Dave Hobson

Mr. HOBSON

Mr. HOBSON. Congratulations to all the sponsors of this most needed piece of legislation. The budgets of State and local governments have long been devastated by regulations and laws handed down from Congress without the funds to pay for them. As a former State senator, I experienced firsthand the impact of these unfunded mandates when the priorities of Congress have superseded the budget priorities of Ohio. By 1998, cities and counties throughout my State will face even greater burdens when unfunded mandates consume one-quarter of all local revenues. Governor Voinovich of Ohio has dedicated the last 2 years to passing comprehensive mandate relief legislation as the National Governors Association's lead governor on federalism. His study of the impact of unfunded mandates concluded that mandates will cost Ohio $1.7 billion over 3 years. Finally, to the great relief of States across the country, the new Republican leadership in Congress is determined to abolish these mandates with their friends on the other side of the aisle. As part of the Contract With America, [[Page H364]] the Unfunded Federal Mandate Reform Act will make Members of Congress accountable for supporting mandates. The passage of this legislation will be the first step to dramatically altering the relationship between Washington and local officials. More importantly, it will be a step toward honoring the tenth amendment of the constitution. Essentially power should be given back to where it belongs, to the people and their State governments.