As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Superfund, Waste Control, and Risk Assessment I am particularly interested in hearing your testimony regarding funding for Superfund, brownfields, Underground Storage Tanks, and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. In today's atmosphere of limited resources, we must ensure that every dollar spent returns the highest yield possible. I am especially interested to hear how EPA plans to ensure that cleanup activities continue at an acceptable rate. In addition, I am eager to hear testimony on EPA's efforts to enhance brownfields redevelopment. This is an issue with important implications for Rhode Island, and I commend Administrator Browner on the focus EPA has placed on brownfields.
I would also like to take this opportunity to express my concern about the proposed $550 million cut to the clean water revolving fund, which would have adverse impacts on Rhode Island and many other states. This is a program that has worked incredibly well and is supported by virtually all stakeholders. Last year, Congress refused to cut this important program and I urge my colleagues to once again protect funding for the clean water S-R-F.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.