Issue Position: Accountability and Transparency

Issue Position

Taxpayers deserve transparency and accountability to see how their hard-earned dollars are being used. But too often, tax dollars are tainted with waste, fraud, and abuse perpetuated by backroom deals in Congress and incompetence in the federal government.

The American people deserve better. That is why Congressman Sessions has made transparency and accountability central to his commitment to fiscal responsibility. In the first week of the 112th Congress, the Rules Package was adopted to make reforms to the way Congress operates. These reforms will work to restore the American people's trust in government by promoting transparency and openness. To shine the light on government operations and tax dollar use, the House approved reforms such as allowing Members and the public three days time to read bills before a vote and citing Constitutional authority in all legislation. Congress is also providing sunlight into the committee process to promote real representative government for the people.

Additionally, the rules package contains many rules changes long advocated by conservatives. In past Congresses, I have been a strong supporter of committee disclosure -- requiring that all committees post roll call votes on their website within 48 hours. I am proud to see that this was included in the rules package and am encouraged by the increased standard of transparency we have set for ourselves this Congress. The House Majority is ready to lead through accountability, transparency, and true representation to empower the American people to succeed.

Congressman Sessions also supports the following priority:

ENFORCE REAL EARMARK REFORM
While some earmarks serve valuable purposes, such as infrastructure and research projects, wasteful earmarks have unfortunately polluted the earmark process. Congressman Sessions supports a temporary earmark moratorium along with comprehensive earmark reform.

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