Kay Bailey Hutchison

We can bring a world of information to every child regardless of where they live.

The estimates are that to solve the problem completely will cost about $300 billion.

My concern is that we have the mapping that is required to see where the real priorities in America because they don't have broadband

The technology has a truly transformative capability.

I believe we all share the common goal of encouraging the development of broadband communications in areas of the country that continue to lack access.

The availability of distance learning for education, and also healthcare in rural areas, are the two major reasons that I think we need to pursue this.

At present, our space program is being asked to pursue goals without the appropriately allocated resources.

You have been the champion that has kept NASA and the importance of space exploration at the forefront of your priorities, and it is mine, as well.

It inspires us to believe that tomorrow can be better than today.

The numerous benefits attributed to our Nation's investment in space and research are all around us.

We're not particularly well organized as a Federal Government to fully realize the benefits that civil space offers our society.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for scheduling this important hearing to begin a comprehensive examination of the benefits and value of space exploration.

The ISS has been very high, this orbiting laboratory, named by Kay Bailey Hutchison as a National Laboratory, is just now starting to show a return on this investment.

I have just a very special feeling and connection about the 'National Laboratory' designation that we did put forward in our 2005 authorization.

Civil space occupies a central position in the American way of life and our national goals.

There are many times when stakeholders are concerned about cooperation with the TSA. Sometimes they think TSA oversteps.

You would always be able to give us and would work with all the members of the Committee, Republicans as well as Democrats, with information, data, and anything that we rightfully need for our oversight responsibility.

What would you consider your number one non-aviation responsibility or area that needs addressing?

If confirmed, the job before you is extremely difficult and the decisions you make will have tremendous impact on the safety and economic viability of our national transportation system across all modes.

I do not think we considered it a revolving fund, but wanted to get out of debt as soon as we could.

It is my belief that had we stuck to that, maybe the stabilization of the housing market and the banks would have been enough.

I am very concerned that part of the new programming has not even gotten up and going, specifically the mortgage part of the new program.

Isn't this huge debt and the deficit as important as all of these other factors?

We do not feel it out in the marketplace that it is getting into the home mortgage area enough.

I am very concerned that we have not done some pretty simple things that Senator Brown and I have introduced legislation to require, and that is safety and driver qualifications of motor coaches.