Unfortunately, we haven't been able to reach a consensus in Congress on how to address that issue.

I strongly advise that you ensure these provisions are implemented very quickly, because I don't think that we can afford an economic vacuum when it comes to small businesses who already, as you well know, are shuttering their doors all…

It is really crucial that we address that as part of it, and particularly during the course of this recession.

I want to thank you, Madam Chair, for certainly handling this nomination in such an expeditious fashion

Did you put into the system additional reviews or safeguards or higher-level approvals to ensure the integrity of the procurement process?

I join the Chairman in welcoming Jane Holl Lute to our Committee today as we consider her nomination to be Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

The Deputy Secretary of DHS wields considerable power over the day-to-day operations of the Department.

I intend to request additional resources and personnel for Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement to help stem the flow of drugs and people moving north into the United States and guns and money moving south…

These responsibilities are in addition to the many other challenges associated with the operation of a Department with some 210,000 employees and a mission to secure our borders.

It significantly strengthened the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and since that time, I know the Chairman takes great pride in the fact, as do I, that FEMA's response to natural disasters has improved enormously.

So when you became aware of the extent of corruption and fraud, what actions did you take?

Senator Lieberman and I have been strong advocates for reforms that have resulted in greater competition, accountability, and transparency to Federal contracting.

I would be remiss in my duties as the Ranking Minority Member if I did not ask that you also treat requests from the Minority in the same manner...

It took most of a year. We did several hearings, issued a report with recommendations for all levels of government.

I am concerned, however, that the technological infrastructure that is necessary to process those documents, including passport cards, efficiently will not be in place by June at all of the land ports of entry.

the combined market share of the five largest insurance companies now controls 75 percent of the market.

You heard Senator Snowe describe the consolidation of the health insurance market, to the point of real market control, without enforcement action.

What about balance billing, which is another issue that--you know, that, unfortunately, so many individuals are having to pay because of an underpaid insurance, so the doctor goes directly to the patient to recover those charges.