I do not understand the resistance of the VA to preserving the program.

It has a 90 percent patient satisfaction rate.

I know he's very much looking forward to another round of questions, and I didn't want to disappoint him in any way.

I want you to know that one reason I'm inviting the inspector general to testify both at both HUD and Transportation at our hearings is precisely because of the issues you've just raised.

But clearly, there were egregious examples, as I read your report, that are very troubling, because it's taking away from scarce resources.

I'm very disappointed I am that the budget, once again, proposes a $200 million reduction.

Does HUD have the sufficient statutory authority that it needs to require the public housing authorities to implement and enforce limits?

This is disturbing for many reasons.

I'm deeply troubled by reports of deplorable living conditions in subsidized properties in Memphis, Tennessee, and Jacksonville, Florida.

We're obligated to figure out the best and most cost-effective ways to address these needs.

We will submit them to you for the record, and we will keep that record open until Friday, March 18.

I will continue to work to ensure that this Subcommittee responds to the housing needs of these children and teenagers.

84 to 85 percent of the budget is, if you will, spoken for.

So what's wrong with HUD's system for inspection that properties could receive passing grades from HUD and then be cited by local inspectors with literally hundreds of serious code violations?

Our elderly, our disabled, working poor, they all deserve a fair chance at affordable and decent housing.

I look forward to hearing from each of you.

This request does not exist in a vacuum and must be considered in the broader context of an unsustainable $19 trillion debt.

I will continue to work with Senator Reed and others on this subcommittee to ensure that we respond to the housing needs of these vulnerable children and teenagers.