Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the importance of investing in evidence-based programs with proven track records. As we work to invest our tax dollars in the most efficient manner possible, we need to know which government programs work, which do not, and which could be improved. The Appropriations bill provides a set aside of 0.5% for program evaluations for both the Department of Labor and certain Education programs.
It has recently been brought to my attention, how the moneyball approach to government could help in our spending decisions. We all have heard about Billy Bean and how he used evidence and data to assemble his winning team.
We in Congress can use this same model by examining best practices and evaluating Federal programs.
“Investing in What Works” is not a partisan issue. This practice dates back to Presidents Clinton and Bush and continues today with President Obama.
Many of you have heard me speak about my disdain for these austere budget times and how we are forced to look at every available avenue to do more with less. Conducting program evaluations and investing in what works can help improve outcomes for children, families and communities across this nation.