House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Ranking Member Frank Lucas released a statement today opposing H.R. 7617, the minibus spending package for Defense, Commerce, Justice, Science, Energy and Water Development, Financial Services and General Government, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development.
While Lucas opposed the bill, he noted that he was pleased that it included an amendment he sponsored with Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) to establish a boundary layer stations program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The boundary layer of the atmosphere is the closest to Earth, and the movement of air, moisture, and heat in this layer has a significant effect on weather conditions.
“Accurate weather forecasts are important to farming, business operations, and emergency responses,” Lucas said. The boundary layer has a critical effect on weather conditions, and yet we know less about this layer than any other part of our atmosphere. The Boundary Layer Observations and Wind Profiler Research Program will increase our understanding of the boundary layer and improve our weather forecasting. This will add even more capabilities to sophisticated weather monitoring programs like the Oklahoma Mesonet, which provides exceptional environmental and weather data. I appreciate Rep. Tonko working with me on this bipartisan amendment.”
Read Lucas’ full statement below:
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Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 7617- the Defense, Commerce, Justice, Science, Energy and Water Development, Financial Services and General Government, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Act of Fiscal Year 2021. Lucas opposed the legislation. “Once again, my House colleagues and I find ourselves in a similar situation to where we were last week- debating a partisan funding bill ushered in a misguided approach by Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats,” said Congressman Lucas. “Passing the 12 appropriations bills is one of the greatest responsibilities we have as Members of Congress, funding the government and ensuring programs are operational for our constituents’ use- especially in times of need like we currently find ourselves.” “While some meaningful priorities were included in the package, I continue to express concern at the bloated and budget-busting spending that is included. At a time when the federal government is increasing critical spending to combat the economic effects of the coronavirus, Congress must have the foresight to lessen the economic impact for future generations, including remaining fiscally responsible with the American taxpayer’s dollar in future appropriations bills. Moving forward, I hope Congress is able to come together, eliminate partisan policy riders, and pass a bipartisan, fiscally responsible funding bill.” |