Frank Pallone: “To close. Again, Mr. Speaker, I will say that, after thoughtful consideration, I not only support the conference report…”

“To close. Again, Mr. Speaker, I will say that, after thoughtful consideration, I not only support the conference report, but I would urge my colleagues on the Democratic side to support the conference report. While I continue to believe that we cannot turn the tide on this epidemic without dedicated additional resources for States, the underlying policies included in this bill are important steps forward. As you know, Democratic conferees, along with the Democratic leadership, have worked tirelessly these past few weeks to try to include money for States to help treat our communities who are suffering. Republicans still, so far, refuse to commit the essential funding as part of this overall bill, but they have committed to increasing funding through the appropriations process, and I will continue to fight to ensure that they stand by that commitment. The American people are desperate for relief. We must answer their call and continue our efforts in Washington, and one way to do that, certainly, is to pass this conference report. I yield back the balance of my time.”