Joe Manchin

I strongly believe that protective language is in place or that stronger language can be forged that will protect existing programs and allow the program to move forward for the rest of us.

We must not enact policies that hamstring new chemical development that would prevent those new advancements.

Let me be clear: Frank Lautenberg, a champion of public health, safety and the environment, aligned with the Senate, negotiated the agreement before you because he knew it was time to fix this broken system in a way that could pass…

I am here today as a representative of the State of West Virginia to urge your support for the Chemical Safety Improvement Act, or CSI.

These new protections will not come at the expense of the good-paying jobs provided by the chemical industry.

Let's not let this bipartisan opportunity go by the wayside.

Senator Lautenberg was a smart legislator who knew it was time to move past partisan politics and craft a bill that would finally protect all Americans.

I also want to express my appreciation to you for holding this hearing and to Senators FLAKE, MCCAIN, CRAPO, RISCH, and HELLER for introducing this important and timely piece of legislation.

This issue is too important for politics as usual, which is why I'm proud to join Senators Wyden, Alexander and Murkowski in introducing the Nuclear Waste Administration Act.

This is a very important bill for southern New Mexico and, frankly, an important bill for our national security.

So, basically, the hunters and sportsmen will still have access?

I look forward to working with you to sustain the war fighting readiness and quality of life for the most formidable expeditionary fighting force in the world.

Do you know if the Governor is in agreement?

What steps are you taking to avoid conflict between the military and the recreational use?

Wilderness is something that creates jobs in Montana.

If we can keep our timber industry going, we can have a partner in managing our forests while creating jobs.

Support for the Rocky Mountain Front Heritage Act is strong in Montana because the bill will ensure that the Front that Montanan's cherish will stay like it is today for future sportsmen and women of Montana and the nation.

The Forest Jobs and Recreation Act enjoys broad, bi-partisan support from across the state.

What will be the effect of the wilderness and conservation designations on existing hunting and fishing uses on those National Forest lands?

Sportsmen's issues raise billions and billions of economic.

This can be used as a template throughout the West.

I believe many of the bills on today's agenda are noncontroversial.

I know both Senators have spent years developing and refining their proposals, and I will work with them to address any remaining issues.

The Limestone Hills Withdrawal bill is very, very important.

OK, I have no further questions at this time.