Ann Kirkpatrick

I represent a very large rural district in Arizona.

I have a concern about the delivery of the medical services to these new enrollees.

So, basically, I have to report back to this community there is not going to be any funding for several years for this very important major project?

Before the Army Corps can move on this project, a reconnaissance study must be completed at the cost of $100,000 in Federal funds.

I think it is so important not only to the community, but we do not want to waste taxpayer dollars that have already been spent on this project.

This project really is the lifeblood of the community.

I just want to quantify some of the economic damages and have that in the record.

That is a lot of veterans to process in a system that already has backlogs, and so I really have a concern about that.

Thank you, Secretary Shinseki, for your appearance today before the Committee, and for your transformational vision for the VA.

I just have one question. This is a follow-up on Secretary Kelly's statement that the initial implementation would cost $273,000.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. My first question is for each member of the panel.

They've raised their families here. Worked the mines. Run their own businesses.

Copper is part of Arizona's heritage--it's one of the five C's represented in our State seal.

We also need to include environmental protections for the water and land in and around the Copper Corridor.

The voices of tribal and environmental groups should be heard and respected.

Prepared statement on H.R. 687

I am committed to using the legislative process to represent their concerns.

I believe that if these provisions are included, it will help ensure the Superior mine can finally move forward.

I support requiring government-to-government tribal consultations prior to the land exchange.

The tribe's concerns about the impact this project will have on sacred sites and land are valid concerns.

I know this, and so does my colleague, Congressman Gosar.

I stand here today testifying in support of H.R. 687--the Southeastern Arizona Land Exchange, of which I am an original co-sponsor.

I will be working toward including responsible provisions like these in a final version of this legislation.

I am proud to represent Arizona's first district. It covers 60,000 square miles, 80 rural communities, including the Town of Superior.

It is my belief that there is a way to work together, and use the legislative process to develop a piece of legislation that brings a diversified and stable economy to the region.