Re: HNSC VOTES ON HR1778

[Lenny Siegel <lsiegel@igc.org>]

The reform package developed by the Committee in an effort to advance a 
discussion on possible reforms to the way in which the Defense and 
Energy Departments conduct their business simply could not pass 
environmental muster in my judgment. It is regrettable that the 
Committee rejected Mr. Spratt's effort to remove the environmental 
title. The Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, the White 
House, as well as environmental and labor organizations, weighed in 
with substantial objections to many provisions in the package. Through 
public hearings and working with other committees of jurisdiction in 
the House, we can hopefully develop the types of reforms that will both 
save the taxpayers money as well as preserve important public policies 
that protect public health and the well-being of our workers.