In light of the urgent need to reduce the Federal budget deficit, the Committee is recommending funding reductions for many programs within its jurisdiction.

The Committee will continue to examine programs within its jurisdiction to cut costs, consolidate facilities, eliminate waste, and create efficiencies.

Some may say, well, maybe we shouldn't hold this, the hearing, and I said, 'No.'

What I would suggest we do as a followup is let's convene a roundtable with the Coast Guard and others, and then let's get their recommendations.

I don't know if it needs to be in law, but maybe in regulation.

I must first also identify my remarks with others today who have expressed their sympathy to and condolences to the United States Coast Guard.

I am incredibly saddened to hear of your loss, and our prayers and thoughts are with the families.

Mr. Speaker, let me speak to transportation and what we're doing in Congress on the Republican side. The other side of the aisle, the Democrat majority, had responsibility over transportation, and huge majorities for 4 years and control…

This isn't just a Republican idea or a Democrat idea. This is an idea for the American taxpayers.

We are going to get that done, and it is going to be one way or the other.

There is nothing like a hearing to motivate action.