCain and Senator Tom Carper have introduced the companion legislation in the Senate.

Congressman Van Hollen commented, "There is no question we need to rein in spending and put our nation on the path to long-term fiscal sustainability -- and at the same time invest in job growth and ensure that America remains competitive in the 21st century global economy," said Congressman Van Hollen. This proposal is another step forward on the path to greater fiscal responsibility. Other Members of Congress, including Chairman Ryan, have proposed different versions of expedited rescission legislation in past years. I hope this year we can work together to find common ground in this area."

Other original cosponsors have voiced support:

* Congressman Bruce Braley (D-IA): "Last November, voters spoke clearly: We need to get our deficit under control -- there's no more room for just talk on this issue. The American people expect us to put aside our political differences and work together to create jobs and cut wasteful spending. This bipartisan bill will give the President and Congress the tools to do this quickly -- without playing politics or sidestepping the issues."

* Congressman Gerry Connelly (D-VA): "This proposal gives the President a tool to help cut wasteful spending and reduce the deficit. It has bi-partisan support and can help put our nation on the path to balancing the budget. If we are serious about reducing the deficit, we need to give the President this tool."

* Congressman Peter Welch (D-VT): "As our nation grapples with growing deficits, we must deploy every tool we can to eliminate wasteful spending and achieve fiscal reform. This measure would allow the President and Congress to work together to take on unnecessary spending and ensure that taxpayers get a better deal."

The Reduce Unnecessary Spending Act of 2011 will:

* Ensure timely congressional consideration of cuts to non-entitlement spending when requested by the President.

* Require the President to submit expedited rescission requests to Congress within 45 calendar days of signing the initial spending bill into law.

* Limit the number of rescission requests per bill, to guard against gridlock in Congress due to multiple rescission proposals.

* Add new procedures that will virtually guarantee a vote in Congress and ensure that any savings from Congressional passage of a rescission approval bill will be dedicated to deficit reduction.

* Respect and preserve Congress' constitutional responsibilities by requiring that both the House and Senate pass a rescission request before it can become law -- if either the House or Senate votes against a rescission by a simple majority, it is not enacted.