James Oberstar: “I explained that in South Carolina our unemployment is over 12 percent. We are the third highest in the Nation.”

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…

Using a National Infrastructure Bank to finance a large part of our infrastructure needs means we will be able to target Federal spending more efficiently.

We want to protect our waters. We want to protect our wetlands. We want to provide for future generations.

Yes, indeed I will say, first of all to compliment the gentleman from New Jersey on his leadership on the issue of vessel discharge. He has been a champion on this subject. We have heard his strong appeal, his reasoned approach to the…