I come to this hearing concerned that there is a mismatch between the level of drug-related violence in Puerto Rico... and the size and scope of the Federal response.

Protecting our Nation's maritime borders is a matter of great importance to Puerto Rico as well.

Isn't it justified to have a third center for the Caribbean, where four million American citizens reside?

I introduced legislation by the way, a bill recently, and it was supported by the Ranking Member Markey to direct NOAA to set up a center in the Caribbean located in Mia West, and minimize the expense.

I am also troubled by the proposed reductions in funding for the coastal zone management grants, and for the National Estuarine Research Reserves, one of which is Jobos Bay located in Puerto Rico.

I look forward to working with you and the other distinguished Members of the Subcommittee in developing effective measures to foster the social, economic, and institutional development of the U.S. Virgin Islands and other Insular Areas of…

I commend the Administration's efforts to increase its request for the State and Tribal Wildlife Grants Programs and for making other strategic choices to protect American jobs, and to preserve sustainable industries including hunting…

If these cuts were to remain unchanged, it would mean that the Office of Insular Affairs would not be able to award any more Technical Assistance grants for the remaining seven months of this fiscal year.

I will note that I am concerned, however, about reductions to law enforcement that are contained in the Service's budget.

I am also interested in the Service's research to conserve manatees in both Florida and Puerto Rico.

I am encouraged by the work the Service is undertaking in the Caribbean region, particularly across the seven wildlife refuges within Puerto Rico.