WMATA does need reliable revenue streams.

We continue to support the Federal share.

The Senate recently passed the new Metro compact, further advancing the final steps of authorizing a 10-year $1.5 billion authorization for Metro with a dedicated funding system.

The Washington, DC area ranks second-worst in the United States as far as traffic congestion is concerned.

It is critically important the Federal Government live up to its commitment as a partner, but also to establish a way that we can be more actively involved as a partner with Metro in regards to the safety.

Our rail system is not brand-new anymore. It is 34 years old.

I believe the Federal Government must play a greater role in assuring the safety of the Metro system for its riders and employees.

It is a critical service for us to provide because we are, in fact, the lifeline for many of those people.

I strongly support the legislation that Senator Mikulski has been involved with that would give the FTA the authority to set up safety standards for our transit system.

I strongly support President Obama's budget that adds $150 million this year to the Metro funding for fiscal year 2011.

It is critically important. And I want to thank the appropriators for making those funds available.

There has been no stronger voice in the United States Congress on this issue than Senator Mikulski.

I don't mind being associated with Metro, I'm a big supporter of the Transit Authority.

I thank Senator Menendez for his leadership on S. 3305. I hope his request will be granted. As the other Senators have said, basically whose side are you on? Who should pay for this disaster? Should it be the taxpayers of this country…

Mr. President, I call up amendment No. 4050. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. The clerk will report. The legislative clerk read as follows: The Senator from Maryland [Mr. Cardin], for himself, Mr. Lugar, Mr…

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the reading of the amendment be dispensed with. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. The amendment is as follows: (Purpose: To require the disclosure of payments by…

Mr. President, I wish to take a few minutes to thank Senator Dodd for his extraordinary leadership on this bill. I know he is working through a lot of amendments. I know a lot of us have been urging him to allow us to present amendments. I…

As a New Orleans native I know first-hand the importance of the natural environment to the economy, the health, and the culture of the Gulf Coast.