On the recordApril 14, 2011
I would finally say that this legislation, under any circumstances, is not relevant or germane to the underlying bill. That is very clear. This legislation that now has to be considered by the Senate has not had a hearing. Sure, we have had hearings on regulatory reform. We have had hearings on the environment also. But when you bring up a piece of legislation that is new, we deserve to know what it is about. These other amendments, we know what they are about. Hers is too detailed and complicated. It is not germane or relevant. It has had no hearings. I am stunned by the new standard suggested by my friend from Maine: Democrats have more amendments than Republicans; therefore, we should consider an amendment that is not germane, irrelevant, and has never had a hearing. So I am disappointed my friend from Maine is killing this legislation. We have spent enough time on this legislation, and it is really too bad. The chairman of the committee doesn't support it. The chairman of the Small Business Committee does not support this legislation. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Maine.
