This pandemic, this virus has sent us too many curve balls to say that we--too early to declare victory.

I think they would have been extraordinarily different.

This budget request is such a breath of fresh air.

This should be an important reminder when it comes to biomedical research.

Should we be worried about the variants?

I do expect that this will be our final hybrid hearing, and we will be able to return to regular, in-person hearings at our next hearing.

I really appreciate the Department's template for State plans that include descriptions of state strategies.

wages for childcare providers and early educators is abysmal.

The U.S. is the only industrialized nation where the maternal death rate is rising.

This budget acknowledges the importance of investing in a bright future for every child in our Nation, and proposes to increase funding for childcare and development block grants by $1.5 billion.

I am pleased to see this budget call for $340 million for the Title X Family Planning Program, which helps so many patients, particularly women of color, get birth control, cancer screening, STD screenings, and other essential care.

I really want to thank all of our clerks and everyone who has really worked hard to get this set up and help us all stay safe and healthy.

These funds will help ensure children in HHS custody are quickly and safely placed in appropriate homes, provide care and services for them while they are in HHS custody, and provide social and legal services after they leave HHS custody.

Thank you very much, Director Collins. I have to say, I have always loved your success stories.

This budget proposes doubling Federal funding for programs that provide shelter and support for survivors of domestic violence.

The budget would also eliminate the Hyde Amendment, which is a critical step towards ensuring every person is trusted to make their own individual choices about their life and future, based on their own values, no matter who they are…

I look forward to working with you on that.

Climate change has increased the risk and extent of wildfires across the western United States.

I believe that combination of additional Federal education investments, accurate and timely reporting, and thoughtful review of how all education funds are being allocated and used in schools needing additional support would improve the…

the childcare system in our country is really broken.

I would just say in closing, you are in a unique position being on the Authorizing and Appropriating Committee.

the cost of childcare jumped, on average, 47 percent during the pandemic.

The administration's budget request does include a significant increase in funding to implement those and other related changes.

The pandemic's deadly impact on communities of color really shows that we have a long way to go to address systemic racism and health inequities.

I am excited to say this would be the largest budget authority increase for CDC in nearly two decades.