I hope the Committee will look to that bill as a major priority as we continue forward with the extenders.

Volunteer fire fighters are essential to our nation's safety and security.

Right now, North Dakota's economy is on the right track, and our nation could learn a lot about North Dakota.

The law we passed, passed by both Republicans and Democrats, clearly said the first 10 States to meet the criteria laid out in that new statute would receive the waivers.

We have fewer Americans working today than 3 years ago.

That is why when Republicans and Democrats passed the payroll extension bill, it included important reforms to unemployment.

I think you are substituting the administration's judgment for that of Congress.

Are you ignoring the intent of Congress, or in this election year, are you playing politics with such an important issue?

I would be surprised if many States, frankly, step up now, given the fact it is now top down rather than innovation up.

I want to first thank Leader Cantor for his leadership on economic issues, especially those along Main Street. That's what this is about. This isn't about Paris Hilton, Larry Flynt, or even Hilary Rosen, the President's top adviser, who…

Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Duffy), one of the key new members of the Joint Economic Committee who understands you can't tax your way back to a strong economy or to a balanced budget.