GOP House Moves to Reduce FBI Funding, Safeguard Whistleblowers

House Republicans Move to Cut FBI Funding and Protect Whistleblowers

House Republicans have taken a bold step by proposing a $1 billion cut in funding for the FBI, while also prioritizing the protection of federal whistleblowers. This move comes as lawmakers continue to question the bureau’s treatment of conservatives.

The bill introducing these cuts was passed by Republicans on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, despite opposition from Democrats on the committee. Although the bill may face challenges in the Senate and from the White House, if it becomes law, it would result in a significant 9% reduction in FBI funding.

In addition to the funding cut, the proposed bill aims to prevent funds from being used for the FBI’s office of diversity and inclusion, as well as other agency diversity offices covered by the appropriations bill. This bill encompasses various federal agencies, including the Commerce Department and the Department of Justice.

The Department of Justice would also see its funding reduced by $2 billion, while the Commerce Department would lose $1.4 billion in discretionary spending. Appropriations Chairwoman Kay Granger (R-TX) emphasized that the bill holds the Department of Justice accountable, improves the immigration court system, supports state and local law enforcement, and provides critical resources to combat illegal drugs.

Furthermore, lawmakers have taken steps to protect whistleblowers from retaliation. The bill includes a provision to withhold salaries from federal employees who take action against whistleblowers and violate their First Amendment rights.

These efforts to safeguard whistleblowers come in response to Rep. Jim Jordan’s request to include language in the DOJ appropriations bill that prohibits retaliation against FBI whistleblowers. Jordan and his “Weaponization of the Federal Government” subcommittee aim to block taxpayer funds from being used for censorship and to classify speech as “mis-, dis-, or mal-information” in order to protect free speech online.

This year, House Republicans have heard testimony from FBI and IRS whistleblowers, shedding light on the issue. IRS whistleblower Gary Shapley, who raised concerns about the DOJ, revealed that he faced retaliation. Shapley expressed concerns that the actions taken by leadership could be seen as nothing but retaliation, violating prohibited personnel practices.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILY WIRE APP

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases