Rodney Frelinghuysen: “I want to thank the chairman for his support and leadership as we work through the appropriations process. Mr. Speaker…”

“I want to thank the chairman for his support and leadership as we work through the appropriations process. Mr. Speaker, this morning I am pleased to support this appropriations bill that keeps our government open for business but that also substantially reduces Federal spending in almost every Department. A special thanks to my ranking member and good friend, Pete Visclosky, for his hard work, his knowledge of our energy and water bill, and his passionate support for so many priorities. Our portion of the bill has an important national security component so that we increase funding for the safety and the reliability of our nuclear deterrent, as well as for a new generation of naval reactors. While funding for the Department of Energy is below the President's request, we continue to ensure that our Nation has a diversity of energy supply, that nuclear energy will be a critical part of that future, and that important research and development will continue at our remarkable national laboratories. Additionally, our bill provides funds for the Army Corps of Engineers to protect public safety, to keep America open for business, and to meet emergencies. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to support a bill that ensures our national security, our safety, and our economic security with fewer taxpayer dollars.”