[House Report 113-173]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
113th Congress Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
1st Session 113-173
======================================================================
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS BILL, 2014
_______
July 23, 2013.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the
State of the Union and ordered to be printed
_______
Mr. Alexander, from the Committee on Appropriations,
submitted the following
R E P O R T
together with
ADDITIONAL VIEWS
[To accompany H.R. 2792]
The Committee on Appropriations submits the following
report in explanation of the accompanying bill making
appropriations for the Legislative Branch for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 2014, and for other purposes.
INDEX TO BILL AND REPORT
_______________________________________________________________________
Page number
Bill Report
Highlights of bill.........................................
4
Title I--Legislative Branch Appropriations................. 2
5
House of Representatives........................... 2
5
Joint Items:
Joint Economic Committee................... 7
8
Joint Committee on Taxation................ 8
8
Office of the Attending Physician.......... 8
9
Office of Congressional Accessibility
Services............................... 9
9
Capitol Police..................................... 9
9
Office of Compliance............................... 11
10
Congressional Budget Office........................ 13
10
Architect of the Capitol (except Senate Office
Buildings)..................................... 15
11
Library of Congress................................ 20
16
Government Printing Office......................... 25
18
Government Accountability Office................... 29
19
Open World Leadership Center Trust Fund............ 32
20
John C. Stennis Center for Public Service Training
and Development................................
20
Title II--General Provisions............................... 32
20
Bill-wide Reporting Requirements...........................
21
Additional Views...........................................
38
SUMMARY OF BILL
The accompanying bill contains recommendations for new
budget (obligational) authority for fiscal year 2014 for the
Legislative Branch. The following table summarizes these
recommendations and reflects comparisons with the budget and
with amounts appropriated to date for fiscal year 2013:
SUMMARY OF THE BILL
[Note.--Excludes Senate items including those Senate Items under the Architect of the Capitol]
(Amounts in Thousands)
*Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB ATB
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RECAPITULATION FY 2013 enacted FY 2014 request Bill Bill vs. enacted Bill vs. request
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
House of Representatives....................... 1,225,680 1,233,181 1,171,569 -54,111 -61,612
Joint Items.................................... 18,970 19,152 17,978 -992 -1,174
Capitol Police................................. 339,137 363,296 329,701 -9,436 -33,595
Office of Compliance........................... 3,817 4,482 3,617 -200 -865
Congressional Budget Office.................... 43,787 45,700 41,497 -2,290 -4,203
Architect of the Capitol....................... 492,381 605,263 507,994 +15,613 -97,269
Library of Congress............................ 588,607 608,719 558,277 -30,330 -50,442
Government Printing Office..................... 119,132 128,478 115,140 -3,992 -13,338
Government Accountability Office............... 506,282 524,339 486,226 -20,056 -38,113
Open World Leadership Center................... 8,000 10,061 1,000 -7,000 -9,061
Stennis Center for Public Service.............. 430 430 - - - -430 -430
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grand total.............................. 3,346,223 3,543,101 3,232,999 -113,224 -310,102
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE BILL
The Committee recommends $3,233,000,000 in discretionary
resources for operations of the Legislative Branch of
government (excluding Senate items). The fiscal 2014
recommendation is a decrease of $310,101,393 or (8.75%) below
the requested amount or a decrease of $113,223,000 or (3.38%)
below the fiscal year 2013 level (defined as the amount
provided within Public Law 113-6 and excluding the 251A
sequester and any other adjustments imposed by the Office of
Management and Budget pursuant to section 3004 of Public Law
113-6).
Conforming to longstanding practice under which each body
of Congress determines its own housekeeping requirements and
the other concurs without intervention, funds for the Senate
are not included in the bill as reported to the House. Current
appropriations estimates for the Senate for fiscal year 2014
including those under the Architect of the Capitol, total
$968,185,000.
This bill reflects a continued acknowledgment that the
Legislative Branch must set itself as an example for fiscal
restraint while continuing to serve the Nation. The Committee
is committed to getting the nation's fiscal house in order and
sharing in the sacrifices that are required. The Committee
notes that with the inclusion of this bill, the Legislative
Branch, excluding the Senate items, has been reduced by a total
of $422,479,000 or 11.56% since fiscal year 2010. This bill
will require strict fiscal discipline on the part of all
congressional offices and all agency heads in the Legislative
Branch.
Legislative Branch-Wide Matters
Committee Directives.--The Committee is concerned with the
failure of some agencies to follow Committee directives in
either the House Committee Report or a joint conference
agreement accompanying the annual Legislative Branch
appropriations bill. There should be no misunderstanding that
report language in either the House or joint conference
agreement is to be adhered too, without exception, unless
specifically addressed to the contrary in an explanatory
statement of a joint conference agreement.
Zero Base Budgeting.--The Committee is very pleased with
the results of the zero-base budgeting exercise directed to be
conducted by all the agencies of the Legislative Branch. The
Committee believes that this valuable budgeting process has
given agencies the opportunity to take a fresh look at all
areas of their operations and make funding reductions and
alignments within the current budget base. The Committee
believes that there are continued opportunities to realize
meaningful savings by carefully reviewing each agency's budget
requirements from a zero base and directs all agencies to
continue to develop budget requests from a zero base.
Reprogramming Guidelines.--The Committee expects all
agencies to notify the Committee on Appropriations of the House
and the Senate of any significant departures from budget plans
presented to the Committees in any agency's budget
justifications. In particular agencies funded through this bill
are required to notify the Committees prior to each
reprogramming of funds in excess of the lesser of 10 percent or
$500,000 between programs, projects or activities, or in excess
of $500,000 between object classifications (except shifts
within the pay categories, object class 11, 12 and 13 or as
specified in each agency's respective section). This includes
cumulative reprogramming's that together total at least
$500,000 from or to a particular program, activity, or object
classification as well as reprogramming FTE's or funds to
create new organizational entities within the agency or to
restructure entities which already exist. The Committees desire
to be notified of reprogramming actions which involve less than
the above mentioned amounts if such actions would have the
effect of changing an agency's funding requirement in future
years or if programs or projects specifically cited in the
Committee's reports are affected.
Committee Requests, Furloughs and Performance Based Merit
Increases.--The Committee directs that adherence to the
language carried in House Report 112-148 and House Report 112-
511 pertaining to Committee Requests, Furloughs, and
Performance Based Merit Increases be continued unless otherwise
so directed.
TITLE I--LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
The Committee recommends $1,171,569,576 for the operations
and maintenance of the House of Representatives during fiscal
year 2014. This amount is $54,110,424 below the current fiscal
year 2013 level and is $61,611,585 below the budget request.
Funding for the House of Representatives has been reduced by
$197,456,000 or 14.4% since fiscal year 2010.
House Leadership Offices
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $29,094,721
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 23,418,221
Recommended in the bill............................... 22,058,308
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -7,036,413
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -1,359,913
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $22,058,308 for salaries and
expenses of staff in House leadership offices for fiscal year
2014. This amount is $7,036,413 below fiscal year 2013 enacted
level and is $1,359,913 below the budget request.
The allocation by office follows:
Office of the Speaker................................. $6,579,621
Office of the Majority Floor Leader................... 2,158,463
Office of the Majority Whip........................... 1,867,952
Republican Conference................................. 1,490,521
Office of the Minority Floor Leader................... 7,044,031
Office of the Minority Whip........................... 1,445,187
Democratic Caucus..................................... 1,472,533
-----------------
Total............................................. $22,058,308
Members' Representational Allowances
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $573,939,282
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 577,451,791
Recommended in the bill............................... 543,918,813
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -30,020,469
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -33,532,978
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $543,918,813 for the
representational allowances of the Members of the House (MRAs).
This amount is $30,020,469 below the fiscal year 2013 enacted
level and is $33,532,978 below the budget request. This level
of funding will allow the MRAs to operate at current authorized
levels as approved by the Committee on House Administration.
House Committees
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $152,630,655
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 153,564,755
Recommended in the bill............................... 144,647,155
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -7,983,500
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -8,917,600
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $144,647,155 in total for House
Committees. This amount is $7,983,500 below the fiscal year
2013 enacted level and is $8,917,600 below the budget request.
This account includes funding for staff salaries and
official expenses of Committees including equipment,
telecommunications, printing, and contract services. Funding is
available until December 31, 2014. This level of funding will
allow Committees to operate at current levels, as provided for
in H. Res. 115, the Committee Funding Resolution for the 113th
Congress.
Included in the total is $25,271,004 for the Committee on
Appropriations. The amount provided is $1,394,781 below the
current level and $1,557,976 below the budget request.
Salaries, Officers and Employees
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $177,628,400
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 184,570,047
Recommended in the bill............................... 173,721,185
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -3,907,215
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -10,848,862
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $173,721,185 for the salaries and
expenses of House officers and employees of the various
activities funded through this consolidated item. This amount
is $3,907,215 below the fiscal year 2013 enacted level and
$10,848,862 below the budget request.
The following table summarizes the funding allocation
provided to each component of the account:
Office of the Clerk................................... $24,009,473
Office of the Sergeant-At-Arms........................ 11,926,729
Office of the Chief Administrative Officer............ 116,002,451
Office of the Inspector General....................... 4,741,809
Office of General Counsel............................. 1,340,987
Office of the Parliamentarian......................... 1,952,249
Parliamentarian................................... (1,389,249)
Compilation of Precedents......................... (563,000)
Office of the Law Revision Counsel of the House....... 3,087,587
Office of the Legislative Counsel of the House........ 9,366,845
Office of Interparliamentary Affairs.................. 814,069
Other authorized employees............................ 478,986
-----------------
Total............................................. $173,721,185
Office of the Clerk.--The Committee recommends $24,009,473
for the Clerk of the House. This amount is $2,104,927 below the
fiscal year 2013 enacted level and is the same as the budget
request.
Office of the Sergeant at Arms.--The Committee recommends
$11,926,729 for the Office of the Sergeant At Arms (SAA). This
amount is $658,271 below the fiscal 2013 level and is $735,291
below the budget request.
Office of the Chief Administrative Officer.--The Committee
recommends $116,002,451 for the Office of the Chief
Administrative Officer (CAO). This amount $779,549 below the
fiscal 2013 level and is $7,555,383 below the budget request.
Allowances and Expenses
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $292,386,942
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 294,176,347
Recommended in the bill............................... 287,224,115
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -5,162,827
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -6,952,232
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends a total of $287,224,115 for
allowances and expenses. This amount is $5,162,827 below the
fiscal year 2013 level and is $6,952,232 below the budget
request.
These funds include supplies, materials, administrative
costs, and Federal tort claims; the costs of official mail for
the Committees, leadership, and administrative offices;
employee benefits; miscellaneous items; and Business Continuity
and Disaster Recovery.
The following table summarizes the funding allocation
provided to each major component of the account:
Supplies, materials, administrative costs and Federal $3,502,789
tort claims..........................................
Official mail (committees, administrative, and 190,486
leadership offices)..................................
Government contributions.............................. 260,995,068
Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery............. 16,217,008
Transition Activities................................. 1,631,487
Wounded Warrior Program............................... 2,500,000
Office of Congressional Ethics........................ 1,467,030
Miscellaneous items................................... 720,247
-----------------
Total, allowances and expenses.................... $287,224,115
Administrative Provisions
Section 101 provides for unspent amounts remaining in
Members' Representational Allowances account to be used for
deficit or debt reduction.
Section 102 provides authority to use prior year funds for
unemployment compensation.
Section 103 provides for transfer among the accounts
disbursed by the House Chief Administrative Officer.
JOINT ITEMS
The Committee recommends $17,977,756 for fiscal year 2014
for the various joint committees and activities carried under
this heading. The recommendation is $992,244 below the fiscal
year 2013 level and is $1,174,276 below the budget request.
JOINT ECONOMIC COMMITTEE
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $4,203,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 4,279,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,983,158
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -219,842
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -295,842
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $3,983,158 for the Joint Economic
Committee. This recommendation is $219,842 below the current
level and is $295,842 below the budget request.
The Joint Economic Committee was created by the Employment
Act of 1946. The primary tasks of the Committee are to review
economic conditions and to recommend improvements in economic
policy. The Committee performs research and economic analysis
and monitors and analyzes current economic, financial, and
employment conditions.
JOINT COMMITTEE ON TAXATION
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $10,004,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 10,065,224
Recommended in the bill............................... 9,480,731
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -523,269
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -584,493
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $9,480,731 for the Joint Committee
on Taxation (JCT). This recommendation is $523,269 below the
current level and is $584,493 below the budget request.
The Joint Committee on Taxation operates under the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 and its predecessors dating to the Revenue
Act of 1926. It has responsibility to (1) investigate the
operation and effects of internal revenue taxes and the
administration of such taxes; (2) investigate measures and
methods for the simplification of such taxes; (3) make reports
to the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Senate
Committee on Finance (or to the House and the Senate) on the
results of such investigations and studies and to make
recommendations; and (4) review any proposed refund or credit
of income or estate and gift taxes or certain other taxes set
forth in Code section 6405 in excess of $2,000,000. In addition
to these functions that are specified in the Internal Revenue
Code, the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 requires the Joint
Committee to provide revenue estimates for all tax legislation
considered by either the House or the Senate.
OFFICE OF THE ATTENDING PHYSICIAN
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $3,400,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 3,420,808
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,222,160
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -177,840
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -198,648
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $3,222,160 for the Office of the
Attending Physician. This amount is $177,840 below the current
level and is $198,648 below the budget request.
OFFICE OF CONGRESSIONAL ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $1,363,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 1,387,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 1,291,707
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -71,293
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -95,293
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $1,291,707 for the operation of
the Office of Congressional Accessibility Services. This amount
is $71,293 below the current level and is $95,293 below the
budget request.
The Office of Congressional Accessibility Services is a
successor office to the Special Services Office following
enactment of the Capitol Visitor Center Act of 2008 (Public Law
110-437).
CAPITOL POLICE
The Committee recommends a total of $329,701,000 for the
Capitol Police (USCP). This amount is $9,436,000 below the
fiscal year 2013 level and is $33,595,000 below the budget
request.
Salaries
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $277,133,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 297,863,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 274,511,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -2,622,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -23,352,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $274,511,000 for the salaries and
benefits authorized for police services throughout the USCP
jurisdiction. This amount is $2,622,000 below the fiscal year
2013 level and is $23,352,000 below the budget request.
Using the latest salary estimates from USCP, the Committee
expects this level of funding to support a staffing level of
1,734 of the 1,800 authorized sworn positions and 353 of the
authorized 443 civilian positions.
The recommendation for USCP funding is based on only
critical requirements necessary to mitigate and address threats
and risks. It does not provide for any new initiatives.
New Posts.--The Committee continues to direct the USCP to
notify the Committee on Appropriations of the House and Senate
when new posts are created, including the annualized cost of
maintaining the new post, and how the cost will be offset.
General Expenses
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $62,004,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 65,433,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 55,190,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -6,814,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -10,243,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $55,190,000 for all general
expenses of the USCP. This amount is $6,814,000 below the
fiscal year 2013 level and is $10,243,000 below the budget
request.
Administrative Provisions
Section 1001 which authorizes transfers between the
Salaries and General Expenses accounts of the Capitol Police.
Section 1002 is a technical correction for the payment to
the Employees' Compensation Fund.
OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE
Salaries and Expenses
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $3,817,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 4,482,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,617,348
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -199,652
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -864,652
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $3,617,348 for the Office of
Compliance. This amount is $199,652 below the fiscal year 2013
level and is $864,652 below the budget request.
The Office of Compliance was established to administer and
enforce the Congressional Accountability Act (Public Law 104-
091). The Act applies various employment and workplace safety
laws to Congress and certain Legislative Branch entities.
Administrative Provisions
Section 1101 makes permanent the authorization for the
payment of awards and settlements.
Section 1102 requires a semiannual report of disbursements.
CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE
Salaries and Expenses
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $43,787,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 45,700,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 41,496,677
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -2,290,323
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -4,203,323
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $41,496,677 for the Congressional
Budget Office (CBO). This is $2,290,323 below the fiscal year
2013 level and $4,203,323 below the budget request.
Administrative Provision
Section 1201 gives authority for the CBO to accept the
services of student volunteers.
ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $492,381,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 605,263,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 507,994,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... +15,613,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -97,269,000
*FY 13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004
OMB ATB.
\1\Does not include Senate office buildings.
The Committee recommends $507,994,000 for fiscal year 2014
for the activities of the Architect of the Capitol (AOC).
Excluded are Senate items which are traditionally left for
consideration by that body. This amount is $15,613,000 above
the fiscal year 2013 level and is $97,269,000 below the budget
request.
Within the recommended level the Committee continues its
prioritization of projects that: (1) promote the safety and
health of workers and occupants, (2) decrease the deferred
maintenance backlog, and (3) invest to achieve future energy
savings. In addition, by including $70,000,000 for the House
Historic Buildings Revitalization Trust Fund, the bill
continues the Committee's commitment to advance planning for
major capital renewal projects which will be essential to
sustaining the performance of historic House buildings.
AOC Vehicles.--The Committee is concerned with the number
of vehicles with the AOC fleet. The Committee directs the AOC
to prepare a report of the inventory of the complete vehicle
fleet. This report is to include the year and model of each
vehicle, the purchase price or annual lease cost, fuel and
other operating cost, purpose for each vehicle and the
operational jurisdiction to which the vehicle is assigned, and
whether or not the vehicle is currently used as a take-home
vehicle. This report is to be provided to the Committee on
Appropriations of the House and Senate by December 31, 2013.
Project Costing Methodology.--The Committee has concerns
with the methodology used by the AOC regarding projects. The
Committee believes that in the current fiscal environment the
AOC may not be taking into account all the variables that
produce their project cost estimates. The Committee directs the
Government Accountability Office (GAO) to review and prepare a
report on the AOC costing methodology. This report is to
examine all elements of the process and make recommendations,
as appropriate, for adjustments to the current process. This
report is to be provided to the Committee on Appropriations of
the House and Senate by March 31, 2014. The Committee further
directs that the GAO periodically brief the Committees on its
findings as this review is being conducted.
Project Justifications.--The Committee, in addition to the
methodology, has serious concerns with the justification
material provided regarding all projects. With the current
justifications, without further ongoing questioning, the
Committee cannot adequately examine and review project costs
using the current justification display. An appropriate and
informative justification should provide such data as primary
facilities, supporting facilities, contingency, supervision,
land acquisition, personnel costs direct and indirect,
inspection, overhead, design data, contract award date,
construction start and completion dates, and other cost
elements associated with any cost for any given project. The
Committee believes that the Defense Department Form 1391
(Fiscal Year Military Construction Data) is an excellent
example of how project cost estimates should be provided to the
Committee on Appropriations of the House and Senate. The
Committee directs the AOC, working with the GAO, to develop a
similar form and begin to utilize such form with each project
funding request. The Committee directs the AOC and the GAO to
complete the form design, instructions and methodology for
utilization in time to be included in the fiscal year 2015
budget justification.
The AOC is responsible for the maintenance, operation,
development, and preservation of the United States Capitol
Complex. This includes mechanical and structural maintenance of
the Capitol, Congressional office buildings, the Library of
Congress buildings, the Supreme Court building, the U.S.
Botanic Garden, the Capitol Power Plant, and other facilities,
as well as the upkeep and improvement of the grounds
surrounding the Capitol complex. The following table summarizes
the allocation of funds by appropriation account:
Architect of the Capitol:
General Administration............................ $ 85,286,000
Capitol building.................................. 60,421,000
Capitol grounds................................... 13,037,000
House of Representatives buildings subtotal....... 141,622,000
House office buildings........................ (71,622,000)
Historic Buildings Revitalization Trust Fund.. (70,000,000)
Capitol Power Plant............................... 109,334,000
Library buildings and grounds..................... 47,861,000
Capitol Police Buildings, Grounds and Security.... 18,898,000
Botanic Garden.................................... 11,372,000
Capitol Visitor Center............................ 20,163,000
-----------------
Total......................................... $507,994,000
General Administration
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $97,340,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 100,099,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 85,286,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -12,054,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -14,813,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $85,286,000 for personnel
services, equipment, communications, and other central support
activities of the AOC. This amount is $12,054,000 below the
fiscal year 2013 level and is $14,813,000 below the budget
request.
The recommendation supports an operating budget of
$85,286,000.
Capitol Building
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $36,154,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 61,575,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 60,421,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... +24,267,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -1,154,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $60,421,000 for the operation,
maintenance, and care of the Capitol building. This amount is
$24,267,000 above the fiscal year 2013 level and is $1,154,000
below the budget request.
The recommendation supports an operating budget of
$23,779,000. The recommended project budget of $36,642,000 is
composed of the following capital projects:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Committee
Item recommendation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dome Restoration, Interior, Phase IIB................ $15,940,000
Exterior Stone and Metal Preservation, North 14,702,000
Extension, Phase I..................................
Minor Construction................................... 6,000,000
------------------
Total............................................ $36,642,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capitol Grounds
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $9,852,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 13,452,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 13,037,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... +3,185,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -415,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $13,037,000 for the care of the
grounds surrounding the Capitol. This amount is $3,185,000
above the fiscal year 2013 level and is $415,000 below the
budget request.
The recommendation supports an operating budget of
$9,337,000. The recommended project budget of $3,700,000 is
composed of the following capital projects:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Committee
Item recommendation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Union Square Stabilization........................... $3,700,000
------------------
Total............................................ $3,700,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
House Office Buildings
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $124,154,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 179,089,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 141,622,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... +17,468,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -37,467,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $141,622,000 for the operation,
maintenance, and care of the House office buildings. This
amount is $17,468,000 above the fiscal year 2013 level and is
$37,467,000 below the budget request.
This amount includes $16,537,000 for the first year lease
cost of the Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr. Federal Office Building. The
bill also includes $70,000,000 for the House Historic Buildings
Revitalization Trust Fund. Public Law 111-68 established the
Fund to finance major repairs and renovations to facilities of
the House. Subject to approval of the Committee on
Appropriations of the House, the AOC may use these funds for
major renovation projects to preserve and maintain the
performance of the iconic buildings of the House of
Representatives.
The recommendation supports an operating budget of
$62,522,000. The recommended project budget of $79,100,000 is
composed of the following capital projects:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Committee
Item recommendation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAO Project Support.................................. $ 3,600,000
Minor Construction................................... 5,500,000
House Historic Building Revitalization............... 70,000,000
------------------
Total............................................ $79,100,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capitol Power Plant
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $123,229,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 113,259,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 109,334,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -13,895,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -3,925,000
Offsetting collections................................ 9,000,000
-----------------
Total available................................... $118,334,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $118,334,000 for the Capitol Power
Plant. This amount is $13,895,000 below the fiscal year 2013
level and is $3,925,000 below the budget request.
The recommendation supports an operating budget of
$81,134,000, which provides for current services. The
recommended project budget of $37,200,000 is composed of the
following capital projects:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Committee
Item recommendation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
West Refrigeration Plant Cooling Tower Addition, $20,200,000
Phase IIB...........................................
West Refrigeration Plant Chiller Addition............ 13,000,000
Minor Construction................................... 4,000,000
------------------
Total............................................ $37,200,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Library Buildings and Grounds
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $46,876,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 77,016,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 47,861,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... +985,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -29,155,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $47,861,000 for the care and
maintenance of the Library buildings and grounds. This amount
is $985,000 above the fiscal year 2013 level and is $29,155,000
below the budget request.
The recommendation supports an operating budget of
$24,413,000 and a project budget of $23,448,000, including the
following capital projects:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Committee
Item recommendation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
North Exit Stair B, Phase II, TJB.................... $13,117,000
Fire Door Improvements, Phase II..................... 3,781,000
Secured Storage Facilities, Phase IV of IV........... 2,400,000
Direct Digital Controls Upgrade, Phase I, JMMB....... 2,150,000
Minor Construction................................... 2,000,000
------------------
Total............................................ $23,448,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capitol Police Buildings, Grounds, and Security
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $21,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 26,935,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 18,898,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -2,602,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -8,037,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $18,898,000 for Capitol Police
buildings, grounds, and security. This amount is $2,602,000
below the fiscal year 2013 level and is $8,037,000 below the
budget request.
The recommendation supports an operating budget of
$17,084,000 and a project budget of $1,814,000, including the
following capital projects:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Committee
Item recommendation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chiller Replacement and Chilled Water System $814,000
Expansion, ACF......................................
Minor Construction................................... $1,000,000
------------------
Total............................................ $1,814,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Botanic Garden
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $12,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 12,136,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 11,372,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -628,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -764,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $11,372,000 for salaries and
expenses of the Botanic Garden. This amount is $628,000 below
the current level and is $764,000 below the budget request.
There are no capital projects in fiscal year 2014.
Again the Committee congratulates the Botanic Garden on the
accomplishments of its education and outreach programs, which
have leveraged the Garden's unparalleled expertise to provide
unique educational opportunities. The Committee urges the
Garden to continue forming partnerships with national and local
organizations to advance these educational goals.
Capitol Visitor Center
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $21,276,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 21,702,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 20,163,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -1,113,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -1,539,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $20,163,000 for the operation of
the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC). This amount is $1,113,000
below the fiscal year 2013 level and $1,539,000 below the
budget request.
There are no capital projects in fiscal year 2014.
The CVC was established to improve security for all persons
working in or visiting the U.S. Capitol and to enhance the
educational experience of visitors.
Administrative Provisions
Section 1301 requires a semiannual report of disbursements.
Section 1302 provides certain authority to the House Office
Building Commission. The authority granted to the Commission is
intended to allow the use of the building by the House of
Representatives or in support of other Legislative Branch
agencies. In addition, the AOC shall seek approval of the
Committee on Approrpriations of the House prior to any
renovations of the building.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
The Committee recommends $558,277,667 for the operations of
the Library of Congress. This is $30,329,333 below the fiscal
year 2013 level and $50,441,333 below the budget request. In
addition to the appropriation, the Committee recommends
offsetting collections of $39,969,000.
Established by Congress in 1800, the Library of Congress is
one of the largest libraries in the world, with a collection of
more than 130,000,000 print, audio, and video items in 460
languages. Among its major programs are acquisitions,
preservation, administration of U.S. copyright laws by the
Copyright Office, research and analysis of policy issues for
the Congress by the Congressional Research Service, and
administration of a national program to provide reading
material to the blind and physically handicapped. The Library
maintains a significant number of collections and provides a
range of services to libraries in the United States and abroad.
Salaries and Expenses
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $413,743,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 427,480,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 392,292,813
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -21,450,187
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -35,187,187
Offsetting collections................................ 6,350,000
Total available................................... $398,642,813
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $392,292,813, plus authority to
spend $6,350,000 in receipts, for the salaries and expenses
appropriation. This amount is $21,450,187 below the fiscal year
2013 level and is $35,187,187 below the budget request.
The Committee expects the Veterans History Project and the
Civil Rights History Project will be maintained at least at the
fiscal year 2013 levels.
Copyright Office
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $17,400,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 19,333,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 16,553,412
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -846,588
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -2,779,588
Offsetting collections................................ 33,619,000
Total available................................... $50,172,412
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $16,553,412, plus authority to
spend $33,619,000 in receipts, for the Copyright Office. This
is $846,588 below the fiscal year 2013 level and $2,779,588
below the budget request, not including offsetting collections.
Congressional Research Service
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $106,790,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 109,979,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 101,407,996
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -5,382,004
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -8,571,004
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $101,407,996 for salaries and
expenses of the Congressional Research Service (CRS). This
amount is $5,382,004 below the fiscal year 2013 level and
$8,571,004 below the budget request.
CRS works for Members and committees of Congress to support
their legislative, oversight, and representational functions by
providing nonpartisan and confidential research and policy
analysis.
Books for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $50,674,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 51,927,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 48,023,446
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -2,650,554
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -3,903,554
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $48,023,446 for salaries and
expenses of the National Library Service for the Blind and
Physically Handicapped (NLS). This amount is $2,650,554 below
the fiscal year 2013 level and $3,903,554 below the budget
request.
The NLS has successfully administered a free national
reading program for blind and physically handicapped residents
of the United States and U.S. citizens living abroad since
1931. NLS provides direction for the production of books and
magazines in Braille and recorded formats and audio playback
machines for distribution through a nationwide network of 56
regional and 65 sub-regional libraries.
Administrative Provisions
Section 1401 authorizes obligational authority for
reimbursable and revolving funds.
Section 1402 authorizes permanent transfer authority
between categories of appropriations under the heading
``Library of Congress''.
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
The recommendation provides $115,139,847 in budget
authority for the Government Printing Office (GPO), in addition
to any offsetting collections which the GPO may earn under
separate authority. This amount is $3,992,153 below the fiscal
year 2013 level and is $13,338,153 below the budget request.
GPO provides publishing and dissemination services for
Federal government publications to Congress, Federal agencies,
Federal depository libraries, and the American public.
Congressional Printing and Binding
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $83,632,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 79,736,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 79,736,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -3,896,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. 0
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $79,736,000 for Congressional
Printing and Binding. This amount is $3,896,000 below the
fiscal year 2013 level and is the same as the budget request.
The amount is provided as a lump sum to cover various
categories of printing. The Committee has deleted the language
that allows the Architect of the Capitol to use the
Congressional Printing and Binding appropriation.
Office of Superintendent of Documents
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $31,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 35,823,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 31,437,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -63,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -4,386,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $31,437,000 for the salaries and
expenses of the Superintendent of Documents. This amount is
$63,000 below the fiscal year 2013 level and is $4,386,000
below the budget request.
The Office of Superintendent of Documents account funds the
mailing of government documents for Members of Congress and
Federal agencies, as statutorily authorized; the compilation of
catalogs and indexes of government publications; and the
cataloging, indexing, and distribution of government
publications to the Federal Depository and International
Exchange libraries and to other individuals and entities, as
authorized by law.
Government Printing Office Revolving Fund
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $4,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 12,919,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,966,847
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -33,153
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -8,952,153
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee has provided $3,966,847 for the Revolving
Fund a decrease of $33,153 below the fiscal year 2013 level and
$8,952,153 below the budget request.
The bill continues language authorizing the operation of
the revolving fund and authority to hire or purchase
automobiles, advisory councils, and consultants.
GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE
Salaries and Expenses
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $506,282,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 524,339,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 486,226,129
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -20,055,871
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -38,112,871
Offsetting Collections................................ 32,368,000
Total available................................... $518,594,129
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The Committee recommends $486,226,129 in direct
appropriations for the Government Accountability Office (GAO),
plus $32,368,000 in offsetting collections derived from
reimbursements for conducting financial audits of government
corporations and rental of space in the GAO building. This
amount is a decrease of $20,055,871 below the fiscal year 2013
level, and is $38,112,871 below the budget request.
GAO was established by the Budget and Accounting Act of
1921. Formerly known as the General Accounting Office, it was
renamed by Public Law 108-271. GAO works for Congress by
responding to requests for studies of Federal Government
programs and expenditures. GAO may also initiate its own work.
Pursuant to the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2005,
the Government Accountability Office was required to analyze
the cost, cost effectiveness, benefits, and feasibility of the
Architect of the Capitol entering into contracts with private
entities for the management and operation of the various
functions and duties of the Office of the Architect of the
Capitol. As part of that effort, the Government Accountability
Office issued an analysis of the feasibility of privatizing the
operation of the Capitol Power Plant. However, that analysis
did not include a full cost savings analysis that considered
other options, and the Committee is therefore concerned that it
does not provide a complete answer to the question of the
feasibility of privatizing the operation of the Plant. The
Committee directs the Government Accountability Office to
provide to Congress not later than one year after enactment an
update to the original analysis that includes a full cost
savings analysis (using current data) of privatizing the
Capitol Power Plant. The Government Accountability Office shall
provide recommendations based on its findings.
Administrative Provision
Section 1501 provides for the collection of fees for bid
protests.
Open World Leadership Center Trust Fund
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $8,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 10,061,200
Recommended in the bill............................... 1,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -7,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -9,061,200
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
For many years the Committee has had concern with the
placement of the Open World Leadership Center (OWLC) in the
Legislative Branch. The Committee understands the program has
some strong champions on the Committee. However, with further
reductions being made to every program within the Legislative
Branch, the Committee has provided $1,000,000 to cover the cost
associated with the shutdown of the OWLC. The Committee directs
the Executive Director of the OWLC to retain any necessary
prior year funds in the Trust to cover any cost in excess of
the $1,000,000 provided in this bill be utilized for the
orderly shutdown. The Executive Director is further directed
that the program termination is to be finalized within one year
of enactment of the Legislative Branch fiscal year 2014
appropriation bill.
John C. Stennis Center for Public Service Training and Development
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013*...................... $430,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014...................... 430,000
Recommended in the bill............................... - - -
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2013................... -430.000
Budget request, fiscal year 2014.................. -430,000
*FY13 Enacted level does not include the 251A sequester or Sec. 3004 OMB
ATB.
The fiscal year 2012 Conference Agreement (House Report
112-331) directed that future budget requests from the John C.
Stennis Center be accompanied by an appropriately detailed
budget justification as requested in House Report 112-148. The
John C. Stennis Center has repeatedly ignored this directive.
TITLE II--GENERAL PROVISIONS
The customary language regarding emergency assistance for
vehicles, fiscal year limitation, positions and allowances,
consulting services, the Legislative Branch Financial Managers
Council, the maintenance and landscaping on Washington Avenue
SW, a limitation on transfers of funds, language regarding
maintaining staff-led tours, delivery of bills, resolutions and
the Congressional Record, and a limitation on the costs of
lease vehicles (sections 201-211). In addition section 212
places a limitation on the numbers of copies of the US Code for
the House, section 213 authorizes certain commercial activities
on Union Square, section 214 provides it is the sense of
Congress that Congress should not pass any legislation that
authorizes spending cuts that would increase poverty in the
United States and section 215 provides for a spending reduction
account, excluding Senate items. This account excludes the
portion of the allocation that is expected to be realized by
amounts for Senate items.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES REPORT REQUIREMENTS
The following items are included in accordance with various
requirements of the Rules of the House of Representatives.
Comparison with the Budget Resolution
Section 308(a)(1)(A) of the Congressional Budget Act
requires the report accompanying a bill providing new budget
authority to contain a statement comparing the levels in the
bill to the suballocations submitted under section 302(b)of the
Act for the most recently agreed to concurrent resolution on
the budget for the applicable fiscal year. That information is
provided in the table headed ``Comparison of Reported Bill to
Section 302(b) Suballocation.''
[In millions of dollars]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
302(b) Allocation This bill--
---------------------------
----------------------------
Budget Budget Outlays
authority Outlays authority
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comparison of amounts in the bill with Committee
allocations to its subcommittees: Subcommittee on
Legislative Branch
Discretionary....................................... $4,124 $4,085 $3,233 \1\$3,385
Mandatory........................................... 128 128 128 \1\128
-------------------------------------------------------
Total........................................... $4,252 $4,230 $3,361 $3,513
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Includes outlays from both House and Senate prior-year budget authority.
Note.--Bill amounts exclude discretionary Senate-related items.
Five-Year Outlay Projections
In compliance with section 308(a)(1)(B) of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-344), as
amended, the following table contains five-year projections
prepared by the Congressional Budget Office of outlays
associated with the budget authority provided in the
accompanying bill:
[In millions of dollars]
Budget Authority...................................... $3,233
Outlays:
2014.................................................. \2\2,803
2015.................................................. 352
2016.................................................. 90
2017.................................................. 40
2018.................................................. 31
\2\Excludes outlays from prior-year budget authority.
Assistance to State and Local Governments
Pursuant to section 308(a)(1)(C) of the Congressional
Budget Act of 1974, (Public Law 93-344), as amended, the amount
of financial assistance to State and local governments is as
follows:
The accompanying bill contains no funding for State and
local assistance programs.
Program Duplication
No provision of this bill establishes or reauthorizes a
program of the Federal Government known to be duplicative of
another Federal program, a program that was included in any
report from the Government Accountability Office to Congress
pursuant to section 21 of Public Law 111-139, or a program
related to a program identified in the most recent Catalo of
Federal Domestic Assistance.
Directed Rule Making
The bill does not direct any rule making to the Executive
Branch.
Transfer of Funds
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, the following lists the transfers of
funds included in the accompanying bill:
Indefinite transfer authority is authorized in Joint items
disbursed by the Chief Administrative Officer of the House,
Library of Congress, Congressional Printing and Binding, the
Superintendent of Documents, and the Capitol Police programs.
Rescissions
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, the following details the rescissions
in the accompanying bill:
The accompanying bill contains no rescissions.
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(4) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, the following is a statement of
general performance goals and objectives for which this measure
authorizes funding:
The Committee on Appropriations considers program
performance, including a program's success in developing and
attaining outcome-related goals and objectives, in developing
funding recommendations.
Appropriations Not Authorized by Law
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(1)of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, the following lists the
appropriations in the accompanying bill which are not
authorized by law for the period concerned:
The accompanying bill contains no appropriations not
authorized by law.
Earmarks
Pursuant to clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House
of Representatives, this bill, as reported, contains no
Congressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff
benefits as defined in clause 9(e), 9(f), or 9(g) of rule XXI.
Changes in the Application of Existing Law
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(1)(A) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, the following statements are
submitted describing the effect of provisions in the
accompanying bill that directly or indirectly change the
application of existing law:
1. The bill provides that certain appropriation items
remain available for more than one year, where programs
or projects are continuing in nature under the
provisions of authorizing legislation but for which
that legislation does not specifically authorize such
extended availability.
2. The bill includes a number of provisions which
place limitations on or change or extend existing
limitations, appropriations, or authorizations, and
which under some circumstances might be construed as
changing the application of existing law.
3. The bill continues the practice of providing
official reception and representation allowances for
officers and offices of the Legislative Branch.
4. The bill authorizes disbursal of funds for various
agencies.
5. The bill authorizes transfer authority between
accounts for certain agencies in the bill.
6. The bill includes language allowing the use of
funds for studies and examinations of executive
agencies and temporary personnel services. Funds can
also be available for reimbursement to agencies for
services performed.
7. The bill includes language providing funds for the
Family Room, the Superintendent of Garages, Office of
Emergency Management, and preparing the Digest of
Rules.
8. The bill includes language providing funds for
House motor vehicles, interparliamentary receptions,
and gratuities.
9. The bill requires unspent funds remaining in
Members' Representational Allowances to be used for
deficit or debt reduction.
10. The bill includes language allowing for payment
to the Secretary of Labor for unemployment
compensation.
11. The bill includes language restricting the time
period covered for advance payments.
12. The bill authorizes allowances for employees of
the Office of the Attending Physician and provides
reimbursement to the Department of the Navy.
13. The bill authorizes expenses of the Capitol
Police for motor vehicles, communications and other
equipment, uniforms, weapons, supplies, materials,
training, medical services, forensic services,
stenographic services, personal and professional
services, the employee assistance program, the awards
program, postage, communication services, travel
advances, and relocation expenses.
14. The bill provides that the cost of Capitol Police
basic training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training
Center be paid by the Department of Homeland Security.
15. The bill includes language under the Capitol
Police for payment to the Employees' Compensation Fund.
16. The bill includes language under the Office of
Compliance for payment of awards and settlements.
17. The bill includes language under the Office of
Compliance requiring a semiannual report of
disbursements.
18. The bill includes language authorizing voluntary
student services for the Congressional Budget Office.
19. The bill allows the Architect of the Capitol to
purchase or exchange, maintain, and operate a passenger
motor vehicle.
20. The bill includes authorization allowing
reimbursements for chilled water and steam provided to
the Government Printing Office, the Washington City
Post Office, the Supreme Court, the Thurgood Marshall
Federal Judiciary Building, Union Station Complex, and
the Folger Shakespeare Library to be credited to the
AOC Capitol Power Plant appropriation and made
available for obligation.
21. The bill allows the Architect of the Capitol to
expend funds to maintain, care for, and operate the
National Garden.
22. The bill includes language under the Architect of
the Capitol requiring a semiannual report of
disbursements.
23. The bill includes language under the Architect of
the Capitol related to the use of building authorized
by the House Office Building Commission.
24. The bill provides the authority to expend funds
collected under the authority of 2 U.S.C. 150 and for
international legal information, the balance to remain
available until expended.
25. The bill establishes that the amount available
for obligation by the Library of Congress is reduced by
offsetting collections.
26. The bill provides funds for the digital
collections and educational curricula program, the
American Folklife Center, and the Civil Rights History
Project.
27. The bill allows the Library of Congress to hire
or purchase one passenger motor vehicle.
28. The bill allows funds from offsetting collections
to be used for the Library's Copyright Office.
29. The bill includes language authorizing the
expenditure of receipts, with the exception of salaries
and benefits, for the administration of the Copyright
Royalty Judges program.
30. The bill contains language which provides that no
funds in the Congressional Research Service can be used
to publish or prepare material to be issued by the
Library of Congress unless approved by the appropriate
committees.
31. The bill provides funds to provide newspapers to
the blind and physically handicapped.
32. The bill contains language under the Library of
Congress regarding non-appropriated funds initiatives.
33. The bill contains language restricting the use of
funds appropriated to the Government Printing Office
for the permanent edition of the Congressional Record
for individual Representatives and Senators, Resident
Commissioners, or Delegates, and language providing
that appropriations recommended shall be available for
the payment of obligations incurred under
appropriations for similar purposes for preceding
fiscal years, limiting the printing of certain
documents to a time certain, and authorizing the
transfer of unobligated balances.
34. The bill includes authorization of appropriations
for Congressional printing and binding.
35. The bill includes language authorizing the Office
of Superintendent of Documents to pay for printing
certain publications in prior years for the depository
library program. There is language authorizing the
transfer of unexpended balances.
36. There is language authorizing the operation of
the Government Printing Office revolving fund, and
which authorizes travel expenses for advisory councils,
the purchase of not more than 12 passenger motor
vehicles and that the revolving fund may be used to
provide information in any format.
37. The bill includes language relating to the
Government Accountability Office, authorizing the
direct procurement of expert and consultant services
under 5 U.S.C. 3109 at certain rates; authorizing the
hire of one passenger motor vehicle, as required by 31
U.S.C. 1343; authorizing the Government Accountability
Office to make advance payments in foreign countries in
accordance with 31 U.S.C. 3324; and providing certain
benefits, including rental of living quarters in
foreign countries. Appropriations are authorized for
administrative expenses of any other member department
or agency to finance an appropriate share of the costs
of the National Intergovernmental Audit Forum or a
Regional Intergovernmental Audit Forum.
38. There is bill language under the Government
Accountability Office that allows for collection of
fees for filing bid protests.
39. In Section 201, there is language prohibiting the
use of funds in the Act for the maintenance or care of
private vehicles except for emergency assistance and
cleaning as may be provided under regulations relating
to parking facilities for the House issued by the
Committee on House Administration and for the Senate by
the Committee on Rules and Administration.
40. Section 203 provides that whenever any office or
position not specifically established by the
Legislative Pay Act of 1929 is appropriated for herein,
or whenever the rate of compensation or designation of
any position appropriated for herein is different from
that specifically established for such position by such
Act, the rate of compensation and the designation of
the position, either appropriated for or provided
herein, shall be the permanent law with respect
thereto: Provided that the provisions herein for the
various items of official expenses of Members,
officers, and committees of the Senate and House, and
clerk hire for Senators and Members shall be the
permanent law with respect thereto.
41. Section 204 requires that certain information
regarding consulting services shall be a matter of
public record.
42. Section 205 authorizes Legislative Branch
entities to share the costs of the Legislative Branch
Financial Managers Council.
43. Section 206 authorizes the Architect of the
Capitol to maintain certain property.
44. Section 207 limits the transfer of funds in this
Act.
45. Section 208 prohibits funds in this Act being
used to eliminate or restrict staff led guided tours.
46. Section 209 prohibits funds in this Act being
used to deliver a printed copy of a bill or resolution
to a Member's office.
47. Section 210 prohibits funds in this Act being
used to deliver a printed copy of the Congressional
Record to a Member's office.
48. Section 211 places a limitation on the amount
that Member can spend on a leased vehicle per month.
49. Section 212 places a limitation on printed copies
of the US Code to fifty copies for the House of
Representatives.
50. Section 213 authorizes commercial use of Union
Square.
51. Section 214 provides it is the sense of Congress
that Congress should not pass any legislation that
authorizes spending cuts that would increase poverty in
the United States.
52. Section 215 provides for a spending reduction
account, excluding Senate items.
Compliance With Rule XIII, Cl. 3(e) (Ramseyer Rule)
In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new
matter is printed in italics, existing law in which no change
is proposed is shown in roman):
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 1998
TITLE I--CONGRESSIONAL OPERATIONS
* * * * * * *
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
* * * * * * *
Administrative Provisions
* * * * * * *
Sec. 109. (a) There is hereby established an account in the
House of Representatives for purposes of making payments of the
House of Representatives to the Employees' Compensation Fund
under section 8147 of title 5, United States Code[.], and for
reimbursing the Secretary of Labor for any amounts paid with
respect to unemployment compensation payments for former
employees of the House.
* * * * * * *
----------
SECTION 101 OF THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 1993
Administrative Provisions
Sec. 101. (a) * * *
* * * * * * *
(c)(1) * * *
(2) The headings referred to in paragraph (1) are ``House
Leadership Offices'', ``Members'' Representational
Allowances'', ``Committee Employees'', ``Salaries, Officers and
Employees'', [and ``Allowances and Expenses''] ``Allowances and
Expenses'', the heading for any joint committee under the
heading ``Joint Items'' (to the extent that amounts
appropriated for the joint committee are disbursed by the Chief
Administrative Officer of the House of Representatives), and
``Office of the Attending Physician''.
* * * * * * *
----------
SECTION 1018 OF THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2003
Sec. 1018. Transfer of Disbursing Function. (a) * * *
* * * * * * *
[(f) Worker's Compensation.--
[(1) Account.--There shall be established a separate
account in the Capitol Police for purposes of making
payments for employees of the Capitol Police under
section 8147 of title 5, United States Code.
[(2) Payments without fiscal year limitation.--
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, payments
may be made from the account established under
paragraph (1) of this subsection without regard to the
fiscal year for which the obligation to make such
payments is incurred.]
* * * * * * *
----------
CONGRESSIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 1995
* * * * * * *
TITLE IV--ADMINISTRATIVE AND JUDICIAL DISPUTE-RESOLUTION PROCEDURES
* * * * * * *
SEC. 415. PAYMENTS.
(a) Awards and Settlements.--Except as provided in subsection
(c), only funds which are appropriated to an account of the
Office in the Treasury of the United States for the payment of
awards and settlements may be used for the payment of awards
and settlements under this Act. [There are authorized to be
appropriated for such account such sums as may be necessary to
pay such awards and settlements.] There are appropriated for
such account such sums as may be necessary to pay such awards
and settlements. Funds in the account are not available for
awards and settlements involving the General Accounting Office,
the Government Printing Office, or the Library of Congress.
* * * * * * *
----------
TITLE 5, UNITED STATES CODE
* * * * * * *
PART III--EMPLOYEES
* * * * * * *
SUBPART B--EMPLOYMENT AND RETENTION
* * * * * * *
CHAPTER 31--AUTHORITY FOR EMPLOYMENT
SUBCHAPTER I--EMPLOYMENT AUTHORITIES
* * * * * * *
Sec. 3111. Acceptance of volunteer service
(a) * * *
* * * * * * *
(e)(1) For purposes of this section the term ``agency'' shall
include the Architect of the Capitol. With respect to the
Architect of the Capitol, the authority granted to the Office
of Personnel Management under this section shall be exercised
by the Architect of the Capitol.
(2) In this section, the term ``agency'' includes the
Congressional Budget Office, except that in the case of the
Congressional Budget Office--
(A) any student who provides voluntary service in
accordance with this section shall be considered an
employee of the Congressional Budget Office for
purposes of section 203 of the Congressional Budget Act
of 1974 (relating to the level of confidentiality of
budget data); and
(B) the authority granted to the Office of Personnel
Management under this section shall be exercised by the
Director of the Congressional Budget Office.
* * * * * * *
----------
SECTION 3555 OF TITLE 31, UNITED STATES CODE
Sec. 3555. Regulations; authority of Comptroller General to verify
assertions
(a) * * *
* * * * * * *
[(c) The Comptroller General may prescribe procedures for the
electronic filing and dissemination of documents and
information required under this subchapter. In prescribing such
procedures, the Comptroller General shall consider the ability
of all parties to achieve electronic access to such documents
and records.]
(c) Electronic Filing and Document Dissemination System.--
(1) Establishment and operation of system.--The
Comptroller General shall establish and operate an
electronic filing and document dissemination system
under which, in accordance with procedures prescribed
by the Comptroller General--
(A) a person filing a protest under this
subchapter may file the protest through
electronic means; and
(B) all documents and information required
with respect to the protest may be disseminated
and made available to the parties to the
protest through electronic means.
(2) Imposition of fees.--
(A) In general.--The Comptroller General may
require each person who files a protest under
this subchapter to pay a fee to support the
establishment and operation of the electronic
system under this subsection, without regard to
whether or not the person uses the system with
respect to the protest.
(B) Amount.--The Comptroller General shall
establish (and from time to time shall update)
a schedule setting forth the amount of the fee
to be paid under subparagraph (A).
(3) Treatment of amounts collected.--
(A) Establishment of account.--The
Comptroller General shall maintain a separate
account among the accounts of the Government
Accountability Office for the electronic system
under this subsection, and shall deposit all
amounts received as fees under paragraph (2)
into the account.
(B) Use of amounts.--Amounts in the account
maintained under this paragraph shall be
available to the Comptroller General, without
fiscal year limitation, solely to establish and
operate the electronic system under this
subsection.
* * * * * * *
ADDITIONAL VIEWS OF NITA LOWEY AND
DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ
This bill, like several others that the House
Appropriations Committee recently reported, reflects the
majority's intransigence against replacing sequestration. We
continue to be dismayed by the House Majority's refusal to go
to conference on a budget resolution, making it nearly
impossible to stop dangerous cuts in investments and to provide
workable 302(b) allocations for Appropriations bills. Without
an agreement on a top-line, it will be impossible to enact any
of the 12 bills. Sequestration was intended to be a mechanism
to bring the parties together to address our long-term fiscal
challenges. It was never meant to be, in itself, a tool for
deficit reduction, and it was certainly never meant to be the
basis for a discretionary spending cap in a budget resolution.
Without Senate items, the bill provides $3.2 billion, which
is 3.2 percent less than the fiscal year 2013 enacted level.
The bill conforms largely to sequester with the exception of
the Architect of the Capitol, which is increased 3.4 percent
above the fiscal year 2013 enacted level to address increased
infrastructure needs in the Capitol complex.
Within the funding provided for the Architect, $70 million
is provided for the House Historic Buildings Trust Fund to
responsibly budget for large renovation costs expected in the
near to medium future. The Trust Fund began in fiscal year 2010
``to begin to address known major building requirements to
repair and upgrade the historic, iconic buildings and
facilities of the U.S. House of Representatives.'' The Cannon
House Office Building, which was finished in 1908 as the first
congressional office building, is in need of a major renovation
that is estimated to cost $752.7 million. The Trust Fund will
allow Congress to save for this project instead of funding it
all at once making it necessary to cut other critical items.
The bill also includes funding for the next phase of the
Capitol Dome project at nearly $16 million. The Dome is a
symbol of this Nation's democratic principles, and it is
appropriate that this bill ensure that it continue to stand for
generations to come.
Just as it is appropriate to maintain the buildings for
future generations, it is equally important to invest in the
future of this country by attracting the best minds to work for
and with Congress on complex issues facing the nation. This
bill fails by underfunding the Congressional Research Service,
the Office of Compliance, and the Congressional Budget Office
(CBO) at the sequestered level. These nonpolitical agencies are
the backbone of a smoothly functioning Congress, and Congress
cannot do its job effectively unless those agencies are
operating at full capacity.
This year the CBO director, Dr. Douglas Elmendorf provided
testimony to the subcommittee that, ``The proposed budget
represents the amount that CBO believes will be necessary to
avoid a further reduction in the information and analysis that
the agency provides to the Congress.'' Rather than take heed,
this bill funds CBO at $41.5 million, 9 percent below their
budget request. Given the prolific number of budget matters
facing the Congress, it is shortsighted to underfund Congress'
chief non-partisan budget arbiter.
In addition, while the House continues to keep
sequestration in place for House Offices and House Committees,
the Senate is proceeding with a bill that adequately funds its
own operations. By continuing on the path of sequester, this
bill will accelerate the erosion of expertise, morale, and
oversight in the U.S. House of Representatives. On May 21, 2013
the Speaker of the House stated on the House floor, ``. . . we
have a responsibility to the American people to provide
oversight of the executive branch.'' We agree that Congress'
oversight role was established in the Constitution to provide a
check on the executive branch. Unfortunately, House Committees,
where most oversight takes place, have been cut 20 percent
since fiscal year 2010. We only wish the rhetoric on oversight
matched action, and note that Member offices' ability to serve
our constituents has been compromised with budget cuts of 18%
over three years.
Debbie Wasserman Schultz.
Nita M. Lowey.