On the recordFebruary 29, 2012
I thank my colleague for yielding. I rise today to offer my support for the legislation. This bill, like so many others that we vote on, is far from perfect. However, I'll support this bill because of many provisions, important provisions for my valley within it. Mr. Chairman, water is absolutely critical to the economy of the San Joaquin Valley, the valley I love. Without an adequate water supply, agricultural fields go fallow and entire communities can be laid to waste. No one understands this more than myself and my colleague, Mr. Costa, my friend from the valley. We have both fought for water for our entire careers for our people. In fact, just last year, he and I introduced legislation to provide operational flexibility in the implementation of the Endangered Species Act for water deliveries for the Central Valley Project. Unfortunately, our colleagues on the other side of the aisle haven't felt the importance of holding a hearing on that bill. Titles I and III of this legislation aim to address the flawed regulations that have reduced our vital water deliveries to my friends and neighbors throughout the valley. {time} 1520 I have no reservations in supporting these provisions, and commend my colleagues on the other side for introducing them. I recommend a ``yes'' vote.…
