James Oberstar: “I rise in support of H.R. 2195, a bill to provide additional space and resources for the national collections held by…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 2195, a bill to provide additional space and resources for the national collections held by the Smithsonian Institute. I commend the Gentleman from Ohio, Congressman Regula, for introducing the bill, which is co-sponsored by two of our colleagues, Congressmen Johnson and Matsui, who also serve on the Smithsonian Institution's Board of Regents. The bill authorizes the Smithsonian's Board of Regents to plan, design, construct, and equip additional special use storage and laboratory space for the museum support facility in Suitland, Maryland. The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, on which I serve as Ranking Member, has jurisdiction over these activities of the Smithsonian, and the Committee will review and approve any design plans for this facility once they are completed. The bill also clarifies and refines the role of the Smithsonian in the renovation of the Patent Office Building, while retaining the appropriate roles of the National Capitol Planning Commission and the Commission on Fine Arts. This building houses the Smithsonian's American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery and is currently closed for extensive renovation. It is scheduled to reopen in 2006. In addition, the bill brings the Smithsonian into line with other executive branch agencies regarding competitive procedures for awarding contracts.”