Ron Wyden

Mr. Holtrop, why don't you keep me apprised of that as well in terms of the progress and the discussions with Senator McCain's folks?

I think the Obama administration has made it clear that's what they want to do.

I look forward to working with you, my colleagues and I look forward to the testimony from the panel.

We thank Senator Murray for her leadership in introducing this bill.

What is striking about natural resources policy is almost everybody wants a win/win.

Thank you. I was joking with Mr. Holtrop earlier when we had a visit that I didn't even know I had my own amendment, the so called Wyden amendment for several years after it was actually enacted.

I know that Senator Murray has and kudos to her and you and all who put so much time into it.

It seems to me that all sides are rooting in effect for a bit more clarity in this area.

Thank you, Mr. Holtrop. We'll have a couple questions in a moment.

This subcommittee will come to order. The purpose of today's hearing is to receive testimony on several bills pending before the subcommittee.

I believe that these limitations are important and appropriate.

If you don't find a way to bring people together in effect you get, what I call a lose/lose.

I would also note that many-if not all-permitted ski areas are currently allowing activities such as snowboarding.

But OPM went with John Hancock as the sole long-term care policy for the Federal Long Term Care Program.

Can you assure us that that will not happen again?

I think that the agency, the Office of Personnel Management, ought to be changing their marketing policies so as to be straight with Federal workers.

It seems to me seniors, when they get ripped off, they are not interested in politics. They are not interested in Democrats and Republicans. They are interested in results.

Senator Wyden and I have introduced legislation to bring these and other improvements to all long-term care insurance policies.

I think one of the things we have learned in health reform is some of the biggest problems take place in health care where you have monopolies and where you have sole source contracts.

What we have heard is that you have got older people who feel they were the victims of a bait and switch process.

I think that this highlights the need for your legislation.

Veterans should not be subjected to this kind of merry-go-round approach.

I very much appreciate, Mr. Chairman, your putting a spotlight on this issue, and particularly working to make sure that the Department of Veterans Affairs gets our veterans the benefits they need and that they are treated with respect and…

They should not have to battle their government to get medical care when they return home.

Exposure is not a disability, nor does the VA pay compensation for exposure.