Political Quotes

“Very simply, this amendment involves commonsense reforms that will ensure the performance of overseas contracts, paid for by our taxpayers, involving money in this very Defense budget, consistent with the values that we hold dear as Americans. The Department of Defense has a special responsibility to lead in preventing human trafficking overseas, as this amendment would do. It is not only a matter of humane and moral values, it is a matter of getting value for the dollars we spend in protecting our national security. The United States has and ought to have a zero-tolerance policy against government employees and contractor personnel engaging in any form of human trafficking. These values are transcendent of party lines, of any other interests. I am very proud to offer this amendment, in fact, with strong support across the aisle, led by my colleague Senator Portman who has joined me in forming a human trafficking caucus to lead the way on these issues. This amendment is the result of efforts we have led and very simply represents the most comprehensive legislative effort ever undertaken in the Congress to stamp out human trafficking in overseas contracting. I am happy to yield to my colleague from Ohio, Senator Portman. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Ohio.”