Political Quotes

“as introduced, the gateway community legislation sponsored by the gentleman from California (Mr. Radanovich) was controversial. However, over the last 2 years, committee staff, outside groups, and the agencies themselves have worked cooperatively to resolve many of the issues presented by this legislation. Recently, enough progress was made that the bill is before us today. We agree with the National Parks Conservation Association, however, H.R. 1014 is not perfect. It is our hope as this legislation is considered by the other body, all of the interested parties might continue working cooperatively to resolve some of the remaining issues. Furthermore, Members should realize that H.R. 1014 represents yet another piece of legislation placing new duties upon our Federal land managers. As we continue to work on the Interior appropriations legislation, I would call on all Members to work together to ensure that our Federal land management agencies receive funding sufficient to meet not only their current operations and maintenance needs, but also to cover any new responsibilities we are placing on them through legislation such as H.R. 1014. In many ways, an increase in funding will do as much to improve the communication and cooperation between Federal land management agencies and their neighbors as new authorizing legislation. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”