Rob Wittman

I think those things are incredibly important questions that need to be asked before you take any next step in the final engine decision-making.

Listen, a great hardware platform, but it can't do the things that we need for it to do if it is not software enabled.

I think this also begs the question about the enterprise on advance systems, especially F-35.

It is critically important that we continue to evaluate our military capabilities to ensure we are postured for robust deterrence.

The National Defense Strategy is clear in its focus on China as our Nation's pacing threat.

The development of a SLCM-N capability would help us address the deterrents challenges that you so eloquently point out in your report

We have to be able to look beyond just the yards themselves.

When you look across, as Representative Wittman said, some cases it is bringing the work to the people.

Before I begin questioning I would like to take a moment to honor the 241 marines, sailors, and soldiers of the 24th Marine Amphibious Unit who 30 years ago today were killed in a terrorist attack in Beirut, Lebanon.

Large-scale oyster restoration is really Mother Nature's filter in taking a lot of stuff out of the Bay.

If they are working on this, it doesn't seem like they are in any way, shape, or form successful in this.

It is pretty amazing, since Magnuson-Stevens requires the Agency to do those things. So, maybe she ought to read Magnuson-Stevens.

I think you really illustrate the picture perfectly for what it means for our recreational fisheries that rely on clients to charter their boats to go out and fish.

I would like to thank our witnesses today.

FWC is pleased to support H.R. 4051, the 'Supporting the Health of Aquatic systems through Research Knowledge and Enhanced Dialogue Act,' or the 'SHARKED' Act.

Congressman Wittman's bill does not undermine that. What it does is it is designed to ensure greater ecosystem management.

Can you speak then to the shortfin mako ban?

What I want from you is an answer as to the science.

I would love for you to get that information to the Committee. I think that is incredibly important.

I introduced the SHARKED Act to study this issue and to look into ways to improve sport fishing conditions for anglers while protecting sharks.

Our anglers are losing their catch and tackle to sharks at alarming rates, and in some areas it makes areas totally unfishable.

What we have seen is a resurgence of shark populations, which is good. But what we have also seen with that is shark depredation.

I would like to thank you and Ranking Member Grijalva for holding this hearing today. I think it is incredibly important.

I would like to begin by asking unanimous consent to enter into the record the NOAA Fisheries Report, 'Atlantic Sharks: 30 Years of Successes and Lessons.'

Mr. Wittman's legislation, H.R. 4051, creates a task force to address increasing shark depredation.