White House: “We live in a 21 5t century economy, but we have a Government organized for the 20th century. Our economy has fundamentally changed but the Federal Government has not. The Federal Government needs to be leaner, smarter, and more consumer-friendly to give our communities, businesses, and workers the tools they need to thrive and to strengthen American competitiveness and innovation. Today, I am submitting to the Congress the enclosed legislative proposal, the Reforming and Consolidating Government Act of 2012. This legislation would reinstate an authority granted to past Presidents to streamline and reform the Executive Branch. The Reforming and Consolidating Government Act of 2012 would modify this longstanding authority by requiring that any reorganization reduce the number of agencies or cut costs. This authority is essential to creating a 21st century Government that is fiscally responsible, works ever more efficiently and effectively for the American people, and helps make America more competitive.”