Ranking Member Scott Statement on GAO Ruling that Administration Illegally Withheld Funds from IMLS
WASHINGTON – Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), House Committee on Education and Workforce, released the following statement after the Government Accountability Office (GAO) decision that the Trump Administration’s Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) violated the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 by withholding appropriated funds that were intended to support relevant services.
“From rural towns to bustling cities, libraries and museums play a critical role in their communities. In addition to providing books and reference materials, libraries serve as a natural hub for a multitude of community services, including early and adult literacy programs, workforce development opportunities, broadband and technology access, and resources for individuals with disabilities. Museums also serve as cultural hubs where people can engage in lifelong learning on a diverse range of topics such as American and world history, the arts, humanities, sciences, and hobbies.
“In addition to ignoring Congressional intent and illegally withholding funds, the Trump Administration is hurting communities in its attempts to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Our constituents rely on the services that their local libraries and museums provide, and pulling the rug out from under them impacts their ability to improve themselves, connect with their community, and find new opportunities.
“The Constitution clearly states that Congress has the ‘power of the purse.’ Therefore, the Trump Administration has violated the law by not distributing the funds as Congress intended.”
On April 4, Ranking Member Scott and Higher Education and Workforce Development (HEWD) Subcommittee Ranking Member Alma S. Adams (NC-12) sought information from the IMLS Acting Chair Keith Sonderling following President Trump’s executive order to unilaterally eliminate the agency.
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