Statement of Senator Craig Thomas
Environment and Public Works Committee
Hearing on EPA's 2000 Budget Request
February 24, 1999

Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this hearing today. I am pleased that this committee plans to have a renewed emphasis this year on oversight and implementation of our nation's environmental laws. Before we pass new legislation or reauthorize existing statutes, we need to take a closer look at how the existing regimes are, and sometimes, not working.

Examining EPA's budget request for the next fiscal year is good way to start this process. Budgets are more than just numbers. They are more than simply the question of where every dollar is spent. They lay out priorities and dictate the size and scope of the government. They indicate whether or not we are truly partners with state and local governments or whether the feds take a one-size fits all approach.

I look forward to examining a variety of issues, including Clean Water and Clean Air programs. Again, Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this hearing.