Adopting the Rules of the House of Representatives for the 117th Congress

Floor Speech

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Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Madam Speaker, I find the protestations of our friends on the other side of the aisle rich, when 2 days from now they plan to actually vote in favor of overturning the results of an election that their party's nominee lost. So, please, spare us the protestations about the undemocratic process that you are opposing here.

Further, I rise to urge adoption of the rules package for the 117th Congress. This package includes innovative proposals to modernize the House and facilitate good policymaking.

It will establish the Select Committee on Economic Disparity and Fairness in Growth, which will work to combat income inequality and, critically, require committees to address inequities in marginalized communities.

I recently proposed the creation of an advisory panel on equity and justice in Federal spending, so I am pleased that this package recognizes the need to dismantle the effects of systemic racism and creates a process to address intractable inequities.

As a longtime proponent of diversity in hiring, I am glad we are making the Office of Diversity and Inclusion permanent.

I am also pleased that the rules exempt climate legislation from budgetary restrictions, clearing the way for ambitious Federal investments to combat climate change. As an appropriator, I am eager to deploy the power of the Appropriations Committee to fight climate change and work toward environmental justice.

Finally, I applaud the inclusion of gender-neutral language.

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Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Madam Speaker, finally, I applaud the inclusion of gender-neutral language that embraces all gender identities and reflects that this Chamber is not just a man's world anymore.

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