Hunter Opening Statement on the Accountability in Contracting Act

Mar 12, 2007
Press Release

Contact: Josh Holly; 202.226.3988

 

Washington D.C.Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-CA), ranking Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, today released the following opening statement for the House Armed Services Committee’s markup of H.R. 1362, the Accountability in Contracting Act:

“Good morning.  I would like to start by thanking the Chairman for agreeing to hold this markup of H.R. 1362.  I had serious concerns about the base bill, because the bill, as reported out of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, included a number of provisions that, through amending title 10, United States Code, and other procurement regulations, would have the cumulative effect of preventing the Department of Defense from servicing warfighter needs in the most expeditious manner possible and would result in the expenditure of billions of dollars appropriated for other purposes.

“As my colleagues know from our years of working together on the Committee, we have given a great deal of attention to matters pertaining to acquisition reform.  This has been especially true during war time, as our Committee has worked hard to ensure that the brave men and women serving our country receive what they need when they need it, as they deploy to Iraq, Afghanistan and other theaters of operation.  At the same time, we have been vigorous advocates for competition and cost control measures.  I firmly believe that the Armed Services Committee is best suited to properly balance the need for improving accountability in defense contracting, while at the same time ensuring that the Department of Defense can carry out its duties to the warfighter.  I am pleased that the Committee will continue its rich tradition of deliberation and robust oversight of matters within its jurisdiction.

"Finally, I would like to express my support for Chairman Skelton’s mark.  I believe that the mark remedies the most serious deficiencies of the base bill and is truly a bipartisan measure.  The mark:

  • Encourages competition and cost controls, while protecting procurement flexibilities important to the national interest;
  • Provides Congress with some additional tools for oversight; and
  • Reinforces standards of integrity widely held by the dedicated men and women of the Defense acquisition workforce.

"Therefore, I urge your favorable consideration of Chairman Skelton’s mark without amendment.  In this manner, we can more readily ensure the Armed Services Committee text moves through the Rules Committee and onto the floor for a vote. Thank you.”
 

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