Ron Wyden: “The top priority--the top priority--for Oregon's congressional delegation in this session is getting this program…”

“The top priority--the top priority--for Oregon's congressional delegation in this session is getting this program reauthorized. I wrote this law in 2000 with Senator Craig because it was my view in 2000 that without this program, Oregon's rural communities would not survive. I am here today to tell the Senate that if this program is not reauthorized, there is a serious question today whether these rural communities will be able to survive. Now, I want to bring the Senate up to date on three developments with respect to the reauthorization of this critically needed program. The distinguished Senator from Nevada, the majority leader, Mr. Reid, has been the majority leader for just over 1 month. I have had many conversations with the majority leader about this program. He vacationed in our beautiful State this summer. He saw the importance of our bountiful forests. I explained to him that the Federal Government owns more than half of our State. He has told me that he is determined to work with me until our State gets a fair shake with respect to this critically important program.”