Congressman Ralph Norman has reintroduced the Earmark Elimination Act, legislation aimed at permanently banning federal earmarks and curbing what he describes as partisan, back-door spending that burdens American taxpayers.
“For too long, earmarks have become a way for Washington insiders to steer taxpayer dollars to pet projects instead of prioritizing fiscal responsibility,” Norman said. “As reports indicate Minnesota fraud alone may exceed $9 billion, the federal government cannot continue enabling reckless misuse of taxpayer dollars by turning a blind eye.”
Under current congressional rules, earmarks may return each Congress, a practice critics say weakens accountability in the federal budgeting process and fuels cronyism.
According to Norman’s office, the Earmark Elimination Act would:
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Permanently ban federal earmarks across all appropriations bills;
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Protect taxpayers from wasteful and special-interest spending; and
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Restore integrity to federal appropriations and budget priorities.
“Congress has a duty to demand accountability, enforce the law, and ensure every cent is protected for the American people,” Norman said.
The legislation has drawn support from taxpayer advocacy groups.
“With billions of dollars allocated for earmarks and special interests during this appropriations season alone, it is long overdue for this corrupt process to end,” said Brandon Arnold, Executive Vice President of the National Taxpayers Union. “That’s why NTU is proud to support Rep. Ralph Norman’s Earmark Elimination Act, which would permanently ban earmarks. Getting deficits under control should be Congress’s top priority, and cutting low-hanging fruit like earmarks should be a first step toward balancing the budget.”
Read the bill text HERE.
