On the recordNovember 20, 2013
This is a very important bill for our country in terms of authorizing the defense of this country. Many of us have relevant amendments--not amendments outside the scope of this bill, but relevant amendments--which will actually markedly improve the way we conduct policy in the Defense Department. Without the assurance that those amendments are going to be able to be offered--they can be tabled, but without that assurance, it makes it difficult to agree to a consent not knowing whether or not we will have the opportunity to represent the people we represent in offering amendments which will make positive improvements to this bill. So I put forward that we are really not conducting the business of the country if we are limiting the ability of Members of the Senate to offer amendments. Absent that guarantee, I will object. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objection is heard.
