Barbara Mikulski: “I think the majority leader stated or clarified what my questions were. As I understand it, there is a compromise but…”

“I think the majority leader stated or clarified what my questions were. As I understand it, there is a compromise but the compromise does not include a bridge to help steel retirees. But part of the conversation was that a steel retiree amendment would be in order. I believe we will have the support and votes. Senator Rockefeller and I intend to offer an amendment at an appropriate time. I also support the majority leader when he said he would not ask for a rollcall vote on the point of order. As of yesterday, I wanted a rollcall vote, to drag it out, and raise the roof. But then it would be parliamentary tactics. I think this topic is so serious that for the good of the Nation, and for the way I feel about my steelworkers and those who have been hurt, I don't want to engage in a time-consuming and dilatory practice. I will not ask for a rollcall vote now that we have an assurance that we will be able to offer our amendment. I thank the leader for his advocacy on that. I wanted to be clear that I will not ask for a rollcall on the point of order, so that we can get to the compromise and get to the amendments, and maybe get to really helping those people who have been injured by trade. I have other comments I want to make about steel. I think I will save those for my statement later on about why they are in this crisis, why this is a national security issue, and why it is an economic security issue.”