Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise this morning to support the Hollingsworth amendment, which would allow the Secretary of the Interior to issue depredation permits to livestock farmers authorizing the taking of black vultures during calving season. Currently, the black vulture is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. I don't know why they are all migrating to my district, and that is where they all live and they are not leaving. The current permit process doesn't provide farmers the flexibility they need to adequately protect calves from black vulture attacks. By allowing the Secretary of the Interior to work with Fish and Wildlife to issue State or regionwide depredation orders, we will provide farmers with the ability to protect their livelihood. This isn't just about giving farmers flexibility; it is also about being humane. If you have ever seen a black vulture attack calves, that is not something you want to see more than once. It is time we give our cattle farmers the authority to legally handle this dire situation. I want to point out that the ranking member's comments are very relevant to me, as well, with cormorants. We have a big problem with cormorants, as well, in my district. So, certainly, we need to be taking these issues into consideration.”