Thomas R. Carper: “Thanks, Mr. Chairman.”

Last year, the Environment and Public Works Committee held, I think, not one, but a couple of hearings on permitting, common theme at our hearings, on the importance of public engagement.

We help make the rules for the country, and we do not do this by ourselves.

For too long, the seats have not been filled, and not been filled properly.

Public engagement can build trust, it can increase public buy-in, can help resolve issues, can help prevent litigation, and ultimately it can save time and money.