The Chamorro people of Guam, who I represent, like our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico, are awaiting fulfillment of their political aspirations and an opportunity to fully exercise their rights to self-determination.

I would like to also welcome my colleagues who are here.

I would also like to acknowledge, as I said earlier, Congressman John Sarbanes and Congressman Frank Kratovil and thank both of them for their leadership and their contributions to the work of the Natural Resources Committee.

I was surprised to hear that many communities in Virginia lack the necessary technical, legal, and financial tools to begin to plan for the projected impact of climate change.

I also am an optimist myself so I like your optimism. I think that is the way to go.

I look forward to hearing from the Administration about what plans they have to tackle this complex challenge.

This bill has my support, and I hope we can move it to the Floor quickly after this hearing today.

I stand in solidarity with our colleagues from Hawaii in supporting H.R. 2314 and am a close sponsor.

It is important that Congress recognize, protect, and respect these indigenous practices.

As a Member of Congress representing a non-self governing territory that is home to an indigenous people, the Chamorros of Guam, I come to this discussion with an added appreciation for and sensitivity to the inherent rights of indigenous…

It is important that Congress recognize, protect and respect these indigenous practices.

I feel because of that we should now try to address the consequences of what had happened.

Congress recognized this injustice through the passage of the Apology Resolution in 1993.

I, therefore, strongly support the efforts to bring just and due Federal recognition for the Native Hawaiians.

We must ensure that the rights of Native Hawaiians are recognized and respected.

While I commend this action, the severe mortality and the sudden spread of White-Nose Syndrome demonstrate the need for a rapid response beyond closing caves where bats live.

I represent the Territory of Guam in the Pacific. We have a lot of bats in the Pacific area.

We must quickly ascertain the causes of and vectors for the spread of White-Nose Syndrome to avoid what could be an ecological and economic disaster, if it remains unchecked.