Lubbock Times

House Budget Committee members convened to discuss the U.S. fiscal crisis, addressing concerns over the national debt and exploring reform proposals. The hearing, titled “Sounding the Alarm: Pathways and Possible Solutions to the U.S. Fiscal Crisis,” was led by Chairman Jodey Arrington.

Chairman Arrington questioned the lack of a Convention of States despite 39 states filing applications for a fiscal responsibility amendment in 1979. "I'm here to tell you that several states are now planning to sue Congress for failure to call a Convention of States," said David Walker.

Rep. Tom McClintock highlighted expenditures, including NIH grants linked to COVID-19 origins, stating, "It seems to me this Committee ought to be looking at every one of these ludicrous expenditures."

Rep. Glenn Grothman noted an increase in discretionary spending since he joined Congress in 2015. Kurt Couchman commented on wasteful spending within discretionary accounts while emphasizing the need for comprehensive budget review.

Rep. Ron Estes raised concerns about regulatory costs under President Biden's administration compared to previous administrations. David Walker shared his experience transforming a federal agency, saying it became "15 percent smaller, 50 to 100 percent more productive."

Rep. Blake Moore advocated for voting on the entire budget rather than portions of it: "[The Comprehensive Congressional Budget Act of 2024] will force us to vote on the entirety of the budget."

Rep. Chuck Edwards questioned tying the debt ceiling to appropriations processes for better accountability. Walker suggested fundamental reforms and understanding differences between capital and operating budgets.

The committee stressed fiscal sustainability and considering reform proposals amid rising debt challenges faced by many nations.