Richard Blumenthal

It seems to me that this agency, basically, is in need of serious reform.

We all should be on the same side of safety in gas transmission.

They haven't completed them.

If it's lack of resources and authority, they should be given both.

There is a very severe and serious problem with the current system of oversight.

Congress should pass legislation granting Puerto Rico the right to declare Chapter 9 bankruptcy or another orderly and fair alternative.

It sounds arbitrary and capricious.

The research that would be authorized by the bill I have introduced is long overdue.

The key to the 901 bill is the national center. That is the key.

The best research in the world has to be used to be effective.

I think it gives us an example of how we need to push the VA and our entire Federal executive branch to do more and do better.

The exclusion of bays and harbors from inland waters...was completely irrational and that they felt that the regulation was arbitrary and capricious.

This research must be done, it just has to be done.

Congress must take a look at what the DOD is not providing but should.

Unfortunately, you made the point, I agree, that very often bureaucracies devote more time and effort and ingenuity to denying claims than enabling them.

In this instance, it is almost criminally overdue because Congress and the country have simply chosen to look the other way.

I understand from the BVA that this type of cancer is rare in the civilian population, but it is ten times more common among Vietnam era veterans and currently is not being considered for an epidemiological study.

Would you, therefore, think it is important and necessary to approve Senate Bill 2081, which, in effect, extends this authority for an additional 15 years?

What is the process by which you consider whether to do an epidemiological study?

The lightbulb needs to come on for the Nation on this issue.

The passion and urgency of this issue has to be understood by our Nation.

I look forward to hearing from all of our witnesses about this measure, along with other important issues including helping Blue Water veterans and all those returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with toxic exposures.

I note that my colleague from South Carolina has arrived on the floor, and I would happily yield to him if he wishes to go. Otherwise, I will be very brief.

I will oppose that kind of extension if it is incorporated in any sort of continuing resolution or a short-term fix. I believe that approach is simply an invitation to disaster.

There really is an opportunity and obligation for more collaboration and cooperation here.