Washington, D.C.--Congressman Cole's statement from Congressional Record.

      Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the issue of government spending. Prescription medicines for seniors, helping families own their own homes, supporting education and defending America--the list of the government's responsibilities to the American people is numerous. But, while it is the government's responsibility to provide assistance to the needy and fund programs for our children and seniors, it is intolerable to provide these services at the cost of leaving a crippling burden of debt on our children and grandchildren.

     When Congress passed the budget last year, it required us to identify ways to eliminate waste, fraud and abuse. A task force was put together that was asked to report its findings. Since then, Congress and the General Accounting Office have identified over $85 billion in waste and fraud in government programs.

     There are quite a few outrageous examples of wasteful Federal spending. The Energy and Commerce Committee reported that by eliminating double-payments for welfare and Medicaid the Federal Government could save $3.7 billion over 10 years. The Education and Workforce Committee found that the government could save $340 million each year by allowing the Internal Revenue Service to verify the income eligibility of Pell Grant applicants. The Judiciary Committee reported that the Department of Justice spends about $2 million a year more than necessary on employee training.

     There are also numerous examples of duplicative programs. The Federal Government has over 50 different programs in eight Federal agencies to assist the homeless. Sixteen of those programs are specifically reserved for the homeless. Most of these programs have different eligibility standards and application procedures, making it difficult for the homeless population to receive help. The Federal Government operates 342 programs working in economic development. Six agencies and 26 programs serve to build roads and streets. Seven agencies and 31 programs fund water and sewer-related activities.

     Mr. Speaker, while these findings are a great step in reducing government spending there is still more work to be done. The percentage of waste in the Federal Government would be intolerable in the private sector. I believe that with further investigation and inquiry, we can find even more examples of waste, fraud and abuse. Congress should be accountable for every dollar of the taxpayer's money. By reducing waste and duplication we can create a slimmer, more effective government. With a government as large and as far-reaching as that of the United States, small mistakes and oversights can amount to millions of dollars of waste. Correcting those mistakes and saving these dollars should be a priority for every member of Congress. Working Americans deserve the best possible government at the lowest possible cost.

     Waste is a symptom of an ineffective government. Combating waste does not imply hostility toward government, but a desire to strengthen government programs so that they can serve constituents effectively. I believe it is possible to continue funding our priorities while also remaining fiscally responsible. By seeking to balance the budget we can bring accountability to government programs and departments.