On the recordMarch 8, 2012
I thank my colleagues. Most of them have gone, but I feel it is important that the Record reflect this last vote that we had. Basically, it was a vote to undo everything we worked so hard on all day. It was basically a backdoor way of killing the transportation bill--a bill that is fiscally responsible. It is at current levels plus inflation fully paid for. Senator Inhofe and I agreed at the outset in the EPW Committee we would only support a bill that was fully paid for. I was honored that we got so many Republican votes on that. I am looking forward to next week when we get this done. I understand the Senator from Michigan has something he wants to get accomplished by a voice vote. I ask unanimous consent that he be able to explain that so that we can continue making progress, and then he will yield the floor to the Republican side. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. The Senator from Michigan. Amendment No. 1818
