SE Nebraska News

U.S. Congressman Mike Flood has introduced the "No More D.C. Waste Act," a bill aimed at providing oversight to the D.C. Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG) program and addressing what he describes as excessive funding. The initiative is supported by Rep. William Timmons (SC-04) and Rep. Adrian Smith (NE-03).

Congressman Flood stated, "For nearly ten years, the D.C. local government has quietly stockpiled tens of millions of taxpayer dollars from an overfunded program." He emphasized that the DCTAG program could sustain itself for at least two years without additional federal funding, adding, "House Republicans are fighting to eliminate bloated and wasteful federal spending, and this bill is a straightforward step toward getting our federal checkbook in order."

Rep. William Timmons echoed these sentiments, noting that Congress allocates substantial funds annually to the DCTAG program, which leads to significant overfunding. "Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve made it a priority to protect American taxpayer dollars from waste, fraud, and abuse," said Timmons. He highlighted that the bill ensures excess funds are not carried over by the D.C. government for use in subsequent years.

Since 2015, Congress has allocated $40 million annually to the DCTAG program; however, it consistently fails to award this full amount each year. As a result, at least $60 million in unspent funds have accumulated over time.

The proposed legislation seeks to amend current law by preventing surplus funds from being carried over by the D.C. government starting in FY2026. Additionally, it aims to enhance congressional oversight by mandating annual reports on DCTAG's finances and outcomes.

Full text of the legislation can be read here.