Tom Carper, U.S. Senator for Delaware

Registration Open for Delaware Procurement Expo

8:00 AM | June 14, 2013 | Chase Center on the Riverfront — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 12:00:01 EST

WILMINGTON, Del. – Registration is now open for the Delaware Procurement Expo on June 14, 2013, at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. The Delaware Procurement Expo is dedicated to serving government agencies and prime contractors in their search of local area small businesses for meeting their product or service needs. It will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Participants will have the opportunity to speak directly with many procurement decision makers and agency representatives from a variety of agencies. The Expo will provide local and regional businesses a chance to better understand the procurement process and determine whether it is an area where they want to pursue business growth. Training sessions will also be available during the day.

To register to attend or exhibit, go to: http://events.delawarecontracts.com

Remembering and Honoring our Troops on Memorial Day

Fri, 24 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

Chairman Carper Statement on Nomination of Katherine Archuleta to be Director of the Office of Personnel Management

Thu, 23 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON— Today, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.) reacted to President Obama’s decision to nominate Katherine Archuleta to be Director of the Office of Personnel Management. Chairman Carper has called on the Obama Administration to quickly work to nominate qualified individuals to fill key management level positions that are vacant.

“I have long been concerned about the effect that numerous vacancies in senior positions throughout government have had on the efficiency and effectiveness of our federal government,” said Chairman Carper. “This problem has become so prevalent in both Republican and Democratic Administrations that I often refer to it as Executive Branch ‘Swiss Cheese.’ At any given moment we are lacking critical leadership in numerous positions in just about every agency, undermining the effectiveness of our government. While Congress and the Administration have taken steps to address this problem, the fact remains that we still have more work to do to ensure that we have talented people in place to make critical decisions. The Office of Personnel Management is no exception, so I am very glad that President Obama has put forward a nominee to lead this important agency. I look forward to meeting Ms. Archuleta and working with my colleagues on the Committee to consider her nomination in a thorough and timely manner.”

Katherine Archuleta most recently served as National Political Director for Obama for America, a position she held from 2011 to 2012. Prior to this, Ms. Archuleta served as Chief of Staff at the Department of Labor from 2009 to 2011. From October 2005 to May 2009, she served as a Senior Advisor on Policy and Initiatives for the City and County of Denver, Colorado and previously served as the Executive Director of the National Hispanic Cultural Center Foundation from 2002 to 2005. Ms. Archuleta was the Director of Professional Services for Davis, Graham and Stubbs, LLP from 2000 to 2002 and Co-Founder and Principal of the Center for Regional and Neighborhood Acton from 1997 to 2000. She served as Senior Policy Advisor at the U.S. Department of Energy in 1997. From 1993 to 1997, Ms. Archuleta served at the U.S. Department of Transportation, first as Deputy Chief of Staff and then as Chief of Staff. She received a B.A. from Metropolitan State College and a M.Ed. from the University of Northern Colorado.

President Obama Nominates Tangherlini to be Administrator of GSA

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON— Today, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.) welcomed President Obama’s decision to nominate Dan Tangherlini to be Administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA). Chairman Carper has called on the Obama Administration to quickly work to nominate qualified individuals to key management level positions, including the GSA Administrator, that have long been vacant. Prior to being nominated, Mr. Tangherlini had been appointed by the President as the Acting Administrator the GSA, a position he has held since April 2012.

“I have long been concerned about the effect that numerous longstanding vacancies in senior positions throughout government have had on the efficiency and effectiveness of our federal government,” said Chairman Carper. “This problem has become so prevalent that I often refer to it as Executive Branch ‘Swiss Cheese.’ One agency that has suffered from this condition is the General Services Administration. The General Service Administration’s mission is to help other agencies purchase goods and services, manage property, and to promote good business practices throughout government. I often talk about the need for leaders to lead by example, and so the General Services Administration itself should be a model of efficiency as it works to carry out its mission. Unfortunately that has not always been the case, and I think part of the problem stems from the lack of a permanent leader. Today President Obama took action to address this need, and nominated Dan Tangherlini to the top spot at the agency. Mr. Tangherlini has, for over a year, worked as the Acting Administrator and has already led an impressive turn-around of the agency. Confirming Mr. Tangherlini will provide badly needed stability for this key agency, which has had eight different leaders since late 2005 with all but two of them serving in an acting capacity. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to move this nomination quickly so Mr. Tangherlini can get to work and help his team at the General Service Administration make our federal government perform better and at less cost to the taxpayer.”

Dan Tangherlini is currently the Acting Administrator of the General Services Administration, a role he has held since April 2012. He was designated by the President to this position from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, where he has been the Chief Financial Officer since 2009 and also served as the Assistant Secretary for Management from 2009 to 2012. Prior to that, Mr. Tangherlini served as the District of Columbia City Administrator and Deputy Mayor from 2006 to 2009. In 2006, he served as the Interim General Manager of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. From 2000 to 2006, he served as Director of the District of Columbia Department of Transportation and from 1998 to 2000 as Chief Financial Officer of the Metropolitan Police Department. Mr. Tangherlini served in the Office of Policy at the U.S. Department of Transportation from 1997 to 1998 and at the Office of Management and Budget from 1991 to 1997. Mr. Tangherlini received a B.A. and an M.P.P from the University of Chicago, and an M.B.A. from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.

Key Committee Approves Nomination of Deese to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON – Today, Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.) released a statement following the Committee’s vote to approve the nomination of Brian C. Deese to be Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

“Having strong leadership at the Office of Management and Budget is important at any time, but it is particularly important at this moment, when our nation is so desperately in need of a long-term budget plan to rein in our federal deficit and debt,” said Chairman Carper. “Brian Deese has earned a well-justified reputation as someone who can tackle the tough public policy matters facing our nation. On issues ranging from the auto bailout to housing issues to tax policy, Mr. Deese has helped our country recover from the recession that hit our economy before President Obama took office. He has a passion for public service and for finding ways for our government to make smart choices so that individuals and businesses can flourish. He is also someone who understands that our fiscal policies are intrinsically linked to the prosperity of the American people. I am confident that he will continue to be an asset to the Administration and our nation as part of the senior leadership team of this critical agency. I look forward to working with my colleagues to see his nomination fairly considered and swiftly confirmed by the full Senate.”

Statement from Chairman Carper on Monday’s Tornadoes and Severe Weather in Oklahoma

Tue, 21 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON – Today, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement on Monday’s tornadoes and severe weather in Oklahoma:

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the residents of Moore, Oklahoma and the surrounding communities who have been deeply affected by Monday’s tornadoes and severe weather, as well as their friends and families. As the search and rescue efforts continue, I am extremely grateful for the dedication and sacrifices of our first responders and emergency management teams at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as supporting organizations. These men and women are working day and night to help the victims of this devastating tragedy. Sadly, natural disasters like this cannot be prevented, but a swift and effective response can and will save lives. I’ve reached out Dr. Coburn and Senator Inhofe since yesterday’s events, and I will continue to work with them closely to make sure the Department of Homeland Security and other relevant agencies continue to do all that they can to help those whose lives have been tragically impacted by this disaster.”

Environment & Public Works Committee business meeting

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

Nomination of Gina McCarthy...

Keynote Address and Q&A to Federal Office Solutions Expo (FOSE)

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

Sen. Carper on Gina McCarthy: "Her Nomination Should Not Be a Partisan Issue"

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON – Today, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.), Chairman of the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Clean Air and Nuclear Safety, released the following statement when EPW approved of Gina McCarthy's nomination to be Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):

"Today, the Environment and Public Works Committee positively reported Gina McCarthy’s nomination to lead the Environmental Protection Agency to the full Senate. I was proud to vote for her. For years, as chairman of the clean air subcommittee, I’ve worked closely with Gina to reduce air pollution and ensure that we have both a clean environment and a strong economy. She’s a hard-working public servant who seeks consensus in everything she does. Her nomination should not be a partisan issue. Many people don’t know this, but Gina has worked for five Republican governors in her career, including last year’s Republican presidential candidate, Mitt Romney. In many ways, she should be the epitome of a bipartisan, consensus nominee to lead a Cabinet agency. I look at today’s vote as a glass half empty. While I’m glad our committee voted to support her nomination to lead the EPA today, I’m disappointed that it was on a strict party-line vote. I hope that when Gina’s nomination is on the Senate floor, my colleagues will remember her past service to Republican administrations, in addition to President Obama’s, and give this qualified nominee the positive support she deserves."

Chairman Carper Statement on the Appointment of Daniel Werfel as Acting Commissioner of Internal Revenue

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON – Today, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.) released the following statement reacting to President Obama’s announcement appointing Daniel “Danny” Werfel as Acting Commissioner of Internal Revenue:

“I have had the pleasure of working closely with Danny over the last several years as my colleagues and I on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee partnered with both the Bush and Obama administrations to improve federal financial management and crack down on wasteful and fraudulent spending. Danny has a long history working in public service, serving under both Democratic and Republican presidents with distinction. During his time with the Office of Management and Budget, he has had to confront challenging issues head on and build consensus to implement common sense solutions. He approaches his work with intelligence, expertise, and honesty. I wish him well in his new role and I look forward to working with him as Congress and the Administration work together to restore integrity, trust, and confidence in the Internal Revenue Service.”

GAO Report Identifies Cost-Saving Strategies for Contracting for Services

Wed, 15 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Today, Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Ranking Member Tom Coburn, M.D. (R-OK), Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE), and Senate Susan Collins (R-ME) highlighted a new report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) entitled, Strategic Sourcing: Leading Commercial Practices Can Help Federal Agencies Increase Savings When Acquiring Services. The report highlights a number of best practices exercised by private corporations that can be applied to how the federal government contracts for services. The GAO examined practices from seven large companies, along with an industry group and consulting firm, to identify leading procedures used to procure services. The GAO found these companies buy many of the same services as the federal government and identified strategies the federal government can implement including flexible, tailored buying strategies that rely on detailed data to drive savings. In fiscal year 2012, the federal government spent $307 billion on contracts for such services including facilities management, engineering, and information technology services. GAO estimated conservatively that federal agencies could achieve savings of $12 billion dollars by implementing these strategies.

“Today’s GAO report shows the federal government can learn immensely from procurement practices used by their private sector counterparts,” Dr. Coburn said. “Private sector companies focus on efficient and effective practices to bring their customers the best products at the lowest prices. The federal government should focus on their operations in a similar manner. With $307 billion in taxpayer funds spend in FY 2012 on contracts for services purchased by the federal government, it is imperative agencies use cost-effective methods and clear metrics while ensuring contracts are thoroughly competed and prudently managed. OMB should work with agencies to heed GAO’s advice on mirroring procurement practices of private companies as part of its ongoing efforts to make much needed progress on strategic sourcing initiatives.”

“Today’s report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) provides some important lessons for the federal government from some of the most successful U.S. companies,” said Chairman Carper. “Given our nation’s current budget constraints, we have to carefully scrutinize how we spend each and every taxpayer dollar to ensure that we’re spending it in the most cost-efficient way possible. One way we can do this is by adopting some of the best practices used successfully in the private sector. Private companies are able to save money by examining their purchases on a company-wide basis and developing company-wide strategies for getting the most for their money. Unfortunately, far too often our federal contracting officers pay one price for a product or service without knowing that another federal agency – or even another part of the same agency – is paying a completely different price for the same good or service. Our government should use its power as the nation’s largest purchaser to secure the best prices and ensure that taxpayers are getting the most bang for their buck. We can do this by increasing communication between agencies and taking the recommendations in this report to heart.”

“This GAO report makes clear that there are lessons to be learned from the private sector in terms of maximizing returns and efficiencies in the strategic sourcing of services, said Senator Collins. “We must examine what has worked in the private sector in the strategic sourcing of services and apply these lessons in the Federal government. If the Federal government were to save just four percent of spending on services by strategically sourcing services, the government could have saved $12 billion of the $307 billion spent in acquiring services in FY 2012. OMB needs to ensure that we are effectively leveraging the buying power of the Federal government in the acquisition of services. We need to leverage the vast buying power of the federal government.”

Environment & Public Works Hearing: "President's FY2014 Budget Request for the Environmental Protection Agency"

Wed, 15 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

HEARING: "Performance Management and Congressional Oversight: 380 Recommendations to Reduce Overlap and Duplication to Make Washington More Efficient."

Wed, 15 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.) and Ranking Member Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) have rescheduled the hearing titled, “Performance Management and Congressional Oversight: 380 Recommendations to Reduce Overlap and Duplication to Make Washington More Efficient” for Wednesday, May 22, 2013, at 10 a.m.

This hearing will examine the Government Accountability Office’s report titled “2013 Annual Report to Congress: Actions Needed to Reduce Fragmentation, Overlap, and Duplication and Achieve Other Financial Benefits.” For each of the last three years, GAO has issued a report highlighting areas of fragmentation, overlap, and duplication throughout the federal government and has made recommendations to both Congress and the Executive Branch agencies to address these problems. In addition to GAO’s report, the hearing will also examine tools Congress and agencies can use to address fragmentation, overlap, and duplication, including implementation of the Government Performance and Results Modernization Act of 2010.

For more information or to watch a live stream of the hearing, please click HERE. (Note: Please refresh the hearing webpage at the scheduled start time. Streaming will start once the hearing begins.)

WHAT

The U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs will hold a hearing titled, “Performance Management and Congressional Oversight: 380 Recommendations to Reduce Overlap and Duplication to Make Washington More Efficient.”

WITNESSES

The Honorable Eugene L. Dodaro

Comptroller General of the United States

U.S. Government and Accountability Office

The Honorable Daniel I. Werfel

Controller

Office of Federal Financial Management

Office of Management and Budget

WHEN

Wednesday, May 22, 2013 at 10:00 a.m.

WHERE

342 Dirksen Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C.

Members of the media: If you plan to attend, please email matt_wes@hsgac.senate.gov. Please note that media are required to display current Senate press credentials. Please plan to arrive prior to the scheduled start time of the hearing. Television producers should contact the Senate Radio and TV Gallery in advance if possible to ensure that Committee staff can accommodate you.

State awarded $1 million federal grant to protect critical lands in the Delaware Bayshore

Wed, 15 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

DOVER (May 15, 2013) – More than 800 acres of valuable coastal lands in the Delaware Bayshore will be conserved and protected thanks to a federal grant awarded to DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s North American Wetlands Conservation Act award of $1 million will be used, along with matching funds from the state Open Space Program, conservation partners and private contributors, to acquire property along the Bayshore in Kent County. Nearly ten conservation partners have pledged matching funds that helped to make the grant award possible.

“Our appreciation to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, our Congressional Delegation and our partners for their tireless efforts in protecting our precious Bayshore lands and providing access to premier Bayshore habitat,” said Governor Jack Markell. “By conserving this land, we can offer world-class outdoor experiences supporting ecotourism and helping to ensure a diverse natural legacy for future generations.”

The grant and support from critical partners will conserve lands that will fill a gap in a network of more than 4,000 acres of protected wetlands and uplands in the St. Jones River watershed. The conservation of these lands is a key priority of the Delaware Bayshore Initiative that protects coastal wetlands and globally significant wildlife habitat and expands public access and low-impact recreational opportunities. The conserved lands will provide opportunities for hunting, fishing, birding and other wildlife watching, photography and nature study activities.

“We are extremely grateful for the generous financial support of Mt. Cuba Center and the hard work of DNREC’s team in securing this important grant that will help preserve critical lands along the Delaware Bayshore,” said Richie Jones, state director of The Nature Conservancy’s Delaware Chapter.

Delaware’s matching cost share for the grant is anticipated to be about $2.2 million in Open Space Program Funds and partner contributions. Partners include: Mt. Cuba Center; The Nature Conservancy, Delaware Chapter; Ducks Unlimited; Delaware Wild Lands; Delmarva Ornithological Society; DuPont Company; the Town of Bowers Beach and Mayor Ron Hunsicker; Delaware Greenways; and Kent County Conservancy.

“Delaware's Bayshore is a precious environmental resource and it is vital that we act as good stewards to protect and preserve these important areas for generations to come,” said Senator Tom Carper. “Striking a balance between economic development and environmental protection for Delaware’s coast has been a guiding principle that has proven successful for the First State, and I hope our approach can be a model for other coastal states."

"Delaware’s majestic wetlands are a source of great beauty and pride in our state and it’s important that we protect them for future generations to enjoy,” Senator Chris Coons said. “With this federal grant, DNREC, the Mt. Cuba Center, The Nature Conservancy, Ducks Unlimited, Delaware Wild Lands, the Delmarva Ornithological Society, and many other private conservation organizations have significantly advanced the Delaware Bayshore Initiative. The nearly 800 acres that will be acquired will link some of the most beautiful pieces of coastal Delaware, and the land will allow sportsmen, sportswomen and farmers in the future to continue enjoying this undeveloped corner of land.”

“Delaware is blessed with a beautiful natural habitat that draws residents and visitors from across the region. It is our responsibility to care for this resource and preserve areas like the Bayshore for future generations to enjoy,” said Congressman John Carney. “Thanks to this federal funding, the support of DNREC, and many other partners throughout the state, we can meet this challenge, while supporting the businesses in our ecotourism industry. I’m glad to see this project is moving forward and excited for more people to discover the tremendous beauty that’s right in our backyard.”

The Delaware Bayshore Initiative builds on the state’s long-standing commitment to conserving our coastal zone and on the Delaware Bayshore’s reputation as a unique and beautiful natural resource, worthy of protection. The Initiative received national recognition as one of 100 projects included in the U.S. Department of Interior’s America’s Great Outdoors 50-State Report highlighting some of the country’s most promising ways to reconnect Americans to nature. Launched last May at an event in Slaughter Beach, former U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar called the Delaware Bayshore a “landscape of national significance.”

“This North American Wetlands Conservation Act grant builds upon a half-century of public-private partnerships that have conserved more than 115,000 acres along the Delaware Bayshore,” said DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara. “By leveraging federal, state and private resources to meet the goals of the Delaware Bayshore Initiative, we are connecting wildlife areas and enhancing ways for the public to experience our precious natural lands.”

Lands that will be conserved include coastal salt marshes that provide important year-round habitat for waterfowl like American Black Duck as well as nesting habitat for Saltmarsh Sparrow, Seaside Sparrow and Black Rail, a species of high regional importance. Much of the East Coast’s population of the Red Knot feed along central Bayshore beaches during spring migrations and will benefit from protected roosting habitat resulting from this federal grant and key partner contributions. The Bayshore’s coastal forests and wetlands also provide valuable foraging and resting habitat for songbirds during spring and fall migrations.

"Ducks Unlimited is excited to partner with the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife and others on the Delaware Bayshore Land Conservation Initiative," said Ducks Unlimited (DU) Regional Biologist Jake McPherson. "The acquisition of significant coastal wetlands into the existing state lands network not only ensures quality habitat for migrating and wintering waterfowl, but also offers increased recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts; both of which are imperative to DU's mission."

“The natural beauty, abundant open space, and diversity of habitat along Delaware’s coasts are the result of a long-standing tradition and generations of dedicated commitment to land conservation,” said Kate Hackett, executive director of Delaware Wild Lands. “The award of this highly-competitive federal grant highlights the critical importance of protecting Delaware’s coastal resources and exemplifies what can be achieved when public and private interests work together. Delaware Wild Lands is pleased to work in close partnership with the state and others to protect nearly 800 acres of crucial wildlife habitat, expand networks of conserved lands and natural resources, and foster a greater appreciation and awareness of the defining natural beauty and character of Delaware’s coastal resources.”

“Delmarva Ornithological Society is proud to join the State of Delaware and other partners in supporting the Delaware Bayshore Land Conservation Initiative,” said Society President Matthew Sarver. “The society’s many volunteers raise thousands of dollars for bird conservation through our annual Bird-A-Thon event. We are pleased to see these hard-earned donations leveraging significant funding for conservation of our coastal marshes, including many bird species most threatened by loss of habitat to sea level rise. We need to invest now in land conservation to ensure the Delaware Bayshore continues to provide the resources that these birds need into the future.”

The Delaware grant was part of $19.5 million in grants announced today by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe awarded through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. The funding will support 18 U.S. projects in 15 states and seven projects in Mexico that will protect, restore, or enhance more than 170,000 acres of habitat for migratory birds. The grants will be matched by $57 million in partner contributions.

“Protection of wetlands ensures that hunters, anglers, and wildlife watchers and photographers can continue to enjoy these precious resources,” Director Ashe said. “Wildlife recreationists make up nearly 30 percent of the U.S. population and contribute more than $100 billion to our economy.”

The North American Wetlands Conservation Act is the only federal grant program dedicated to the conservation of wetland habitats for migratory birds. Through the Act’s U.S. Standard Grants Program, 3,300 partners have been involved in 910 projects affecting more than 7 million acres of habitat.

For more information on the Delaware Bayshore Initiative, contact Karen Bennett, Delaware Bayshore Initiative Coordinator at 302-739-9124 or visit DNREC’s website by clicking Delaware Bayshore.

Sen. Carper on WRDA: "Passing this Bill Shows We Can Get Things Done"

Wed, 15 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

Highlights projects he championed in final WRDA legislation...

Senate Passes Amendment by Senators Carper and Coons to Protect Delaware River Basin

Tue, 14 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON – Today, legislation introduced by Sens. Tom Carper and Chris Coons (D-Del.) to ensure continued sound management of the Delaware River Basin was approved by the U.S. Senate during debate over the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). The Senate is expected to vote on the full WRDA bill this week.

The Delaware River Basin Commission is charged with managing the use of the Delaware River, including water allocation, flood loss reduction, drought management, permitting, and water quality monitoring and management. The members of the Commission, which includes the federal government, are required to provide its operating budget. However, over the past 17 years, the federal government has failed to contribute its required portion of funding to the Delaware River Basin Commission 16 times. This has contributed to imminent threats to the vital services that the Commission provides.

The Carper-Coons amendment directs the Army Corps of Engineers to annually fund the Delaware River Basin Commission’s high-quality work providing critical water resources services to ensure that residents and businesses in Delaware and the region continue to benefit from access to clean, safe, and adequate water supply. If funding is not allocated in a fiscal year, the amendment requires the Army Corps to provide a report to Congress on the reason for the lack of funds and the impact on water supply allocation, water quality protection, water conservation, drought management, flood loss reduction, recreation and more.The amendment was also cosponsored by Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Frank Lautenberg and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.), and Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand (both D-N.Y.).

“Water is one of our most important natural resources, and our region is blessed with plentiful access from the Delaware River,” said Senator Carper. “Since 1961, the Delaware River Basin Commission has helped to ensure that each of the states along the river, including Delaware, have access to its fair share of clean, safe water. The Commission’s effective management of our water resources has helped to ensure that water is available for uses ranging from power generation to drinking and recreation, while avoiding the ‘water wars’ – fights over the use of limited water resources – that other states have faced in recent years. That’s why I introduced this amendment to WRDA. It directs the Army Corps to fully fund its share of managing a vital watershed for our state: the Delaware River Basin. For too long, the Army Corps has failed to deliver when it comes to funding the Delaware River Basin Commission; and when the commission is facing tighter and tighter budgets, the Corps’ failure undermines the commission’s ability to properly allocate and protect our water and provide for businesses and residents. Hopefully, this amendment will send a clear signal to the Army Corps to fulfill its duty and support the commission’s work improving the quality and efficiency of the water resources so many Delawareans depend on.”

“The Delaware River Basin Commission has protected our waterways and surrounding communities for more than 50 years,” Senator Coons said. “Through the DRBC, our federal and state officials have worked together across state lines to address the problems of droughts, floods and pollution that have threatened the health and beauty of the Delaware River Basin. It’s imperative that the federal government continues to provide adequate funding for the Commission to ensure that our regional economy continues to grow and our ecosystems remain intact.”

BACKGROUND

Several interstate water agreements have been signed over the last few decades by states and the federal government to establish commissions to manage water resources within river basins. As a signatory to these commissions, the federal government has agreed through compacts authorized by federal law to contribute funding to the operating budget of each commission. The Army Corps of Engineers is typically the representative of the U.S. government on these commissions, and the 2007 WRDA bill established authority for the Army Corps to allocate funds to the Delaware, Susquehanna and Potomac commissions to cover the equitable funding requirement of each compact. However, despite being a full signatory member, the federal government has paid these apportionments only one time over the past 17 years.

Due to tight budgets, states have also started to contribute less, citing the lack of commitment from the federal government to pay its full share. As a result, some commissions are doubting their ability to continue to fulfill their legal responsibilities. This includes vital services like flood loss reduction, flow management and water supply, drought management, regulatory review and permitting, water quality monitoring and management, and adaptation and risk management.

This amendment would expand the authorization language in the 2007 WRDA bill to:

Specify that the Army Corps must make funds available to the commissions from its General Expenses account (capped at 1.5% of the total Expenses budget) on an annual basis, and in amounts equal to the equitable funding requirements determined by each commission; and,
Require a report from the Army Corps to the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee if funding is not allocated in any fiscal year.

HEARING: Nominations of Robert D. Okun and Michael K. O'Keefe to be Associate Judges of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia

Tue, 14 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.) and Ranking Member Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) will hold a hearing to consider the nominations of Robert D. Okun and Michael K. O’Keefe to be Associate Judges of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at 2:30 p.m. in room 342 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C.

The hearing will be chaired by Senator Mark Begich (D-Alask.), the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Management, Intergovernmental Relations and the District of Columbia. The nominees will be introduced by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.).

For more information or to watch a live stream of the hearing, please click HERE. (Note: Please refresh the hearing webpage at the scheduled start time. Streaming will start once the hearing begins.)

WHAT

The U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs will be hosting a hearing to consider the nominations of Robert D. Okun and Michael K. O’Keefe to be Associate Judges of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.

WHEN

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

2:30 p.m.

WHERE

342 Dirksen Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C.

Finance Committee Hearing: "Advanding Reform: Medicare Physicians payments"

Tue, 14 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

Attendees

Mark E. Miller, Ph.D.

Executive Director

Medicare Payment Advisory Commission

A. Bruce Steinwald

President

Bruce Steinwald Consulting

Kavita K. Patel, MD

Fellow and Managing Director

The Engelberg Center for Health Care Reform

The Brookings Institution

HEARING: "Performance Management and Congressional Oversight: 380 Recommendations to Reduce Overlap and Duplication to Make Washington More Efficient"

Tue, 14 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.) and Ranking Member Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) will hold a hearing titled “Performance Management and Congressional Oversight: 380 Recommendations to Reduce Overlap and Duplication to Make Washington More Efficient” on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at 9:30 a.m. in room 342 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C.

For more information or to watch a live stream of the hearing, please click HERE. (Note: Please refresh the hearing webpage at the scheduled start time. Streaming will start once the hearing begins.)

WHAT

WITNESSES

The Honorable Eugene L. Dodaro

Comptroller General of the United States

U.S. Government and Accountability Office

The Honorable Daniel I. Werfel

Controller

Office of Federal Financial Management

Office of Management and Budget

WHEN

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

9:30 a.m.

WHERE

342 Dirksen Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C.

Chairman Carper, Ranking Member Coburn Highlight GAO Report on Data Center Consolidation Progress

Tue, 14 May 2013 12:00:01 EST

WASHINGTON – Today, Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.) and Ranking Member Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) highlighted a report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) titled, “Data Center Consolidation: Strengthened Oversight Needed to Achieve Cost Savings Goal”, that reviews progress made in the Federal Data Center Consolidation Initiative. The initiative, spearheaded by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), seeks to promote the use of “green IT” to reduce power consumption of government data centers, reduce the cost of data center hardware, increase overall information technology (IT) security and shift IT investments to more efficient computing platforms and technologies. OMB has identified two major goals for the initiative: to close 40 percent of the federal data centers and to achieve $3 billion of savings by the end of 2015.

The report found that federal agencies have made progress toward the initiative’s first goal of closing 40 percent, or 1,235 of the 3,133 total federal data centers by 2015, but more must be done to achieve the initiative’s goal of saving taxpayer money. By the end of December 2012, agencies had consolidated 420 data centers and have plans to close an additional 548 by December 2015. GAO could not, however, determine how much progress agencies have made toward meeting the initiative’s second goal of $3 billion in cost savings by the end of 2015. OMB, the agency responsible for tracking progress made toward the initiative’s goals, has not yet determined a consistent and repeatable method of tracking cost savings throughout agencies. This makes it uncertain whether it is possible to achieve $3 billion in savings by the end of 2015.

“The American people deserve a more efficient and effective government, particularly given the serious deficit and debt problems we face” said Chairman Carper. “Unnecessary data centers have been bleeding energy and money throughout the federal government and are a prime example of inefficient IT spending. Since taking office, President Obama and his team have taken important and innovative steps to trim the federal government's IT portfolio, including costly data centers. Today’s GAO report shows that the administration continues to make significant progress toward meeting its goals of consolidating 1,235 data centers by the end of 2015 and savings taxpayers money. The second step to closing these data centers, though, is tracking the savings generated and putting that money to good use. As the saying goes, you can’t manage what you can’t measure. This means it is critical that the Office of Management and Budget and agencies continue to improve their process for tracking and measuring progress on this initiative. Without accurate tracking and reporting of performance measures, we run the risk of not achieving the full potential savings. Those of us in Congress will be paying attention to how closely agencies comply and stick to their consolidation plans. I look forward to working with OMB and the agencies to ensure that this important program reaches its full potential.”

“The Office of Management and Budget was right in 2010 to establish an initiative to consolidate duplicative data centers, but today’s GAO report shows that progress has not been satisfactory and raises significant concerns,” Dr. Coburn said. “Namely, OMB has failed to identify and track cost savings. Without this important metric OMB has no way to compare their progress to their original goal, which was to find $3 billion in savings. I encourage OMB to quickly institute the procedural reforms the GAO has outlined to improve their implementation effort and to ensure responsibilities are being fully executed. These include making changes to reporting requirements, bettering coordination between various administrative actors, and enhancing oversight of agency consolidations. I look forward to working with the new leadership at OMB to ensure the consolidation effort is successful by improving OMB’s practices and holding agencies accountable.”