Tom Udall

I thank very much, Senator Murkowski, for working with me on the increase that happened in Land and Water Conservation Fund.

The original idea I think came from a national commission, a blue ribbon panel, an incredible panel headed I think by Lawrence Rockefeller.

I am very pleased that this subcommittee was able to provide an 85 percent increase for Indian school construction and improvements in the 2016 omnibus.

I am pleased to see that you have proposed a 9 percent increase for national parks, including major investments in construction and maintenance programs to address the estimated $11.9 billion maintenance backlog at parks nationwide.

Selecting five new schools for priority construction is only the beginning of the investment we need to make in tribal schools.

As Senator Tester pointed out, we have now reached the point where we have authorized it at that level.

I think we need to be doing more to crack down on the sales of these priceless cultural objects.

Outdated requirements are resulting in over $100 million worth of natural gas being wasted, which has cost my State $43 million in lost royalties since 2009.

Can I have your commitment that you will work with me and other members of the congressional delegation to resolve this issue quickly?

I am very supportive of the department's efforts to develop new rules related to methane venting and flaring.

The law that transferred the Valles Caldera to the National Park Service allows these longstanding permits to remain in place.

You are doing the right thing, Secretary Jewell, and I want to work with you to enact common-sense reforms.

The cost of inaction on mining reform has been too great already.

We have to get serious about cleaning up abandoned mines.

I am very relieved that we have continued the New Mexico Acacias Program.

New Mexico often has a tough time in the President's budget request, so additional discretionary funds that this committee provides and your hard work is really critical in my State.

Fort Bliss and its activities have a major impact on southern New Mexico.

My biggest concern is that too often today's priorities reflect yesterday's way of doing things, and do not adequately reflect the world as it may become.

I am willing to commit to a study to improve upon this method.

The Air Force is beginning to take notice about the need to combine kinetic and cyber training.

I think other Senators have mentioned her here. I have worked with her extensively.

I appreciate that answer.

Wildlife trafficking is a real scourge.

The nominations we are considering today provide an excellent opportunity for the United States to continue to work closely with the international community.

Congress has a vital interest in international institutions to promote economic growth.