Brian Bilbray: “Of course they are thrilled. They are getting fed taxpayers' money to do things that they would be doing anyway.”

Mr. Bunker, I think you and everybody else that's required to enforce either a law or regulation understands that when the Legislature passes a law, there's always the assumption of discretionary enforcement.

How much interrelationship, or communication do you have with the Interior Department about opening up public lands for mining of these rare earths?

The Agency has a responsibility that you do not have the mentality of crucifying people that may not be too guilty, but you've got to make your point.

I appreciate it, Mr. Chairman, and I appreciate the minority's consideration. With that, I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from California (Mr. Bilbray). The…