like to introduce the invited first panel which was the honorable lisa jackson, the honorable joseph pesarcek, and the honorable joe ellen darcy. unfortunately, it appears that not a single individual from the obama administration could take the time out from their ongoing work of laying burdens on the american economy and they cannot attend our hearing today. it's extremely disappointing that they invited -- excuse me, declined our invitations to speak and answer questions on an important issue that directly impacts the jobs and livelihoods of many americans. even if they are extremely busy today, which i would understand, they could have sent someone in their place. since the obama administration has no time for us today to answer questions, we will now call forward the second panel. state senator art kirken daal, the honorable karen harver, mr. rossizenberg of the national