Unfortunately, I find that in case after case, they fail to do so, and it is a systematic failure.

I want to be discriminating. These seizing agencies are vastly different from each other.

Contrary to Mr. Blanco's written statement, administrative forfeitures are not surrounded by all sorts of procedural protections designed to protect a property owner.

I believe that civil forfeiture, when used appropriately, is a useful law enforcement tool that helps to eliminate the profits from criminal enterprises.

Now, I wish we didn't need legislation like mine, but, unfortunately, my bill is needed due to the total lack of transparency.

My bill would require HHS to provide State and local elected officials with a 30-day notice-and-comment period.

It is critical that State and local governments are not left in the dark.

this hearing is on whether the President's action is constitutional.

If you were preparing to brief the President and doing deep-dives with CMS staff in June and July 2013, how can you claim to have no knowledge of issues prior to October 1 of that year?

Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.

For 2 years we worked with Chairman Jim Sensenbrenner's Judiciary Committee.