Hoyer: It’s a Mistake for Republicans to Consider Intelligence Authorization Act Under Suspension

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today opposing the decision by House Republican leaders to consider the Intelligence Authorization Act under suspension of the rules, rather than under a rule: 

“Amid the investigations into Russia’s interference in our last election and its ongoing efforts to subvert democratic systems here at home and among our allies, it is critical that Congress provide our intelligence community with the best possible tools and clear direction.  The intelligence authorization bill that we consider each year is an opportunity to do so, which is why traditionally it has come to the Floor under a rule allowing Members from both parties to offer amendments to improve the bill and suggest ways to strengthen agencies’ intelligence gathering and analysis. 

“It would be a mistake for Republicans to bring this year’s intelligence authorization bill to the Floor this afternoon under a process that prohibits amendments from being offered, with no opportunity for Members to propose or consider changes to the bill, including authorizing an independent, bipartisan commission to investigate Russia’s activities, as well as other initiatives.  Denying Members full consideration of this bill is a disservice to the courageous men and women of our intelligence community.  I hope Republican leaders will see the merit in bringing the bill to the Floor under a rule instead.”