Schakowsky Statement on FY 2013 Intelligence Authorization Act

Washington, D.C. (May 31, 2012) — Today, Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) released the following statement after voting for H.R. 5743, the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013:

"Today, I voted in favor of this bill because it is a serious effort to meet the overarching goal of the Administration and this Committee to provide the resources that the Intelligence Community needs to collect essential information and inform policy makers wisely and accurately.

This bill is not a blank check to intelligence agencies. It directs them to respect taxpayer dollars, prioritize projects and spend only according to actual need. Effective intelligence oversight must emphasize fiscal responsibility and I am pleased that an amendment I proposed to strengthen the message of fiscal responsibility to the intelligence community was included in the bill.

My amendment added a provision to protect the budgets and operations of the Inspectors General of intelligence agencies. The Inspectors General are the independent eyes and ears that inspect, audit and investigate intelligence organizations to ensure that funds are used for authorized purposes and that the intelligence activities are lawful and meeting objectives. My amendment also enhanced congressional oversight of how intelligence agencies are adapting their mission and resources to post-war Iraq.

While I am pleased that these measures were included, I am committed to continuing my work as a member of the Intelligence Committee to ensure the critical mission of intelligence gathering is carried out in a way that protects both taxpayer dollars and our American values."

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rep. Jan Schakowsky, Adjoa Adofo, (202) 225-2111

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rep. Jan Schakowsky, Adjoa Adofo, (202) 225-2111

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