If we have predictability regarding certain budget expenses, why are these accounts not completely funded in DOD's budget requests?

I appreciate that and we certainly would like to see your policies and appreciate that this is something you have already put a focus on prior to this incident that was really a complete debacle.

I am concerned that the annual transfer of funds between defense accounts, especially at the end of the fiscal year, decreases accountability and increases the difficulty in achieving accurate financial statements.

without the ability to audit DOD's Statement of Budgetary Resources (SBR), how do we actually know we are saving this money?

I think it is important. We have to be able to account to taxpayers.

Let me just ask you, Secretary Hale.

to what extent is DOD actually realizing the intended savings?

How can we change this process to ensure the budget proposals reviewed by Congress are an accurate accounting of what we expect to pay?

So you could have proceeded without the project labor agreement?

I think it's an unnecessary Federal burden placed on people who want to do good Federal work and do it at the lowest cost possible.

the studies show that costs increase between 12 and 15 percent when you include a requirement of a project labor agreement.

I'm really struggling with it. And I feel like the contractors in New Hampshire who do things efficiently and very well are being denied an opportunity here to bid because they are non-union shops, and I think it's wrong.

I think it's very important that New Hampshire have the Job Corps.

the absurd result that out of state contractors are the only ones that are bidding on this really important New Hampshire Federal project in our state.

This legislation would recognize the work and dedication of the Missing in America Project, in cooperation with numerous veterans service organizations, in identifying unclaimed remains of veterans.

I look forward to hearing more about H.R. 4168, introduced by Congressman Guinta, which would direct the ABMC to maintain Clark Veterans Cemetery in the Philippines.

I cannot over-emphasize the importance of SBA programs in supporting small businesses in New Hampshire and helping particularly during the recent recession.

Congressman Frank Guinta of New Hampshire, with both Democratic and Republican co-sponsors, has introduced HR 4168, the 'Caring for the Fallen Act'.