Richard Burr

Far too many kids in this country are in child care subsidized and paid for by the Federal Government that is not safe, healthy, or of general good quality.

If we don't have measurement tools to determine whether a fee system produces a better outcome, then I'm not sure why we would sign off on it as policymakers.

I'm very concerned about the strength of the U.S. industry, the ability of American companies to deliver the products, drugs and devices that the American people need.

But is it the agency's policy to ignore the statute in the law?

It's a disturbing day when I think that the argument is, provide us more money and we'll do a better job.

This committee, as well as one in the House, has the policy responsibilities for the Food and Drug Administration.

Tell me why we should reauthorize user fees for pharmaceuticals and devices when, in the case of devices, the length of time has gone up since we instituted user fees?

Is it alarming to you that American companies would choose not to seek American approval for breakthroughs that they have?

You have given us a number of avenues to look at from the standpoint of this Committee, and I am grateful to you for that.

The only assured way that we can make sure that we minimize the number of people that call that line is to make sure that, in fact, the service we provide is effective.

I do not want anything to stand in the way of the VA coming to that table while your testimony is fresh on their minds.

VA must transform at every level to ensure every employee is committed to the notion of keeping veterans engaged in treatment.

As Senator Burr has reminded us time and time again, that first person who answers the phone has to be responsive because that is how our veterans feel that they are treated.

I want to suggest to you that the ultimate prevention of suicide is to supply the treatment in a timely fashion that our veterans need.

If you only take one thing away from this, please understand it does not work.

I am worried about the ones that never pick up the phone.

As I have said before, early intervention offers the best hope for improvement and recovery from PTSD, depression, and substance-abuse disorders.

According to the IG statement, even veterans who sought help and were accepted into the mental health program ended up waiting for the actual services. This is unconscionable.

Trust me, if you look at the last 9 years in the VA, if increasing funding solved the problems, this would be the model of government.

I can assure all that when you have the opportunity to live to the age of 90, you have not been cheated relative to the length of time on this earth, and my dad was certainly blessed and is blessed today.

We would like to try to begin to make sure that we don't read about the things that we discuss in the Intelligence Committee.

Do you agree that this Committee should have that information in a very timely fashion and that you would provide it?

I hope you will change your mind and take somebody with you.

I think we've seen firsthand you don't say things you don't mean.

I think it became much more transparent, a much more open line of communication.