Mr. Chairman, I want to request that you put my opening statement in the record as though I was here.

The piracy of intellectual property is something that certainly harms those in the industry.

We need our rural areas... to be better positioned so that we basically can compete for in-shoring.

I am also interested in exploring how EDA's programs meet the needs of rural States, like Vermont.

I am delighted to be here to discuss the reauthorization of this very important Agency.

You are doing a fantastic job.

EDA and its programs provide vital financial and technical assistance to our Nation and to my home State of Vermont.

Is EDA considering a regional reorganization plan? If so, will this allow regional staff to visit States more often?

Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this hearing.

One of the issues happening in Armed Services Committee is BRAC.

I have a great interest in the work that the Economic Development Administration does.

This is a very important project.

Economic development and the job creation that goes with it has to be one of our top priorities.

I strongly support reauthorizing the EDA.

I strongly support reauthorization of the Economic Development Administration.

It might be very useful if EDA could give us some breakdown of exactly how that ratio is reached.

I just want to publicly reinforce the importance that Congressman Walsh and I place on this and ask if I can get the assurance that it will receive the high priority attention that we think it merits.

I am very, very glad to hear that. I agree with you, I think it is a model project that I hope has implications not only for other parts of my State but other States as well.