. >> it appears chairman yasco has let politics trump science here. he's man up plated the process and misled some of the fellow commissioners about the consequences of the actions that were taken and i think the credibility of the n.r.c. has been damaged, its reputation has been damaged and there's some real serious questions about the agency's independence and scientific integrity, and i thank you for your testimony. >> the gentleman's time is required. the chair recognizes mr. bass. >> i want to follow up very quickly on a line of questioning mr. pitts brought up at the beginning of his time. it's my understanding the chairman of the infirm r.c. sent out a press release exonerating himself. is that the only response he's required to make to your report? >> the press release is not a response to my report. his response to my report has to be directed to me. >> he hasn't done that? >> he hasn't done that. >> he has no obligation to either, right? >> well, no, give me an opportunity to respond, normally give 120 days. >> if nothing happens in 120 days