I am hoping that this stand-down will achieve the desired outcome which is really to really determine the safety there and not just a messaging tool

Mr. President, I thank Senator Cardin for his leadership on this issue, not only in this Congress but in the previous Congresses when we have attempted to advance this very important measure. What we have in front of us right now is S.J…

Oftentimes, we are looking at an air medivac that is costing $60,000 to $80,000, you know.

We have heard from a lot of vets who are hearing about this. They are really concerned because, again, coming from Bethel, you have got to have an air medivac.

That scares people.

There is one facility there with limited numbers of beds, and you just don't, literally, need the roof falling in.

I think you recognize that we don't have much of a contingency plan there in Alaska. This is it.

I would ask you to commit to conducting a study of the geothermal resources that we have in Alaska and in Hawaii.

I really appreciate you recognizing that Alaska is not going to be at a disadvantage when it comes to Federal funding.

There is no reason why we should not. So, I am with you in supporting your urging to the Agency.

I find it inexcusable and astonishing that Hawaii and Alaska would not be included, particularly, in a study for geothermal.

How does this budget request empower the VA and its Community Engagement and Partnership Coordinators to seek out worthwhile organizations to form coalitions that support these kinds of initiatives?

Oftentimes, we are looking at an air medivac that is costing $60,000 to $80,000, you know.

We have heard from a lot of vets who are hearing about this. They are really concerned because, again, coming from Bethel, you have got to have an air medivac.

I appreciated the fact that you followed through on your commitment from this last budget hearing, that you were going to come to Alaska.

I have proposed the creation of an Off-Road Veterans Outreach Program, some support funding to get out, and then get those vets who can't drive, to a facility, so that they can get their questions answered.

There is one facility there with limited numbers of beds, and you just don't, literally, need the roof falling in.

That scares people.