FreedomWorks Applauds House for Passing Historic Rescissions Package

Washington, DC- FreedomWorks applauds the House of Representatives today for passing the Spending Cuts to Expired and Unnecessary Programs Act, H.R. 3. The passage of this bill is a step in the right direction to revive the rescissions process as a useful tool for beginning to reign in Congress’ profligate spending habits.

FreedomWorks for America President Adam Brandon commented:

“It’s great to see the House today pass important legislation in the fight for fiscal responsibility in Washington. This bill will cut nearly $15 billion in unobligated funds.”

“FreedomWorks is excited to finally see House Republican Leadership take action on President Trump’s rescissions package. Many rank and file members have been asking for a vote on rescissions and leadership has finally delivered. It’s up to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell now to take up the Senate’s version, S. 2979, introduced by Senator Mike Lee late last month. The ball is in Senator McConnell’s court now. With the recent cancellation of August recess, there is no reason why this shouldn’t be a lay-up for fiscal conservatives.”

The Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 allows the president to request that Congress rescind previously appropriated funds. All presidents from 1974 until 2000 utilized the rescissions tool. The White House is right to revive this tool after nearly 18 years. The passage of H.R. 3 will build the legislative muscle memory necessary to bring back rescissions as a commonly-used tool of fiscal responsibility.