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"I appreciate having the opportunity to speak on this bill as we move forward with the 2012 appropriations process.
"The fiscal situation confronting our nation is of immediate importance, and hard choices simply can no longer be put off onto our children in the name of political expediency. This bill reflects your commitment, Mr. Chairman, and that of the whole Committee, to scour each line of the President's budget in search of savings.
"We have before us today the Chairman's mark of the fiscal year 2012 appropriations bill and report for Agriculture, Rural Development, the Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies. Members and staffs have had 24 hours to review the bill language. Staff has had an opportunity to review the report.
"Our discretionary 302(b) allocation in budget authority is $17.25 billion, and we are exactly at that level. This is a tough allocation and it represents funding cuts across the entire bill.
"We can all agree that our nation's service-members and veterans deserve the utmost quality of care and respect for their service and sacrifice, and it's a pleasure to be able to support them.
"This bill funds the most pressing needs of our nation's service-members and their families, as well as our veterans, while also acknowledging the need to rein in federal spending in a time of historic and dangerous deficits.
