On the recordMarch 20, 2024
in wrapping up my remarks, I just want to say this is unfortunate. We owe it to each other and we owe it to those we represent to actually discuss and debate the merits of legislation before being forced to pass it. The fact that there is bipartisan agreement as to final numbers doesn't mean that most Senators have even seen the bill. They have not. They have kept it secret from us and from those we represent. It is simply disingenuous to suggest that this has been agreed upon long ago. We need at least a few days to do this. That is why I am asking that we extend the spending period out to April 12. That would give us time to do that. It is unfortunate we didn't get that agreement today. We will be back. Thank you. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from New Jersey.
