Ben Cardin

Thank you. Let me thank both of you again.

That is a real issue with these small businesses.

This Committee was responsible for increasing the limits on the surety bonds and the SBIR program was reauthorized.

I appreciate very much the report by our Chair that was released today because that shows we have made some progress but not enough progress, that there is still a road that we need to travel.

It was right for us to set up programs and to provide the tools necessary so that women did have a fair opportunity.

Therefore, we know about historical discriminations, about women being able to compete, held down by a lot of bias in our community and opportunities.

First and foremost, this subject of opportunity for women-owned businesses is about the values of America, what we believe in.

You might not have heard.

It seems to me that we have made a huge error in manufacturing in that we have sort of adopted the World Trade Organization's tax regime.

My time has expired, but let me just point out that in TPP one of the major issues is whether we really will get a level playing field on government procurement.

I have been doing in Maryland what I call 'Made in Maryland' tours and have really seen the innovation and creativity of manufacturing in our State.

I agree completely. Also, we should have quality trade agreements that give us a better chance for manufacturing.

What would be on top of your wish list if we could make certain changes to gain greater access for our companies in the international market?

Well, Mr. Chairman, thank you. I want to thank our witnesses.

Well, Mr. Swartz. I think that money can be consequential, from the Department of Justice's point of view.

It is also true that this country has been one of the strongest in working with the international community to encourage countries to have an understanding that their border can be a sanctuary for those who otherwise are at risk in their…

I have complained strongly and argued forcefully that the years of cuts to the region would come at our own peril.

Do you really believe that if Congress approved the $3.7 billion exactly as the administration suggested, that it would have a major change in the three countries as it relates to the safety of children?

It is clear, Mr. Swartz, as you pointed out, that the spike is related to the instability in the three countries involved because of the criminal activities within those three countries.

I oppose the changing of the existing law. There is a reason why that law was passed.

Accelerating without due process is not acceptable.

The safety and well-being of children is part of a larger approach of U.S. development assistance.

We all want to make it clear--and this is a point that we have all stressed--that it is not safe to put your child in the hands of a trafficker or in a position of being taken to our border.

You have all been supportive of the efforts by some of my colleagues, Senator Whitehouse dealing with adaptation, Senator Udall dealing with water efficiencies, I think Senator Feinstein has a bill also dealing with some of the habitat…

You are absolutely right. Looking at your legislation, I see how it could very much benefit the State of Maryland.