WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today Rep. Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-Santa Clarita) co-sponsored H.R. 3571, the Defund ACORN Act, and released the following statement in response to recent reports of potential criminal activity by employees of the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN):
“The most recent media coverage of more improprieties by ACORN has added another layer of criminal actions to the organization’s repertoire. Considering that the same organization has already faced serious charges of voter fraud and other unlawful activity in the recent past, immediate action must be taken to ensure that no additional taxpayer money is given to the organization.
“Earlier this month, the U.S. Census Bureau rightfully ended its partnership with ACORN, and I believe other agencies should follow suit in order to cease any federal funding, even funding streams through federal block grants distributed by state and local governments.
“Based on some accounts, ACORN is said to have received over $53 million in direct funding from the federal government since 1994, and American taxpayers deserve much better for their money. These offenses by ACORN aren’t happening in nameless places or dark corners; they are happening in our own communities, with this last instance occurring right in the heart of San Bernardino County. ACORN has been pressured to clean-up its operation, and yet, nothing has changed; that’s why Congress must act without delay.”
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