Garrett Statement on Treasury Decision to Amend Terms of Fannie and Freddie Bailout

WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Scott Garrett (R-NJ), Chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Capital Markets and Government-Sponsored Enterprises issued the following statement today after the Treasury Department announced a plan to reduce the dividend rate paid to the Secretary of the Treasury on senior preferred stock of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac:

“Today’s announcement from the Treasury Department is yet another example of the Obama Administration continuing to kick-the-can on important policy decisions instead of working with Congress to enact meaningful reform.  The reduction of the dividend payments for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will ensure the American taxpayers remain on the hook for the bailout of these two failed institutions for the foreseeable future.  The crony-capitalism that has become a centerpiece of the Administration’s failed economic policy must come to an end.  This decision is a slap in the face to the hardworking American taxpayers who deserve to be compensated and fully repaid for their dollars that fueled the government takeover of the mortgage twins.  Instead of devoting time and energy towards prolonging bailouts, the Obama Administration should work with Congress to wind these companies down and create a new and sustainable housing finance system where taxpayers are not at risk.”

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