Remarks

Today, we welcome the Inspectors General from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Transportation, and Amtrak.

Good morning. I want to thank you all for being here today to discuss the severe food distribution shortages that are occurring in our Tribal and elderly communities.  This is a unique hearing as Members from the House Appropriations Committee and House Agriculture Committee are coming together on this urgent and important topic.

Good morning and thank you to Chairman Harris, Chairman Thompson, Chairman Finstad, and each of the ranking members. This is a dire issue that has evoked bipartisan and bicameral concern in Congress.  I appreciate your work on this matter.

The United States boasts many natural wonders and resources, and the bill before us broadly supports our nation’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

I am pleased to begin consideration of H.R. 8998, the fiscal year 2025 Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

Today’s measure provides funding for energy and water development initiatives for Fiscal Year 2025 – which are crucial to the prosperity and security of our great nation.

I am pleased to bring the Fiscal Year 2025 Energy and Water bill to the floor today.

Today’s measure provides funding for the Legislative Branch for Fiscal Year 2025. Although this is the smallest of our twelve annual appropriations bills, it carries an outsized importance for our democracy.