I would think that that would be a very complicating approach, frankly, in terms of designing a process, let alone the whole map.

I just believe that providing NOAA with the leadership position that it deserves at this point in time, to be the conduit for ocean policy.

One was to develop the National Ocean Policy. The second issue, of course, was marine spatial planning.

I do want to take a moment to express to you, Admiral Allen and the entire Coast Guard community, my deepest condolences in the loss of seven of your shipmates along with two U.S. marines in a tragic accident.

I mean, to pass legislation that gives you statutory authority that first, I think, would solidify NOAA's position as the leader on oceans issues.

But, a process hasn't been established----

Well, I appreciate that very much, and we appreciate the work that you are doing.

I do think it is crucial. If you think that two of the four recommendations we include in our legislation, they were the potential causes of the previous fatal accidents that were so tragic.

It can obviously have a profound impact on life and death matters.

I think it is important, and I do agree with you. I think we have to assume some of the responsibility for that as well to make sure it happens and require them to be responsive to those----

There needs to be accountability and responsibility for each of these recommendations and how the FAA either responds to them or doesn't respond to them.

I agree with you about shortening the timespan between the accident and providing recommendations, if it is at all possible.

Before you pay these people, at least make sure they have good safety standards which yield a high level of safety.

It's regrettable, because I certainly have worked in good faith all of these months on a bipartisan basis and, as you know, have been standing alone at this point as a Republican in order to do so because I believe in good public policy.

Senator Snowe supports a trigger to force states to offer a public plan only if other reforms don't work.

It's regrettable because I certainly have worked in good faith all of these months and in a bipartisan basis.

the Next Steps for Main Street, introduced by Senator Snowe

the increased loan size is something that has been a priority of Senator Snowe's for quite some time now

I also wanted to point out that there is a GAO study in the works, and it was first requested by Senator Snowe.

Senator Snowe is very concerned about some of the recent GAO decisions that created a super preference for HUBZones.

Senator Snowe realizes the importance of true parity among the programs and the detriment of fighting amongst the programs.

Senator Snowe as well is very interested and concerned with having the women's contracting program up and in place, and it is a high priority for her.

true parity requires an equal opportunity for all the programs to compete

She thinks that it is a critical program that does a lot of great work, and that none of the programs are immune to problems.

We appreciate Senator Snowe's strong support for the program.