In the current fiscal environment and the uncertainty of future funding levels, we need to know the consequences of sequestration and its impact on the Department of Defense and ultimately on our national security interests.

High rates of mandatory spending often limit the ability of the Federal Government to invest in discretionary funding such as ocean research.

I hope today's discussion facilitates a constructive dialogue among ocean explorers, scientists, and policymakers about the future of ocean observation infrastructure, research, and education.

Thank you, Senator Begich, for scheduling this hearing on the importance of partnerships in ocean observation.

One way to optimize Federal investment in ocean exploration and research is through the expansion and leveraging of public and private partnerships.

As a member of the Senate Oceans Caucus and as a senator from the coastal state of Mississippi, I recognize the importance of understanding and exploring our oceans.

I have been an ardent champion of U.S. defense exports to our allies, friends, and partners abroad.

I am pleased to join the distinguished Senator from Michigan in urging the Senate to move forward with this compromise bill that has been developed by the Committee on Agriculture and is now before the Senate for a cloture vote. We need to…

I demand a recorded vote. The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to clause 6 of rule XVIII, further proceedings on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Mississippi will be postponed. {time} 2120 Amendment Offered by Mr. Salmon

I have an amendment at the desk. The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will designate the amendment. The text of the amendment is as follows: At the end of the bill (before the short title), add the following: Sec. __. None of the funds made…

My amendment does one simple thing: it stops TSA from continuing to waste taxpayer dollars on a program the agency has not scientifically validated or shown to be cost effective. Since 2007, TSA has spent approximately $1 billion on its…

Do you have adequate funding for the assessment?

The Gulf Coast region is vital to our Nation and our economy, providing valuable resources, including abundant seafood, and recreational activities.

Mississippi has organized state efforts by creating GoCoast 2020 to serve as the official advisory body for the allocation of funds under the RESTORE Act.

I have a great deal of confidence that this is going to be administered by some very talented and thoughtful public servants.

We must take action to restore our environment and economy.

the importance that Senator Landrieu pointed out of this issue across the country and around the world is one of the reasons... why we had such great support from California, from the East Coast, and from all over the great heartland of…

Let me just ask that you work with the states, and if they are non-selected for certain projects, get back to them.