This was a vote on a motion to recommit with instructions that would prohibited the federal government from awarding contracts to companies which have outsourced American jobs overseas. A motion to recommit with instructions is the minority's opportunity to torpedo or significantly change a bill before a final up-or-down vote on the measure. This motion was offered to a resolution requiring the House Budget Committee to set funding allocations for all federal programs (except those affecting national security) at 2008 levels or less.  (Specifically, the underlying resolution provided that federal spending on “non-security” programs could not exceed 2008 levels. The measure did not, however, define, “non-security.”)

While there was no debate on this motion to recommit, Rep. Tim Bishop (D-NY) released a statement arguing: “"The American people elected this Congress to help create American jobs,” Congressman Bishop said.  “Outsourcing costs American jobs and should not be subsidized with taxpayer dollars.  I am stunned that the majority is prepared to justify this job-killing practice to the American taxpayer who foots the bill."

Calls seeking comment from Republican offices were not returned.

The House rejected this motion to recommit by a vote of 184-242. Voting “yea” were 184 Democrats. All 238 Republicans present and 4 Democrats voted “nay.” As a result, the House rejected a motion to recommit on a budget resolution that would have prohibited the federal government from awarding contracts to companies that have outsourced American jobs overseas.