i'm joined by the agency's chief financial office barbara bennett. we focused on fulfilling the core mission of protecting public health and the environment while making the tough decisions that americans across the country are making every day. epa's budget reflects the president's commitment to reducing government spending and finding cost savings in a responsible manner. and supporting clean water and clean air as well as the safeguards. >> ms. jackson, excuse me one moment. some of the members are having a hard time hearing you. >> i'll get closer. in some instances we take a step back from some programs. there's been elimination of programs that have either met the goals or can be achieved by other agencies. let me spend a moment discussing major elements of the epa's budget request. it recognizes the importance of the state and local and tribal level. they are at the fronts lines of implementing our laws like the clean air act. 40% of the funding request is directed to the state and tribal assistance grants. it proposes nearly 15% of the reques