Tom Udall

I'm concerned about the force protection at the Cannon base.

We're trying to lift that sequester and do everything we can to get you the resources you need.

This is an important step toward making our bases more energy independent, which I believe is a really important national security issue.

I totally respect the leader and the discussion he has had with the chairman. I have tried today to contact the chairman. I have called her. I wanted to talk to her about this issue, and I want to get these amendments in. I know Leader…

I am reserving my right to object. I say to the leader, through the Chair, I am on the floor, as is Senator Nelson, to speak to the WRDA bill and to offer two amendments. I ask that I be allowed to do that before we move to executive…

Over the last 3 years of drought in New Mexico, there's been a 50 to 60 percent decline in the cattle population in my State.

It's unfortunate the disaster assistance was not fully funded in the previous farm bill, and that it was allowed to extinguish.

Mr. Secretary, coming from a State where water infrastructure is a priority need in almost every community, it's unsettling to see the proposed cuts in the President's fiscal year 2014 budget.

And, Secretary Vilsack, let me just thank you for being so on top of the forest fire situation.

I think you need an overall analysis of all of those bases and tell us what the plan is.

Our soldiers at White Sands Missile Range deserve better, and I believe that it is about time that DOD and the Army carried out this appropriation.

I would just like a lot more transparency on that front to know that you have done a thorough analysis.

I would ask that Mr. Joyner explain why the Pueblo should be accountable for something the Forest Service is much more experienced in doing.

I know the Pueblo is frustrated that this issue has not been resolved administratively, I am glad to be moving forward on this legislation which will finally make the long-awaited land exchange complete.

There is a real trust issue here. Clearly the Forest Service needs a deadline to get this exchange done.

It is important that the Committee hear the perspective of the Pueblo.

I think this is the best way to go at this. We looked at several ways and it seemed the way to do it was to do S. 611.

This is about justice for the Blackfeet people and their water rights.

It's an extraordinarily frustrating system. Something definitely needs to be done.

But generally if you look at 0 to 5, 5 to 10, and so on, it's roughly the same percentage of our workforce.

In your answer to my question about the qualifications and profile of IRS employees you shared that they are reflective of the communities they are in.

I urge that the responses be submitted in a timely manner this year.

The IRS is, again, making progress, as Acting Commissioner Miller pointed out, but it is still extraordinarily frustrating.

I agree with the testimony we've heard here and I think our Federal employees are a real important resource.

As you know, this exemption allows Indian tribal governments, among other local government entities, to provide social benefit programs to promote general welfare without counting as personal income.