The greater sage grouse is fast becoming the 'new' northern spotted owl.

Unfortunately, with less than 2 percent of the more than 1,500 listed species ever recovered, the law is failing.

Cramming more species onto a list, or blocking millions of acres, including restricting even how our military can use lands for military training and readiness, is not a measure of success.

States are using resources wisely to recover species and keep them off the list. We should do more to encourage them.

It is not, as the Director said, nor is it right to have strongholds where wilderness-like restrictions over 16.5 million acres of land will be done.

The states are in charge of wildlife, and the states have a record of success in that obligation.

Forty years ago, the Endangered Species Act was passed with every good intention; but, despite some of the rhetoric coming from special interest groups and their claims, the reality is that less than 2 percent of the more than 1,500 listed…

The work that they do is so incredibly important. It is something that is very important in the State of Utah, but also for our Nation and around the world.

This is not based on fiscal issues. This is not based on party issues. This is what we have to do, and that is you are protecting life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This is a moral issue.

I reintroduced the Creating Hope and Opportunities for Individuals and Communities through Education Act, the CHOICE Act.

Stakeholder input is critical for this committee to work toward the goal of producing bipartisan legislation that can be introduced and marked up in the Finance Committee later this year.

I want to announce that Ranking Member Wyden and I have appointed Senators Johnny Isakson and Mark Warner to form a full Finance Committee chronic care reform working group.

Today's hearing signals the Finance Committee's first step in a bipartisan process that will continue over the next 6 months.

We have to find ways to provide high quality care at greater value and lower cost--all without adding to the deficit.

I ask your support for H.R. 618.

We appreciate her passion and commitment.

We will now recognize the gentlewoman from the District of Columbia, Ms. Norton.

But is it not time to let more and more families have the opportunity to utilize such a wonderful scholarship program that offers that hope, opportunities for health, and opportunities for happiness?