Richard Shelby actually said...

"This is a significant increase in funding given our current budget environment, and it is proposed as a new mandatory program."

"NOAA represents more than 60 percent of your Department's budget at $5.6 billion."

"What do they get from us for allowing us to access their data? I mean, they are bound to get something, a quid pro quo."

"I am hopeful that this budget provides not only the resources necessary for the Department but ensures that there is a plan in place to keep the ship righted."