Political Quotes

“I think the gentleman who is proposing the amendment is missing some major points. Before a wind energy project can continue or go into effect, it has to meet very stringent environmental requirements. Those environmental requirements, among other things, deal specifically with all types of birds. I will tell you that, in my current district and in my previous district, I had the major wind farms in California, and no project was allowed to go forward without addressing these issues. Under the Endangered Species Act, it is possible for incidental takes to take place if there is appropriate mitigation, and I know from the projects in my area that there had to be appropriate mitigation. {time} 1830 The modern wind turbines are far different than the old wind turbines, which were, in fact, deadly to birds. The modern wind turbines are far less so. And if there is an incidental take of a listed species, it can only occur with proper and appropriate mitigation. The author's reference to the issue of a longtime take opportunity only occurs if there happens to be an adaptive management program in place that allows the Fish and Wildlife Service and other appropriate agencies to review the process and progress, or lack thereof, and apply different measures or stop the projects at that time. So I would oppose the amendment. I think it is based upon incorrect facts. And I join the chairman in opposition. I yield back the balance of my time.”