(Washington, D.C) U.S. Congressman Sam Graves signed on to legislation that prevents federal funding from going to the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now or ACORN. Last week, the House adopted an amendment to stop all federal dollars from going to ACORN, however that amendment is contained within a bill pertaining to the federal government’s takeover of the student loan industry.

“It’s obvious that there is bi-partisan agreement for ending taxpayer support for ACORN,” said Graves, referring to the earlier support of 345 members. “Let’s have an up or down vote and make sure there is no excuse for another dollar of taxpayer money going to this organization.”

The “Defund ACORN Act” comes in response to recent media reports of potentially criminal activity involving associates of the organization. Previously, ACORN workers in several states have been charged and convicted of voter fraud relating to elections. And earlier this month, congressional pressure coupled with the impact of recent media reports prompted the U.S. Census Bureau to end its partnership with ACORN.

“Every Member of Congress has a responsibility to spend taxpayers’ money wisely,” said Graves. “With a deficit that is out of control, we must root out wasteful government spending like this.”

The legislation is H.R. 3571. Currently, ACORN is eligible for $8.5 billion of federal funds spent in the economic stimulus legislation and the 2010 budget.

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