Rogers outlines appropriations agenda

“This is a better way to get at what we both want to do,” he said. 

Finding those possible spending cuts will be crucial for spending to drop to 2008 levels — by about an estimated $100 billion. 

Although it will take time to assemble a list of possible budget cuts, Rogers suggested starting with unspent or unobligated stimulus funds or by not hiring new agents at the IRS to oversee the new healthcare law, he said. 

Democrats have said those monies will be spent or obligated by the end of the year. 

“Everything is on the table,” he said. 

Passing all 12 spending bills is another key agenda item and will help in rooting out unnecessary spending and transforming the process, he said. 

“We don’t need more omnibus bills, they are a magnet for wasteful spending,” he said. 

The spending process should be transparent and the bills will be open for amendment, “and let the chips fall where they may,” he said. 

Earmarks are another issue that could create consternation between the two chambers next year, with Democrats still controlling the Senate and many of those lawmakers voicing support for the practice. 

Rogers, who has been criticized for his earmarking prowess, said he supports and will enforce the moratorium on earmarks in the House and will strip out any earmarks contained in Senate spending bills that come his way.

“In this era there’s a true fiscal crisis, so I will forgo earmarks,” he said.