Will the public have access to the data collected by these companies on possible oil and gas deposits off of our shores?

I do have legislation that would disallow the permitting of the five seismic studies.

This is concerning, as healthy fish stocks are critical for our Nation to continue to thrive.

Seismic air gun blasting for oil and gas has ramifications for all manner of marine life.

If that information will be available to the public, then why are there five different companies seeking permits to explore the same area?

The farmers aren't always ones to say, 'Oh, I need help,' or whatever, but at times they do.

Actually, it is the third biggest industry in the State of New Jersey.

It is wonderful to see you here. Just on the slightly humorous side, I wanted to be on the Agriculture Committee, and some people were surprised because I am from New Jersey.

I am going to try to do a good job here, because there haven't been too many of us.

You are well aware of it and you are working on it and working through it?

Please excuse my absence for today's Water, Oceans and Wildlife Subcommittee hearing on 'The State of Water Supply Reliability in the 21st Century' due to a family emergency.