Lamar Smith: “I thank the chairman of the Appropriations Committee for yielding me time. I am very pleased to support H.R. 3219, the…”

“I thank the chairman of the Appropriations Committee for yielding me time. I am very pleased to support H.R. 3219, the Make America Secure Appropriations Act of 2018, especially because it includes H.R. 3266, which provides appropriations for the energy programs within the Science, Space, and Technology Committee's jurisdiction. Chairman Simpson, who is on the floor behind me, has worked closely with us on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee to include responsible, pro-science funding levels for the Department of Energy. Chairman Simpson, your leadership and cooperation have been exceptional and are much appreciated. Thank you for your leadership in passing this legislation that sets America on a path to remain the world's leader in innovation. The appropriations included in this legislation are consistent with the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act, which passed the House last Congress. This bill also funds programs authorized in H.R. 589, the DOE Research and Innovation Act, which passed the House earlier this year and was the product of over 3 years of work by the Science, Space, and Technology Committee to advance basic research and set clear science priorities for the Department of Energy. American industry relies on Federal support for basic research to produce the scientific breakthroughs that fuel technological innovation, new industries, economic growth, and good jobs.…”