House Republicans on July 14 advanced a bill that would slash $1 billion from the budget of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) over previous levels amid ongoing concerns with the agency’s conduct.
The appropriations bill, which was passed through the House Committee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies in a party-line vote, would reduce the agency’s funding from the $11.3 billion it received this financial year to $10.3 billion (pdf). The reduction would return the agency’s funding to roughly 2022 levels.
The roughly 9 percent cut comprises a $400 million salary cut for the FBI over previous levels.
It comes amid a series of frustrations with the agency, which Republican lawmakers say has been weaponized against conservatives as they seek to address several key concerns….