Andy Biggs: “When you say zero evidence, I guess the GAO report gets discounted. I guess the evidence from the people who run the…”

“When you say zero evidence, I guess the GAO report gets discounted. I guess the evidence from the people who run the range gets discounted. I guess hearing from the contractors who work there and have to reschedule repeatedly because of the enforcement of the ESA is not evidence either. I guess the fact that China doesn't have to worry about environmental impacts from an ESA impacting their readiness is zero evidence. When we look at it, in the Southwest, you have the acuna cactus. That is preventing, in many areas in the entire eastern portion of the Goldwater Range, the use of military targets and off-road vehicles, which impedes the ability to get mission ready. With the continued rising threats abroad, Congress must ensure that military readiness is not negatively impacted by regulatory compliance constraints from radical environmentalists. This amendment ensures that the Department of Defense can conduct the training necessary to keep the men and women of our Armed Forces prepared. Mr. Chair, I urge passage of this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Biggs). The question was taken; and the Acting Chair announced that the ayes appeared to have it.”