Earmarks: Budgetary Pork or Butter?

The book discusses the potential impact of congressional earmarks on EERE research and development (R&D) programs and, in particular, whether continued high levels of earmarks could lead to new cuts in staff and dilute the desired impact of the AEI initiatives under EERE, should Congress decide to fund them. The congressional debate over earmarks centres on the transparency of the process, with a focus on earmarks not initially approved in either chamber that appear in a bill’s conference report. Opponents contend that the earmarking process is not open, fair, or competitive. Proponents say it is a legitimate practice and is justified by policymakers’ knowledge of local needs, as it spreads research money to deserving states and institutions.