George Miller: “I rise in support of H.R. 3035 which would establish an advisory commission to provide advice and recommendations to…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 3035 which would establish an advisory commission to provide advice and recommendations to help create a coordinated federal drought mitigation and response policy. Currently, droughts tend to receive minimal advance attention and are primarily addressed ad hoc in a crisis management mode. The commission established by the bill would recommend ways to coordinate the numerous federal agencies that have a role in droughts. It would also help ensure that federal efforts would compliment state and local programs without diminishing state water rights or environmental protection. H.R. 3035 builds upon the recent work of the Western Water Policy Review Advisory Commission and the Western Governors' Association. Both organizations have recommended the creation of an interagency task force to develop an integrated national drought policy plan that emphasizes risk-management. I appreciate the efforts of my colleagues on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.”