Jim Cooper: “It took many years. Why? Because the administration of George W. Bush had a veto threat out on the legislation.”

This hearing will come to order. I would like to begin by thanking our distinguished panel of witnesses.

It’s really all about the mess in Washington.

I regret the inconvenience.

I request the witnesses keep their opening remarks to no more than 5 minutes, and that members respect the same time limit for their questioning.