James Oberstar: “In our surface transportation authorization bill we do exactly that, we provide the means, the structural means by which…”

First, I am grateful for the indulgence of our colleague on the committee, our ranking member and senior Republican, Mr. Mica, for responding so quickly to the action of the other body. We are unaccustomed to such prompt unanimous action…

I wish with all my heart we didn't have to be here and that the other body had acted on this measure in the 110th Congress and earlier in this Congress, but that's not the case, unfortunately. Without going into any detail or further…

Well, it is to replace what has been destroyed. It's really just clarifying what is already available under OPA, but making it clear that the funds can be used for those resources that have been damaged so badly they can't be restored.

Again, in addition to Mr. Cullather, there are staff on the Republican side of the committee and other members on the majority side who have all worked together diligently. These have been stressful times these last several weeks as we…