I am proud to cosponsor H.R. 3176, legislation sponsored by my colleague, Ranking Member Peter DeFazio.

They are essential to this country and to the legislative process, and we need them back at work.

it is estimated that drought costs $6 to $8 billion a year in the United States.

We need to continue to ensure that we have all of the parties represented, that we have the voices of those that sometimes don't speak.

Our role is to ensure that whatever law is passed... is good for the people that we represent.

I just think we need to have more input and more information to be able to make a more informed decision.

We believe that access to a well-trained workforce grounded in the highest quality care and respect for veterans and their families is of paramount importance.

I think we all owe you, each and every one of you, a deep apology for not responding to your needs.

Providing safe, effective, adequate pain management is a crucial component of improving veterans health care.

What happens in the VA when we know a patient is now an addict to their drug?

Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects veterans at a much higher rate than the civilian population.

Our water systems may be inadequate to deal with our future needs.

We must invest in our water infrastructure. We know that the climate is changing.

This is not the best way to do business, nor is it the best way to ensure that the legislation we pass serves the best interest of our taxpayers and our American public.

I beg to differ with that. It is not that simple. What affects California affects the rest of the Nation.

We must bring back 3,311 of the 5,077 reclamation employees that have been furloughed and are waiting to go back to work for our country.

I think it is important that the subcommittee at the time consider the benefits that have accrued over the years...

For the purposes of my opening comments I will direct them to the DeFazio bill as it relates to drought relief.