Press Releases
Luetkemeyer Co-Sponsors Bill Prohibiting Funding to Government "Czars"
Washington, DC,
September 11, 2009
Concerned about the serious lack of accountability of so-called government "czars" and in light of Green Jobs Czar Van Jones' resignation, U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-9) has co-sponsored legislation to prevent funding for any office headed by individuals inappropriately appointed to such positions without consent of the U.S. Senate.
Concerned about the serious lack of accountability of so-called government “czars” and in light of Green Jobs Czar Van Jones’ resignation, U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-9) has co-sponsored legislation to prevent funding for any office headed by individuals inappropriately appointed to such positions without consent of the U.S. Senate. The legislation, called the “Czar Accountability and Reform Act,” is expected to be considered by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Luetkemeyer was appointed to this government watchdog panel by his colleagues earlier this week. “I support this legislation because I believe that the elected representatives of the American people should have a say in vetting individuals who have control over billions of taxpayer dollars and have the ability to make significant changes in policy that could impact all our lives,” Luetkemeyer said. “There are serious constitutional issues at stake here ,and I believe we have to hold these people accountable, which is why I strongly support this legislation.” The legislation, introduced by Rep. Jack Kingston (R-GA), comes at a time when there are increasing concerns about the more than 30 so-called czars, including Jones, who resigned after it was revealed that he had made a number of controversial statements before being appointed to his position. Jones stepped down last weekend. Kingston’s legislation complements a request by Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC) to have all so-called czars testify before Congress about their responsibilities. ### |