FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 10, 1996
CONTACT: Dana Hagerty 202/225-2165
WASHINGTON, DC -- Congressman Collin C. Peterson (DFL-7th District) today testified before the Government Reform and Oversight Subcommittee on Government Management, Information, and Technology on the Federal Surplus Property Reform Act of 1995, H.R. 1882. Peterson is the author of this legislation.
“This legislation returns the surplus property law to its original intent,” Peterson said. “Since 1918, federal agencies and departments have been authorized to make obsolete or surplus personal property available for donation for educational and other purposes.
“In 1976, the many separate surplus property distribution systems operated by federal agencies were consolidated into one agency for each state,” Peterson continued. “And until 1986, this program was one of the finest examples of federal and state cooperation.
“However, Congress’ actions since then have fragmented the program and impeded efficiency throughout the system. For example, Congress authorized the distribution of excess Department of Defense property to foreign governments; granting them priority over other federal agencies that may have need for the property.
“My bill eliminates the priority status of these programs and returns the surplus property law to its original intent -- a single state agency. Very simply, this bill removes the priority without denying participation in the state agency program.
“Distributing surplus federal property has always been a good idea and my legislation will eliminate red tape and bureaucracy, and restore some common sense to the entire process,” Peterson concluded.