Washington, DC
Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this important hearing about earmarks.
Earmarks for decades provided critical funding for infrastructure and other projects in our Congressional districts. I hope these hearings lead to a thoughtful, transparent approach to future Congressional spending.
Congress has the power of the purse as specified in Article 1 of the Constitution and we need to protect that power.
The current Massachusetts first Congressional district and former second Congressional district have benefited directly from earmarks. For example, they were the key to rehabilitating Union Station in downtown Springfield. It is now once again a transportation hub in Springfield and the region. In addition, it is a short and long term catalyst for economic growth. The Federal Courthouse in Springfield was also significantly funded by earmarks. It houses courts and other important federal offices that are central to the community. And the Southbridge Defense Center provides services for the region and houses numerous businesses. These are just three examples about how earmarks have positively impacted my district and the surrounding area.
And all these bring a common outcome—jobs. Jobs for those who built and rehabilitated the structures, but also for those who work in and around them.
Other aspects of our communities that are positively impacted by the use of earmarks include: those who defend our community and nation, not-for-profits, and educators.
The current funding process takes away power from the legislative branch and the American people and instead focuses unequally on the executive branch. In addition, it puts the power with larger cities and overlooks cities like Springfield that greatly benefit from funds that spur economic development.
I encourage our colleagues to continue these discussions in an open and bipartisan manner to find a better approach to earmarks that provides reform, transparency and halts abuse.
