Joe Lieberman: “Any significant fraud or waste in this program is going to have a devastating blow on public opinion and trust in…”

It has mattered to me because there are two great American constitutional principles that are at the heart of the cause of D.C. statehood and that are violated every day in the current treatment of residents of the District of Columbia.

Part of the problem there has been--and this goes to early warning and intelligence--how do you stop an outbreak, of either a bioterrorist attack or naturally occurring, from spreading.

If Congress were to formally authorize something that exists now, the National Veterinary Stockpile, that would send a strong message that this is a necessary national asset.

Thanks very much, Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Stabenow, and members of the Committee.