Child development is a cornerstone for all development and is central to U.S. and diplomatic efforts.

Demographics of Unaccompanied Children

The reality is that Immigration Courts are seriously overwhelmed by the number of removal proceedings.

Everybody has been referring to the 2008 law, which I have also reviewed.

I think that is a very critical point.

I am glad that the President asked FEMA to step into this situation and try to sort out and give immediate assistance for the immediate crisis on the border.

Since 1980, anybody that arrives at the shores... can seek asylum.

the President is asking for a $3.7 billion supplemental, which came to Congress and the Appropriations Committee members

Unless we get at the issue of corruption, lack of transparency, lack of accountability, I do not think we are going to get very far.

I cannot tell you how important I think this hearing is, and this discussion back and forth just hit the nub at it.

So, who does have budgetary authority for the money that is spent now?

My days of sending money to governments that cannot conduct the simplest measures of accountability are over.

I am really concerned about this, as all of us are.

encouraging and empowering women is another piece to this, both economically.

But, my concern, Mr. Chairman, is that I am fairly current and up to date on the very mediocre job that is being done in our own foster care system in the United States today.

If those on the other side say it is not the law and it is other things, we also have to be careful how this money is allocated or we will just be putting good money after bad in some of these countries.

A strong family is the best protection against traffickers.

I would like to announce for the information of the Senate, and the public, that a hearing has been scheduled before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. The hearing will be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. in…

custody of children, title to property, any kind of way to stabilize a family is virtually nonexistent in these countries.

I think you and Senator Coburn, myself, and others on this Committee have a real obligation to try to really pinpoint, to the best that we can, what is actually causing this spike.

the laws that are governing this, because there is some confusion.

I think it is important for this Committee to, before we start getting opinions, et cetera, to try to get to the basis of the law.

This bill would accelerate revenue sharing payments to the State the year of its enactment and lift the arbitrary cap of $500 million.

I'm a strong supporter of the Jones Act.

An energy secure and independent North America is something worth fighting for, working for and working across parties lines to achieve.