Congressman Carter and the House of Representatives continued to rein in government overreach and curb Internal Revenue Service (IRS) abuse by passing the seventh of Congress’ twelve annual appropriations bills on Wednesday afternoon. The FY15 Financial Services & General Government Appropriations Act creates a better America by reducing spending, while creating opportunities for small businesses to create jobs. This legislation passed by a vote of 228-195.

“This legislation prohibits the IRS from targeting Americans based on their political beliefs and prevents the IRS from implementing the Obamacare individual mandate. The IRS has proven that they are acting as a political arm for the Obama Administration and safeguards must be put in place to protect American’s liberties,” said Congressman Carter.

“This is the seventh appropriations bill House Republicans have passed this year, while Senate Democrats have yet to pass one,” said Congressman Carter. “It’s time to set politics aside, do our jobs and pass the annual funding laws that we are constitutionally bound to pass. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to follow suit and fund our government in a way that strengthens our economy and creates a better life for all Americans.”

This legislation provides a total of $21.3 billion in discretionary spending which is $566 million below last years enacted level. This legislation:

• Brings the IRS funding below 2003 levels by cutting the IRS funding down to $10.95 billion, which is sufficient for the IRS to perform its core duties, including taxpayer services.  
• Prevents the IRS from implementing new regulations that would further target political parties and limit free speech.
• Stops the IRS from further implementing Obamacare, including the individual mandate
• Prohibits funding for IRS bonuses
• Prohibits federal and local funds from being used for abortions
• Includes $862 million for the Small Business Administration to help provide opportunities for American small businesses to get off the ground and create more jobs.

For more information on this important piece of legislation please visit appropriations.house.gov.