June 12, 2007

Calls for a renewed commitment to transparency

NASHVILLE - For the second year in a row, U.S. Congressman Jim Cooper has released a complete list of appropriations requests he submitted on behalf of the Tennessee National Guard and other organizations in the Fifth District. He is one of a small handful of members of Congress who makes his list public.

"As most people know, I think Congress should do away with the earmark process altogether," said Cooper, referring to lawmakers' practice of designating funds for specific projects in their districts. "But if we're going to use this system, we should at least be willing to sign our names under the projects we're supporting. I released my funding requests again this year because I believe honesty and transparency are the keys to holding government accountable."

Cooper, who serves on the Armed Services, Budget, and Oversight Committees, has represented Middle Tennessee in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2003.

FY08 Appropriations Requests - Submitted

TN Guard Submitted Requests

###