Tom Udall

This is a good budget request, but it is worth noting that it is only a downpayment on the needs in Indian country.

Healthcare for American Indians and Alaska Natives is an important issue, and I thank you for giving it the attention it deserves.

I think we need to see from you some kind of outside the box thinking of how we are going to address these kinds of construction needs.

I think it is important when we make comparisons, and I made the comparison about $3,100 a year I think approximately per patient.

We have to honor that commitment. Support for the budget of the Indian Health Service helps ensure that we do that.

Can you tell us more about the Service's efforts to work with tribes to improve contract support cost budget estimates in 2016 and going forward?

Thank you, Chairman Murkowski.

Now, you mentioned Medicare-like rates, and I have a question there.

I think it is one of the things that under IGRA and ensuring IGRA compliance that is really important that you do.

Maintaining access to airspace is extremely important at White Sands Missile Range.

Most veterans I have spoken to believe that the care that they receive at the VA is second to none.

Ultimately they were about a loss of trust between the VA and many of our veterans.

I think this legislation is tremendously important for vets and transitioning vets.

I was pleased that Congress authorized the Manhattan Project National Historical Park to honor important American scientific and military achievements.

Thank you, Chairman Murkowski. Just a quick question on our New Mexico monuments, Secretary Jewell.

We fought for this legislation to ensure this special place receives the resources that it needs.

Senator Reed worked very hard and in the face of some very difficult political issues to pass Interior bills.

I was pleased to see that your budget request includes a 17 percent increase for the National Park Service to prepare for the Centennial.

This request clearly demonstrates the investments that we can make if Congress and the President work together.

Thank you, Chairwoman Murkowski, and good morning and also welcome to the new members, Senators Cassidy and Daines.

Can we count on you to make mandatory extension of PILT a personal priority?

Will you commit to working with me to ensure that the Valles Caldera receives the funding it needs to operate successfully in fiscal year 2016 and beyond?

I want to thank you for your commitment to Tribal programs and for requesting a large increase for Indian education.

I support responsible energy development on public lands as part of a 'do it all, do it right' approach to energy policy.

I look forward to working with you as we move through the appropriations process this year.