Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, the Nation's recent economic downturn has dramatically affected the forest products industry, especially those companies reliant on wood from Federal lands. Currently, the Forest Service has several options for helping timber companies amend the terms of timber contracts that are no longer economically viable. However, the Bureau of Land Management does not have the same authorities. H.R. 3759, introduced by our distinguished colleague from Oregon, Representative DeFazio, would help rural economies and struggling timber companies by allowing the Secretary of the Interior to add 3 years to the expiration date of certain BLM timber contracts. This authority is similar to the Forest Service authority and would enable companies to wait for a better economic climate. {time} 1430 Mr. Speaker, we commend Representative DeFazio for his efforts to support rural communities by proposing this legislation. We support the passage of H.R. 3759 and urge its adoption by the House today. I reserve the balance of my time.”