Political Quotes

“Madam Chair, I reserve the balance of my time. Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Chair, I ask unanimous consent to claim the time in opposition, even though I am not opposed to the amendment. The Acting CHAIR. Is there objection to the request of the gentlewoman from Minnesota? There was no objection. The Acting CHAIR. The gentlewoman from Minnesota is recognized for 5 minutes. Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Chair, the supplemental appropriation that we are discussing today includes $8.24 million for the U.S. Forestry Service to work on disaster relief, and it includes $2 million for State and private forestry. As I have told the Members here, I totally support the gentleman's proposal to increase the amount, and they have done an excellent job describing why it is so important. As wildfires continue to increase in both frequency and intensity as a result of climate change, we need to do more to prevent them. The State private forestry programs bring together States, Tribes, and local governments and gives them the tools they need to protect communities and our environment from wildfires. I have seen firsthand. I have spoken to people who have used these programs, and it is money well spent to prevent wildland fires. {time} 1630 However, in order for the Forestry Service to be able to use these critical funds, I will be supporting the CR portion of this bill to reopen the government, because without this continuing resolution the agencies won't be able to receive funds to get to work immediately.…”