William M. ``Mac'' Thornberry: “Reclaiming my time, I do not mean to say that is the intention of the gentleman or those who might oppose this bill. It…”

“Reclaiming my time, I do not mean to say that is the intention of the gentleman or those who might oppose this bill. It is the effect, however, because there are 40 essential authorities that have to be in a defense authorization bill. One of those authorities is to pay the troops. Without those authorities, it doesn't happen. Mr. Chairman, I believe this bill should be supported, and I yield back the balance of my time. Mr. Chair, I ask that the following exchange of letters be submitted during consideration of H.R. 1735: House of Representatives, Committee on Agriculture, Washington, DC, April 28, 2015. Hon. William M. ``Mac'' Thornberry, Chairman, Committee on Armed Services, Washington, DC. Dear Mr. Thornberry: I am writing concerning H.R. 1735, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016. This legislation contains provisions within the Committee on Agriculture's Rule X jurisdiction. As a result of your having consulted with the Committee and in order to expedite this bill for floor consideration, the Committee on Agriculture will forego action on the bill. This is being done on the basis of our mutual understanding that doing so will in no way diminish or alter the jurisdiction of the Committee on Agriculture with respect to the appointment of conferees, or to any future jurisdictional claim over the subject matters contained in the bill or similar legislation.…”