U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE

26–869 WASHINGTON : 2019

S. HRG. 115–481 

BURMAN, COMBS, DABBAR, DOMENECH, JONAS 

AND MENEZES NOMINATIONS 

HEARING 

BEFORE THE 

COMMITTEE ON 

ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES 

UNITED STATES SENATE 

ONE HUNDRED FIFTEENTH CONGRESS 

FIRST SESSION 

TO

CONSIDER THE NOMINATIONS OF BRENDA BURMAN, TO BE COMMISSIONER OF RECLAMATION; SUSAN COMBS, TO BE AN ASSISTANT 

SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR; PAUL DABBAR, TO BE UNDER SECRETARY FOR SCIENCE, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY; DOUGLAS W. 

DOMENECH, TO BE AN ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR; 

DAVID S. JONAS, TO BE GENERAL COUNSEL OF THE DEPARTMENT 

OF ENERGY; AND MARK WESLEY MENEZES, TO BE UNDER SECRETARY OF ENERGY 

JULY 20, 2017 

( 

Printed for the use of the 

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Available via the World Wide Web: http://www.govinfo.gov 
(II) 

COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES 

LISA MURKOWSKI, Alaska, Chairman 

JOHN BARRASSO, Wyoming 

JAMES E. RISCH, Idaho 

MIKE LEE, Utah 

JEFF FLAKE, Arizona 

STEVE DAINES, Montana 

CORY GARDNER, Colorado 

LAMAR ALEXANDER, Tennessee 

JOHN HOEVEN, North Dakota 

BILL CASSIDY, Louisiana 

ROB PORTMAN, Ohio 

LUTHER STRANGE, Alabama 

MARIA CANTWELL, Washington 

RON WYDEN, Oregon 

BERNARD SANDERS, Vermont 

DEBBIE STABENOW, Michigan 

AL FRANKEN, Minnesota 

JOE MANCHIN III, West Virginia 

MARTIN HEINRICH, New Mexico 

MAZIE K. HIRONO, Hawaii 

ANGUS S. KING, JR., Maine 

TAMMY DUCKWORTH, Illinois 

CATHERINE CORTEZ MASTO, Nevada 

COLIN HAYES, Staff Director 

PATRICK J. MCCORMICK III, Chief Counsel 

KELLIE DONNELLY, Deputy Chief Counsel 

ANGELA BECKER-DIPPMANN, Democratic Staff Director 

SAM E. FOWLER, Democratic Chief Counsel 
(III) 

C O N T E N T S 

OPENING STATEMENTS 

Page 

Murkowski, Hon. Lisa, Chairman and a U.S. Senator from Alaska .................. 1 

Cornyn, Hon. John, a U.S. Senator from Texas ................................................... 1 

Radewagen, Hon. Aumua Amata Coleman, a U.S. Congresswoman from 

American Samoa .................................................................................................. 2 

Cassidy, Hon. Bill, a U.S. Senator from Louisiana .............................................. 3 

Flake, Hon. Jeff, a U.S. Senator from Arizona ..................................................... 4 

Cantwell, Hon. Maria, Ranking Member and a U.S. Senator from Washington .................................................................................................................... 6 

WITNESSES 

Burman, Brenda, nominated to be Commissioner of Reclamation ...................... 8 

Combs, Susan, nominated to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior ............. 14 

Dabbar, Paul, nominated to be Under Secretary for Science, Department 

of Energy ............................................................................................................... 18 

Domenech, Douglas W., nominated to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior ......................................................................................................................... 22 

Jonas, David S., nominated to be General Counsel of the Department of 

Energy ................................................................................................................... 26 

Menezes, Mark Wesley, nominated to be Under Secretary of Energy ................ 30 

ALPHABETICAL LISTING AND APPENDIX MATERIAL SUBMITTED 

Abel, Greg: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 136 

American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE): 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 137 

American Recreation Coalition, et al.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 138 

American Samoa Government: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 139 

American Wind Energy Association: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 141 

Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts, et al.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 142 

Barber, K. Suzanne: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 144 

Blaine, Casey Q.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 146 

Burman, Brenda: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 8 

Written Testimony ............................................................................................ 11 

Responses to Questions for the Record ........................................................... 61 

Calvo, Hon. Eddie Baza: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 148 

Cantwell, Hon. Maria: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 6 

Written Statement ............................................................................................ 7 

Carter, Hon. John R.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 149 

Cassidy, Hon. Bill: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 3 
Page

IV 

Combs, Susan: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 14 

Written Testimony ............................................................................................ 16 

Responses to Questions for the Record ........................................................... 70 

Cornyn, Hon. John: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 1 

Cox, Kendall P.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 151 

Dabbar, Paul: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 18 

Written Testimony ............................................................................................ 20 

Responses to Questions for the Record ........................................................... 80 

Domenech, Douglas W.: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 22 

Written Testimony ............................................................................................ 24 

Responses to Questions for the Record ........................................................... 100 

Ducks Unlimited: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 152 

Flake, Hon. Jeff: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 4 

Geothermal Energy Association: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 153 

Gila River Indian Community: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 154 

Gonza ́lez-Colo ́n, Hon. Jennifer: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 156 

Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 158 

Harris, Scott Blake: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 159 

Hill, David R.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 161 

Jonas, David S.: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 26 

Written Testimony ............................................................................................ 28 

Responses to Questions for the Record ........................................................... 108 

Kane, Michael: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 162 

Killeen Economic Development Corporation: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 164 

Langston, Marc B.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 165 

Mapp, Hon. Kenneth E.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 167 

Mattingly, Hon. Mack F.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 168 

McLean, Calpurnia: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 169 

Menezes, Mark Wesley: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 30 

Written Testimony ............................................................................................ 33 

Responses to Questions for the Record ........................................................... 119 

Moseley, Jeff: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 171 

Murkowski, Hon. Lisa: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 1 

Neugebauer, Hon. Randy: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 172 

Parry III, William H.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 173 

Plaskett, Hon. Stacey E.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 174 

Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER): 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 175 

Public Lands Council and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association: 

Letter for the Record regarding Ms. Combs ................................................... 179 

Letter for the Record regarding Mr. Domenech ............................................. 180 
Page

V 

Radewagen, Hon. Aumua Amata Coleman: 

Opening Statement ........................................................................................... 2 

Roberts, Amy: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 181 

Sablan, Hon. Gregorio Kilili Camacho: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 182 

San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Water Authority: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 183 

Service Employees International Union, Local 500: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 185 

Sessions, Hon. Pete: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 186 

Solar Energy Industries Association: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 187 

South Texans’ Property Rights Association Board of Directors: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 189 

Sullivan, Sean: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 190 

Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 191 

Texas Cattle Feeders Association: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 192 

Texas Farm Bureau: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 193 

Texas Public Policy Foundation: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 194 

Texas Wildlife Association: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 196 

Torres, Hon. Ralph DLG.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 197 

Turner, Shelley P.: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 198 

Urrutia, Elizabeth: 

Letter for the Record ........................................................................................ 200 

(1) 

BURMAN, COMBS, DABBAR, DOMENECH, 

JONAS AND MENEZES NOMINATIONS 

THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2017 

U.S. SENATE, COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES, Washington, DC. 

The Committee met, pursuant to notice, at 10:03 a.m. in Room 

SD–366, Dirksen Senate Office Building, Hon. Lisa Murkowski, 

Chairman of the Committee, presiding. 

OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. LISA MURKOWSKI, 

U.S. SENATOR FROM ALASKA 

The CHAIRMAN. Good morning. The Committee will come to 

order. Welcome. We are here this morning to consider six nominations, three from the Department of the Interior (DOI) and three 

from the Department of Energy (DOE). 

Our Interior nominees are Brenda Burman, to be Commissioner 

of Reclamation; Susan Combs, to be Assistant Secretary for Policy, 

Management, and Budget; and Doug Domenech, to be the Assistant 

Secretary for Insular Areas. Our Energy nominees are Paul 

Dabbar, to be Under Secretary for Science; David Jonas, to be General Counsel; and Mark Menezes, to be Under Secretary. 

I would like to welcome all six nominees to our Committee and 

thank them for their willingness to serve our country. 

To begin this morning we will hear introductions from several 

colleagues, beginning first with Senator Cornyn and then Congresswoman Radewagen. Senator Flake and Senator Cassidy also wish 

to provide introductions of some of our nominees. 

At this point in time, before moving to our opening statements, 

I would like you to begin, Senator Cornyn, with the introduction 

that you wish to make before the Committee this morning. Welcome. 

STATEMENT OF HON. JOHN CORNYN, 

U.S. SENATOR FROM TEXAS 

Senator CORNYN. Thank you, Chairman Murkowski and Ranking 

Member Cantwell. It is a pleasure to be back with you to introduce 

my friend and fellow Texan, Susan Combs, to be the next Assistant 

Secretary for Policy, Management, and Budget at the Interior Department. I will keep coming back as long as the President keeps 

nominating Texans for these jobs. 

[Laughter.] 

I have known Susan a long time, when we were both practicing 

lawyers in San Antonio, Texas. She grew up on her family’s ranch 
2 

and is a fourth generation rancher. She understands the nature of 

our nation’s precious resources and heritage better than most. 

In Texas, Susan has served in multiple levels of government, including the state house, and later as the first female agriculture 

commissioner for Texas. But most recently, she was our state’s 

comptroller, where she worked tirelessly to develop innovative 

strategies to address regulatory issues relating to the Endangered 

Species Act. 

Susan’s efforts to promote conservation were even recognized by 

the Fish and Wildlife Service during the Obama Administration. I 

have absolutely no doubt she is the right person for this job. She 

understands not only how to set goals, she is relentless in accomplishing those goals once set, and bringing other people along with 

her in the process. Her unique background makes her the perfect 

choice to help Secretary Zinke and his team manage America’s vast 

natural and cultural resources. 

We are fortunate to have Susan, that she has agreed once again 

to answer the call to public service. I am glad to see her husband, 

Joe, and her family, who I know are supportive of her desire to continue her public service. I am honored to support her nomination 

here today. Thank you for letting me make these brief remarks. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Cornyn. I appreciate you 

being here. I do note the number of Texans that are coming forward. Maybe we will get a few Alaskans, too. It is good to have you 

here. 

Let’s turn to Congresswoman Radewagen. Welcome to the Committee. 

STATEMENT OF HON. AUMUA AMATA COLEMAN RADEWAGEN, 

U.S. CONGRESSWOMAN FROM AMERICAN SAMOA 

Congresswoman RADEWAGEN. Thank you, Chairman Murkowski, 

Ranking Member Cantwell, and members of the Committee. Talofa. 

I am here this morning to introduce a close friend of mine, who 

I have known for some time now, Mr. Doug Domenech, of Virginia, 

who has been nominated to the position of Assistant Secretary for 

Insular Areas at the Department of the Interior. Mr. Domenech 

currently serves as the Senior Advisor to the Secretary of the Interior and is also Secretary Zinke’s appointee to the Advisory Council 

of the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico, where he has lived and 

from where his family originally hails. 

Previously, he served as the Secretary of Natural Resources for 

the Commonwealth of Virginia, overseeing six state environmental, 

recreation and historic resource agencies. Prior to his service to the 

State of Virginia, Mr. Domenech worked for the Forest Resources 

Association, whose mission is to sustain forest resources for future 

generations while creating jobs, a reflection of his environmental 

background. 

During the George W. Bush Administration, Mr. Domenech 

served at the Department of the Interior as the White House liaison and Deputy Chief of Staff to Secretaries Gale Norton and Dirk 

Kempthorne. Additionally, he served as the Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs during that time. Today he is 

interviewing for a promotion from acting to actual Assistant Secretary. 
3 

I have known Doug for several years now, and I am proud to call 

him a true friend. The position for which he is seeking your support is very important to the people of the insular areas. My home 

district of American Samoa is an insular area, and I can think of 

no one I would like to see in the position more than Doug 

Domenech. His knowledge and experience of the region and the 

mission of the office is unparalleled, and I know that his leadership 

will be welcomed as we seek to craft real solutions for the constituents we serve. In fact, I have had the pleasure to see him in action 

and know that he will hit the ground running. 

I think I speak on behalf of all the territories when I say we are 

truly thankful for the time he took to meet with each of us prior 

to this hearing. 

Be forewarned though, Doug, should you be confirmed there will 

be many more meetings to come. 

[Laughter.] 

I want to thank my friend Doug for his willingness to serve our 

great nation and thank this Committee for allowing me to come before you today. I hope that you will support his confirmation. 

Thank you. 

The CHAIRMAN. Congresswoman, thank you. I appreciate those 

introductions from both of you. I know that it is a busy morning 

and you have obligations elsewhere, so thank you for joining us 

here and for those introductions. 

Senator Cassidy, we made arrangements that you also could provide an introduction, and you can do it from the dais here or—— 

Senator CASSIDY. I will do it from the dais. 

The CHAIRMAN. We are trying to keep things moving because we 

have a busy calendar this morning and lots going on. 

STATEMENT OF HON. BILL CASSIDY, 

U.S. SENATOR FROM LOUISIANA 

Senator CASSIDY. Thank you, Madam Chairman, Ranking Member Cantwell, and my colleagues on the Committee for holding this 

hearing to consider Department of Energy and Department of the 

Interior nominees. I also thank you for allowing me to introduce 

Luling, Louisiana, native, Mark Menezes, a President Trump nominee for Under Secretary of the Department of Energy. Mark’s congressional and private experience make him eminently qualified for 

this position. 

Proudly, I will say he is a fellow LSU Tiger. Mark earned both 

a bachelor’s and law degree from Louisiana State University, and 

Mark is the Vice President of Federal Relations for Berkshire 

Hathaway Energy where he developed extensive experience interacting with federal agencies in Congress. The organizations he represents employs working Americans across the globe building our 

energy economy with better benefits and better wages in these jobs 

provided by these companies. 

Prior to joining Berkshire Hathaway, Mark was a partner at 

Hunton & Williams where he managed the Regulated Markets in 

Energy Infrastructure Practice Group. Throughout his career Mark 

has worked extensively with FERC, EPA, SEC, FCC, DOE, and 

other state and federal regulatory bodies. 
4 

On Capitol Hill, Mark served as Chief Counsel on energy and environment issues for the House of Representatives Committee on 

Energy and Commerce. Mark secured the enactment of the Energy 

Policy Act of 2005 as a chief negotiator and legislative architect for 

the House majority. 

Before working with the Committee on Energy and Commerce, 

Mark worked as Counsel for the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, where he focused on maritime 

and energy matters. 

One thing I do not have in my notes, but I think I recall from 

the CV, is that you also worked as a roustabout on an oil rig in 

the Gulf of Mexico, and that is a complete breadth of experience 

but one which most recognizes roustabouts’ concerns, and that is 

what we need to recognize more in Washington, DC. 

Mark Menezes is qualified with a wealth of experience for the position before him. Thank you, and I look forward to today’s hearing. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Cassidy. I will note that our 

former colleague from Louisiana, Mr. Tauzin, is with us this morning, and I know that he has strong words of support for Mr. 

Menezes, so it is nice to have you here. 

Senator Flake. 

STATEMENT OF HON. JEFF FLAKE, 

U.S. SENATOR FROM ARIZONA 

Senator FLAKE. Thank you, Madam Chair. 

I am pleased to introduce today Brenda Burman, the nominee to 

be the next Commissioner for the Bureau of Reclamation and the 

first female Commissioner in the Bureau’s 100-year history. While 

I look forward to having an Arizonan in this position, a glance at 

Brenda’s resume will show anyone that my enthusiasm comes from 

more than just an in-state bias. She served for 3-1/2 years as lead 

water policy expert for my predecessor, Senator Jon Kyl, who is 

certainly a western water legend and who strongly supports her 

confirmation as well. She then went on to serve in the Department 

of the Interior as Deputy Commissioner of Reclamation and Deputy 

Assistant Secretary for Water and Science. She also spent four 

years working for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern 

California, or ‘‘Met.’’ She has negotiated key water supply issues 

for an agency that supplies one out of every 15 Americans. That 

certainly demonstrates her ability to navigate some thorny situations. Finally, in her current role with the Salt River Project, she 

is back home in Arizona working on water projects that ensure continued water supply for Central Arizona, including tribal settlements. She has built a reputation of expertise and fairness that is 

reflected in the nearly 40 letters that I have received—40 letters 

from local, regional, and national groups urging her confirmation. 

I know many of those individuals are here in support of her nomination today. I would like to, for the record, submit those letters. 

The CHAIRMAN. They will be included as part of the record. 

Senator FLAKE. Thank you, and I urge my colleagues quickly to 

advance her nomination. 

Finally, as Chairman of the Water and Power Subcommittee, I 

look forward to working closely on crucial water issues, western 

water issues, with the Bureau under Brenda’s leadership. 
5 

So thank you, Madam Chair. And thank you, Brenda, for your 

willingness to serve and for bringing so much expertise to the position. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Flake. 

I appreciate all those introductions. 

I would now ask the nominees to take their seat at the table. 

You will see your appropriate name tags there. I will now make a 

brief statement, and Senator Cantwell will make hers. We will 

then swear in each of you and hear your testimony, including the 

introductions of your family members if you have any that are with 

you today. 

You can go ahead and be seated here. 

The first thing I would like to say is that I am glad you are here. 

I appreciate that. I appreciate the fact that we are at a nominations hearing with six nominees sitting at the witness table. I think 

this process has been a little bit slower than most of us had anticipated, from the receipt of nominations to the delays that we are 

seeing just in confirmations. 

Given that we have a total of 38 nominees to process before our 

Committee alone, we have only confirmed two, and reported just 

four others so far, I think this is a good sign this morning to have 

a full table. 

This is an important step as we seek to ensure that Secretary 

Zinke and Secretary Perry have the members of their leadership 

teams in place as soon as possible. 

Secretary Zinke has already proven to be an ambitious leader of 

the Department of the Interior. I had an opportunity to travel with 

him along with several other colleagues here. We went to the Arctic 

in Norway and in Greenland and then flew across to the top of the 

United States there in Alaska. He made a very strong impression 

on many Alaskans while he was there. 

So, Ms. Burman, Ms. Combs, Mr. Domenech, I appreciate your 

willingness to join Secretary Zinke at the Department of the Interior. Should you be confirmed, you will be responsible for identifying the challenges and the opportunities that exist for our federal 

lands, water management, and territories. Ms. Burman, I also 

want to note that should you be confirmed, you are going to be the 

first female Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, so that is 

good to note. We appreciate that. 

Now I have not yet been able to host Secretary Perry in the 

state, but I look forward to doing so and to working with him to 

continue the Department of Energy’s pursuit of scientific breakthroughs, transformative technologies, and energy dominance. 

Mr. Dabbar, Mr. Jonas, Mr. Menezes, I also appreciate your willingness to serve, and I look forward to hearing more about what 

you would do, should you be confirmed, to help increase access to 

energy, make it more affordable, and improve its environmental 

performance. 

For members who have questions for our nominees, know that 

we are going to be trying to work through as many questions as 

possible. There is an Appropriations full committee markup that is 

beginning in 15 minutes, so I am going to be jumping in and out 

of that, but if members have additional questions after the hearing 

concludes, any questions for the record will be due at the close of 
6 

business today. Given the fact that our August session has been extended, I also want members to be aware that it is my intention 

to try to move these nominees as quickly as we can should they 

prove qualified and have sufficient support within our Committee, 

hopefully to give them a chance, some chance, of being confirmed 

before we leave in August. 

Finally, I have a large number of letters of support for these 

nominees. Senator Flake mentioned some that he provided for Ms. 

Burman, but I would ask unanimous consent that they be made a 

part of the hearing record, and they will do so. 

With that, I now turn to Senator Cantwell for her opening remarks, and then we will swear in the nominees. 

STATEMENT OF HON. MARIA CANTWELL, 

U.S. SENATOR FROM WASHINGTON 

Senator CANTWELL. Thank you, Madam Chair. I will be brief this 

morning since we have so much on the agenda and we actually 

have a lot to consider. We will be considering the nomination of six 

senior officers in the Department of the Interior and the Department of Energy, and those offices are responsible for a wide range 

of important functions in both those agencies. I will have a number 

of questions for each of the nominees, and I am sure my colleagues 

will as well. 

Part of our task this morning is made a little more confusing by 

the action taken at the agency. We know what the two Under Secretaries did previously under these titles at the Department of Energy. We know that Secretary Perry plans to reassign some of their 

functions. But exactly how those reorganization plans will work 

and what these individuals will be doing will be of question. 

Also, I am concerned about press reports just yesterday that Secretary Zinke is reassigning some Senior Executives at the agency, 

including scientists involved in climate issues, to other unrelated 

positions, and I will have some questions about that as well. 

We also have Mr. Jonas here for his nomination hearing, and 

while we just got some documentation related to your time at the 

Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board, those have not been fully 

reviewed since we just got them either late last night or early this 

morning. We know that there was a dispute as you left there, and 

we will have questions in regards to that. 

So I greatly appreciate the Chair’s willingness to ask for those 

documents. We just simply have not had a chance to review them. 

I know there will be lots of issues for all of these nominees this 

morning, Madam Chair, and I know we have a busy agenda here, 

so I will keep the rest of my comments and put them in the record. 

[The information referred to follows:] 
7 

Senatm· Maria Cantwell 

Opening Statement 

Interior and Energy Nominations Hearing 

Thursday, July 20, 2017 

We have a lot to get our minds around this morning. We will be considering nominations 

for 6 senior offices in the Department of the Interior and the Department of Energy. Those 

offices are responsible for a wide range of important functions in the two departments. 

I will have a number of questions for each of the nominees. I am sure many of my 

colleagues will have as well. 

Our task is not made easier by the confusion that seems to exist over what a couple of 

them may be doing. We know what the two Under Secretaries did at the Department of Energy 

under Secretary Moniz. We know that Secretary Perry plans to reassign some of their functions. 

But we don't know how he plans to reorganize the two offices or who will be doing what. 

Hopefully, the two nominees will be able to shed some light on what they expect their 

roles to be. 

Our job is further complicated because we have not yet seen certain documents pertaining 

to Mr. Jonas's departure from the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. 

We know there was a serious dispute between Mr. Jonas and the former Chairman of the 

Safety Board. But we have two very different accounts of what the dispute was all about, and we 

have not yet been able to review the written record to see which side of the story is true. 

I greatly appreciate the Chair's willingness to ask the Board for the documents and to 

work with me to put the matter to rest before we vote on Mr. Jonas's nomination. 

I look forward to hearing from all 6 nominees and welcome each of them to the 

Committee. 

Thank you, Madam Chairman. 
8 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Cantwell. 

At this time, the rules of the Committee, which apply to all nominees, require that they be sworn in connection with their testimony, so I would ask you all to rise and raise your right hand. 

Do you solemnly swear that the testimony you are about to give 

to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources shall 

be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? 

[Chorus of yeses.] 

Before you begin your statement, I will ask you three questions 

addressed to each nominee before this Committee. Will you be 

available to appear before this Committee and other Congressional 

committees to represent departmental positions and respond to 

issues of concern to the Congress? 

[Chorus of yeses.] 

Are you aware of any personal holdings, investments, or interests 

that could constitute a conflict or create an appearance of such a 

conflict should you be confirmed and assume the office to which 

you have been nominated by the President? 

[Chorus of noes.] 

Are you involved or do you have any assets held in blind trust? 

[Chorus of noes.] 

With that, please be seated, and we will proceed. Again, I think 

we have heard some good introductions, and I appreciate the comments from colleagues as they have introduced our nominees. 

So what we will do is just begin to my left here with Ms. Brenda 

Burman, to be the Commissioner of Reclamation, Department of 

the Interior. She will be followed by Susan Combs, who is nominated to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Policy, Management, and Budget; Mr. Paul Dabbar, to be Under Secretary for 

Science at the Department of Energy. He will be followed by Mr. 

Douglas Domenech, to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior for 

Insular Areas. Mr. David Jonas has been nominated to be General 

Counsel for the Department of Energy, and Mr. Mark Wesley 

Menezes has been nominated to be Under Secretary for the Department of Energy. 

I would ask that you try to keep your comments limited to about 

five minutes. I am pleased to have you introduce, again, any family 

members that you might have. We appreciate you coming before 

the Committee and your willingness to serve. Ms. Burman, if you 

would like to lead off, please proceed. 

STATEMENT OF BRENDA BURMAN, NOMINATED TO BE 

COMMISSIONER OF RECLAMATION 

Ms. BURMAN. Thank you, Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, and members of the Committee. I am humbled and 

honored to appear here today as President Trump’s nominee for the 

position of Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. 

Thank you also, Senator Flake, for your kind remarks, for your 

kind introduction, and for your leadership and service to the Grand 

Canyon State and to the United States. 

Before I begin my remarks, I would like to recognize the members of my family who have joined me today. My parents, Tim and 

Pat Burman, are out of the country, but they are joining us online. 

And here in the room I have the Minnesota Burmans, with my 
9 

brother, Mark; my sister-in-law, Linnea; my niece, Annika; and my 

nephew, Collin. They flew out on short notice to support me, and 

I’m very glad they’re here. 

The CHAIRMAN. Welcome. 

Ms. BURMAN. I deeply appreciate the trust Secretary Zinke has 

placed in me by asking me to serve as Commissioner of Reclamation. I ask for your consent to the President’s nomination. 

While I was born a westerner in California, my parents moved 

to Minnesota and then to New Jersey, all good places to grow up 

with lakes, rivers, woods, camping, hiking, canoeing, and in New 

Jersey, the shore. Through this upbringing I witnessed firsthand 

the importance of water in all its forms, from East to West, from 

lakes to oceans. 

I fell in love with the Southwest working for the Park Service, 

both in New Mexico and in the Grand Canyon, before going to law 

school. But in my career, I’ve been fortunate to work on many complex water and power issues across the West. 

In Arizona, my first meeting as a young lawyer in 1998 was a 

negotiating session for a Navajo and Hopi water settlement. I remember the tribal representatives. I remember the Department of 

the Interior and the Bureau officials and all the local stakeholders: 

ranchers, water districts, local towns, utilities. Hours and hours 

were spent by all of us trying to reach an agreement. In that case 

it did not come together, but it taught me a valuable lesson: as long 

as people keep working together, there is always hope it will work. 

I soon represented a party that was working to negotiate with 

the Zuni Indian Tribe and settling their water rights in Arizona for 

the Zuni Heaven Reservation. After four years of work and on my 

last day in private practice, the parties signed a settlement agreement. 

I left private practice to move to DC to work for Senator Kyl as 

his water and energy attorney. One of my first tasks was to support Senator Kyl in actually passing the Zuni Indian Tribe Water 

Rights Settlement. Knowing the tribe and the parties well, I was 

thrilled to see that settlement through the Congressional authorization process. The tribe, the Department of the Interior, and the 

parties back home then did the hard work to bring together everything needed to make that settlement effective. 

The Zuni settlement was relatively small, which served as great 

preparation for staffing the largest Indian water settlement in our 

country’s history, the Gila River Indian Community, a tribe with 

significant land in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area, 

downstream from important ranching, farming, and mining operations, and nestled between the many cities of Arizona’s largest 

metropolitan area. Senator Kyl gave significant personal time to 

bring the parties together, and I supported him as he fought for 

Congressional passage of the settlement. When it finally passed, it 

was one of the proudest moments of my career. 

What I learned from supporting Senator Kyl and working with 

all the parties to the Gila settlement, as well as the Central Arizona project settlement with the United States and the Tohono 

O’odham Nation Indian Water Rights Settlement, was how important it is to understand each party’s needs and wants, strengths 

and weaknesses, and their political pressures back home. 
10 

Water rights settlements take years of negotiation, they take 

years to secure Congressional passage, and then years to implement. You have to learn when to push, when to get out of the way, 

and at times where to draw the line. Cooperation and principled 

leadership are key. 

In 2005, I joined the Department as a member of President 

George W. Bush’s Administration and was soon appointed to be 

Deputy Commissioner for External and Intergovernmental Affairs, 

the number two position at the Bureau of Reclamation. Later, I 

was appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and Science. 

With the Department and Reclamation, I was given the opportunity to work on issues directly impacting the Colorado River, as 

it affected all seven Basin states and the country of Mexico. This 

service took place in the form of negotiation and analysis of the 

2007 Shortage Guidelines and as the Secretary’s designee for the 

Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Program. I worked on 

other difficult water issues across the West as well, including the 

Klamath Basin, the Central Valley Project, and the Rio Grande. 

After I left Interior, I worked for the Nature Conservancy in Arizona as their senior water policy advisor, working on Colorado and 

local river issues as well as forestry issues. From there I was hired 

by Metropolitan Water District of Southern California to work in 

their Sacramento office on, among other things, California drought, 

Bay-Delta matters, and Colorado River issues. 

I currently work for the Salt River Project Agricultural Improvement and Power District, which operates one of the oldest Reclamation projects in the country, providing water and power to the 

Phoenix metropolitan area. 

Collectively, I believe these series of experiences have prepared 

me to serve Secretary Zinke and the American people in facing today’s top water challenges. If confirmed, I promise to perform my 

duties with integrity, I promise to provide the best informed advice 

possible to Secretary Zinke, and I promise to listen to and work 

with this Committee and Congress, to listen to and work with 

Western water interests, and to listen to and work with Reclamation’s impressive employees who use their expertise every day to 

deliver water and generate power across the West. 

Chairman Murkowski, thank you for the opportunity to appear 

here before the Committee today. I look forward to your questions. 

[The prepared statement of Ms. Burman follows:] 
11 

Statement of Brenda Wren Burman 

Nominee for the Position of Commissioner, Bureau of Reclamation, 

Department of the Interior 

Before the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources United States Senate 

July 20, 2017 

Thank you Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, and Members of the Committee. 

am humbled and honored to appear here today as President Trump's nominee for the position of 

Commissioner for the Bureau of Reclamation. 

Thank you also to Senator Flake for your kind introduction, and for your leadership and service 

to the Grand Canyon State and the United States. 

Before I begin my remarks, I would like to recognize the members of my family who have joined 

me today. My parents Tim and Pat Burman are out of the country but are watching online. 

Here in the room I have the Minnesota Burmans, with my brother Mark, my sister-in-law Linnea, 

my nephew Collin, and my niece Annika who were kind enough on short notice to fly out to 

support me. 

l deeply appreciate the trust Secretary Zinke has placed in me by asking me to serve as the 

Commissioner of Reclamation. I ask for your consent to the President's nomination. 

While I was born a westerner in California, my parents moved to Minnesota and then to New 

Jersey, all good places to grow up, with lakes, rivers and woods, camping, hiking, canoeing and 

in New Jersey- the shore. Through this upbringing, I witnessed firsthand the importance of 

water in all forms, from East to West, from lakes to oceans. 

I started moving myself back westward by choosing Kenyon College in beautiful rural Gambier, 

Ohio, next to the Kokosing River. But I fell in love with the southwest after working as a 

volunteer trail crew member at Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico and visiting my 

best friend in Arizona during winter break. At Carlsbad l worked in the backcountry for the 

summer and one of the things I distinctly remember is that it was a wet year-lots of rain- and 

yet we did not find waterholes or running washes. The only water we found was in the caves. 

This was a truly dry and unique place. A few years later, I worked as a Park Ranger at Grand 

Canyon National Park. It was a beautiful high desert with Ponderosa pine forest on the rim, 

which became progressively dryer and hotter as you hiked down into the Canyon and towards 

the Colorado River. In the Canyon, we counted on scarce springs in the backcountry for our 

water supply, and on the rim we counted on a rickety old pipeline that often broke to bring water 

from Roaring Springs up to the rim and the tourist area. It was a learning experience that taught 

me the value of water and the hard work it often takes to get it. 

1 
12 

From those first days working in the southwest, I have been fortunate in my career to work on 

many complex water and power issues across the west. In Arizona, my first meeting as a young 

lawyer in 1998 was a negotiating session for a Navajo and Hopi water settlement. I remember 

the tribal representatives, the Department of the Interior and Bureau officials, and all of the local 

stakeholders-ranchers, water districts, local towns, utilities. Hours and hours were spent by all 

of us trying to reach an agreement. In that case, it did not come together, but it taught me a 

valuable lesson: as long as people keep working together, there is always hope. 

I soon represented a negotiating party with the Zuni Indian Tribe in settling their water rights in 

Arizona for their Zuni Heaven Reservation. After four years of work, and on my last day in 

private practice, the parties signed the settlement agreement. 

I left private practice to move to D.C. to work for Senator Jon Kyl as his water and energy 

attorney. One of my first tasks was to support Senator Kyl in passing the Zuni Indian Tribe 

Water Rights Settlement. Knowing the Tribe and the parties well, I was thrilled to see that 

settlement through the Congressional authorization process. The Tribe, the Department of the 

Interior, and the parties back at home then did the hard work to bring together everything needed 

to make that settlement effective. 

The Zuni settlement was relatively small, which served as great preparation for staffing the 

largest Indian water settlement in our country's history with the Gila River Indian Community, a 

Tribe with significant land in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area, downstream from 

important ranching, farming, and mining operations and nestled between the many cities in 

Arizona's largest metropolitan area. The Community's water rights claims created a large 

uncertainty for other water users-natural resource uncertainty, economic and financial 

uncertainty-and it is a credit to the Tribe and to the parties that they were able to settle. Senator 

K yl gave significant personal time to bring the parties together and I supported him as he fought 

for Congressional passage of the Settlement. When it finally passed, it was one of the proudest 

moments of my career. 

What I learned from supporting Senator Kyl and working with all the parties to the Gila 

Settlement, as well as the Central Arizona Project settlement with the United States and the 

Tohono 0' odham Nation Indian water rights settlement, was how important it is to understand 

each party's needs and wants, strengths and weaknesses, and their political pressures back home. 

Water rights settlements take years of negotiations, years to secure Congressional passage, and 

then years to implement. You have to learn when to push, when to get out of the way, and at 

times, where to draw the line. Cooperation and principled leadership are key. 

These experiences were a tremendous building block for working at the Department of the 

Interior. In 2005, I joined the Department as a member of President George W. Bush's 

Administration and was soon appointed to be Deputy Commissioner for External and 

Intergovernmental Affairs, the number two position at the Bureau of Reclamation. Later, I was 

appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary of Water and Science. While serving Senator Kyl, I had 

2 
13 

worked closely with Arizona, New Mexico, and California interests on Colorado River issues 

and other matters. With the Department and Reclamation, I was given the opportunity to work on 

issues directly impacting the Colorado River, as it affected all seven basin states and the country 

of Mexico. This service took place in the form of negotiation and analysis of the 2007 Shortage 

Guidelines and as the Secretary's designee for the Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management 

Program. 

I worked on other difficult water issues across the west as well, including the Klamath Basin, the 

Central Valley Project, and the Rio Grande. 

Right before I came to Reclamation, the Bureau faced criticisms from our contractors, customers, 

and stakeholders about its costs and lack of efficiency. Reclamation embarked on both an 

internal and external review of how we operated to directly address this criticism with quarterly 

public meetings, methodic analysis, and increased accountability. I joined the Bureau as this 

process was beginning. My job was to ensure our "external" partners across the west and on the 

Hill were heard and their problems were addressed. In the end, I believe we improved 

management decision-making and made Reclamation more accountable. 

It was a privilege to serve the west and our country at the Department of the Interior and an 

honor to work with the many fine, dedicated people at the Department and at Reclamation. After 

I left Interior, 1 worked for The Nature Conservancy in Arizona as their Senior Water Policy 

Advisor, working on Colorado and local river issues, as well as forestry issues. From there I was 

hired by Metropolitan Water District of Southern California to work in their Sacramento office 

on, among other things, California drought, Bay-Delta matters, and Colorado River issues. 

I currently work for the Salt River Project Agricultural Improvement and Power District, which 

operates one of the oldest Reclamation projects in the country, providing water and power to the 

Phoenix metropolitan area. As the Director of Water Strategy, my team and I are an integral part 

of Salt River Project's work with the State, with Tribes, and with other water providers to pursue 

new solutions for moving water where it is needed to address drought, potential shortages on the 

Colorado River, and eventual growth. 

Collectively, I believe these experiences have prepared me to serve Secretary Zinke and the 

American people in facing today's top water challenges. If confirmed, I promise to perform my 

duties with integrity I promise to provide the best-informed advice possible to Secretary Zinke, 

to listen to and work with this Committee and Congress, to listen to and work with western water 

interests, and to listen to and work with Reclamation's impressive employees who use their 

expertise every day to deliver water and generate power across the west. 

Chairman Murkowski, thank you for the opportunity to appear before the Committee today. 

look forward to your questions. 

3 
14 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you very much. I appreciate your statement and your willingness to serve the Administration. 

Ms. COMBS. 

STATEMENT OF SUSAN COMBS, NOMINATED TO BE AN 

ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR 

Ms. COMBS. Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, 

and members of the Committee, I am deeply honored to appear before you today as the President’s nominee for the position of Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget at the Department of the Interior. President Trump and Secretary Zinke have 

paid me an enormous compliment by recommending me for this 

role. As Chief Financial Officer, I was, of course, tremendously honored by the very kind introduction by Senator Cornyn. 

I do have a member of my family here. My husband, Joe Duran, 

is here, and our three sons are, we hope, glued to an iPad or something else. 

I’m the fourth generation of my family to own and operate a 

ranch in the Big Bend area of Texas just up the road from Big 

Bend National Park. I not only learned how to ride, hunt, and 

shoot, but also that we had to be careful stewards of the land and 

to nurture it for the next generation. We are all proud of this national park and glad that nearly 400,000 visitors came to our part 

of the Chihuahuan Desert last year. This area is rich in history, 

flora, fauna, ancient artifacts, and a can-do spirit. This arid high 

desert teaches that you have to be self-reliant, innovative, and 

practical. 

I saw firsthand the devastating effects of the 1950s drought and 

the toll it took on the land and everyone connected to it. The ranch 

and its income were my father’s only source of funds. He said you 

had to be as tight as the bark on the tree with your money, and 

I have learned that lesson well and have worked hard to apply this 

both on the ranch and in my years of public service, balancing 

needs with fiscal prudence. 

As Agriculture Commissioner in 2005 and ’06, I was very fortunate to work with the great staff of Fish and Wildlife as well as 

with the military at Fort Hood Army Base in Central Texas. 

Through a very collaborative process, we worked together to assemble the Recovery Credit System, which the Service adopted to work 

for the recovery of the Golden-cheeked Warbler and the Blackcapped Vireo while also assisting the Army in its national defense 

goals. We had a diverse range of partners: Environmental Defense 

Fund, Texas Nature Conservancy, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas 

Farm Bureau, Central Texas Cattlemen, and other agriculture 

partners. This project made it clear that a cooperative approach to 

a common goal could indeed produce good results for all participants. 

After being elected Comptroller in 2006, we had the chance to 

use a successful method again when there was a proposal to list 

as endangered the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard. Once again, the Fish 

and Wildlife Service was a great partner, along with various agriculture and ranching groups as well as oil industry officials. The 

result was the Texas Conservation Plan, which was approved by 

the Service. Its development was a long and complex process but 
15 

resulted in a success for the species and the region. I was touched 

and surprised when I received the Regional Director’s Conservation 

Partnership Award in 2014 based on that recent work. 

The position for which I have been nominated would, should the 

Senate confirm my nomination, allow me to work across a broad 

swath of budget, management, and policy areas in order to advance 

the mission of the Department and that of Secretary Zinke. I believe that my prior eight years as Comptroller of the State of Texas 

have given me the tools and the ability to analyze, understand, and 

consider in an open and transparent manner how we are going to 

achieve this mission. Secretary Zinke has talked extensively about 

enhancing human capital as well as maximizing the public’s access 

to the nation’s land and resource heritage. 

From a fiscal perspective, lessons that I learned in spending and 

purchasing can be utilized at the Department. Secretary Zinke has 

also mentioned a large maintenance backlog that must be addressed. I would hope to find ways to enhance revenues as well as 

trim costs. While Comptroller, we were able to save nearly $400 

million by just revising the state’s procurement processes. 

This Department has a mission covering the entire nation and, 

if confirmed, I will work to ensure the success of the President’s 

and the Secretary’s goals for the Department, and I will do so in 

an open, bipartisan, and collaborative manner for these vital natural resources. 

As a former legislator, I have a keen appreciation of the constitutional roles and responsibilities of the Legislative Branch and very 

much appreciate the opportunity to appear before you today. 

Thank you, and I look forward to your questions. 

[The prepared statement of Ms. Combs follows:] 
16 

Statement of Susan Combs 

Nominee for the Position of Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management 

And Budget 

of the Department of the Interior 

Before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 

Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, and Members of the Committee, I am 

deeply honored to appear before you today as the President's nominee for the position of 

Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget at the Department of the Interior. 

President Trump and Secretary Zinke have paid me an enormous compliment by recommending 

me for this role as the Department's Chief Financial Officer. 

Let me first tell you about my background. I am the fourth generation of my family to 

own and operate a ranch in the Big Bend area of Texas, and that experience taught me the 

importance of being tied to the land and its natural resources. I learned how to ride, hunt, and 

shoot on this ranch with views of the neighboring mountains. From my earliest memories, I 

learned that we had to be careful stewards of the land, which we hoped to pass on to the next 

generation. I was raised to think about water and its availability, grass, forbs, habitat, the 

animals both wild and domestic on the land -and to think about how we could improve the 

ranch for future generations. 

I saw firsthand the devastating effects of drought in the 1950's and the toll it took on the 

land and everyone and everything connected to it. That event taught me an indelible lesson about 

taking care of the land that was taking care of us. Income generated from the ranch was my 

father's only source of funds. 

My father particularly enjoyed saying that you had to be as "tight as the bark on a tree" 

with your money. I have learned that lesson well, and have worked hard to apply it both on the 

ranch and in my years of public service, balancing needs with fiscal prudence. 

Our ranch is located about thirty miles north of the eastern entrance to Big Bend National 

Park. We are all proud of this national park, and glad that nearly 400,000 visitors came to our 

part of the Chihuahuan Desert last year. This area is rich in history, flora, fauna, ancient artifacts 

and a Texas can-do spirit. This arid high desert teaches that you have to be self-reliant, 

innovative, and practical. 

In later years, I was privileged to serve as a State Representative and then as the Texas 

Agriculture Commissioner. Traveling across the State and meeting other commissioners from 

every other state illustrated for me the common bond we all had; we love the land, its people, and 

the rich array of natural resources everywhere. 
17 

As Agriculture Commissioner in 2005 and 2006, l was very fortunate to work with the 

great staff of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as well as with the Army at Fort Hood in central 

Texas, along with a diverse range of partners including the Environmental Defense Fund, Texas 

Nature Conservancy, Texas Parks & Wildlife, Texas Farm Bureau, Central Texas Cattlemen and 

other agriculture partners. Through a very collaborative process, we worked together to 

assemble the Recovery Credit System which the Service adopted, to work for the recovery of the 

Golden Cheeked Warbler and the Black Capped Vireo while also assisting the Army in its 

national defense goals. This project made it clear that a cooperative approach to a common goal 

could indeed produce good results for all participants, and it is the approach that continually I 

strive for. 

After being elected Comptroller in 2006, we had the chance to use this successful method 

again when there was a proposal to list the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard as endangered. Once again, 

the Service was a great patiner, along with various agriculture and ranching groups as well as oil 

and gas industry officials. The result was the Texas Conservation Plan that was approved by the 

Service. Its development was a long and complex process, but resulted in a success for both the 

species and the area. I was grateful when the Service honored me with the Regional Director's 

Conservation Partnership Award in 2014 for that work. 

The position for which I have been nominated would allow me to assist the Secretary in 

advancing his goals and priorities for the Department I believe that the eight years that I served 

as Comptroller of the State of Texas have given me the ability to analyze, understand and 

consider how to achieve this mission in an efficient, open, and transparent manner. Secretary 

Zinke has talked extensively about enhancing human capital as well as maximizing the public's 

access to our public lands, national treasures and natural resources. The Secretary has 

committed to addressing the enormous deferred maintenance backlog on lands managed by the 

Department's bureaus. While Comptroller, we in Texas were able to save nearly $400 million 

by revising the State's procurement processes. Lessons that I have learned and skills that I have 

gained, for example in agency spending and purchasing, will serve as assets as we work to 

balance the books, make smart investments and increase the efficient operation of the 

Department's important programs priorities. 

The Department of the Interior plays an important role in our national economy. Its 

many important missions include ensuring the responsible development of energy resources on 

our public lands, serving as steward of our beautiful parks and public lands, and working to 

strengthen tribal sovereignty in Indian Country. If confirmed, I will work to ensure the success 

of the President's and the Secretary's goals for the Department, and l will do so in an open and 

collaborative manner. I appreciate the opportunity to appear before you today. 

Thank you and I look forward to your questions. 
18 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Ms. Combs. I appreciate your commitment on several different levels, and it is nice to have you here. 

Mr. Dabbar, welcome to the Committee. 

STATEMENT OF PAUL DABBAR, NOMINATED TO BE UNDER 

SECRETARY FOR SCIENCE, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY 

Mr. DABBAR. Thank you, Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, and members of the Committee. 

It is an honor to be here today. I thank you for the productive 

meetings with you and your staff as we prepared for this hearing, 

and I appreciate your insights that were given to me on the important topics about energy both in your states and in the nation. 

I would like to thank the President and Secretary Perry for their 

trust and confidence in me for this nomination as Under Secretary 

for Science at the Department of Energy. If I have the honor of 

being confirmed by this body, I look forward to working with all of 

you on the important items that the nation faces in the energy sector to meet our energy needs. 

I would like to introduce the most important individuals in my 

life, and that is my family members who are here today. Behind 

me is my wife of 17 years, Andrea, and my kids, Will and Katie. 

I appreciate them being here and giving me the opportunity to 

serve again. Also here are my brother and his wife, and his guidance throughout my life has been very important to me. And also 

here are friends of mine from my hometown in Oklahoma and my 

classmates from the Naval Academy. 

If my nomination is confirmed by this body, this will be the third 

time I will have sworn to support and defend the Constitution. The 

first time was when I was 17 years old when it was Induction Day 

at the U.S. Naval Academy. I felt a strong desire to serve based 

on the experience of my family: my mother, who joined the Foreign 

Service from a small town in North Dakota right after World War 

II, and my father, who came to this country to escape political oppression. The second time was when I was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy and joined the nuclear submarine force, and 

I had the honor to serve in many interesting and sensitive operations, including a deployment to the Arctic where I helped lead 

teams supporting the Arctic Laboratory as they deployed solar-powered environmental monitoring stations. 

Since my time in the Navy, I have worked at J.P. Morgan’s investment bank for the last 21 years. I had an opportunity to lead 

energy sector investments and transactions in all 50 states and 

around the world. These include all major areas including renewables, oil and gas production, mining, efficiency, and the electric 

grid, as well as significant volumes of global nuclear work. As a result, I have gained experience with energy technologies both in research and development, many of which started in various research 

laboratories before being deployed. 

As a result of my technical and investment experience, I was appointed by then Secretary Bodman and reappointed by the subsequent Administrations’ Secretaries of Energy to the Department of 

Energy Environmental Management Advisory Board. Accordingly, I 

have traveled to much of the DOE Complex and visited both 

science and engineering program sites as well as environmental 
19 

management sites. Through this I have developed a keen understanding of the breadth, opportunities, challenges, and skills of the 

people who work in the DOE Complex. 

This is a very exciting time in the energy sector. Over the past 

decade, technological developments have accelerated significantly. 

Some of those amazing developments in the applied area include 

significant improvement in wind turbine efficiency, solar PV installed costs, battery storage, carbon capture, and microgrids. 

In the areas of fundamental science, opportunities exist for significant leaps in machine learning and artificial intelligence as well 

as exascale computing and quantum information science. The opportunities are significant, and the Department is in a unique position with the world’s leading researchers and physical plant capabilities to help drive that progress for the nation. I will ensure that 

our continued leadership and knowledge and technology will help 

spur economic well-being for our nation and our fellow citizens. 

So I have approximately 20 years of private energy experience 

and 20 years of service to the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy. I believe I bring a strong mix of public and 

private sector experience required for this position because of my 

energy industry engineering expertise and management depth and 

skills. With your kind consideration of this nomination, I can assist 

the Department of Energy and the nation to move forward the 

bounds of what we can accomplish together. 

I thank you again for the opportunity to be here, and I look forward to your questions. 

[The prepared statement of Mr. Dabbar follows:] 
20 

Opening Statement 

Paul Dabbar 

Nominee to be Under Secretary for Science at the Department of Energy 

Nomination Hearing 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 

Thank you Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, and Members of the Committee. 

It is an honor to be here today, and thank you for the productive meetings with you and your staff 

as we prepared for this hearing. I appreciate the insights you have given me on the important 

topics in the energy sector for your states and the nation. 

I would also like to thank the President and Secretary Perry for their trust and confidence in me 

with this nomination to be Under Secretary for Science at the Department of Energy (DOE). If I 

have the honor of being confirmed by this body, I look forward to working with all of you on the 

important items that the nation should focus on to address our energy needs. 

I would like to introduce the most important individuals in my life, and that is my family 

members, who are here today. Behind me are my wonderful wife of seventeen years, Andrea, 

and my children Katie and Will. I greatly appreciate them being here today, and allowing me the 

opportunity to potentially serve again. Also here are my brother and his wife; his guidance 

throughout my life has been very important to me. Also here are friends of mine from my 

hometown in Oklahoma, and classmates from the Naval Academy. 

If my nomination is confirmed by this body, this will be the third time I will have sworn to 

support and defend the Constitution. The first time, I was seventeen years old, when it was 

Induction Day at the US Naval Academy. I felt a strong desire to serve, based on the experience 

of my parents. My mother who joined the Foreign Service from a small town in North Dakota 

right after WWII, and my father who came to this country to escape political oppression. The 

second time was when I was commissioned a Navy ensign. I joined the nuclear submarine force 

and had the honor to serve in many interesting and sensitive operations, including a deployment 

to the Arctic, where I helped lead teams supporting the Arctic Laboratory as they deployed solar 

powered environmental monitoring stations. 

Since my time in the Navy, I have worked at J.P.Morgan's investment bank for the last twentyone years, where I had the opportunity to lead energy sector investments and transactions in all 

50 states and around the world. These involved all major areas: renewables, oil and gas 

production, mining, efficiency, and the electric grid, as well as significant volumes of global 

nuclear work. As a result, I have gained significant experience in energy technologies, 

supporting both research and development, many of which started in various research 

laboratories before being deployed. 
21 

As a result of my technical and investment experience, l was appointed by then Secretary 

Bodman, and re-appointed by the subsequent administration's Secretaries, to the DOE 

Environmental Management Advisory Board. Accordingly, I have travelled to much of the DOE 

complex, and visited both Science and Energy program sites as well as Environmental 

Management sites. Through this, I have developed a keen understanding of the breadth, 

opportunities, challenges, and the great skill sets of the people who work across the DOE 

complex. 

This is a very exciting time in the energy sector. Over the past decade, technological 

developments have accelerated sit,>nificantly. Some of those amazing developments in the 

applied area include significant improvements in wind turbine efficiency, solar PV installed 

costs, battery storage, carbon capture, and micro-grids. In the area of fundamental science, 

opportunities exist for significant leaps in machine learning and artificial intelligence, as well as 

Exascale computing and quantum information science. The opportunities are significant, and the 

Department is in a unique position, with the world's leading researchers and physical plant 

capabilities, to help drive addition progress for the nation. This will ensure our continued 

leadership in knowledge and technology, and help spur economic well-being for our nation and 

our fellow citizens. 

I have approximately twenty years of private industry energy experience, and twenty years of 

service in the Department of Defense and DOE. I believe I will bring a strong mix of public and 

private sector experience required for this position because of my energy industry engineering 

expertise, and management depth and skills. I hope with your kind consideration of this 

nomination that I can assist the Department of Energy and the nation to move forward the 

bounds of what we can accomplish together. 

Thank you again for the opportunity to be here, and I look forward to your questions. 
22 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Mr. Dabbar. 

Mr. Domenech, welcome to the Committee. 

STATEMENT OF DOUGLAS W. DOMENECH, NOMINATED TO BE 

AN ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR 

Mr. DOMENECH. Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, and the members of the Committee, I am deeply honored and 

humbled to appear before you today as President Trump’s nominee 

for the position of Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas at the Department of the Interior. I am also deeply grateful to Secretary 

Zinke for recommending me to the President for this important position. And I especially want to thank Congresswoman Radewagen, 

of American Samoa, for her gracious introduction. 

Joining me this morning are members of my family: my wife of 

38 years, Jeanne, whom I met in forestry school; my son Ben, who 

worked at one point in the office of Senator John Cornyn; and my 

daughter Emily, who is the Energy Subcommittee Staff Director for 

the House Science Committee. My daughter, Florence, was unable 

to attend today, and my son Ellis could not attend as he is currently deployed in the war on terror. 

As you know, the Office of Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas 

coordinates federal policy for the U.S. territories of American 

Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the 

Northern Mariana Islands. In addition, the Office is responsible for 

administering and overseeing the U.S. federal assistance to the 

Freely Associated States of the Marshall Islands, the Federated 

States of Micronesia, and Palau. The Office also manages nine little-known American territories with no permanent populations, 

like Palmyra, Baker, and Howland islands. 

I am truly honored and thankful to have received the endorsement of the four territorial Governors for this nomination: Governor Moliga, of American Samoa; Governor Torres, of the Northern Mariana Islands; Governor Mapp, of the Virgin Islands; and 

Governor Calvo, of Guam. 

I would also like to thank all of the Congressional delegates from 

the insular areas who have each taken the time to meet with me 

before this hearing. I appreciate their input and, should I be confirmed, I look forward to working with each of them moving forward. 

I regret that my parents could not be here to witness this moment. Unfortunately, both have passed away and are buried in Arlington National Cemetery. My father, born in Santurce, Puerto 

Rico, spent his career serving our country in the United States 

Army. In many ways, my father’s service to the country brings me 

here today. Like many military families, we moved around the 

country with each new assignment. As a native Spanish speaker, 

my father’s deployments were often to Latin America, so we lived 

in Panama, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico. In fact, 

while attending Antilles High School in Puerto Rico, I took my first 

trip to the Virgin Islands. I was playing defensive end on my high 

school football team, and we flew to the island of St. Thomas to 

play against their high school team. We lost. In fact, we lost every 

time we played the Virgin Islands team. 
23 

After receiving my college degree in forestry and wildlife management from Virginia Tech and undertaking a career in that field, 

I had the opportunity to serve in the George W. Bush Administration in a number of positions at the Department of the Interior. 

During that time, I was asked by then Secretary Dirk Kempthorne 

to serve as his appointee to the Advisory Council for the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico and later as Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas. 

That appointment gave me the opportunity to work on issues and 

travel to Guam, the Virgin Islands, and the Mariana Islands. These 

visits afforded me the occasion to work on health care capacity 

issues, foreign worker policy, invasive species concerns, and the 

unique challenges of affordable energy on the islands. Of special 

note, I had the unique assignment to lead a U.S. Geological Survey 

volcanologist team to the remote northern island of Pagan to investigate its energy potential. 

After the end of the Bush Administration, I was honored to be 

selected and confirmed as Virginia’s Secretary of Natural Resources. In that role, I oversaw six state environmental, recreation, 

and historic resource agencies and worked with the Governor to 

improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay, achieve the best year 

on record for clean air, build oyster and blue crab populations, and 

reintroduce elk into Southwest Virginia. We invested in land conservation and worked with Virginia’s 11 state-recognized Indian 

tribes to permanently protect historically significant Werowocomoco, the Indian village of Chief Powhatan. 

These experiences together bring me before you today. The people living on these remote islands face unique economic, national 

security, and environmental challenges. Our fellow Americans 

should feel confident that the U.S. Government will help address 

these concerns. If confirmed, I pledge to work with the members of 

this Committee to do just that. 

Thank you. 

[The prepared statement of Mr. Domenech follows:] 
24 

Statement of Douglas William Domenech 

Nominee for the Position of Assistant Secretary of the Interior, Insular Areas 

Before the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

United States Senate 

July 20,2017 

Chairman Murkowski, Senator Cantwell, and Members of the Committee, I am deeply humbled 

and honored to appear before you today as President Trump's nominee for the position of 

Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas at the Department of the Interior. 

I am also deeply grateful to Secretary Zinke for recommending me to the President for this 

important position. 

Joining me this morning are members of my family: my wife of38 years, Jeanne, whom I met in 

forestry school, my son Ben, who worked at one point in the office of Senator John Cornyn, my 

daughter Emily, who is the Energy Subcommittee staff director for the House Science 

Committee, and my son-in-law Eric, who retired this week as a Sergeant First Class in the U.S. 

Army. My daughter Florence was unable to attend and my son, Ellis, could not be here today as 

he is currently deployed in the War on Terror. 

As you know, the Office of Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas coordinates federal policy for 

the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands and the Commonwealth of the 

Northern Mariana Islands. In addition, the Office is responsible for administering and overseeing 

U.S. federal assistance to the freely associated states of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States 

of Micronesia, and Palau. 

The office also manages nine little known American territories with no permanent populations 

such as Palmyra, Baker, and Howland islands. 

I'm truly honored and thankful to have received the endorsement of the four territorial 

Governors; Governor Moliga of American Samoa, Governor Torres of the Northern Mariana 

Islands, Governor Mapp of the Virgin Islands, and Governor Calvo of Guam. 

I would also like to thank all of the Congressional Delegates from the Insular Areas who have 

each taken the time to meet with me before this hearing. l appreciate their input and should l be 

confirmed, I look forward to working with each of them moving forward. 

I regret that my parents could not be here to witness this moment. Unfortunately both have 

passed away and are buried in Arlington National Cemetery. My father, born in Santurce, Puerto 

Rico, spent his career serving our country in the United States Army. 
25 

In many ways, my father's service to the country brings me here today. Like many military 

families, we moved around the country with each new assignment. As a native Spanish speaker, 

my father's deployments were often to Latin America and so we lived in Panama, the Dominican 

Republic, and Puerto Rico. 

In fact, while attending Antilles High School in Puerto Rico I took my first trip to the Virgin 

Islands. I was playing defensive end on my high school football team and we flew to St. Thomas 

to play against their high school team. We lost. In fact we lost every time we played the Virgin 

Islands team. 

After receiving my college degree in forestry and wildlife management from Virginia Tech, and 

undertaking a career in that field, I had the opportunity to serve in the George W. Bush 

Administration in a number of positions at the Department of the Interior. During that time I was 

asked by then Secretary Dirk Kempthome to serve as his appointee to the Advisory Council for 

the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico and later as the Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for 

Insular Areas. 

That appointment gave me the opportunity to work on issues - and travel to - Guam, the Virgin 

Islands, and the Mariana Islands. These visits afforded me the occasion to work on health care 

capacity issues, foreign worker policy, invasive species concerns, and the unique challenges of 

affordable energy on the islands. Of special note, I had the unique assignment to lead a US 

Geological Survey volcanologist team to the remote northern island of Pagan (paw-~:,>un) to 

investigate its energy potential. 

After the end of the Bush Administration, I was honored to be selected and confirmed as 

Virginia's Secretary of Natural Resources. In that role I oversaw six state environmental, 

recreation, and historic resource agencies and worked with the Governor to improve the health of 

the Chesapeake Bay, achieve the best year on record for clean air, build oyster and blue crab 

populations, and reintroduce elk to southwest Virginia. We invested in land conservation and 

worked with Virginia's II state recognized Indian tribes to permanently protect historically 

significant Werowocomoco, the village oflndian Chief Powhatan. 

These experiences together bring me before you today. 

The people living on these remote islands face unique economic, national security, and 

environmental challenges. Our fellow Americans should feel confident that the U.S. government 

will help address their concerns. If confirmed I pledge to work with the members of this 

Committee to do just that. 

Thank you. 
26 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Mr. Domenech. 

Mr. Jonas, welcome to the Committee. 

STATEMENT OF DAVID S. JONAS, NOMINATED TO BE 

GENERAL COUNSEL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY 

Mr. JONAS. Thank you and good morning. Chairman Murkowski, 

Ranking Member Cantwell, distinguished members of the Committee, thank you for considering my nomination to be the General 

Counsel of the U.S. Department of Energy. It is a privilege to be 

considered and an honor to appear before you today. 

I also want to thank those Committee members and staff who 

have met with me in the weeks leading up to this hearing and for 

sharing your insights about how we can work together, if I am confirmed, to make America more energy-secure and to fulfill DOE’s 

legal obligations, as well as other commitments, to clean up nuclear 

waste sites that date back to the Manhattan Project and the Cold 

War. 

Let me also express my appreciation to President Trump and to 

Secretary Perry for the confidence they have placed in me and for 

asking me to serve in the Administration. 

I especially want to thank my wife, Tina, who has been by my 

side for the last 23 years and is here with me today. I want to 

thank her for her love and support. And I would also like to take 

a moment to thank my parents, a special thank you to them, who 

are unable to be with us today. I’m hoping that they are maybe 

watching remotely. Last, I thank my friends and colleagues and 

even two former supervisors who are with us here today for showing their support. I’m truly honored. 

The responsibilities of the General Counsel include providing 

legal advice and counsel to the Secretary and senior departmental 

officials to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. 

The General Counsel also leads the outstanding career staff of lawyers and legal support personnel at DOE. 

I come before this Committee with more than 30 years of professional legal experience in the military, the Federal Government, 

and the private sector. My experience includes more than 20 years 

as a Judge Advocate in the United States Marine Corps, followed 

by almost a decade as a career member of the Senior Executive 

Service. I have been the General Counsel of two federal agencies, 

the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) as well as 

the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. These positions are 

relevant to the position you consider me for today. 

NNSA represents a major part of the operating activities of the 

DOE, and as the General Counsel of NNSA, I worked in close cooperation with the DOE General Counsel, two of whom have written letters of recommendation to the Committee on my behalf, one 

Democrat, who happens to be here, and one Republican. The Defense Board advises the Secretary regarding public health and safety issues at DOE defense nuclear facilities. 

In terms of legal practice, I have extensive litigation experience 

at the trial and appellate levels. I was privileged to become the 

first uniformed Judge Advocate in the history of the Army, Navy, 

Air Force, or Marine Corps to argue a case at the U.S. Supreme 

Court. 
27 

I have also negotiated numerous international agreements in the 

nuclear realm, including the U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement. 

I have previously rendered advice to government officials covering 

the waterfront of federal legal issues including international law, 

government contracts, appropriations, administrative, legislative, 

personnel, ethics, labor, and environmental law. I have expertise in 

national security law and nuclear nonproliferation law, which I 

taught at Georgetown and George Washington University law 

schools for more than a decade. 

Some recent press articles point to a writing of mine from more 

than two decades ago. The opinion piece was about women and homosexuals serving in the military. It was a reflection of the time 

it was written and does not reflect my current views. It’s important 

for each of you to hear this directly from me, that my views have 

evolved. A lot has changed since that was written, and I believe the 

change has been for the better. As a Marine, I have the utmost respect for anyone, no matter gender, race, or sexual orientation, who 

is willing to serve our great country. 

Since these proceedings don’t always allow for the opportunity to 

know us personally, I wanted to share my personal commitment to 

serving the Department and the men and women who would be my 

colleagues if I’m honored to be confirmed. If confirmed, I will bring 

all this experience, including the experience of changed minds, to 

bring to bear as the DOE General Counsel, and will diligently 

apply and faithfully observe the laws passed by Congress. 

Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, and members 

of the Committee, thank you again for the opportunity to appear 

before you today. I appreciate the Committee’s consideration of my 

nomination and, if confirmed, look forward to working with you 

and your colleagues as well as the Committee and personal staff. 

I welcome the opportunity to answer any questions that the Committee may have. 

Thank you. 

[The prepared statement of Mr. Jonas follows:] 
28 

Opening Statement 

David S. Jonas 

Nominee to be General Counsel of the Department of Energy 

Nomination Hearing 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 

Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, distinguished Members of the Committee, 

thank you for considering my nomination to be the General Counsel of the U.S. Department of 

Energy (DOE). It is a privilege to be considered and an honor to appear before you today. 

I also want to thank those committee members and staff who have met with me in the weeks 

leading up to this hearing, and for sharing your insights about how we can work together, if I am 

confirmed, to make America more energy secure and to fulfill DOE's legal obligations, as well 

as other commitments, to clean up nuclear waste sites that date back to the Manhattan Project 

and the Cold War. 

Let me also express my appreciation to President Trump and to Secretary Perry for the 

confidence they have placed in me and for asking me to serve in the Administration. I especially 

want to thank my wife Tina, who has been by my side for the last 23 years and is with me here 

today, for her love and support. l would like to take a moment to say a special thank you to my 

parents, who wanted to attend, but were unable to do so. Lastly, I thank my friends and 

colleagues who are in attendance for showing their support. I'm truly honored. 

The responsibilities of the General Counsel include providing legal advice and counsel to the 

Secretary and senior Departmental officials to ensure compliance with applicable laws and 

regulations. The General Counsel also leads the outstanding career staff oflawyers and legal 

support personnel at DOE. 

I come before this Committee with more than 30 years of professional legal experience in the 

military, the federal government and in the private sector. My experience includes more than 20 

years as a judge advocate in the United States Marine Corps, followed by almost a decade as a 

career member of the Senior Executive Service. I have been the General Counsel of two federal 

agencies: the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) as well as the Defense Nuclear 

Facilities Safety Board (DNFSB). These positions are relevant to the position you consider me 

for today. NNSA represents a major part of the operating activities of the DOE and as the General 

Counsel ofNNSA, I worked in close cooperation with the DOE General Counsel, two of whom 

have written letters of recommendation to the Committee on my behalf. The DNFSB advises the 

Secretary regarding public health and safety issues at DOE defense nuclear facilities. 

In terms of legal practice, I have extensive litigation experience at the trial and appellate levels. 

was privileged to become the first uniformed judge advocate in the history of the Army, Navy, 

Air Force, or Marine Corps to argue a case at the U.S. Supreme Court. I have also negotiated 

numerous international agreements in the nuclear realm, including the U.S. -India Civil Nuclear 

Agreement. T have previously rendered advice to government officials covering the waterfront 

of federal legal issues including international law, government contracts, appropriations, 
29 

administrative, legislative, personnel, ethics, labor, and environmental law. I have expertise in 

national security law and nuclear nonproliferation law, which I taught at Georgetown and George 

Washington University law schools for more than a decade. 

Some recent press articles point to a writing of mine from more than two decades ago. The opinion 

piece was about women and homosexuals serving in the military. It was a reflection of the time it 

was written and does not reflect my current views. I think it's important for each of you to hear 

directly from me that my views have evolved. A lot has changed since that was written, and I 

believe the change has been for the better. As a Marine, I have the utmost respect for anyone, no 

matter gender, race or sexual orientation, who is willing to serve our great country. 

Since these proceedings don't always allow for the opportunity to know us personally, I wanted to 

share my personal commitment to serving this Department and the men and women who would be 

my colleagues if I'm honored to be confirmed. If confirmed, l will bring all this experience, 

including the lesson of changing minds, to bear as the DOE General Counsel and will diligently 

apply and faithfully observe the laws passed by Congress. 

Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, and Members of the Committee, thank you 

again for the opportunity to appear before you today. I appreciate the Committee's consideration 

of my nomination and, if confirmed, look forward to working with you and your colleagues, as 

well as, committee and personal staff. I welcome the opportunity to answer any questions that the 

Committee may have. 

Thank you. 
30 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Mr. Jones. 

Mr. Menezes, welcome to the Committee. 

STATEMENT OF MARK WESLEY MENEZES, NOMINATED TO BE 

UNDER SECRETARY OF ENERGY 

Mr. MENEZES. Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, 

distinguished members of the Committee, and personal staff, thank 

you for scheduling this hearing this morning and taking time from 

your busy schedules to be here. 

Thank you to those who have met with me prior to the hearing 

to present your views and recommendations on how we can improve the Department. These meetings have increased my appreciation about the Department and the importance of its missions 

and priorities. 

It is an honor and I am humbled to be the President’s nominee 

for Under Secretary of Energy. If confirmed, I look forward to 

working with this Committee, Secretary Perry, and the dedicated 

workforce at the Department serving the American people. 

Joining me for the hearing are my family and friends, without 

whom I would not be here today. Sitting behind me, my wife, Dr. 

Yun-hyang Lee, my inspiration for public service as the Division 

Chief of Interpreting Services at the State Department; my daughter, Paige Jennings, a former Barrow and Carper Senate staffer, 

now an attorney here in town; and Will Cho, a businessman from 

New Jersey. Unable to be here are my daughters Stephanie Cho, 

a biomedical engineer in Tokyo; my daughter Marisa, an attorney 

advisor for the Social Security Administration in Baltimore, another public servant; my brother Lewis, from Texas; my sister 

Donah; grandniece Miss Jolie; Mr. Kayden, my grandnephew; my 

sister-in-law Cheryl; and other family members and friends who 

have been supportive over the years and share in my honor are 

here or are streaming the hearing live at various places throughout 

the country. And the person most responsible for my life’s achievements, my mother, a retired public school teacher, Doris. 

The CHAIRMAN. We welcome them all. I think we have a full family complement today in the Committee, and that is great to see. 

[Laughter.] 

Mr. MENEZES. Thank you. 

As described by Senator Cassidy, this will not be my first time 

in public service. Being in this grand committee room, I see former 

colleagues, and I am reminded of our work together on the Energy 

Policy Act, referred to by Senator Cassidy. It was a comprehensive 

energy bill that has helped shape our nation’s energy policy in 

many ways and put in place several programs in existence today 

at the Department. It was the work of several Congresses begun 

by then Chairman Frank Murkowski and then Ranking Member 

Jeff Bingaman, refined by subsequent Congresses, and finally enacted under the leadership and dedication of Senators Domenici 

and Bingaman, and House Chairmen Billy Tauzin, who was here 

early this morning, Joe Barton, and Ranking Member John Dingell. 

I recall late in the evenings we would gather in Senator Domenici’s small office off the Capitol Rotunda, and frequently we would 

have breakout sessions in the Capitol dome to work out the very 

difficult issues and prepare issues to bring to the Congress that we 
31 

could not work out. To this day, when I see the light at the top of 

the Capitol dome shining above the Mall with its grand monuments gracing our nation’s capital, I see a symbol of what can be 

accomplished with bipartisanship, collaboration, and dedication to 

working together to serve all Americans. 

The bill was not perfect; we didn’t get everything right. Subsequent Congresses changed it, multiple agencies have promulgated 

rules interpreting and implementing it, and courts have decided 

the fate of several of its provisions, but it was a product of our system of government working as it was designed, with all three 

branches doing their part. That experience of understanding opposing views, creating options, and developing solutions will serve me 

well at the Department should this Committee approve my nomination and the Senate confirm me. 

I have learned valuable lessons working for several of our nation’s largest utilities: Central and South West, which merged with 

American Electric Power, and, most recently, my time with Berkshire Hathaway Energy. These positions provide a shared experience of managing collectively almost $150 billion in energy assets, 

over 38,000 employees, and serving over 17 million customers in almost half of our states. I gained management experience of large 

corporations with diverse workforces, worked to accomplish stretch 

goals under budget, faced the challenges in today’s competitive energy markets, embraced the 24/7/365-days-a-year obligation to meet 

customer demands for affordable, reliable energy, and gained an 

understanding of the regulatory labyrinths of state commissions 

and the several federal agencies that regulate energy companies 

today. 

These corporations trained me in leadership and management 

styles and how to plan, set goals, and measure performance. At 

Central and South West, I learned the Grid® Management system 

that trains leaders to cultivate a culture of empowerment so all employees contribute in the pursuit of goals. This training calls managers to promote the best in leadership and empathy, essentially 

teaching us the most important lesson that not one of us is smarter 

than all of us, and that plans to achieve goals must be constantly 

critiqued and evaluated with set measures of success. At Berkshire, 

I recently participated in management training in the ‘‘3-G Way,’’ 

which emphasizes treating people with greatness, fulfilling dreams, 

and instilling a culture of shared values. Goals are achieved 

through a constant process of planning, acting, measuring, and correcting. Performance is systematically improved through ‘‘gap’’ 

analyses to ensure goals are being achieved. This training and experience I will bring with me to the Department, should I be confirmed. 

As others have said before me, these are exciting and challenging 

times to be in the energy space. Evolving, innovative technologies, 

many developed at our national labs and the Department’s R&D 

programs, have improved the quality of all aspects of our lives, not 

just energy, but communications, transportation, science, health, 

and the environment. 

Indeed, in my professional career I have experienced the march 

of technological developments through the establishing prototypes 

of early wind and solar projects in West Texas to the more recent 
32 

technological advancements installed by Berkshire’s MidAmerican 

Energy in many of its wind projects across Iowa, making Iowa second only to Texas in wind production. 

Members of the Committee, I wish to thank you again for allowing me to be here today. It is indeed an honor to come before the 

Committee, and I ask for your favorable consideration of the President’s nomination. I look forward to hearing your questions to 

learn more about the challenges facing the Department. 

And, Chairman Murkowski, I would like to express a thanks for 

having received letters of support from the Solar Energy Industry 

Association, the American Wind Energy Association, the American 

Council on Renewable Energy, as well as the Geothermal Association, and there are several other letters in the record of support. 

Thank you. 

[The prepared statement of Mr. Menezes follows:] 
33 

OPENING STATEMENT 

MARK WESLEY MENEZES 

NOMINATION HEARING 

U.S. SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES 

JULY 20, 2017 

Chairman Murkowski, Ranking Member Cantwell, distinguished Members of the Committee, and 

personal staff: Thank you for scheduling this nomination hearing and taking time from your 

demanding schedules to be here this morning. Thank you to those who met with me prior to the 

hearing to present your ideas and concerns, and make recommendations about the Department of 

Eneq,>y. These meetings have increased my appreciation for the importance of the Department's 

missions and its priorities. Thank you, Senator Cassidy for introducing me to the committee. It is 

an honor, and l am humbled, to be the President's nominee for Under Secretary of Energy. If 

confirmed, I look forward to working with this committee, Secretary Perry, and the dedicated 

workforce at the Department serving the American people. 

Joining me for the hearing are my family and friends, without whom I would not be here today: 

my wife, Dr. Yun-hyang Lee, my inspiration for public service as the Division Chief oflnterpreting 

Services at the State Department; children Paige Jennings, a former Senate staffer, now attorney 

here in town, Will Cho, a businessman in New Jersey. Daughters Stephanie Cho, a biomedical 

engineer in Tokyo, and Marisa, an attorney advisor for the Social Security Administration in 

Baltimore, another public servant, are unable to be here. My brother, Lewis, my sister, Donah, 

grandniece Miss Jolie, grandnephew Mr. Kayden; my sister-in-law Cheryl and other family 

members and friends who have been supportive over the years and share in my honor are here or 

are streaming the hearing live at various places throughout the country. And, the person most 

responsible for my life's achievements, my mother, a retired public school teacher, Doris. 

As kindly described by Senator Cassidy, this will not be my first time in public service. Being in 

this grand committee room, l see former colleagues, and am reminded of our work together on the 

Energy Policy Act of2005, a comprehensive energy bill that has shaped our nation's energy policy 

in many ways and put in place several programs in existence today at the Department. It was the 

work of several Congresses, begun by then Chairman Frank Murkowski, and then Ranking 

Member Jeff Bingaman, refined by subsequent Congresses and finally enacted under the 

leadership and dedication of Senators Domenici and Bingaman, and House Chairmen Billy Tauzin 

and Joe Barton and Ranking Member John Dingell. 

To this day, when l see the light at the top of the Capitol dome shining above the Mall with its 

grand monuments that grace our nation's capital, l see a symbol of what can be accomplished with 

bipartisanship, collaboration, and dedication to working together to serve all Americans. That bill 

was not perfect; we didn't get everything right. Subsequent Congresses have refined it, multiple 

agencies have promulgated rules interpreting and implementing it, and courts have decided the 

fate of several of its provisions. But it was a product of our system of government working as it 

was designed with all three branches of the government doing their part. That experience of 

understanding opposing views, creating options and developing solutions will serve me well at the 

Department, should this committee approve my nomination and the Senate confirm me. 

1 
34 

I have learned valuable lessons working for several of our nation's largest utilities, Central and 

South West which merged with American Electric Power, and, most recently Berkshire Hathaway 

Energy. These positions provide a shared experience of managing collectively almost $150 billion 

in energy assets, over 38,000 employees, and serving over 17 million customers in almost half of 

our states. I gained management experience oflarge corporations with diverse workforces, worked 

to accomplish stretch goals under budget, faced the challenges in today's competitive energy 

markets, embraced the 24/7/365 days a year obligation to meet customer demands for affordable, 

reliable energy, and gained an understanding of the regulatory labyrinths of state commissions and 

the several Federal agencies that regulate energy companies today. 

These corporations trained me in leadership and management styles and how to plan, set goals and 

measure performance. At Central and South West, I learned the Grid Management system that 

trains leaders to cultivate a culture of empowerment so all employees contribute in the pursuit of 

goals. This training calls managers to promote the best in leadership and empathy essentially 

teaching us the most important lesson that "not one of us is smarter than all of us" and that plans 

to achieve goals must be constantly critiqued and evaluated, with set measures of success. At 

Berkshire, I recently participated in management training in the "3-G Way" which emphasizes 

treating people with greatness, fulfilling dreams, and instilling a culture of shared values. Goals 

are achieved through a constant process of planning, acting, measuring, and correcting. 

Performance is systematically improved through "gap" analyses to ensure goals are being 

achieved. This training and experience I will bring with me to the Department, should I be 

confirmed. 

As others have said before me, these are both exciting and challenging times to be in the energy 

space. Evolving, innovative technologies, many developed at our national labs and the 

Department's R&D programs have improved the quality of all aspects of our lives-not just energy 

but communications, transportation, science, health, and the environment. In my professional 

career, l have experienced the march of technological developments through establishing the 

prototypes of early wind and solar projects in West Texas to more recent technological 

advancements installed by Berkshire's MidAmerican Energy in its many wind projects across 

Iowa, making Iowa second only to Texas in wind production. 

Members of the Committee, I wish to thank you again for allowing me to be here today. It is indeed 

an honor to come before the committee, and I ask for your favorable consideration of the 

President's nomination. I look forward to hearing your questions to learn more about the 

challenges facing the Department. 

Thank you. 

2 
35 

The CHAIRMAN. Very good. Thank you. 

At this time, we will proceed to the first round of questioning for 

our nominees before the Committee. 

Ms. Combs, let me start with you. I can’t ever have discussions 

with my colleagues from Texas before we start talking about the 

size of our respective states—— 

[Laughter.] 

—but one of the things that is very unique between the two, and 

I am always very envious when I think of Texas, is most of the 

lands in Texas are not held under federal ownership, unlike Alaska, where some 63 percent are under federal management. And we 

say a lot back home that the Department of the Interior is effectively our landlord. One of the things that I think made Secretary 

Zinke’s visit so positive back home was he said, ‘‘I don’t think I like 

the landlord description, I like the partner description.’’ We would 

certainly hope that you adopt that same view and perspective. 

But truly your challenge, one of them, as I see it, is to oversee 

the management of over 245 million surface acres and over 700 

million acres of subsurface mineral estate. Over one-fifth of it is in 

my state, which again means that even some seemingly simple decisions made here in Washington have a great deal of impact on 

us. 

So give me just very quickly your view, your understanding, of 

the role between state and local governments as well as other 

stakeholders in terms of the role of management on our public 

lands because this is important to us on a host of different levels. 

So if you can speak to that aspect of your role as well as what it 

means from the permitting process and how states like Alaska can 

most effectively access some of the resources that are on our lands. 

Ms. COMBS. Thank you, Senator, for that question. I’m going to 

reuse the word ‘‘partner’’ and I think add to that collaboration and 

conversation, and I think the picture you laid out of the amount 

of land that you have that you obviously would like to see used and 

maintained and having access to, Secretary Zinke has talked about 

responsible use and also engaging with partnerships. 

So whether it is tribal communities or whether it is cities and 

counties, local governments, I certainly believe in that. I have used 

that collaborative approach on the endangered species issues I referred to in my opening remarks. But I think that the issue I’m 

also aware of from your staff is about the transfer of some lands 

and the selection process, and that is something I very much am 

eager to help you and Secretary Zinke move that forward. I know 

it’s been quite a long time. So thank you. 

The CHAIRMAN. Well, I appreciate that. There is a recognition 

that there have been a lot of promises that have been made to 

Alaska on statehood and to Alaskans, whether they be Alaska Native veterans or Native allotments, promises made that have yet to 

be delivered on, so we look forward to working with you on that. 

I want to ask a question about the Arctic Energy Office, and this 

is for you, Mr. Dabbar and Mr. Menezes. Right now, in the Appropriations markup going on with Energy and Water, the bill includes language that we included that supports a renewed focus on 

the Arctic region, and it encourages the Energy Department, as a 

cross-cutting activity, to use the Arctic Energy Office as a central-
36 

ized area to support the use of energy resources and innovative activities. So I’m looking for a commitment from you, gentlemen, to 

come to Alaska to see the opportunities that we have to produce 

the energy, our need for affordable energy, but also how the focus 

on the Arctic and the utilization of the Arctic Energy Office can 

continue. 

Mr. Menezes, do you want to comment on that? 

Mr. MENEZES. Thank you very much for that question. That was 

precisely one of the questions that we talked about with your staff, 

and we appreciate very much you making your staff available to 

us. But we discussed at length the office and the needs of the Alaskans. And indeed you have my commitment that, should I be confirmed, that we will look very seriously at that and work with Congress to ensure that we have adequate resources to reestablish that 

office, as I think it had been in existence before. 

The CHAIRMAN. Correct. I appreciate that. 

Mr. Dabbar. 

Mr. DABBAR. Thank you, Senator, for the question. I have a reasonable amount of experience with Arctic energy issues. I fully appreciate in particular remote villages that have harder access to 

energy and the importance of that, and the amount that technology 

can improve the opportunity for energy. I welcome the opportunity 

to visit your state again, hopefully this time above the surface of 

the water. 

[Laughter.] 

The CHAIRMAN. We look forward to that as well. 

Senator Cantwell. 

Senator CANTWELL. Thank you, Madam Chair. I know how important this hearing is, but I am almost—there is just so much to 

talk about, so much for each of you and each of your positions. 

There are a couple of broad things that is kind of striking to me 

this morning. One, we have this issue with the Department of Energy as it relates to Secretary Perry saying he wants to reshuffle 

some things. And then over at Interior, we have the Secretary, who 

is basically saying, ‘‘I’m reassigning some people who are in charge 

of science.’’ So it is a lot of confusion and, in my sense, a lot of undermining of science. 

For me, in the State of Washington, our big concern is Hanford 

cleanup—making sure that Hanford gets cleaned up and that we 

have people dedicated to that mission. 

So, Mr.—it is—— 

Mr. MENEZES. Menezes. 

Senator CANTWELL. ——Menezes, first I wanted to ask you because under Secretary Moniz, he tasked the Under Secretary with 

various management functions, including the Environmental Management program responsible for Hanford cleanup. He also made 

the Under Secretary responsible for the Environmental, Health, 

and Safety program, which is responsible for protecting the cleanup. Secretary Perry has indicated he plans to reassign those functions, but he has not told us how. What is your understanding of 

what your role is to be at the Department? 

Mr. MENEZES. Thank you very much, Ranking Member Cantwell, 

for that question. The first question that I got from your staff when 

we met was in fact this question. And, of course, it arises out of 
37 

the fact that we, back in ’05, had created the Under Secretary for 

Science. You know, it’s expected of any incoming administration, of 

course, to review the organization and management of the past administration and to make changes where necessary, but also to continue things, you know, in existence. 

The naming of the Unders, of course, is consistent with historical 

practices going back to 2005 and as statutes define them. But it’s 

the current organizational nomenclature that’s the historical anomaly. But, so—— 

Senator CANTWELL. Okay. I’m sorry I have to interrupt because 

of the overwhelming amount of people that are here and these are 

important questions. So are you going to be responsible for Hanford 

cleanup? Is it going to be your responsibility? 

Mr. MENEZES. On day one—— 

Senator CANTWELL. Do you understand the moral obligation here 

and the size and scope of the largest nuclear waste cleanup site in 

the entire world and the billions of dollars we spend annually on 

trying to achieve this goal? 

Mr. MENEZES. Yes, I do. 

Senator CANTWELL. Okay. So you—— 

Mr. MENEZES. On day one, it will be under my management. 

Senator CANTWELL. Okay. You have been told by the Secretary 

that is the case. 

Mr. MENEZES. I have not had direct conversations with the Secretary on this at all. I have not been briefed on this, but it is my 

understanding that on day one I will assume the Under Secretary 

for Management and Performance as currently in existence. 

Senator CANTWELL. Mr. Dabbar, what is your understanding of 

your role and responsibilities, and where are you on the urgency 

and critical importance of making sure there is adequate funding 

for Hanford and Hanford cleanup? 

Mr. DABBAR. Thank you, Senator. I fully appreciate the importance of this to your state and to the nation. As someone who has 

worked in the nuclear power industry both from an engineering 

and from an investment point of view for my whole adult life, I 

fully appreciate that. In addition to that, I’ve been to the Hanford 

Reservation many, many times, more times than I can remember, 

visiting both the National Lab and the full EM Complex as well as 

Columbia Generating Station. So I think I have a very good understanding of the urgency. 

I understand the moral imperative associated with what Hanford 

accomplished during World War II and subsequently during the 

Cold War and the obligation of the nation to clean it up. I have a 

very keen understanding and sympathy for the Tri-City area and 

some of the obligations both morally, but also legally, under the 

Tri-Party Agreement. In my position, as Under Secretary of 

Science, clearly I will run the science complex, Office of Science. 

As a restructuring might move things around, and once again, I 

have not been fully briefed, I feel I bring full skill sets and appreciation in particular on the science side of technology. I have a full 

appreciation for the requirements of the Tri-Party Agreement and 

the requirements, in particular the tank farm that technology is 

going to be needed that has not been produced in order to meet the 

requirements of the Tri-Party Agreement. 
38 

Senator CANTWELL. And what about worker safety? 

Mr. DABBAR. I completely have a very strong feeling around 

vapor point and around other things that have come up, the 

PUREX incident that just occurred. Once again, as an operating 

nuclear engineer, I have a full sympathy to make certain that safety is paramount for an organization, certainly in the nuclear waste 

complex. 

Senator CANTWELL. Well, I know my time has expired, Madam 

Chair, but this is such an important issue. It is not just for Washington, it happens to reside in our state, and we do have a TriParty Agreement, but I think everybody in this nation deserves an 

answer on how this is going to be managed and who is going to 

have what responsibilities. Every OMB director takes a stab at trying to redo this as well and comes up with an idea that they want 

to foist on all of us, and then all of us, as the oversight committee, 

try to make sure that the actual cleanup and the funding is there. 

So I just cannot imagine moving forward without having clarity. 

But I so appreciate your depth and knowledge on that subject, and 

thank you for the commitment on the worker safety as well. 

Madam Chair, I am going to come back to this. These subject 

matters are so important and so broad and so in-depth, and I am 

sure my colleagues feel the same way. I will come back to the rest 

of the witnesses on the second round. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Cantwell. 

Senator Gardner. 

Senator GARDNER. Thank you, Madam Chair. And thanks to all 

the nominees who are here today. Thank you for your willingness 

to serve, and welcome to your families. 

Ms. Combs, I apologize that we ended up missing yesterday’s 

meeting. Lunch with your new boss took a little bit longer than I 

think any of us anticipated at the White House yesterday. 

I wanted to just visit with you a little bit about the effort that 

I have been leading to move the Bureau of Land Management 

(BLM) headquarters to the Western part of the United States. Of 

the 248.3 million acres of public land managed by the Bureau of 

Land Management, 248.2 of that 248.3 million acres are located 

west of the Mississippi River—it is over 99 percent of the land located out West. There is no question that having some headquarters located in the West could result in better policies for our 

tribes, ranchers, constituents, recreationalists, and energy producers. I would just like to get your commitment that, if confirmed, 

you will work with me to make moving the BLM headquarters to 

the western states a reality. 

Ms. COMBS. Thank you, Senator. You, of course, have my commitment. I’ve seen those numbers before. And Secretary Zinke has 

also talked about, you know, fielding the folks where the land is 

and the fielding is, and I’m sure that he will be visiting with you 

as well. But I look forward to visiting with you about that. 

Senator GARDNER. Thank you very much. Northwest Colorado 

had a naval oil shale site that needed cleanup, and that cleanup 

was finished a few years ago. The fund that was generated within 

the Department to collect oil and gas mineral revenue in the area 

to assist with the cleanup contains revenue that needs to, by law, 

be returned to Colorado. Members of the Colorado Congressional 
39 

delegation have been trying to get this returned to our state for 

years. With this new Administration, I would like to work to get 

this situation rightfully addressed. Will the Department look to 

find ways to return this money to Colorado, as the law says? 

Ms. COMBS. Yes, Senator. Your office briefed me on that yesterday. I think the sum is $77 million. And I certainly, the minute, 

if I’m confirmed, I will be calling you on the phone. 

Senator GARDNER. Thank you. And if it must be done legislatively, I would hope that you would make it a priority to ask Congress to assist. Can I get that assurance? 

Ms. COMBS. Yes, sir, you do. 

Senator GARDNER. Thank you. Thank you. 

Ms. Burman, we had the opportunity to visit not too long ago 

talking about water issues. We talked about the Arkansas Valley 

conduit, which was approved by John F. Kennedy, signed into law 

by John F. Kennedy, but still not built yet, something that we will 

continue to work on. We talked about the need for permit reform 

so that it does not take a decade-plus to build water storage 

projects when we know in a state like Colorado we are just a few 

decades away from needing $15 billion worth of water storage 

projects, and we have to find a way to help meet the needs of future growth, industry, municipalities, and agricultural to make 

sure that we can get that. 

But I wanted to focus on something that has happened more recently in states like Colorado and Montana. In the most recent 

farm bill a couple years ago, Congress authorized a pilot program 

for the production of hemp. Unfortunately, the ability for farmers 

in Colorado to move forward on hemp production has been stymied 

and in other states has been stymied because they are using water 

which may move through federal facilities to grow these crops. 

Earlier this week, I joined with colleagues from Colorado, Montana, Senator Daines, and in Oregon to introduce legislation that 

would allow for the production of hemp using federal water so long 

as it complies with state law. I would just like your commitment 

to review the Bureau of Reclamation’s policies toward hemp production to ensure states’ rights when it comes to water are properly 

respected. 

Ms. BURMAN. Senator, thank you again for meeting with me this 

morning. I appreciated having our discussion about water supply, 

about the Arkansas conduit. I commit to you to going back, if confirmed, and taking a look at that legislation and working with you 

to see what we can do. 

Senator GARDNER. Yes. Thank you. And, again, I think it is very 

clear in federal law, whether it is the Supreme Court precedent 

that states’ primacy over water right determination should hold. 

And so I believe this is a matter of state right and state water law 

that should be supreme. 

Mr. Dabbar, a question for you on the role of science. I want to 

make sure that I am clear on just how you view science overall, 

how you view something like DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and 

Renewable Energy (EERE) and the National Renewable Energy 

Laboratory, if you would. 
40 

Mr. DABBAR. Thank you, Senator. And thank you for the conversation I had with you and your staff on the importance of that 

site in your state, but also the importance for it for the nation. 

Clearly, the Lab, the Renewable Lab, in your state is at the forefront of a lot of development on technologies about wind and wind 

modeling around PV and new different types of technologies around 

PV production as well as batteries and storage. 

It is obviously very important. The amount of growth in renewables that the private sector is growing in those areas is at very 

high rates, and the importance of that to our nation that can translate from research into manufacturing so that the maximum 

amount of those sort of resources that are made in this country as 

a production basis are manufactured here. 

So I look forward to hopefully coming to visit the site and learning more about the specific programs and hopefully be an advocate 

for those programs. 

Senator GARDNER. All right. Thank you. 

Thank you, Madam Chair. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Gardner. 

Senator King. 

Senator KING. Thank you, Madam Chair. You mentioned Texas 

and Alaska. When I was up with you for the field hearing in Alaska, I remember a t-shirt that had a picture of Alaska, and Texas 

was in the middle, and the title was ‘‘Poor Little Texas.’’ It was 

a—— 

[Laughter.] 

I wish I had brought it. I should have brought it back for you. 

The CHAIRMAN. [Off microphone.] 

[Laughter.] 

Senator KING. You are very generous. For those of you who have 

mentioned that this hearing is streaming, I can tell you that is not 

an unmixed blessing. On Tuesday morning, I made a presentation 

down here that was streamed. I talked to my wife last night and 

said, ‘‘How did it go?’’ She said, ‘‘I watched it on streaming. The 

second half was good.’’ It was a kind of qualified praise. 

[Laughter.] 

So you have to be careful with streaming. 

Mr. Dabbar, I was doing some research on your background. I 

must say I saw some of the most colorful comments about your 

skills, two I cannot resist mentioning. You were characterized as 

‘‘one bright cookie.’’ I like that one. But the one I really liked is, 

‘‘There ain’t no such thing as a stupid nuclear Navy guy.’’ 

[Laughter.] 

So I congratulate you on those, I think, high compliments. 

[Laughter.] 

Ms. Combs, the Department of the Interior needs to talk about 

the National Park Service. And what concerns me is that there is 

a very big backlog, as you know, of maintenance aside from roads. 

I believe the total backlog is about $11 billion, but the roads are 

about $5 billion so we are talking about $6 billion, and yet in the 

budget that has been submitted this year, the Park Service is cut 

by 11 percent. 

How do you plan to deal—briefly, because I have a limited 

amount of time—how do you plan to deal with the backlog of main-
41 

tenance in our national parks which are more and more popular 

every year? Last year Acadia National Park had named, just from 

’15 to ’16, a 20 percent increase in visitors. 

Ms. COMBS. Thank you, Senator. That is obviously a very important issue for Secretary Zinke as well. I was not a part of creating 

the budget, I’m not at the Department, but I will commit to working with you to find ways, for one thing, to increase revenues as 

well as reduce costs. I know that the national parks are a giant 

economic driver in the communities where they are located. The 

public loves to visit them, which is why I mentioned the 400,000 

people just running down the road near me. This is important—— 

Senator KING. It’s 3.2 million at Acadia in Maine, 3.2 million 

visitors at Acadia in Maine, so—— 

Ms. COMBS. Yes. And it’s very, very important, and I look forward to working with you and ensuring that we have a good process in place to reduce and get rid of the backlog, the $5 billion. 

Senator KING. Now, to our three nominees for the Department of 

Energy, budgets represent policy. In 2017, Congress appropriated 

funds for various offices in the Department of Energy. The budget 

that was submitted by this Administration cuts energy efficiency 

and renewable energy by 70 percent; electric delivery and reliability by an unbelievable 40 percent; Office of Science at the labs, 

17 percent; ARPA-E, a basic science research, 93 percent, essentially eliminated; weatherization, very important in my state, 

eliminated; state energy programs, eliminated. There was even a 

cut to the Energy Information Administration, which I just cannot 

believe because data is so important. Congress is not going to go 

along with those cuts. In fact, the Appropriations Committee is 

working on them right now. 

Here is my question to the three of you, and yes or no answers, 

you can do it in unison as we did it with your swearing in, I hope. 

If funded by the Congress and the appropriations process, will you 

see to it that these programs will be fully implemented and appropriated funds expended in accordance with Congressional intent? 

Mr. MENEZES. Yes. 

Mr. JONAS. Yes. 

Mr. DABBAR. Yes, Senator. 

Senator KING. Those were the right answers. 

[Laughter.] 

Will you see to it that these programs are adequately staffed in 

accordance with Congressional intent? 

Mr. MENEZES. Yes. 

Mr. JONAS. Yes, Senator. 

Mr. DABBAR. Yes, Senator. 

Senator KING. I appreciate your straightforward answers. 

Thank you, Madam Chair. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator King. 

Senator Flake. 

Senator FLAKE. Well, thank you. Sorry I had to go, but I enjoyed 

hearing, Brenda, your testimony and your introduction. 

With Reclamation, obviously, everybody knows the importance of 

water to Arizona. It is our lifeblood. And fortunately you have a lot 

experience—you mentioned your experience with Senator Kyl’s of-
42 

fice. Can you talk about the Indian water settlements and how important that is to states like Arizona and other Western states? 

Ms. BURMAN. Senator, thank you for raising that. I’ve been working on Indian water rights settlements my entire career. For Arizona and for the other states in the West, it’s hard to explain how 

important they are. Indian tribal rights are often first in time, first 

in right, which means that they call into question rights that came 

after them. By negotiating, by settling these rights, by not going 

to litigation, you can come up with solutions that are good for all 

parties, and that’s—I would like to say there has been a great history in Arizona of doing that. I think that’s true across the West. 

I think that the best solutions come from collaboration, they come 

from negotiation, and they come from the parties coming together 

to settle those claims. 

Senator FLAKE. Well, I can tell you, as a Senator following Senator Kyl, it is a bit daunting, given the work that he has done on 

water and in particular with these Indian water settlements. As 

you say, they are vital because it gives some kind of certainty and 

surety moving ahead for not just the tribes involved but other 

water users as well. 

Obviously, the Colorado River is extremely important to Arizona, 

all the Lower Basin and Upper Basin as well. Can you talk about 

what needs are there with regard to the Colorado River going 

ahead that Reclamation is going to be vital to? 

Ms. BURMAN. The Colorado River, as you said, is the lifeblood to 

Arizona, but also to seven basin states and to the country of Mexico. I’ll be working with Secretary Zinke, if confirmed, to prioritize 

our work on the Colorado River. The Secretary has a very special 

role under the 1928 Boulder Canyon Project Act as the water master of the Lower Basin. 

There are issues right on the table. There is an agreement with 

Mexico that expires this year. I’ll work with Secretary Zinke, if confirmed, to work on reaching agreement with Mexico before the end 

of the year if at all possible. 

The states have been working together to address drought and 

possible upcoming shortages. They are working hard right now. I 

hope to be confirmed swiftly and to work with them and to step 

into the Bureau of Reclamation and to see what we can accomplish 

as quickly as possible. 

Senator FLAKE. There is a drought contingency plan being 

worked out now I understand. What role will you play there? 

Ms. BURMAN. If confirmed as the lead of Reclamation, I’ll be Secretary Zinke’s prime adviser on working with the Basin states and 

Mexico on coming to agreement on a drought contingency plan. 

Senator FLAKE. Why is that important moving ahead? 

Ms. BURMAN. The Lower Basin and the Upper Basin are looking 

at shortage. There have been 18 years of shortage on the Colorado 

River. The Upper Basin states have been working together to try 

and shore up to make sure that they can keep critical elevations 

in Lake Powell, while the Lower Basin states have been working 

together and with Mexico to make sure that they can maintain critical elevations in Lake Mead. 

Looking ahead and looking at shortage, this is a way to prevent 

the system from, some would say, collapsing. What you need to do 
43 

is you need to keep Lake Mead at a healthy level so that it can 

serve all the states and it can serve the constituents and people 

can look ahead and plan for what the possible shortages could be. 

There are a lot of commitments on the table. I am not part of 

those discussions right now, and I haven’t been, but I do look forward to joining those and to staffing and serving Secretary Zinke 

as we work those out. 

Senator FLAKE. Well, thank you. Obviously, it is important in Arizona. Some water users have voluntarily left water behind the 

dam at Lake Mead to make sure that those levels stay where they 

need to be before mandatory arbitrary levels are hit that nobody 

wants to see. We have been given a bit of a reprieve with a very 

wet winter, particularly further West, but with the Upper Basin, 

it has been pretty good. Lake Powell seems to be going up. How 

much of a reprieve have we been given with regard to Lake Mead? 

Ms. BURMAN. I am going to leave that to the experts. 

[Laughter.] 

It has been a wet year, and that has been a blessing. 

Senator FLAKE. Well, certainly we know that it is going to take 

a lot of very wet winters to get us out of the woods here, and that 

is why this drought contingency plan is so important, to make sure 

that we plan. Nobody likes to talk about shortages—I think we 

refer to them as imbalances on the river—but those are significant 

in the future, and it is going to take a lot of planning. I am glad 

you have brought the expertise to the table that you bring from a 

number of different angles, and so I am excited to see you there 

and look forward to working with you if confirmed. 

Ms. BURMAN. Thank you, Senator. 

Senator FLAKE. Thank you, Madam Chair. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Flake. 

Senator Franken. 

Senator FRANKEN. Thank you, Madam Chair. 

Welcome to all of you. And I would like to welcome all the family 

members here, but especially the Minnesota Burmans. 

[Laughter.] 

They seem to be a cut above the other family members here. 

[Laughter.] 

Mr. Jonas, I just want to thank you for your statement regarding 

the article you wrote 20 years ago on the role of women and LGBT 

and the military. I like that you wrote and testified, ‘‘I will bring 

all this experience, including the lesson of changing minds,’’ to your 

new job if you are confirmed. Thank you for making that statement. 

Mr. Domenech, prior to your nomination for this position, you led 

the Fueling Freedom Project at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, a conservative think tank that receives funding from Koch 

brothers and ExxonMobil. Your job was to fight against any action 

that would reduce greenhouse emissions. 

Now, Mr. Domenech, you have been nominated to lead federal 

policy for U.S. territories, including a number in the Pacific and 

the U.S. Virgin Islands. These territories all happen to be islands 

in the Pacific and the Caribbean and are already seeing climate 

change impacts through rising sea levels, changing precipitation 
44 

patterns, and ocean acidification. So I would like to better understand your views on the subject of climate change. 

The National Climate Assessment found that unless we take action, sea levels are expected to rise over three feet on average by 

the end of the century, possibly much more. Do you accept that 

view? And yes or no will do as an answer. 

Mr. DOMENECH. I’m not familiar—thank you for that question, 

Senator. I’m not familiar with that particular number, but I 

wouldn’t be surprised if it’s not true. I do agree that the climate 

is changing and that man has a role in that, and especially for the 

islands, they are particularly vulnerable, especially the low-lying 

atolls and islands are very vulnerable to sea level rise. And I’ve 

committed to the Governors and to the delegates that I would work 

with them on that issue. 

Senator FRANKEN. Well, you did write in an op-ed last year, and 

I quote, ‘‘Is man making an impact on the climate? Perhaps, but 

in very small ways.’’ Is that what you meant when you answered 

my question? 

Mr. DOMENECH. Yes, and thank you again for reminding me of 

what I wrote. My understanding of where scientists are today is 

that man definitely has an impact on the climate, and the question 

is just, is it catastrophic? How much of an impact do they have? 

And that that is—— 

Senator FRANKEN. Is it your understanding that climate scientists say that man’s effect on climate happens in a very small 

way? Is that your understanding? Because that’s what you wrote. 

Mr. DOMENECH. Yes. I mean, I think—— 

Senator FRANKEN. So, but that is at odds with about 97 percent 

of climate scientists. 

Mr. DOMENECH. Well, I would say to you, Senator, that the study 

that is cited on the 97 percent of climate scientists agree has been, 

my understanding, debunked in the past as a particular number, 

but I think the most—— 

Senator FRANKEN. Really? 

Mr. DOMENECH. Yeah, that’s my understanding of it. 

Senator FRANKEN. That is your understanding. 

Mr. DOMENECH. That was their study. 

Senator FRANKEN. What is your understanding based on? I am 

really curious about that. 

Mr. DOMENECH. Well, I’ve read—thank you again for that question. I’ve read reports—— 

Senator FRANKEN. You are welcome. 

[Laughter.] 

Mr. DOMENECH. I’ve read reports that have looked at that particular study that said the 97 percent, and have indicated that 

there were flaws in that particular study, and I would be glad to 

follow up with you—— 

Senator FRANKEN. Well, could you tell me right now what you 

are talking about, what studies you are talking about? 

Mr. DOMENECH. I can’t off the top of my head, no. It’s not something I dwell on. 

Senator FRANKEN. Did you find these studies on the prestigious 

Internet? 

[Laughter.] 
45 

Mr. DOMENECH. I find—yes, I understand your point. 

Senator FRANKEN. Okay. Well, I find this very disturbing. If confirmed, you are going to be responsible for some vulnerable communities, these island communities. So given your history of 

downplaying or ignoring climate change, why do you think you are 

the right person to help these communities? 

Mr. DOMENECH. Well, I’ve—again, thank you for that question. 

I’ve—my whole life has been spent trying to help people who are 

involved in the environment. In Virginia, when I was Secretary of 

Natural Resources, 100 miles from here we have Tangier Island, 

which is probably a better example to use of a fishing community 

in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay that is experiencing erosion 

and sea level rise and impacting that community. We worked with 

them quite a bit in terms of reinforcing their shoreline and those 

kinds of activities with the Corps of Engineers. 

And so I take it very seriously. I don’t at all minimize that the 

climate is changing, and I would only say that the head of the U.S. 

Geological Survey himself has said that we need to always keep in 

perspective that the climate of the Earth has always changed since 

the beginning of the planet, and it always will change. So we have 

to put that in perspective when we deal with these natural—— 

Senator FRANKEN. Well, I think when we put that in perspective, 

we have to look at how it has changed since the Industrial Age and 

look at how it has changed and how the weather has changed in 

relation to the amount of carbon dioxide that is in the air. I believe 

you will see a correlation between temperature and the amount of 

CO2 in the atmosphere. 

Thank you. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you. 

Let’s go to Senator Heinrich. 

Senator HEINRICH. Thank you, Madam Chair. 

Ms. Burman, I want to start off with you, and I do want to say 

I find you have a very impressive resume. You have a broad array 

of experiences that I think you bring to this job, and you have a 

history of reliance on science and data. I want to start by saying 

frankly what worries me the most about the current Administration have been some of the expressions of disdain and distrust directed at science data and, in particular, scientists. 

Do you share any of that concern? And probably more importantly, what are you going to do to protect the Bureau’s historic 

role as a science-driven, honest broker in water basin management? 

Ms. BURMAN. Thank you, Senator. In my past, when I worked at 

the Department, we continuously worked with the United States 

Geological Survey, with the USGS, to bring the best science possible to Reclamation and the interpretation of that science. We did 

that with climate change, we did that through the series of river 

gauges that exist over the United States that help the operators of 

water projects across the West be on the front lines and look at 

what’s coming in the future. 

I am not with the Administration at this point, but I continue 

and I foresee continuing to work to make sure that Reclamation 

has the best science and the best understanding when moving forward. 
46 

Senator HEINRICH. If you were in a position where you felt like 

decisions might be made that were not in concert with the facts, 

with the best available science from USGS, how would you approach that? 

Ms. BURMAN. Senator, Secretary Zinke is putting his trust in me 

to lead Reclamation, and he’s putting his trust in me to give him 

independent advice, and I’ll call it as I see it. 

Senator HEINRICH. Thank you. 

Mr. Menezes. 

Mr. MENEZES. Yes. 

Senator HEINRICH. One of the things I continue to hear about is 

the need for additional funding at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant 

(WIPP) to recapitalize critical infrastructure. I hope you are aware 

of the issue over the last couple of years, the accident, the recovery 

from that accident; I suspect you are. But WIPP is now reporting 

a backlog of roughly $25 million in critical upgrades to key fire 

safety systems, instrumentations, and infrastructure. 

Having been through that experience, having seen WIPP shut its 

doors, I just think safety has got to be the absolute number one 

critical priority above all else for our DOE workers. I want to know 

if you are committed to finding the resources to make sure that 

WIPP cannot just operate, but operate safely. 

Mr. MENEZES. Thank you, Senator, for that question. I have not 

been fully briefed on that; however, when meeting with your staff 

I said that one of our number one commitments, of course, would 

be worker safety at all of the critical sites, and certainly at WIPP, 

and we’ll continue that commitment. 

Senator HEINRICH. Well, I just want to reinforce that it is great 

to say that, and I trust that you mean exactly what you say, but 

we have had situations like the accident at WIPP that we simply, 

I think in the Complex, cannot tolerate. We cannot put people in 

those positions. When you make a compact with a state and with 

a community, part of what goes along with that, as the Carlsbad 

community is accepting this true waste from all over the country, 

all over the Complex, is that we have to make good on our side of 

that bargain, which is to make sure that those workers absolutely 

and always work in a safe environment. So I look forward to working with you to make sure that we make good on those promises. 

Mr. MENEZES. Senator, you have my commitment to be a strong 

advocate for worker safety. 

Senator HEINRICH. Mr. Dabbar, is the climate warming? 

Mr. DABBAR. Senator, the climate is absolutely changing. And I 

appreciate the question and the sensitivity to it. And I appreciate 

that, if I understand correctly, as the only engineer in the Senate, 

that I would love to work with you on this topic. 

Senator HEINRICH. I do not want to throw my colleague from 

Montana under the bus, he is a chemical engineer, and we still 

count those. So there are a couple of us. 

[Laughter.] 

Do you concur that human activities are driving that? And, more 

importantly, what should we do about it? What are you going to 

do about it at DOE? 

Mr. DABBAR. Senator, thank you for the question. I absolutely 

agree that humans are contributing. My job, as Under Secretary of 
47 

Science, should I be confirmed by this body, is to provide the data 

and to provide the technology for policymakers and appropriators 

to properly make decisions. My job, as a manager and focused on 

operations, is to execute on the appropriations. And as appropriated, I will absolutely go and spend those resources to provide 

you, the rest of the Senate, and the nation with the data and the 

technology for you to make those decisions. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Heinrich. 

We will now turn to Senator Lee. I have to excuse myself to go 

down to an Appropriations Committee hearing. Senator Hirono will 

follow Senator Lee. My hope is that we will have other members 

coming in and out and I will be able to get back before we run out 

of questioners. But if in fact that is the case, I certainly will have 

more questions for the record. Again, remember that we will leave 

the record open until close of business today. 

Senator Lee, thank you for helping out here. 

Senator LEE [presiding]. Thank you very much, Madam Chair. 

Thanks to each of you for being here and for all you do. 

Ms. Burman, I would like to start with you if possible. I would 

like to bring to your attention a problem that we have been having 

in connection with the Flaming Gorge Dam which is, of course, in 

Northeastern Utah. The dam is located on the Green River, and it 

is one of four units in the Colorado River Project. Among a lot of 

functions that this particular dam performs, the dam regulates 

water flow, it controls flooding, and it provides recreational opportunities and a lot of related economic benefits to all the communities that are in place downstream from it. 

In 2006, the Bureau of Reclamation decided to operate the dam 

using an adaptive management approach. The approach was supposed to give the Bureau more flexibility in managing flow and 

flow releases in order to protect fish that were endangered. Although well-intended, that decision ended up having some dire consequences for some of the downstream communities. For example, 

in 2011, an ill-timed flow release at the dam during a period of particularly high spring runoff caused flooding along the river, resulting in many millions of dollars of property damage. Additionally, 

increased release volumes have severely hampered the tourism, 

outfitting, and fishing industries, all of which are pretty important 

essential economic pillars of these communities, and a lot of the impact on this has, of course, hit those who are least able to absorb 

it. 

State and local leaders are understandably anxious to resolve the 

problem. Earlier this year, a group of legislators sent a letter to the 

Bureau of Reclamation requesting to work collaboratively with the 

Bureau on a long-term solution that will ensure that local interests 

are not drowned out by their efforts to help fish. So if confirmed, 

Ms. Burman, will you commit to listen to state and local leaders 

and work with them to find a reasonable, workable solution to 

problems like this? 

Ms. BURMAN. Senator, I will. Your staff was kind enough to give 

me some background on the issues facing Flaming Gorge Reservoir, 

and when confirmed, I look forward to learning more, to working 

with Reclamation and with your staff to understand it better. 
48 

Senator LEE. Thank you. I appreciate that commitment very 

much. 

Ms. Combs, Secretary Zinke has emphasized the importance of 

restoring trust between the American people and the U.S. Department of the Interior. This is, as you can imagine, especially important for many millions of Americans across the Western United 

States who feel ignored during and as a result of major land management decisions that have a tendency to disrupt their lives and 

their livelihoods in a somewhat unique way. 

I appreciate Secretary Zinke for the steps that he has already 

taken to restore trust among people in Utah, such as his listening 

tour through San Juan County in Southeastern Utah and his interim report to the President dealing with the Bears Ears National 

Monument, but there is still a lot of work to do. 

Ms. Combs, if confirmed, what role will you and your office play 

in helping to restore trust between the American people, particularly those most affected by decisions made by the Interior in 

places like the western United States and the Interior Department? 

Ms. COMBS. Senator, thank you for that question. I think Secretary Zinke did, of course, discuss trust a number of times. He 

also talked about being sure that the federal personnel are actually 

near where some of the actions are taking place, and he really does 

want to be sure that the field offices are out there and that they’re 

working in an open, collaborative, cooperative way where people 

really at all levels, whether it’s city, state, county, local, et cetera, 

are talking with the Department of the Interior. And I would very 

much welcome the chance to work with you if I am confirmed. 

Senator LEE. Thank you. 

Mr. Dabbar and Mr. Menezes, I would like to direct my next 

question to both of you. You both have experience in the private 

sector, and you know that there are always difficult decisions to be 

made when you are investing limited resources. The last few decades have seen a lot of significant developments in the energy sector, but we have seen a lot of new ventures fail in that area as 

well. This is a good thing and actually a healthy thing, it is a 

healthy part of the process of innovation. 

In a free market, investments flow to the most promising technology, the most useful technology, but when government intervenes and supports a particular technology that happens to be politically favored, it has the potential to distort markets and discourage investment and other potentially more beneficial technologies. 

So if confirmed, what can each of you do to make sure that the 

Department of Energy is not using taxpayer dollars to pick winners 

and losers in the energy sector? 

Mr. DABBAR. Thank you, Senator Lee, for the question. And I 

fully appreciate given my both public and private sector experience 

in capital allocation across the energy industry, certainly, in my position as Under Secretary for Science, my primary focus will be to 

execute on the capital or the appropriation, to use either word, 

that’s assigned by this body. 

Obviously, the Administration focuses on basic research, and 

there is obviously a tremendous amount of basic research opportunities within my potential area. I will execute, once again, on what-
49 

ever is assigned, and I will make certain that that capital, whether 

it’s in basic or applied, will be spent prudently. 

Senator LEE. Mr. Menezes. 

Mr. MENEZES. Thank you, Senator. And to add to what my colleague said regarding appropriations, we will stand by ready to follow the intent of Congress on these things. You know, we’re in an 

all-of-the-above position here. My company, Berkshire Hathaway, 

my experience there is you don’t really pick winners and losers; you 

develop projects where you can to provide affordable, reliable service. In this case, renewables are developing very well. 

But having said that, there was a time when I recall that Congress passed a Fuel Use Act, which one of my companies was 100 

percent natural gas, which then forced us to go to coal. So I have 

shared experience in that, and I will bring a commitment to ensure 

that taxpayer dollars are spent as Congress intends. 

Senator LEE. Thank you. 

Senator Cortez Masto. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. Thank you. 

Welcome. Please excuse me for coming in and out. I have three 

committees going on at the same time, but I thank you for your 

willingness to serve. And welcome to your very large families. 

[Laughter.] 

It is nice to see everyone. So I only have five minutes. I am going 

to just ask a couple of questions here, and I will start with Mr. 

Menezes, is it? 

Mr. MENEZES. That’s correct. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. And Mr. Dabbar. 

Geothermal energy is one of the fastest growing industries in Nevada. In 2013, there were 29 geothermal power plants operating in 

9 of Nevada’s 17 counties. The Nevada Department of Energy has 

estimated that at least 6,000 jobs will be created through geothermal energy investment. The proposed cuts to DOE will not provide for adequate funding for the Geothermal Technologies Office 

to continue researching geothermal energy innovations. Do you believe investments in geothermal energy should be prioritized? I will 

ask both gentlemen, Mr. Menezes and Mr. Dabbar, whoever wants 

to start. 

Mr. MENEZES. Thank you very much. You have my commitment 

to be a strong advocate for spending the monies as sent to us by 

Congress, as directed by Congress, that we will follow the intent 

of Congress there, and particularly with geothermal. Both with my 

company’s experience and my own personal experience with geothermal, it is indeed a very dynamic area. It’s even becoming baseload in many instances. 

So it’s an exciting time in the technological advancements with 

geothermal, and you certainly have my commitment to be a strong 

advocate for fully funding the geothermal activities following the 

will of Congress. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. Thank you. 

Mr. DABBAR. Thank you, Senator, for the question. I agree with 

everything that my colleague, my hopefully future colleague, answered. I would just add that I’ve done a significant amount—I 

have investment experience in Nevada. I know that the largest geothermal company in the United States is headquartered in Reno, 
50 

and I have personal experience with them. So I completely agree 

with that commitment, and I know that Nevada is a leader in this 

area. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. Thank you. I appreciate those commitments. 

So let me ask Ms. Combs an additional question with respect to 

geothermal power, because the Administration budget repeals the 

25 percent share of revenue distribution for geothermal royalties 

that is provided to many of our rural counties. These royalties provide up to 10 percent of revenue. Do you agree with repealing these 

payments? And isn’t this a promise to rural areas like those in my 

home state? 

Ms. COMBS. Well, thank you for that question, Senator. I, of 

course, have not been at the Department and taken a look at this. 

I’m actually a big fan of geothermal, and I will not say that I’ve 

seen it here, but I went to Iceland, and how much power they do 

is just extraordinary. And so I’m sort of an all-of-the-above person, 

so whether it’s wind, solar—I’ve got solar pumps on my ranch. I’ve 

seen geothermal. We don’t—we’re hot, but we’re not that hot. 

[Laughter.] 

As well as, of course, support for gas. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. Fantastic. Three out of three, I will take 

it. Being from Las Vegas, that is great odds. 

[Laughter.] 

Thank you very much. 

Let me ask, Ms. Burman. Thank you, first of all, for coming to 

visit with me. I really appreciate the conversation. There was one 

thing I did not get to talk to you about, and I know you are just 

getting into the office, but just let me put it out there. If you have 

the opportunity to respond or you want to look into it further, I 

also understand. 

The Bureau of Reclamation has determined that the Boca Dam 

in Nevada needs safety modifications. Typically, under the Safety 

of Dams Act, 15 percent of the costs incurred by the modifications 

are reimbursed and allocated to the, quote, ‘‘authorized purposes’’ 

of the structure. Boca Dam’s authorized purposes, per our Truckee 

River Operating Agreement, does not fit well under the Act’s definition. So as Commissioner, do you think you would support an 

amendment to the Act to reflect a broader set of, quote, ‘‘authorized 

purposes’’ so that Boca Dam can apply under the statute to help 

expedite important safety modifications? 

Ms. BURMAN. Senator, I’m familiar with the Safety of Dams Act. 

I’m not familiar with the issues that are facing Boca Dam, but I 

do commit to working with you, with your staff, and to going back 

and working with the Department and Reclamation to understand 

it better and to work with you. 

Senator CORTEZ MASTO. I appreciate that. And then, just in general, renewable energy obviously is an important part of our future 

in Nevada and across this country. The current budget administration—Trump Administration—wants to cut a number of the budget 

implications that would have a positive impact on renewable energy in this country. I hope I can work with all of you to not only 

continue to promote, fund, and support innovation research in this 
51 

area, but I am looking forward to that collaboration. So I appreciate it. 

I know my time is up, but I thank you for your willingness to 

serve and being here today to answer all these questions. 

Senator LEE. Thank you. That completes the first round. I do not 

have any additional questions so starting on the second round, we 

will go to Senator Cantwell. 

Senator CANTWELL. Thank you. Thank you, Senator Lee. 

Ms. Burman, we had a chance to talk about all of the Bureau of 

Reclamation projects and our philosophy and ideas and the challenges that we are facing. Our colleagues have had a chance to ask 

you a few questions on this, but I wanted to ask you specifically 

about collaboration and your experience. Obviously, the Yakima 

Basin Project is one of these examples. Do you think this is the 

path forward for us to get more work done on very, very thorny 

water issues in the West? 

Ms. BURMAN. Senator, I’ve been working on thorny water issues 

for 19 years now, and where I’ve seen victories and I’ve seen accomplishments, they’ve been accomplished through collaboration 

and working with the local communities. I’m just starting to learn 

about the Yakima Project. I’ve always heard that it’s a project 

that’s shown collaboration and has a lot of respect. I look forward 

to learning more about that. 

But absolutely, I think where projects work, where you fix issues, 

where you untie some of those thorny knots, is through working 

with everyone on the ground. 

Senator CANTWELL. Okay, thank you. 

Ms. Combs, obviously, in your new job, you will have oversight 

over a lot of individuals within the Department of the Interior. I 

mentioned earlier in my opening statement that Secretary Zinke 

has reportedly ordered the reassignment of as many as 50 Department Senior Executive Service members. They are people who have 

special skills and extensive knowledge from the jobs that they have 

held, and they are being removed or given unwelcome reassignments. One of these individuals was revealed in the Washington 

Post this morning. You could say that he was a whistleblower—and 

is being reshuffled within the organization. 

So I, obviously, want to get answers to this, but I wanted to hear 

what your thoughts are on making sure that, as someone who 

would oversee these individuals, what are you going to do to protect the SES, Senior Executive Service, at the Department, these 

members, and make sure that they do not just get arbitrarily reassigned just because someone else does not believe in science? 

Ms. COMBS. Senator, thank you for that question. I obviously 

have not been part of any decision-making in the Department, but 

I do understand the role of the Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and Budget. And I know that—I believe I’ve been told 

that SES folks are supposed to be mobile, to add to their resumes. 

With respect to the particular matter you described, I don’t have 

any information, but I certainly, if confirmed, will look forward to 

working with you on that, but I don’t have any particular—— 

Senator CANTWELL. But you are aware of it? 

Ms. COMBS. Somebody sent me a press release, a comment, this 

morning. That’s the first I had heard of it. 
52 

Senator CANTWELL. Okay. Well, I am concerned enough that I intend to ask the Inspector General to look into it. As my colleague 

from New Mexico was talking about, the importance of science 

across both of these agencies is critically important, and so we need 

to make sure that those individuals who have the experience, who 

are involved in science, are going to continue to fulfill those responsibilities. There are always reorganizations at an agency, but making sure that people are there to fulfill the mission and that the 

people who have those experiences are not being reassigned simply 

because they have those experiences, so that someone, say, more 

political but without science experience, comes in to take their job. 

So I will definitely be asking the Inspector General to look into 

what the Department is doing. I would hope that you would take 

this as a very important message that we consider this, from an 

oversight perspective, a very important subject. 

Ms. COMBS. Thank you, Senator. 

Senator CANTWELL. Thank you, Senator Lee. 

Senator LEE. Thank you. 

Senator Cortez Masto, do you have any additional questions? 

[No audible response.] 

Senator LEE. Senator King. 

Senator KING. Just one follow-up. 

Mr. Domenech, I was interested in your exchange with Senator 

Franken on climate change. You and I could spend a lot of time 

discussing it. I would just commend to you an analysis of CO2 in 

the atmosphere since about 1850, the inauguration of large-scale 

burning of fossil fuel. It has gone up from the band that it occurred 

over the last million years from about a maximum of 180 to 200, 

300 parts per million to 400, a place it has not been for five million 

years. The coincidence of that rise in CO2 and the rise of the burning of fossil fuel is unmistakable. I would just like you to take a 

look at that data from Mauna Loa in Hawaii and other ice core 

data. I would be glad to provide that to you. 

Secondly, you may see the results of this in your jurisdiction because some of the islands you are responsible for may well disappear on your watch. I would suggest one interesting step in your 

stewardship of this responsibility would be to immediately, upon 

taking office, ask the residents of the islands in the Pacific to mark 

the main high water mark today, and then have it checked on the 

day you leave office. My guess is there will be a noticeable change. 

This is one of the most serious challenges facing our country and 

our world. I hope you will, as we have had one of the witnesses already testify, take the occasion to look at the data and open your 

mind to change. 

Thank you. 

Mr. DOMENECH. Thank you. 

The CHAIRMAN [presiding]. Thank you, Senator King. 

Mr. Menezes, I want to bring up an issue that we discussed with 

Secretary Moniz when he was Secretary of Energy, and this relates 

to the Office of Energy, Indian Policy and Programs. It is one of 

the smaller DOE offices, but it also accounts for all of DOE’s employees in Alaska, both of them. We have two. 

[Laughter.] 
53 

Two. For a considerable period of time, it was down to just one. 

I was home last weekend and was at church and ran into the one 

gentleman that has basically been holding down the fort all these 

years. When Secretary Moniz was in the state with us when we 

went out to Oscarville, he made the commitment that, yes, we have 

to address the issues with regard to the Office of Indian Energy 

and make sure that we are doing all that we can to help the communities, not just in Alaska, but around the country, to be more 

energy-sustainable. And the commitment was, ‘‘Look, we’ve got to 

have at least three.’’ 

Well, we are not to three, we are sitting at two. And it is not typical for me to be pushing for more employees, but you have onefifth of the—excuse me—one-half of the tribes in the country that 

are in Alaska. We have extraordinary energy potentials within the 

state, and certainly opportunities within the microgrid systems, 

again ways that we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels in these 

high-cost areas. 

So I need to know whether you support the Office of Indian Energy and will work with us to make sure that these offices have 

the support that they clearly need in order to do what will help 

benefit not only those in rural parts of Alaska, but rural parts of 

our nation as well. 

Mr. MENEZES. Thank you, Senator, for that question. I certainly 

support the Office of Indian Energy, going back to 2005, when we 

put it in the bill, and today my commitment continues. Alaska continues to be a unique place, not only for the tribes that it serves, 

but also for R&D for our labs. So we look forward to working with 

you with that, and you have my commitment to be a strong advocate for the Office of Indian Affairs. 

The CHAIRMAN. Well, we really need that commitment. Again, we 

need the commitment to make sure that we have the resources on 

the ground to really help these small communities. 

I want to broaden the question a little bit and include you, Mr. 

Dabbar, with regard to microgrids. As folks know on this Committee, our grid system, our energy grid system, is pretty much 

limited to the rail-built area. When you have over 80 percent of 

your communities that are not connected by road, that also means 

that they are not connected most times by any kind of an energy 

intertie. How can we take steps to again reduce reliance on diesel 

generation, because that is how many of these smaller communities 

are powered. 

Senator Cantwell came with me when we had a field hearing in 

Cordova, Alaska, and it was an opportunity to focus on what I 

think are some of the exciting prospects when it comes to 

microgrids, those things that we can do to really help integrate our 

renewable energy sources to bring down costs, to provide greater 

reliability. It is an area that I get excited about. It is an area that 

I think not only Alaska should be leading on, we are pioneering in 

so many of these ways. 

I am curious as to how you might structure a more comprehensive research program in microgrids to leverage the assets that we 

have within the Department and the expertise that we have, 

whether it is within our universities or whether it is what our local 

communities have, because we clearly saw that level of expertise 
54 

at that field hearing. So how can we do more when it comes to our 

opportunities with microgrids? This impacts not only us in Alaska, 

but certainly our friends in Hawaii as well that are in the same 

type of structure. 

Mr. DABBAR. Thank you, Senator, for the question. I have quite 

a bit of experience, not in the Arctic, but in microgrids in Hawaii, 

in Texas, in California. What’s truly exciting is that the technology 

changes that have taken place both on the renewable side as well 

as in the natural gas side and in storage has been dramatic in the 

last few years. 

The amount of—the ability for economically advantaged production of generation on a microgrid scale has jumped from not being 

very viable economically without some incentives to actually working without incentives in many places. And clearly Hawaii is one 

example of that, being a bit unique, but in many other areas of the 

country, even in Texas, I’ve seen microgrids and distributed generation work very well. 

I am not familiar with all of the work that the labs have done 

in this area, but I know the technology is there, and I know that 

it is economically viable, and it was not as economically viable just 

5 or 10 years ago. 

So you have my commitment that I will dig into what the resources are and the research in this area at the Lab Complex, and 

I look forward to progressing that even further. 

The CHAIRMAN. We will invite you all up to Cordova and 

Oscarville and parts in between. 

Senator Hirono. 

Senator HIRONO. Thank you, Madam Chair. 

Mr. Dabbar, as you know, during your tenure at J.P. Morgan you 

worked directly with Hawaiian Electric Industries (HEI). In fact, I 

just heard from Connie Lau, who is the CEO and President of HEI, 

in support of your nomination. As you know, of course, Hawaii has 

relied on imported fossil fuel for 90 percent of our energy production in the electricity area. 

Thanks in large part to the technical assistance provided by the 

Department of Energy and its world-class scientists and engineers, 

Hawaii has been making real progress shifting to sustainable, locally produced, renewable energy with the goal—the most ambitious goal of any state in the country—of attaining 100 percent 

electricity from renewable sources by 2045. This is why I was 

shocked to see the President drastically slashing funds for the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy program and eliminate the 

State Energy Program, something that Senator King has also 

talked about. 

If confirmed, you will be charged with overseeing DOE’s worldclass research and development capabilities at the labs, and I, of 

course, would want to work closely with you to build upon the 

progress Hawaii and DOE have made on renewable energy. Let’s 

assume that we will restore the funding of these drastic, terrible 

cuts, will you commit to working with me to find ways to help 

achieve its renewable energy objectives? 

Mr. DABBAR. Thank you, Senator. I fully appreciate everything 

that you just said. I have lived in Hawaii a couple times in my life, 

both when I was growing up in Japan and coming to Hawaii and 
55 

going to Punahou, as well as in the Navy and in the commercial 

area. I have a great degree of sympathy for aina and how renewables fit, and not even all renewables fit perfectly at all points in 

each county. I know exactly which type of renewables at which 

time with familiarity with Punahou and others. So I have a great 

degree of general understanding, having been on the ground and 

the sort of things that you’re dealing with. 

Senator HIRONO. So your answer would be a strong yes. 

[Laughter.] 

And whatever we can find in our collaboration with regard to 

Hawaii will have application to other jurisdictions, and I would say 

particularly to the island nations in the Asia Pacific area. 

Mr. Domenech, it was a pleasure to meet with you yesterday. In 

your role in administering the Compact of Free Association (COFA) 

with Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau, your position, as 

far as I am concerned, is very important because these areas often 

get neglected. I am looking for someone who is going to be a real 

advocate for our compact friends to whom we have an obligation, 

and we have not always lived up to our obligations. 

I just want to reconfirm with you that we will work together to 

keep our COFA commitments, including providing relief to affected 

states such as Hawaii, because our COFA citizens go to certain 

states more than any other states. We have seen some 15,000 

COFA citizens coming to Hawaii, and we discussed their health 

care needs and other needs that impact Hawaii more than any 

other state in the country. Thirty million dollars a year for compact 

impact assistance to states like Hawaii is woefully short of what 

we actually need, so I would want to have your commitment that 

we will work together to keep our COFA commitments. 

Mr. DOMENECH. Yes. And thank you for taking the time yesterday to meet with me. And you do have my commitment. 

Senator HIRONO. Thank you. 

For Ms. Combs, Hawaii is the endangered species capital of the 

world. Hundreds of our native plants and animals, which are very 

important to Hawaiian culture and our way of life, are threatened 

and endangered and require federal protection. Your critics claim 

that while you were Comptroller in Texas, you limited protections 

for endangered species and viewed them as a threat to the economy, referring to listings as, quote, ‘‘incoming Scud missiles,’’ end 

quote. 

As Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and Budget, one 

of your duties will be to serve as the agency’s Chief Financial Officer, and this includes being a steward of the financial resources for 

the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, one of two federal agencies that 

administers the Endangered Species Act. As Assistant Secretary, I 

would like your commitment that you will support the U.S. Fish 

and Wildlife Service’s important duty to administer the Endangered Species Act to protect species in Hawaii and across the U.S. 

Ms. COMBS. Thank you, Senator. I do believe that my past work 

on the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard and the Golden-cheeked Warbler, 

and Black-capped Vireo, and the great relationship that I had with 

Fish and Wildlife are important. Former Fish and Wildlife employee Dale Hall sent a letter in, he’s the CEO of Ducks Unlimited, 

and he said that we had a wonderful working experience. I abso-
56 

lutely—you have my commitment that I will work with you and follow the law always. 

Senator HIRONO. Madam Chair, if you do not mind, I just have 

one short question for Mr. Jonas. 

I am glad that you noted that your views, as expressed in the 

op-ed that you wrote in 1993 expressing some positions relating to 

women serving in the military as well as homosexuals in the military, were I would say even for 1993, pretty extreme. You noted 

that your views have evolved and I would like to know, was there 

some experience that you had that caused your views to evolve? I 

am concluding that you no longer hold these kinds of discriminatory views with regard to women serving in the military and homosexuals in the military, but was there something that happened 

that you no longer hold these kinds of extreme views? 

Mr. JONAS. Thank you very much for the question, Senator. I do, 

of course, stand by my opening statement, but I wouldn’t say that 

there was a particular event, but my views did evolve. And I would 

certainly refer you to the fact that one of the interns that I hired 

in my office when I was the NNSA General Counsel was, clearly 

from his resume, gay, and he also, to show his leadership abilities 

on his resume, noted that he was the president of the student college Democrats. I hired him because I thought he was the best 

qualified individual, and I gave him good work to do, we have a 

great relationship. I have supported his career, as he has moved 

forward, with providing him recommendations for a number of positions. 

As he has moved up—as a personal matter, one of my goals is 

to help people grow and advance, and I’m not concerned whether 

they’re men, women, gay, Jewish, Catholic, it doesn’t matter. I 

want to help people as a personal goal, and that’s what I do. That’s 

what I did for that individual, and I no longer hold the views expressed in that article. 

Senator HIRONO. Thank you. 

Thank you, Madam Chair. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Hirono. 

Ms. Combs, I want to ask a quick question about PILT, Payment 

in Lieu of Taxes, that the Department of the Interior administers 

and, of course, is a very, very important program. Looking at the 

President’s budget, the FY18 budget proposed funding PILT 

through discretionary dollars. Can you just give me some information in terms of how you think the Administration might be able 

to secure stable, long-term funding through mandatory spending 

for the program? This is something that so many of our local governments, particularly our rural governments, rely on, and whether 

or not you think making any additional categories of lands, whether it is military or Indian lands, possibly eligible for PILT, and if 

so, why? 

I just want to get a sense from you on where you think we can 

go with PILT, because this is something that the Ranking Member 

and I talk a great deal about—not only PILT but Secure Rural 

Schools—and you would clearly have the oversight on the PILT 

side of it. 

Ms. COMBS. Thank you, Senator. I’m familiar with PILT. Brewster County, where my ranch is, is the largest county in Texas, and 
57 

the town I’m nearby has 450 people. And PILTs are very, very important when you take land off of the tax rolls, whether it’s forest 

or whatever, the obligation of the government, of course, through 

PILT is to reimburse them. And I know from an education perspective, or county repairs, whatever, those are important. I obviously 

was not involved in the creation of the budget, but I also am well 

aware, having submitted my own budgets before and then working 

with the Appropriations Committee, that things get changed in the 

process. And so I look forward to working with you to ensure that 

these rural communities, which are so important all across the 

country and in Hawaii and in Alaska and everywhere, that they 

not be forgotten, that they be paid and compensated for that loss 

of revenue. 

The CHAIRMAN. Well, I look forward to working with you on this. 

I know that the Chairman of the Finance Committee and the 

Ranking Member—Senator Hatch and Senator Wyden—have been 

keyed in on this, and we have certainly as well. But it is something 

that we would like to get some certainty on because, as you note, 

particularly for these smaller communities, these payments are significant as part of their budget goes. 

Senator Hirono, I am glad you asked the question of Mr. 

Domenech about where we are with some of the compacts out 

there. The Palau agreement is one—the agreement to extend that 

financial assistance has been unfulfilled now for about seven years, 

and as you point out, there is a commitment there. But we keep 

coming back to, well, we cannot find the funding. At some point in 

time, we have to make good on the promises and the commitments. 

I am not going to ask you if you have any ideas, but I need to 

have your commitment that you will work to find that necessary 

funding so that we do make good on these promises, on these compacts. 

Mr. DOMENECH. Yes. If I’m confirmed, I will work with you and 

the Committee to try to find these funds. My understanding is the 

$123.9 million compact impact funding—or compact funding is in 

the NDAA in both the House and the Senate, so we’re moving 

along. 

The CHAIRMAN. It is not there until it is there. I recognize that. 

[Laughter.] 

Mr. DOMENECH. It’s an authorization, not a—— 

The CHAIRMAN. That is exactly right. Let me ask you one more 

question, and this relates to the CNMI workers permit program, 

the CW permit program. This is one where I have had some ongoing discussion with folks. They are seeing economic growth in 

CNMI, and we applaud that. We see it particularly in the tourism 

sector; but the law sunsets that program by 2019, and there is a 

great deal of concern that the ability to find the available workers, 

to abide by the law, to make it all knit together within the timeframe is going to be very challenging. Do you have any familiarity 

with this permit program, and do you have any suggestions in 

terms of how we might address this upcoming deadline here? 

Mr. DOMENECH. I appreciate that question. I need to be briefed 

on that. I have personally not been involved in any of the Insular 

Office issues on purpose because I felt like it was inappropriate, 
58 

but I am aware of the issue that they’re having quite a challenge 

with workers, and we need to figure out a way to fix it. 

The CHAIRMAN. Well, it is significant. Again, we talk about payments that come to the states, the payments that we are responsible for to our territories. I think at the end of the day the best 

solution for so much of this is if they have stronger economies, then 

things are working within these islands. But making sure that the 

policies that we have in place are helping to assist build those 

economies rather than dragging them back is something that we 

need to be working on and doing that together. 

Senator Cantwell. 

Senator CANTWELL. Thank you, Madam Chair. I wanted to ask 

you, Ms. Combs, obviously in your role in Texas you know a lot 

about royalty rates. One of the things I find surprising is Secretary 

Zinke recently decided to cut royalty rates paid by oil and gas 

leases in the future on offshore sales from 18.75 percent down to 

12.5 percent. I think your rate in Texas is much higher than that? 

Ms. COMBS. Thank you, Senator, for that question. I’m not familiar with the matter that you talked about, but I know that in the 

private sector in Texas, generally people get about 25 percent royalty rate, just about. It used to be 17, 18, 20, and now that it 

bumped up in the Eagle Ford and Permian Basin to about 25. I 

don’t know what the offsets are, though. I don’t know to what extent things such as transportation or other embedded costs are removed. It depends on the particular lease that people have. And 

this is something I will certainly take a look at, but I’m not familiar with it right now. 

Senator CANTWELL. Okay. We definitely want to make sure that 

we get a fair deal for the taxpayer and that royalties obviously are 

reviewed and updated. We have concerns on the coal side that we 

feel like it has not been reviewed and assessed in a while as it relates to impact, so we want to make sure that we do that. I look 

forward to working with you on that issue. 

Ms. COMBS. Absolutely. 

Senator CANTWELL. Mr. Jonas, I was struck by your comment. 

You said that you thought someone was gay by their resume? 

Mr. JONAS. Thank you for the question, Senator. Yes, this individual made it very clear. He was very proud of being gay, and he 

made it very clear on his resume that he was a member of a number of LBGT groups. I believe that he did that—I think he told me 

he did that because he wanted it known, and he was very proud 

of that. 

Senator CANTWELL. Okay. So he communicated that to you. I just 

wanted to make that clear for the record. 

Mr. JONAS. Yes. 

Senator CANTWELL. He communicated that to you. 

Mr. JONAS. That’s correct. 

Senator CANTWELL. It is not like you looked at a piece of paper 

and made an assumption about someone. 

Mr. JONAS. That’s correct, Senator. 

Senator CANTWELL. Okay. Thank you. 

Thank you, Madam Chair. 

The CHAIRMAN. Thank you, Senator Cantwell. 

Senator King, any further questions? 
59 

[No audible response.] 

Well, I have no more that I will include right now. I will probably 

submit a couple for the record. We have a vote that is supposed to 

be starting right now at 12:15. 

Thank you each for being here. Thank you for giving us this time 

this morning and allowing us to learn more about you and your 

qualifications and your interest in serving this Administration and 

our country. We appreciate the support of all of your families. I 

think that we all know that we cannot do nearly the job that we 

need to do without the support of those around us, so we thank you 

for being part of this morning’s hearing. We look forward to the 

process moving forward. 

With that, the Committee stands adjourned. 

[Whereupon, at 12:16 p.m., the hearing was adjourned.] 
(60) 

APPENDIX MATERIAL SUBMITTED 
61 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Brenda Burman 

Questions from Ranking Member Maria Cantwell 

Question 1: Will you commit to support and advance the Yakima Integrated Plan if confirmed? 

Response: Senator, I appreciated you bringing this to my attention in your office. While I 

am just beginning to learn about the Yakima Integrated Plan, I look forward to being 

briefed on the matter, if confirmed. 

Question 2: Will you commit to continuing Reclamation's leadership, funding, and support for 

legislation to implement the Yakima Integrated Plan? 

Response: I still have much to learn about Yakima but commit to getting up to speed on 

the matter, if confirmed. 

Question 3: Do you believe that we must balance the needs offish and the environment with 

other demands for water in building and operating Reclamation projects? 

Response: Every success in my career occurred because of collaboration and finding 

common ground to resolve complex issues. I remain committed to working with all 

stakeholders to determine the best path forward on Reclamation projects. 
62 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Brenda Burman 

Questions from Senator Ron Wyden 

Question 1: Ms. Burman, thank you for taking the time to meet with me. As we discussed in our 

meeting, water in the Klamath Basin continues to be a challenge. Oregon has had its fair share of 

water issues, but we also have a tradition of stakeholder collaboration to work through these 

issues. Several years ago I brought together folks in the Klamath Basin to reach agreements on 

how to manage scarce water in the Basin for a variety of critical needs - tribal, agricultural 

irrigation, fish and wildlife, and recreation. We got close to passing a bill last Congress that 

would have formalized the three Klamath Basin agreements, but unfortunately some of the 

agreements expired before a bill passed. 

Will you walk me though your thoughts on how to address these water issues going 

forward? 

Response: While it has been several years since I have worked directly on issues in the 

Klamath Basin, I have first-hand knowledge of the importance the Bureau of 

Reclamation plays in Basin. If confirmed, I intend to continue Reclamation's 

coordination with other federal agencies, states, tribes, and the public, and moving us 

closer to our shared interest in resolving the Klamath Basin's water management issues. 

I look forward to working with you on this long-standing and very complex issue. 

Question 2: Will you commit to working with all stakeholders to achieve success in the 

management of water in the Klamath Basin? 

Response: Yes, it is critical to ensure that all stakeholders have a seat at the table, in 

order to achieve a sustainable, long-term settlement, and to avoid ending up in the court 

system, which ultimately increases acrimony, adds costs, and risks picking winners and 

losers. 

Question 3: We also discussed an Oregon project, Scoggins Dam just outside Portland, that is 

one of the first dams in the country to be assessed using a Joint Authority to consider the 

possibility of additional water capacity while at the same time addressing the seismic issues at a 

facility. What is your familiarity with the Bureau of Reclamation's new "Joint Authority"? 

Response: As I indicated when we had a chance to meet last, I am not familiar with the 

new joint authority provided under the amended Safety of Dams Act. However, if 

confirmed I look forward to working with you and local partners to address dam safety 

and water supply objectives at the Scoggins Dam on the Tualatin Valley Project. 

Question 4: I wanted to flag this for you so you know of its importance. Can I get your 

commitment to working in a collaborative way with local partners to help this Joint Project 

move forward? 

Response: Yes. 

2 
63 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Brenda Burman 

Questions from Senator Bernard Sanders 

Question 1: President Trump has suggested in the past that climate change is a hoax. Is the 

President correct? Is climate change a hoax? 

Response: I believe climate change is not a hoax and that man has an influence. 

Question 2: Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that climate change is real, it is 

caused by human activity, and that we must aggressively transition away from fossil fuels toward 

energy efficiency and sustainable energy like wind, solar, and geothermal? 

Response: I believe that man has an influence on climate change. I agree we need to 

produce renewable energy. 

Question 3: Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that the combustion of fossil fuels 

contributes to climate change? 

Response: Yes. 

Question 4; Do you believe that DOI has a role in reducing the extraction and use offossil fuels? 

Response: I am not aware that Congress has ever provided that direction to the 

Department of the Interior. 

Question 5; If confirmed, how will you work to address climate change? 

Response: I will work to understand it better and pursue adaptive management strategies, 

as appropriate. 

Question 6: Which improvements to the management of federal public lands do you hope to 

achieve, if confirmed? 

Response: If confirmed as Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, I will to work 

with Secretary Zinke and in consultation with Congress, stakeholders, and tribes to 

address many of the immediate water issues facing the west. 

3 
64 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Brenda Burman 

Question 7: The Department of the Interior is the most important federal government agency for 

dealing with the issues that affect Native American tribes. The Assistant Secretary for Indian 

Affairs "assists and supports the Secretary of the Interior in fulfilling the United States' trust 

responsibility to the federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes and villages 

and individual Indian trust beneficiaries, as well as in maintaining the Federal-Tribal governmentto-government relationship." If confirmed, will you commit to an open door policy for tribal 

leaders to ensure that the federal government upholds its trust responsibility and maintains its 

government-to-government relationship with tribal leaders? 

Response: I have spent my entire career working with tribes, particularly on Indian water 

rights settlements, and know firsthand how important it is to consult on a government-togovernment basis. Collaboration yields tremendous results, which I witnessed when 

helping secure Congressional passage of the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement 

and Gila River Indian Community Water Rights Settlement. I take consultation seriously 

and commit to consult with Tribes, if confirmed as Commissioner. 

Question 8: DOl's eight regional Climate Science Centers (CSC) cover the continental U.S., 

Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands. Each CSC is based out of a host university in 

their region and most are comprised of multi-institution consortia, which include university and 

non-university partners. In 2016, the work of the centers included assessments of warming on 

river flow, working with tribes to assess management strategies, and developing tools for 

decision-making. If confirmed, will you support the CSCs? If so, how? 

Response: I was at the Department when the National Climate Change and Wildlife 

Science Center was established by Congress but am not familiar with the regional Climate 

Science Centers. I look forward to learning more, if confirmed. 

Question 9: Do you promise to uphold the merit system principles set forth in Chapter 23 Title 

5 U.S. Code, which prohibit factors other than merit from consideration in civil service 

employment decisions? 

Response: Yes. 

Question 10: The Holman Rule allows any member of Congress to propose amending an 

appropriations bill to single out a government employee or cut a specific program. If confirmed, 

do you commit to opposing any acts of Congress to individually target DOl employees based on 

political whims? 

Response: I am committed to following the law. 

4 
65 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Brenda Burman 

Question from Senator Jeff Flake 

Question: Last year in the reauthorization of the federal Desalination Act, Congress provided 

that when considering projects to fund, the Secretary of the Interior prioritize those that 

'demonstrably leverage the experience of international partners with considerable expertise in 

desalination, such as the State oflsrael.' What role do you see the Bureau of Reclamation having 

in implementing the partnerships highlighted in PL 114-322? 

Response: Water desalination is one of several tools available to water managers, which 

has considerable potential to create new water supplies and relieve stress on droughtstrained communities. Under the Water Desalination Act, I understand that Reclamation 

has the authority to support desalination demonstration and development projects. If 

confirmed, I will ensure Reclamation complies with the statutorily required prioritization 

criteria for these projects, including prioritizing projects that leverage the experience of 

international partners such as Israel. 

5 
66 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Brenda Burman 

Questions from Senator Steve Daines 

Question 1: Should you be confirmed as Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, will you 

continue Reclamation's support of the Lower Yellowstone Intake Project and ensure this vital 

lifeline providing water for northeastern Montana is not disrupted? 

Response: While I am not familiar with the particular details of the Lower Yellowstone 

Intake Project, I recognize the importance of the Lower Yellowstone Project to the State 

of Montana and look forward to working towards resolving any issues that threaten to 

disrupt irrigation from this Project. 

Question 2: Will you work to ensure the streamlined construction of authorized rural water 

projects? 

Response: I understand the importance of encouraging vibrant rural economies and 

ensuring safe, reliable sources of drinking water for rural residents. I would be happy to 

work with you to explore options to streamline the construction of authorized rural water 

projects, if confirmed. 

6 
67 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Brenda Burman 

Questions from Senator Catherine Cortez Masto 

Question 1: Do you believe in sound science detennining policy? 

Response: Yes. 

Question 2: Do you believe the government should adequately invest in the programs that make 

a difference in lives of the communities in my state and across the country? 

Response: I believe Reclamation is a great example of the federal government investing 

in communities across the west. It is often said Reclamation built the west and if 

confinned, I look forward to continuing this legacy forward. 

Question 3: What more can DOl do for our communities? 

Response: Reclamation has played an integral role in providing for communities across 

the west. As we look go its next 100 years, I believe there are ways to improve our 

operations and increase efficiencies. If confinned, I look forward to leading Reclamation 

to be a better neighbor and partner, working directly in conjunction with those closest to 

the ground to address complex issues. 

Question 4: What do you think should be budgetary priorities for your office/Department? 

Response: Reclamation's budget priorities will be coordinated with Secretary Zinke, and 

if confinned, I look forward to working with him to address Reclamation's needs. 

Question 5: Why do you believe you are qualified for the position you are nominated for? 

Response: I have worked for 19 years on complex water issues across the west involving 

tribes, states, water districts, ranchers, local communities, mines, and often, Reclamation. 

In addition, I was previously Reclamation's Deputy Commissioner for External and 

Intergovernmental Affairs, the number two position at the agency. I believe these 

experiences have provided me with a good internal and external perspective about what 

Reclamation can accomplish. 

Question 6: If Secretary Zinke reassigns functions in some of your offices/departments and 

moves forward with decentralizing the Washington, DC office to regional offices, what do you 

believe should be reassigned to regional offices? 

Response: I am not familiar with any plans to decentralize the Washington, DC, office 

but, if confinned, I will work with the Secretary to ensure Reclamation continues to 

perfonn its duties across the west with efficiency, ingenuity, and in close coordination 

with local communities. 

7 
68 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Brenda Burman 

Question 7: What do you believe should remain as a in your office? 

Response: My 

coordination 

if confirmed as Ct1mmissioner, will be determined in 

Yt1ur agency, like so many others within the federal government, have deal! with 

in funding, which has hu11 our govermnent' s to partner 

and have intlicted impacts on ottr parks, 

forests conservation programs. Do you mme funding would allow the 

Interior Department to be better partner to industry and the 

Res!lOitse: 

budgetary 

Zinke, the Admn11stratJ.on, 

Dena.tmcnt and do not have infotmation to comment on 

Should I be confin11ed, I will work with Secretary 

to fbcilitate funding as 

consistent with the President's budget 

The FY 2018 request for the Bureau of Reclamation $1.1 billion, a cut of$209 

request cuts for \VaterS MART water and reuse projects, 

drought response, rural water projects. The state least rain fail than any 

other state in the Nation so ·we have lobe incredibly mindful drought conditions 

well as infrastructure Do you believe these cuts will undermine these successful 

programs that and the West respond to conditions in innovative ways? 

!Jeoartment and did not play a role in the 

.~c:•c•cuuv Zinke, the Administration, and 

the Congress to facilitate appropriate funding 

and priorities. 

The Bureau of Reclamation operates signit1cant ll1eilities in both the 

River Regions. How will these budget cuts affect needed 

water delivery infrastructure in both 

Response: lf conl1rmed, I will work with Sec.retary Zinke, the Administration, and the 

'-'IJ•ugu;;;.~ to facilitate appropriate funding as consistent with the President's budget and 

~~=~:;~ In rural communities, the "'''u"w1.•n <~ and improve water rettsc is more 

undermine your mission if you arc confirmed? 

and resources to meet treatment 

Do you believe that funding cuts will 

l will work with 

appropriate 

Zinke, the Administration. and the 

.cnJo<J·<rPim with the President's budget and 

cont!rmed. 

8 
69 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Brenda Burman 

Question 12: The Bureau of Reclamation has detennined that the Boca Dam in Nevada needs 

safety modifications. Typically, under the Safety of Dams Act, 15 percent of the costs incurred 

by the modifications are reimbursed and allocated to the "authorized purposes of the structure." 

Boca Dam's authorized purposes per the Truckee River Operating Agreement don't fit well 

under the Act's definitions. As Commissioner, do you think you would support an amendment to 

the Act to reflect a broader set of authorized purposes so Boca Dam can apply under the statute 

to help expedite important safety modifications? 

Response: Senator, I appreciated you bringing up the Boca Dam issue at the hearing. 

While I am not familiar with the dam's modifications needs, I look forward to looking 

into this matter further, if confinned. 

9 
70 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Questions from Ranking Member Maria Cantwell 

Question 1: Are you familiar with the problem we face each year ensuring that the Forest 

Service and the Department of the Interior have adequate funds to fight fires on the public lands? 

Response: Yes, I am familiar with this issue. 

Question 2: If confirmed, will you commit to working with us to find a solution to the problem 

of"fire borrowing," which has diverted funds needed to maintain and improve the health of our 

forests and make them more fire-resistant to pay to fight fires? 

Response: Yes, you have my commitment to work with you and the Committee to 

address this serious issue. 
71 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Questions from Senator Bernard Sanders 

Question 1: President Trump has suggested in the past that climate change is a hoax. Is the 

President correct? Is climate change a hoax? 

Response: I believe that the climate is changing and man has an influence. 

Question 2: Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that climate change is real, it is 

caused by human activity, and that we must aggressively transition away from fossil fuels 

toward energy efficiency and sustainable energy like wind, solar, and geothermal? 

Response: I do believe that the climate is changing and that human activity has 

contributed to that. In terms of energy development, I believe in an all-of-the-above 

approach that includes both conventional oil and gas development and renewable energy 

sources to meet our nation's critical needs. 

Question 3: Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that the combustion offossil 

fuels contributes to climate change? 

Response: Yes. 

Question 4: Do you believe that DOl has a role in reducing the extraction and use of fossil 

fuels? 

Response: I am not aware that Congress has ever provided that direction to the 

Department of the Interior. I believe in the responsible development of our nation's 

natural resources as well as the renewable energy sources to fulfill the Secretary's goal of 

establishing American energy independence. 

Question 5: If confirmed, how will you work to address climate change? 

Response: Should I be confirmed for this position, I would work collaboratively with 

my colleagues in the Department to provide legally and scientifically sound policy 

advice to Secretary Zinke as it relates to the Department's mission and the influence of 

climate change to advance his priorities. My advice and decision-making as Assistant 

Secretary will be rooted in robust engagement with affected constituencies and this 

Committee. I commit to carrying out this work with efficiency, openness and 

transparency. 

2 
72 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Question 6: Which improvements to the management of federal public lands do you hope to 

achieve, if confirmed? 

Response: Among my priorities as Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and 

Budget, should I be confirmed, would be to enhance the Department's human capital, to 

maximize the public's access to public lands and resources, to address the deferred 

maintenance backlog on lands managed by the Department's bureaus, and to craft 

responsible budgets for the Department and its bureaus that are balanced in a way that 

increases operational efficiency among various programs and maximizes use of limited 

taxpayer dollars. 

Question 7: The Department of the Interior is the most important federal govermnent agency 

for dealing with the issues that affect Native American tribes. The Assistant Secretary for Indian 

Affairs "assists and supports the Secretary of the Interior in fulfilling the United States' trust 

responsibility to the federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes and villages 

and individual Indian trust beneficiaries, as well as in maintaining the Federal-Tribal 

govermnent-to-govermnent relationship." If confirmed, will you commit to an open door policy 

for tribal leaders to ensure that the federal govermnent upholds its trust responsibility and 

maintains its govermnent-to-govermnent relationship with tribal leaders? 

Response: Yes. 

Question 8: DOl's eight regional Climate Science Centers (CSC) cover the continental U.S., 

Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands. Each CSC is based out of a host university 

in their region and most are comprised of multi-institution consortia, which include university 

and non-university partners. In 2016, the work of the centers included assessments of warming 

on river flow, working with tribes to assess management strategies, and developing tools for 

decision-making. If confirmed, will you support the CSCs? If so, how? 

Response: If confirmed, I will evaluate CSCs as I would each program under the 

Department's purview and that would entail assessing program effectiveness, efficiency 

and compatibility with Secretary's Zinke's priorities and those of the Administration. 

Question 9: Do you promise to uphold the merit system principles set forth in Chapter 23 Title 

5 U.S. Code, which prohibit factors other than merit from consideration in civil service 

employment decisions? 

Response: I support the merit system principles. 

3 
73 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Question 10: The Holman Rule allows any member of Congress to propose amending an 

appropriations bill to single out a government employee or cut a specific program. If confirmed, 

do you commit to opposing any acts of Congress to individually target DOI employees based on 

political whims? 

Response: Congress sets its rules. If confirmed, it will be my responsibility to follow the 

law and advise the Secretary on any proposal that effects the Department, and I will do 

so. 

4 
74 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Questions from Senator Steve Daines 

Question 1: Should you be confinned to your position as Assistant Secretary of Policy, 

Management and Budget, you will play a leading role in the management of employees and will 

be responsible for their health and safety. As my first action as Chairman of the National Parks 

Subcommittee I held an oversight hearing focusing on the increase of sexual harassment cases in 

the parks. It is one of my top priorities to solve this problem and make the Park Service and 

Department oflnterior a safe and healthy place to work. Will you work with me and Secretary 

Zinke to address this problem and foster a culture of' Zero-Tolerance' at DOl? 

Response: Sexual harassment in the workplace is unacceptable and I echo Secretary 

Zinke's zero tolerance policy. You have my commitment to work with you to address this 

very serious issue, should I be confirmed. 

Question 2: The Deferred Maintenance Backlog is a problem that needs serious thought and 

consideration. If confirmed, you will play a chief role in the budget of DOl and the Park Service. 

Will you work with me and the other members of this committee to find a solution to the everincreasing backlog? 

Response: Yes. I know addressing the deferred maintenance backlog on nation's public 

lands, namely our National Parks, is one of Secretary Zinke's top priorities. 

5 
75 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Questions from Senator Joe Manchin III 

Question 1: Ms. Combs as you know well, President Trump is a vocal advocate for coal 

miners-a priority we both share given West Virginia's economy and history. The Department 

of the Interior's Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) distributes 

millions of dollars of federal funds to the United Mine Workers of America Health and 

Retirement Funds. OSMRE transfers the funds from two sources: the excess of the Abandoned 

Mine Land Reclamation Fund and the General Fund of the U.S. Treasury. President Trump's 

budget for FY2018 proposes $134 million dollars in payments to United Mine Workers of 

America Health benefit Plans from Treasury Funds. This is a remarkable reduction of $45 

million from FY2016 spending levels. The Budget Justification for OSMRE has a notation that 

says, "FY 2018 estimates are based on economic assumptions as of March 2017." I think we 

need additional details on those assumptions. But, additionally, I secured passage of a permanent 

health care fix for 22,600 orphan UMW A miners in the May 2017 spending bill. These UMW A 

beneficiaries were within days of losing rightfully earned healthcare coverage. Ms. Combs, given 

the importance of your role in the Department, I want to be certain that you understand that when 

it comes to these funds, we actually are talking about life and death. 

Will you commit to working with me to ensure that OSM is appropriately resourced to ensure 

that the UMWA reserves the appropriate amount of funding in keeping with current law and that 

all eligible health beneficiaries receive their health care? 

Response: I am not familiar with the intricacies of funding for the United Mine Workers 

of America Health and Retirement Funds, and I would need to learn more about the 

specifics of this issue. I would be happy to do so, if confirmed. 

Question 2: I'd like to get a better understanding of the Administration's plans for the Land and 

Water Conservation Fund, which you will play a critical role in managing. My constituents 

would like to see increased recreation access for our sportsmen and sportswomen. It is a priority 

for me to find ways to maintain a vibrant outdoor economy, and to honor the deep connection 

Americans have with our national parks and public lands. For more than 50 years, L WCF has 

been a persistent success for some of the most cherished public lands and the communities that 

depend on them. In my state, LWCF is the reason you and your agencies have the Harpers Ferry 

and the Gauley and New Rivers National Recreation Areas. In 2016, West Virginia received 

more than $400,000 in grants from the state side ofLWCF. These funds were used for all sorts of 

upgrades that will make West Virginia outdoors even more wild and wonderful. So, I was 

disappointed by the President's FY18 budget recommendation for LWCF to gut the program by 

84% and stop many conservation and access projects dead in their track. Furthermore, the budget 

offers what I consider a false a choice between addressing the maintenance backlog in our parks 

and conserving public access. Good management requires that you do both, just as I worked to 

do with West Virginia's state parks when they were under my care as governor. That's what you 

did as Comptroller of Texas. 

6 
76 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Simple yes or no question, do you support permanent reauthorization of L WCF? 

Response: Yes, I believe the L WCF program has been an important and valuable 

program. 

Do you have any recommended policy proposals for permanent L WCF reauthorization that you 

would like to share with the Committee today? 

Response: As I am not at the Department or a member of the Administration, I do not 

have any policy proposals to recommend at this time. Should I be confirmed, I would 

look forward to getting up to speed on the specifics ofLWCF and to working with you 

and this Committee on where and how this program could be improved to be more 

prudent with taxpayer dollars and to ensuring appropriate state and local support for 

L WCF projects. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Questions from Senator Martin Heinrich 

Question 1: In 2014, Congress made improvements to sec. 365 of the Energy Policy Act of 

2005 to provide additional resources to seven ofBLM's busiest field offices to hire and support 

sufficient staff to meet current demands. Subsection 365(e) requires BLM to report to Congress 

annually on the allocation of the additional funds among the seven Project offices and the 

accomplishments of each office. The first annual report, due February 2016, has never been 

submitted to Congress as required by law. The second report was due in February 2017. Will 

you work to expedite the completion ofBLM's two long-overdue reports as required by law? 

Response: Although I am not aware of the status of the reports, I will look into this if 

confirmed. 

Question 2: I continue to hear about problems arising from the large number of long-standing 

job vacancies in BLM's field offices in New Mexico. Of particular concern are significant 

vacancies in Farmington, the Federal Indian Minerals Office and Carlsbad. Currently there are 

about 60 vacant positions in BLM offices in New Mexico, with as many as 21 vacant positions in 

Carlsbad alone. Clearly the administration's hiring freeze contributed to the delay in filling these 

important federal jobs. What actions will you take to address promptly the need to fill the large 

number of job vacancies in New Mexico's various BLM offices? 

Response: Although I am not aware of the status of current job vacancies within the 

Department's bureaus or efforts to fill those positions, Secretary Zinke has stressed one 

of his priorities is to get the right tools and resources out to the field, and I will look into 

this if confirmed. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Questions from Senator Catherine Cortez Masto 

Question 1: Do you believe in sound science determining policy? 

Response: Yes, I do. 

Question 2: Do you believe the government should adequately invest in the programs that make 

a difference in lives of the communities in my state and across the country? 

Response: Yes, I believe in smart investments of public dollars that are targeted, 

effective and appropriately balance needs with available resources. 

Question 3: What more can DOl do for our communities? 

Response: I believe fundamentally that DOl can be a better partner with communities 

and state and local governments that are most directly affected by the decisions the 

Department makes. I believe this can be achieved through close collaboration and 

conversation and I believe my record in the state of Texas working with a variety of 

stakeholders demonstrates my commitment to this goal. This includes working with 

Native American communities through a commitment to tribal consultation and 

strengthening tribal sovereignty in Indian Country. I fully agree with Secretary Zinke's 

priority of being a listening advocate rather than a deaf adversary and should I be 

confirmed, this would be a foundational principle of my service. 

Question 4: What do you think should be budgetary priorities for your office/Department? 

Response: Broadly, among my priorities would be to refocus decision-making to the 

front lines, address the maintenance backlog on our public lands and increase public 

access to public resources, as articulated by Secretary Zinke. 

Question S: Why do you believe you are qualified for the position you are nominated for? 

Response: I believe that the eight years that I served as Comptroller of the State of 

Texas have given me the ability to analyze, understand and consider how to achieve the 

Department's mission in an efficient, open and transparent manner. Additionally, I share 

Secretary's priorities for the Department- refocusing decision-making to the front lines, 

addressing the maintenance backlog on our public lands and increase public access to 

public resources. The lessons that I learned and the skills that I have gained will serve as 

assets, should I be confirmed, in the Department in balancing the books, making smart 

investments and increasing the efficient operation of the Department's important 

programs. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Ms. Susan Combs 

Question 6: If Secretary Zinke reassigns functions in some of your offices/departments and 

moves forward with decentralizing the Washington, DC office to regional offices, what do you 

believe should be reassigned to regional offices? 

Response: Because I have not had a role at the Department, I cannot speak with any 

specificity on the issue of Departmental reorganization. However, should I be confirmed, 

I look forward to exploring in greater depth how we can better align bureau resources to 

improve decision-making and I would welcome the opportunity to working with you and 

members of this Committee in doing so. 

Question 7: What do you believe should remain as a priority in your office? 

Response: The office of Policy, Management and Budget is home to a wide array of 

departmental functions including budget formulation, personnel management and hiring, 

law enforcement, wildland fire management, IT security, and resource revenue 

accounting to name only a few. I have not yet had the opportunity to fully assess these 

specific programs, but as a general matter, I would prioritize the need to balance fiscal 

prudence with needs in making these assessments. 

Question 8: Your agency, like so many others within the federal government, have dealt with 

continued shortfalls in budgetary funding, which has hurt our government's ability to partner 

effectively with private industry and have inflicted negative impacts on our nation's parks, 

forests and wildlife conservation programs. Do you believe more funding would allow the 

Interior Department to be a better partner to industry and the taxpayer? 

Response: From my time as Comptroller of the State of Texas, I know that sufficient 

resources are needed to carry out any public function. I also know that resources are 

limited and the money alone cannot solve any problem. I believe that decisions with 

public dollars must be fully informed and made very carefully with the objective of 

maximizing efficiencies with those resources. 

Question 9: Nevada is second in the nation in the amount of geothermal power produced and 

has the country's largest untapped geothermal resources. However, the Administration's budget 

repeals the 25 percent share of revenue distribution for geothermal royalties that is provided to 

counties. These royalties provide up to 10% of revenues to counties in Nevada, so the repeal 

would be harmful to our local economies. Do you agree with repealing these payments? Isn't this 

a promise to rural areas, like those in my home state? 

Response: As the former Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, I am aware that federal 

revenue payments can be important to state and local economies. However, I need to 

learn more about the specifics of this issue. I would be happy to do so, if confirmed. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Questions from Ranking Member Maria Cantwell 

Question 1: Which DOE program offices will fall under your supervision, if you are 

confirmed? 

Answer: It is my understanding that Secretary Perry intends to align the Under Secretary 

positions to their traditional roles, consistent with the statutory designations of those roles by 

Congress. I am not familiar with any specific plans for reassignment of duties and without being 

an Administration official at this time, I do not think it is appropriate for me to speculate on how 

the functions might be reassigned. 

Question 2: How will you ensure that research is coordinated between the Office of Science 

and other offices within DOE? 

Answer: Coordination between the Office of Science and the other program offices is critical to 

ensure research is not being duplicated and is being done in the most efficient manner. If 

confirmed, I look forward to looking into this issue and ensuring communication throughout the 

Department. 

Question 3: Do you agree the national laboratories are valued strategic partners of the 

Department? 

Answer: Yes, our national laboratories are cutting-edge and lead the nation and world in 

innovative research. I plan to support and advocate for their work. 

Question 4: What steps will you take to ensure that the national laboratories are viewed and 

treated by you and your staff as such? 

Answer: I plan to visit all the Department of Energy Science labs and to learn from our 

outstanding men and women who work there. Our national laboratories are the crown jewels of 

the nation and I plan to support and advocate for their work. 

Question 5: Will you commit to continue to value and support the important work of the 17 

national laboratories? 

Answer: Yes, I am committed to valuing and supporting the important work of the national 

laboratories. 

Question 6: Will you commit to continue to implement the recommended reforms from the 

Commission to Review the Effectiveness of the National Energy Laboratories? 

Answer: I have not been fully briefed on the CRENEL report, but look forward to learning 

more about the recommendations if confirmed. 
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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Question 7: What steps will you and the Department's leadership take to maintain a 

continuous and active engagement with the national laboratories? 

Answer: Ifi am confirmed, I plan to visit all the DOE Science labs and to learn from our 

outstanding men and women who work there. Our national laboratories are the crown jewels of 

the nation and I plan to support and advocate for their work. 

Question 8: What are your views on the DOE Office of Science and federal investments in 

basic research? 

Answer: I support basic research and development to bring about technological breakthroughs 

that will allow for any number of new technologies. I am committed to both investing in energy 

innovation and using taxpayer dollars responsibly. If I am confirmed, I will explore ways to 

make technology and scientific development at the Department and the labs available to 

interested parties. 

I also believe in engaging with the private sector. The Department can be a great resource in 

cooperating with the private sector to spur innovation, particularly by investing in cutting-edge 

research without duplicating the private sector efforts. 

Question 9: Do you understand how the Department's science programs underpin all the other 

mission objectives of the Department? 

Answer: Yes. 

Question 10: What is your definition of sound science? 

Answer: My definition of sound science is science that is fact-based, reliable, conforms with 

scientific methodology, and is un-biased. 

Question 11: If confirmed, do you commit to protecting scientific research conducted and 

funded by the Department of Energy? 

Answer: Yes, it is important that science be fact-based, reliable, conforming with scientific 

methodology, and un-biased. 

Question 12: What are the research priorities for the Office of Science? 

Answer: The President's FY 2018 budget request set the priorities for the Office of Science. 

From what l understand, those priorities focus on early-stage research and development. 

Question 13: Do you commit to support the Scientific Integrity Policy and protect the scientific 

integrity of the work of the Department of Energy? 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Answer: Though I am not familiar with the Scientific Integrity Policy, should I be confirmed, I 

look forward to learning more. I strongly believe in the importance of objective research and the 

freedom of scientific inquiry. 

Question 14: The budget proposes to eliminate ARPA-E, which advances high-potential, highimpact energy technologies that are too early for private-sector investment. Do you support 

eliminating ARPA-m 

Answer: I support the Department's shift to focus on early-stage research and development at 

our national laboratories to more efficiently and cost-effectively advance American dominance 

in scientific and energy research. Congress and the President will ultimately arrive at an 

agreement regarding the funding of ARP A-E, and the Department will implement it 

accordingly. 

Question 15: The budget proposes to cut 17 percent of the Office of Science, which is the 

largest federal sponsor of basic research in the physical sciences. Do you agree that Federal 

investments in basic research are critical for maintaining U.S. leadership in science and 

technology and creating future jobs? 

Answer: The President's FY 2018 budget request set the priorities for the Department. The 

budget focuses on basic, early-stage research and leaves more room for the private sector to 

invest in promising energy technologies. 

Question 16: These proposed budget cuts would result in thousands of direct job losses of 

scientists and engineers working at the national labs, universities, research institutions, and 

businesses throughout the country. The innovation funded at DOE creates a pipeline for 

increasing competitiveness and job creation. Do you agree that DOE plays an essential role in 

energy research and development and will you commit to supporting increased funding for 

energy R&D conducted by the Department? 

Answer: The Department of Energy does play an important role in energy R&D. The 

President's FY20 18 budget request set the priorities for the Department. l commit to follow the 

appropriations law passed by Congress and signed by the President. 

Question 17: Do you realize that the proposed budget cuts would result in over 17,000 scientist 

jobs lost from the national labs, universities, research institutions, and businesses throughout the 

country? 

Answer: The President's FY 2018 budget request set priorities for the Department. I commit to 

follow the laws passed by Congress and signed by the President. 

Question 18: During Secretary Perry's confirmation process, he said: "the Department can be a 

great resource in cooperating with the private sector to spur innovation, particularly by investing 

in cutting-edge research." And he further stated: "I hope to explore all the avenues available to 

3 
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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

transfer more of the great work performed at our national laboratories to the marketplace." 

However, the budget proposal jeopardizes the very science and technology programs that 

Secretary Perry said he values, which undermines U.S. energy leadership and kills American 

jobs. What are you going to do to be a more effective steward and champion of the vital 

programs~ 

Answer: The President's FY 2018 budget request set priorities for the Department, particularly 

with its emphasis on basic scientific research. I commit to follow the laws passed by Congress 

and signed by the President. 

Question 19: How do you propose to address the infrastructure needs of the national 

laboratories? 

Answer: Infrastructure issues are very important to the Department of Energy (DOE) national 

labs. If confirmed, I look forward to working with Congress and the DOE laboratories to find 

balanced answers to this issue. 

Question 20: Do you agree that Office of Science user facilities are an important part of our 

nation's scientific ecosystem~ 

Answer: I believe user facilities are a valuable tool and among the best assets the national 

laboratories have. If confirmed, it will be a goal of mine to increase access to the user facilities 

for federal priorities but also ensure opportunities for the private sector and research institutions 

to utilize these facilities. 

Question 21: Will you commit to keeping Office of Science user facilities open and available to 

the broader scientific community and ensure that they operate at current levels and in an 

optimized fashion? 

Answer: I believe user facilities are a valuable tool and among the best assets the national 

laboratories have. If confinned, it will be a goal of mine to increase access to the user facilities 

for federal priorities but also ensure opportunities for the private sector and research institutions 

to utilize these facilities. 

Question 22: Would you maintain DOE's support for these innovative partnerships, such as 

Energy Frontier Research Centers and Energy Innovation Hubs, and equip them to continue to 

deliver the science and technology that we have seen flow from these investments~ 

Answer: I have not been fully briefed on the specifics of this issue. If confirmed, I look forward 

to learning more about these partnerships. 

Question 23: What will be your plan to keep DOE's high performance computing and exascale 

efforts at the world's leading edge? 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Answer: From what I understand, the President's FY 2018 budget request increased funding for 

exascale computing. I believe achieving exascale computing is a priority for the Secretary and if 

confirmed, look forward to assisting the Department achieve this goal. 

Question 24: Do you believe it is in our nation's best interest to continue to collect and make 

available to the scientific community the data and modeling capabilities necessary to understand 

how our climate is changing, and what it means for our national security, our infrastructure 

investments, our economy and our citizens? 

Answer: I believe data and sound science are important in the Department's execution of its 

mission. If confirmed, I look forward to learning more about the Department's data collection 

processes and how scientific data can best be used to support the Department's work. 

Question 25: Do you commit to protecting the climate science and data functions at DOE? 

Answer: Should I be confirmed, I look forward to being briefed on the Department of Energy's 

science and data functions. 

Question 26: How do you plan to engage the national laboratories in developing the strategic 

directions of the Department going forward? 

Answer: The national laboratories perform important cutting edge research. If confirmed, I look 

forward to working with the laboratories to develop policies that will keep the United States a 

global leader in innovation. 

Question 27: What steps will you take to ensure a coordinated approach to these challenges, and 

to include the national laboratories as key contributors? 

Answer: As I stated above, if confirmed, I look forward to working with the national 

laboratories to further scientific advancement. 

Question 28: Do you agree that technology transfer is an important component of DOE's work? 

Answer: I have not been fully briefed on the Office of Technology Transitions but can commit 

to learning more about it. Ifi am confirmed, I will explore ways to make technology 

development at the Department of Energy available to interested parties. I hope to explore all the 

avenues available to transfer more of the great work performed at our national laboratories to the 

marketplace. 

Question 29: What are your plans to encourage and increase the transfer of DOE technologies to 

strengthen U.S. economic competitiveness? 

Answer: I have not been fully briefed on the Office of Technology Transitions, but can commit 

to learning more about the office. If I am confirmed, I will explore ways to make technology 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

development at the Department of Energy available to interested parties. I hope to explore all the 

avenues available to transfer more of the great work performed at our national laboratories to the 

marketplace. 

Questions 30 What steps will you take to ensure that DOE remains in compliance with the 

Energy Policy Act of2005 that required DOE to create a Technology Transfer Coordinator to 

oversee the Department's technology transfer efforts, and also to establish an energy Technology 

Commercialization Fund to match private funds to advance promising technologies? 

Answer: If confirmed, I look forward to being briefed on the role of the Technology Transfer 

Coordinator and the Technology Commercialization Fund. 

Question 31: The budget proposes to eliminate the Weatherization Assistance Program and State 

Energy Program, which provide critical technical assistance and state-controlled competitive 

grant funding to all 50 states to support state- and county-level energy projects. Do you support 

eliminating the Weatherization Assistance Program and State Energy Program? 

Answer: I support the President's FY 2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the 

budgetary process. If my nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will ensure that the 

enacted budget is carried out. 

Question 32: The budget proposal includes draconian cuts to the Office of Energy Efficiency 

and Renewable Energy, the Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability, and other 

applied energy programs. These programs invest in all stages of innovation cross a diverse 

portfolio of energy technologies to enhance economic competitiveness and secure America's 

long-term energy security. Do you agree with these cuts? Do you believe there is a Federal role 

in investing in R&D in these areas? 

Answer: I support the President's FY 2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the 

budgetary process. I believe there is a federal role in investing R&D especially at the earliest 

stages. 

Question 33 What is your view of where our country should be headed in the development and 

promotion of renewable energy? What types of technologies do you believe DOE should be 

supporting, and at what budgetary level? 

Answer: I believe that the future for renewable energy is bright. During my time in the private 

sector, I saw firsthand the positive role renewables, such as hydro, wind, and solar, can have in 

meeting our nation's energy needs. In general, I believe that when industries can stand on their 

own- without government support- they should do so. 

Ouestion34: Do you agree with the scientific consensus that the earth's climate is changing and 

is primarily caused by human activity? 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Answer: I believe the climate is changing. Some of it is naturally occurring and some from our 

acti viti es. 

Question 35: What actions should be taken to mitigate climate change and its impacts? 

Answer: I believe a strong, vibrant economy is the best way to mitigate any impacts from 

climate change. If confirmed, I will work to implement policies at DOE that will empower 

innovative approaches and technologies to mitigate climate change. 

Question 36: Can you commit to reviewing the findings and recommendations from the first and 

second installments of the Quadrennial Energy Review and consider continued support of the 

recommendations as they have received bipartisan support in the past? 

Answer: l have not been fully briefed on the Quadrennial Energy Review (QER). If confirmed, 

l will seek more information about the value of the QER, including input from key stakeholders. 

I would certainly look to leverage the expertise of the DOE staff in any multi-agency energy 

review process. 

Question 37: What is your view on the best way to address critical challenges that span DOE's 

diverse mission areas? 

Answer: The Department of Energy has a vast and diverse mission executed by the tremendous 

career workforce and the national labs. If confirmed, I intend to work closely with my 

counterparts across the agency to ensure the program efforts are not only well defined at the 

outset but are also coordinated, well managed and aligned with the Department's mission. 

Question 38: How do you view DOE's role in protecting the electric grid and energy systems 

from cyber attacks? 

Answer: Energy cybersecurity is a critical issue and a significant part of DOE's mission. If my 

nomination is confirmed, l will work to build on the work of the Administration and Congress to 

give this the high priority attention it deserves. 

Question 39: What steps will you take to ensure that cybersecurity efforts, to protect the grid 

and energy systems and also to protect DOE assets, are coordinated across the Department? 

Answer: The reliability and security of our electric grid is very important to me, and protecting 

the grid is a crucial role of the Department. If confirmed, I look forward to a discussion about 

how to harden our grid and prioritize cybersecurity efforts. The Department of Energy should 

coordinate across the Department and other agencies, and with the private sector, to develop a 

seamless and coordinated plan for addressing major attacks. If confirmed, I would work to 

ensure that communication across the Department, between principals, CEOs, and my office is 

strong, and that the efforts of this group continue to focus on removing barriers to information 

sharing and technology development. 

7 
87 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Question 40: What is your view on the role of DOE's national laboratories in DOE's 

cybersecurity efforts? 

Answer: The national labs are the crown jewels of the nation; the security of our electric grid is 

very important to me and protecting it is a crucial role of the Department If confirmed, I look 

forward to exploring ways in which the national labs can advance scientific development to 

harden our grid and prioritize cyber security efforts. 

Question 41: What is your view of the role DOE's national laboratories should play in a U.S. 

government cybersecurity strategy? 

Answer: I believe the national laboratories play a similar role across the federal government as 

they do in the Department. The national labs are the crown jewels of the nation; the security of 

our electric grid is very important to me and protecting it is a crucial role the Department. If 

confirmed, I look forward to exploring ways in which the national labs can advance scientific 

development to harden our grid and prioritize cyber security efforts. 

Question 42: Do you think that voluntary cybersecurity guidelines that may not be practiced by 

all of the pipeline industry are sufficient to protect our national security assets from foreign state 

actors? 

Answer: The reliability and security of our electric grid is very important to me and protecting it 

is a crucial role of the Department. If confirmed, I look forward to discussion about how to 

harden our grid and prioritize cyber security efforts. If confirmed, I would work to ensure 

communication and technology development efforts are strong. 

Question 43: Should any additional measures be implemented to fortify pipeline cybersecurity? 

Answer: Ensuring robust physical cybersecurity measures is vital to our national security. 

However, because I am not an Administration official at this time, I would defer this question to 

the Department of Energy. 

Question 44: What steps will you take to make sure our energy networks are protected against 

the constant threat of cyberattack? 

Answer: The reliability and security of our electric grid is very important to me and protecting 

it is a crucial role of the Department. If confirmed, I look forward to discussion about how to 

harden our grid and prioritize cyber security efforts. I would also work to ensure communication 

and technology development efforts are strong. 

Question 45: Will you commit to maintain the efforts of the previous administration to keep 

Hanford safe and work on making Hanford safer for workers and the community? 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Answer: I am committed to cleaning up the Hanford site and will make it a priority if confirmed. 

Protecting workers and the surrounding communities is of paramount importance to me. lam 

committed to working with the State of Washington, its Congressional delegation, and other 

relevant stakeholders to clean up the Hanford site in a safe and responsible manner. 

Question 46: Do you acknowledge the extreme risk to workers at the Hanford site and commit 

to improving worker safety and improving the worker compensation program and the 

Departments contribution the Energy Employees Occupationallllness Compensation Program? 

Answer: As I stated above, lam committed to cleaning up the Hanford site and will make it a 

priority if confirmed. Protecting workers and the surrounding communities is of paramount 

importance to me. I am committed to working with the State of Washington, its Congressional 

delegation, and other relevant stakeholders to clean up the Hanford site in a safe and responsible 

manner. 

Question 47: Do you acknowledge that the Department has a lot of work to do to improve how it 

helps sick workers? Will you commit to work with me to fix the Departments deficiencies and 

work with the unions and advocacy groups to get to the bottom of the problems plaguing the 

workers compensation program at Hanford? 

Answer: Protecting workers and the surrounding communities is of paramount importance to 

me. I am committed to working with the State of Washington, its Congressional delegation, and 

other relevant stakeholders to clean up the Hanford site in a safe and responsible manner. 

Question 48: Will you commit to working with us to ensure the workers at Hanford are 

receiving the proper training and equipment and that they are not exposes to chemical vapors? 

Answer: Protecting workers and the surrounding communities is of paramount importance to 

me. lam committed to working with the State of Washington, its Congressional delegation, and 

other relevant stakeholders to clean up the Hanford site in a safe and responsible manner. 

Question 49: Do you understand the moral and legal obligations as well as the urgency for the 

Department of Energy to properly fund and proceed with the cleanup effort at the Hanford site, 

including construction of the Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant? In your respective role 

will you commit to providing the necessary resources to complete the construction of the direct 

feed low-activity waste facilities as well as the high activity waste facilities? 

Answer: I am committed to cleaning up the Hanford site and will make it a priority if confirmed. 

I understand that the Department of Energy is actively working to meet its cleanup commitments 

while continuing key risk reduction and remediation activities at Hanford. I am committed to 

working with the State ofWashin~o>ton, its Congressional delegation, and other relevant 

stakeholders to clean up the Hanford site in a safe and responsible manner. 

9 
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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Question 50: Do you understand that any change in the Department's approach to treating tank 

waste at Hanford must include input from the state of Washington before moving forward~ This 

is critical to avoid costly litigation that will only hamper progress. Do I have your word you will 

work with the Washington delegation and state of Washington on the Hanford cleanup? 

Answer: I am committed to cleaning up the Hanford site and will make it a priority if 

confirmed. I will work with the Washington Congressional delegation and State of Washington 

officials on the Hanford cleanup where appropriate. I will also work to ensure we are making 

sustainable, risk-informed, and fiscally wise decisions regarding our Environmental Management 

obligations at Hanford. 

Question 51: Will you commit to including science and technology as an important component 

of cleanup work at EM sites, including Hanford? 

Answer: Yes. 

Question 52: Will you commit to ensuring that existing lab capabilities that support Hanford 

will be stewarded and utilized before investments are made in new capabilities? 

Answer: If confirmed, I will work to ensure we are making sustainable, risk-informed, and 

fiscally wise decisions regarding our Environmental Management obligations at Hanford. 

Question 53: As you may be aware, many cleanup contracts around the EM complex are 

expiring. Because much of the funding for investments in science and technologies come through 

the cleanup contractors, new EM contract mechanisms are needed that provide appropriate 

incentives to these contractors to invest in innovative technologies to reduce costs, something 

that is not reflected in existing contract mechanisms. What will you do to ensure that EM utilizes 

contract mechanisms to provide these incentives in contracts that it will be re-bidding in 2017 

and beyond~ 

Answer: I recognize the importance of effective contract management and ensuring that the 

right incentives are built in. lam aware that the Department of Energy faces many challenges, 

among them project management and the accuracy of cost estimates, particularly for large 

projects. If confirmed, I will be certain to review the existing contract mechanisms and work 

with Secretary Perry to improve performance and management. 

Question 54: Do you agree that grid modernization is an important component of DOE's 

mission? 

Answer: Yes, Secretary Perry has stated his goal is to make modernizing the electric grid a 

priority and, if confirmed, I will ensure that the Department is focused on modernizing and 

improving the electric grid and the supply chain that supports it. 

Question 55: What steps will you take to ensure that national laboratories remain a strategic and 

important part of the Department's grid modernization and cybersecurity work? 

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90 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Answer: While I value the national labs as the crown jewels of our nation and am aware of the 

Department's Grid Modernization Initiative (GMI) and Grid Modernization Multi-Year Program 

Plan (MYPP), I have not been fully briefed on either the initiatives or the program plan. If 

confirmed, I will ensure that the Department is focused on modernizing and improving the 

electric grid. 

Question 56: What steps will you take to build upon the strong public-private partnerships that 

exist in this area, including the role of public/private demonstrations at the regional level to 

accelerate grid modernization, resilience and security? 

Answer: While lam aware of the Department's Grid Modernization Initiative (GMI) and Grid 

Modernization Multi-Year Program Plan (MYPP), I have not been fully briefed on either the 

initiatives or the program plan. If confirmed, I will ensure that the Department is focused on 

modernizing and improving the electric grid and will utilize the national laboratories as 

appropriate. 

Question 57: Do you agree that a priority for the Department is to ensure system reliability as 

energy sources continue to evolve? 

Answer: Yes. 

Question 58: Do you agree that investing in transactive controls increases the reliability of our 

nation's energy system? 

Answer: This is an issue I look forward to being more fully briefed on if confirmed. I assure you 

that I am committed to energy reliability, affordability and to fulfilling this important mission of 

the Department. 

Question 59: What steps will you take to advance the reliability of our nation's energy system? 

Answer: Secretary Perry has stated his goal is to make modernizing the electric grid a priority 

and, if confirmed, I will ensure that the Department is focused on modernizing and improving 

the electric grid. The Secretary has also commissioned an agency-wide study on electricity 

markets and reliability of the electric grid. If confirmed, I look forward to reviewing this study to 

gain a better understanding of the challenges facing the grid and how we can advance the 

reliability of the nation's energy system. 

Question 60: Do you agree that energy storages is a critical component of a resilient, reliable 

grid? What steps will you take to move forward on energy storage if you are confirmed? 

Answer: I do believe there is a role for storage. Secretary Perry has commissioned an agencywide study on the electric grid. If confirmed, I look forward to reviewing this study to gain a 

better understanding of the challenges facing the grid and how energy storage can assist in 

strengthening the grid. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Question 61: What is your view on energy efficiency standards? How will you meet the Energy 

Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) and other statutory requirements for energy efficiency 

standards? 

Answer: Energy efficiency has been a priority of Congress and DOE the Department of Energy 

has helped provide significant energy savings to many Americans. T have not been briefed on 

the full array of Departmental efforts in this area. If confirmed, I will commit to learning more 

about the Department's role in meeting America's energy efficiency needs. 

Questions from Senator Bernard Sanders 

Ouestion 1: President Trump has suggested in the past that climate change is a hoax. Is the 

President correct? Is climate change a hoax? 

Answer: I believe the climate is changing, and I concur with others who have stated that we 

must have some impact. I agree with Secretary Perry that the question is how we address it in 

a thoughtful way that further supports economic growth, improves affordability of energy, 

and American jobs. 

Question 2· Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that climate change is real, it is 

caused by human activity, and that we must aggressively transition away from fossil fuels 

toward energy efficiency and sustainable energy like wind, solar, and geothermal? 

Answer: I believe that the climate is changing and that we have some impact on it. T believe 

that the costs and benefits of climate-related policies need to make sense for American 

families and the American economy. 

Question 3: Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that the combustion of fossil 

fuels contributes to climate change? 

Answer: I believe the climate is changing and that we have some impact on it. If confirmed, l 

look forward to working with Congress and the experts in the Department to advance efforts 

to address climate change. 

Questjon 4: Do you believe that DOE has a role in reducing the extraction and use of fossil 

fuels? 

Answer: I support an "all of the above" approach smartly using our energy resources. The 

Department of Energy Organization Act states that "a strong national energy program is 

needed to meet the present and future energy needs of the Nation consistent with overall 

national economic, environmental and social goals." I believe in those goals, and, if 

confirmed, will follow the law. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Jnly 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Pan! Dabbar 

Questjop 5; If confirmed, how will you work to address climate change? 

Answer: I believe the climate is changing and we have some impact on it. If confirmed, I look 

forward to getting a better understanding of these dynamics and helping the Department 

implement its policies in accordance with the law. 

Questjop 6· DOE's Office of Science is the single largest funder of basic research in the 

physical sciences in the United States. What do you see as the most pressing priorities for the 

office? 

Answer: The President's FY 2018 budget request refocuses the Department's energy and 

science programs on early-stage research and development at our national laboratories to 

advance American primacy in scientific and energy research in an efficient and cost-effective 

manner. 

Question 7: What role should DOE play in advancing clean energy innovation in the U.S.? 

Answer: The Department of Energy plays a critical role in early-stage, fundamental energy 

research and innovation. This early-state research is critical to our efforts and is often used by 

our private sector in competing. 

Onestjon 8; Secretary Perry requested a study in April to ascertain whether wind and solar 

power are threatening electric grid reliability. It has been reported that the study found no such 

threat. Do you agree with the science that demonstrates wind and solar can in fact improve 

reliability while decreasing costs? 

Answer: I support the Administration's "all of the above" energy strategy, and believe 

renewable energy has an important role in that strategy. Ensuring the reliability of the grid and 

energy supply chain is important to supporting the American economy. I have not seen any 

drafts of the internal study but look forward to reading it when it is released. 

Questjon 9; The National Academy of Sciences was asked to conduct an assessment of the 

progress Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) has made toward achieving its 

congressionally mandated mission and goals. It found that "there are clear indications that 

ARPA-E is making progress toward its statutory mission and goals." If confirmed, do you 

commit to fully supporting ARP A-E? 

Answer: I support the Department's shift to focus on early-stage research and development at 

our national laboratories to more efficiently and cost-effectively advance American dominance 

in scientific and energy research. Congress and the President will ultimately arrive at an 

agreement regarding the funding of ARPA-E, and the Department will implement it accordingly. 

Question 10: The president has called for "energy dominance," yet China leads the world in 

solar photovoltaic manufacturing. The largest markets for solar and wind are also in China. Do 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

you believe the US is falling behind in the international clean energy market? Will competing 

with China to develop renewable technology be a priority if you are confirmed? 

Answer: I understand that competing globally to develop not only renewable technology, but 

all kinds of energy technologies, will be a priority of the Department. This includes our efforts 

in exascale computing. 

Question 11: When I met with Secretary Perry, we discussed subsidies for the fossil fuel 

industry. He reminded me that he made a campaign promise to "eliminate direct subsidies and 

tax credits" for energy. Will you commit to working with him to repeal all fossil fuel subsidies? 

Answer: If confirmed, I commit to reviewing existing programs at DOE and working with 

Secretary Perry to ensure that they are in the best interests of the American people. Since many 

of the subsidies for various forms of energy are defined in laws, we will work with you and 

your colleagues in Congress to prioritize. 

Question 12: President Trump's FY 2018 budget proposal would revive the approval process 

for the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste site. If confirmed, will you commit to blocking the unsafe 

Yucca Mountain proposal and instead work to find a publicly-accepted, safe, long-term solution 

to this country's significant problem of nuclear waste disposal? 

Answer: Ifl am honored to be confirmed, I will be committed to following the law, including 

the Nuclear Waste Policy Act. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is the final arbiter to 

determine whether Yucca Mountain is safe and should they approve it, I will implement any 

DOE activities in accordance with that direction. I recognize that the problem of nuclear waste 

management is extraordinarily complex and, if confirmed, am committed to working with all 

stakeholders to meet our commitments. 

Question 13: Do you promise to uphold the merit system principles set forth in Chapter 23 

Title 5 U.S. Code, which prohibit factors other than merit from consideration in civil service 

employment decisions? 

Answer: Yes. 

Question 14: The Holman Rule allows any member of Congress to propose amending an 

appropriations bill to single out a government employee or cut a specific program. If confirmed, 

do you commit to opposing any acts of Congress to individually target DOE employees based 

on political whims? 

Answer: I have briefly read about the Holman Rule, but would defer to the Office of General 

Counsel as to how any action under it should be applied. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Question from Senator Debbie Stabenow 

Question: Considering your familiarity with private financing, you surely understand that earlystage technologies are often too risky for private-sector investment. Hence, it is critical that we 

have public-private partnerships to bring these high-potential and high-impact energy 

technologies to market. 

Since its inception in 2009, ARP A-E has provided over $1.3 million in grants and funding to 

more than 475 projects across the country. These projects have created over 30 new US 

companies; attracted more than $1.25 billion in new, private funding; and advanced our national 

security, economic prosperity, and energy independence. 

Recognizing ARPA-E' s outstanding record and success rate, how can you justify the 

Administration's proposed elimination of ARPA-E and unprecedented cuts to DOE research and 

development programs~ 

Answer: The budgetary priorities are described in the President's FY 2018 budget proposal. 

The President's budget will spur world-leading ener~:,>y innovation, while also reducing costs to 

the taxpayer. I support the President's FY 2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in 

the budgetary process. If my nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will ensure that the 

enacted budget is carried out. 

Question from Senator Steve Daines 

Question: If confirmed as Undersecretary for Science, you will play an important role in 

investment and research in new and emerging energy technology. It is important that the 

government does not pick winners and losers in energy technology, but instead promotes an allof-the-above approach to energy research. Will you work to encourage research and investment 

in all forms of energy including coal and hydropower, as well as other fossil fuels, renewables 

and nuclear~ 

Answer: If confirmed, I will pursue the investments that have the greatest return and benefits for 

American taxpayers based on the available evidence. Advocating for an "all of the above" 

energy approach, in a fiscally responsible manner to be accountable to taxpayers, is something I 

will strive to do. 

Questions from Senator Joe Man chin III 

Question 1: As you know, the United States is entirely far too dependent on other nations for our 

supply of rare earth elements. These elements, also called "REEs" or "critical minerals", are used 

in countless consumer products such as cell phones, televisions, and medical equipment. And 

these elements are increasingly the subject of national security concerns because our supply is 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

imported from China. In fact, the Congressional Research Service reports that "refined rare earth 

metals are almost exclusively available from China. The United States has the expertise but 

lacks the manufacturing assets and facilities to refine oxides into metals ... " That wasn't always 

the case. So, it's time we took a hard look at how to redevelop a domestic industry for these. 

West Virginia University is doing a lot of great work on extracting these materials from coal 

mine byproducts. Once commercialized, these processes could be a critical means of standing up 

a domestic market for rare earth elements. Tn the FY 2017 spending bill, we included a $15 

million plus-up for R&D into the extraction and recovery of rare earth elements and minerals 

from U.S. coal and coal byproducts. I've introduced legislation- the Rare Earth Elements 

Advanced Coal Technology Act which would authorize $20 million a year in R&D funds for 

this type of research at DOE. That authorization provides certainty to researchers and sends a 

clear signal that we are serious about re-establishing a domestic market. 

Mr. Dab bar, would you be willing to work with me to ensure this research continues and these 

researchers are given the resources they need? 

Answer: Yes. Rare earth minerals research is a national security priority. 

Question 2: I'd like to discuss the loan guarantee program at the Department of Energy for 

clean energy innovation which was established by the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Mr. Menezes, 

I believe you were a lead staffer on that bill. It has been proposed for elimination in the FY2018 

budget, the House energy appropriations bill and the Senate subcommittee bill. This program 

was created by a Republican Congress on a bipartisan vote and signed into law by a Republican 

President- President George W. Bush. It has a 97.78% repayment rate. lt has a demonstrated 

success of bringing advanced energy technology to market and makes money for the 

government. 

What are your thoughts on why this program is being proposed for elimination despite its 

strategic importance to our nation's energy goals? 

Isn't its elimination essentially a conclusion that there is no additional innovative project out 

there that the federal government should partner with the private sector on? 

Answer: I understand that Mr. Menezes is also answering this question, but to the extent you are 

also asking me, should Congress eliminate future program's funding, if confirmed, I will review 

how to make the best use of the remaining funds to continue successful programs. 

Question 3: My home state is known for coal. But what we're less known for is the work we've 

done to burn that coal more cleanly. The bulk of DOE's fossil energy research is centered at the 

National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL). One ofNETL's facilities is in Morgantown, 

West Virginia, where NETL has worked with the private sector on the technologies we use to 

remove particulates and other harmful substances from coal. The National Energy Technology 

Lab in Morgantown, West Virginia is an extraordinary complex that is near and dear to my heart 

and employs 612 people. The budget proposed consolidation of the 3 lab facilities that make up 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

NETL in a phased approach. I had the opportunity to sit down with Secretary Perry at NETL 

earlier this month and I was encouraged by his interest in the work that these world-class 

researchers have undertaken. l believe that research and development is critical to the 

Department of Energy mission and the national lab system is vital to ensuring that we are on the 

cutting edge of energy technology development. The Morgantown facility is seen as a mainstay 

of fossil fuel technology development. Their projects on carbon capture, efficient utilization of 

coal, and how to integrate fossil fuel systems with renewable energy are vital to our energy 

future. So you can understand why the consolidation proposal may cause me and many West 

Virginians some heartburn. 

If you could each tell me about an experience you had with our national labs that better qualifies 

you to help oversee them? 

I would encourage each of you to visit the NETL Morgantown facility to get an up-close look. 

Answer: I have approximately 20 years of private industry energy experience, and 20 years of 

service in the Department of Defense and Department of Energy. Like Secretary Perry, the more 

I learn about the work of the National Labs, the more I am impressed. I believe I will bring a 

strong mix of public and private sector experience required for this position because of my 

energy industry engineering expertise, and management depth and skills. If confirmed, my goal 

is to assist the Department of Energy and the nation to move forward the bounds of what we can 

accomplish together. 

I would welcome the opportunity to visit Morgantown and work closely with you to continue the 

great work of the men and women at NETL. 

Questions from Senator Martin Heinrich 

Question 1: In 2012, the Blue Ribbon Commission's report on nuclear waste made very clear 

that the only viable path forward is through a consent-based approach to siting both temporary 

storage and permanent disposal facilities for spent nuclear fuel and high-level waste. Do you 

support consent-based siting of all nuclear waste facilities? What in your view would legally 

constitute local "consent?" 

Answer: Ifi am honored to be confirmed, I will be committed to following the law, including 

the Nuclear Waste Policy Act. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is the final arbiter to 

determine whether Yucca Mountain is safe and should they approve it, I will implement any 

DOE activities in accordance with that direction. I recognize that the problem of nuclear waste 

management is extraordinarily complex and, if confirmed, am committed to working with all 

stakeholders to meet our commitments. 

Question 2: For several years I've worked to improve the process to transfer innovative 

technologies from DOE's national laboratories to the private sector. Do you support DOE's 

Office of Technology Transition's continuing implementation of tech transfer via the 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Technology Commercialization Fund? And do you agree that tech transfer should be a priority 

mission for the national labs? 

Answer: l have not been fully briefed on the Office of Technology Transitions but can commit 

to learning more about it. If confirmed, I will explore ways to make technology development at 

the Department of Energy available to interested parties. I believe in engaging with the private 

sector. While being careful not to duplicate private sector efforts, the Department can be a great 

resource in cooperating with the private sector to spur innovation, particularly by investing in 

cutting-edge research. 

Questions from Senator Catherine Cortez Masto 

Question 1: I want to make sure that all nominees for the Department of Energy understand the 

important relationship between renewable energy and economic development. How does the 

proposed DOE budget support its R&D programs that have helped develop clean energy 

technologies, improved national security, and grid reliability? 

Answer: My understanding of the President's FY 2018 budget request is that it focuses on 

early-stage research and development that will allow the United States to remain a leader in 

science and technological innovation. Such leadership is important, not only for science, but for 

the economic growth of our nation. 

Question 2: What do you think should be budgetary priorities for your office/Department? 

Answer: The budgetary priorities are laid out in the President's FY 2018 budget request. I 

support the President's FY 2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the budgetary 

process. If my nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will ensure that the enacted budget 

is carried out. 

Question 3: Do you believe DOE and the National Labs' R&D and clean energy technology 

work is integral to the United States securing energy independence and staying globally 

competitive? 

Answer: Yes. 

Question 4: Are there areas where DOE should do more? 

Answer: I am not an Administration official at this time; however, I commit to work with the 

Administration, the Secretary and Congress to prioritize the work of the Department. 

Question 5: Why do you believe you are qualified for the position you are nominated for? 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

Answer: l have approximately 20 years of private industry energy experience, and 20 years of 

service in the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy. I believe I will bring a 

strong mix of public and private sector experience required for this position because of my 

energy industry engineering expertise, and management depth and skills. If confirmed, my goal 

is to assist the Department of Energy and the nation in moving forward the bounds of what we 

can accom pI ish together. 

Question 6: Secretary Perry has indicated that he may reassign functions in some of your 

ot1ices. What do you believe should remain as a priority in your office? 

Answer: It is my understanding that Secretary Perry intends to return the Under Secretary 

positions to their traditional roles, consistent with the statutory designations of those roles by 

Congress. I am not familiar with any specific plans for reassignment of duties and without being 

an Administration official at this time, I do not think it is appropriate for me to speculate on how 

the functions might be reassigned. 

Question 7: Reassigned to another office? 

Answer: It is my understanding that Secretary Perry intends to return the Under Secretary 

positions to their traditional roles, consistent with the statutory designations of those roles by 

Congress. I am not familiar with any specific plans for reassignment of duties and without being 

an Administration official at this time, I do not think it is appropriate for me to speculate on how 

the functions might be reassigned. 

Question 8: Should anything be reassigned to another office? 

Answer: It is my understanding that Secretary Perry intends to return the Under Secretary 

positions to their traditional roles, consistent with the statutory designations of those roles by 

Congress. I am not familiar with any specific plans for reassignment of duties and without being 

an Administration official at this time, I do not think it is appropriate for me to speculate on how 

the functions might be reassigned. 

Question 9: Geothennal energy is one of the fastest growing industries in Nevada. In 2013, 

there were 29 geothermal power plants operating in nine of Nevada's seventeen counties. The 

Nevada Department of Energy has estimated that at least 6,000 jobs would be created through 

geothermal energy investment. The proposed cuts to DOE will not provide for adequate funding 

for the Geothermal Technologies Office to continue researching geothermal energy innovations. 

Do you believe investments in geothermal energy should be prioritized? 

Answer: As I stated during the hearing, I recob>nize the value of geothermal energy. I support the 

President's budget request and, if confirmed, look forward to finding alternative solutions to 

advance these goals. I will also ensure that the will of Congress is carried out. 

Question 10: Through its Sun Shot Initiative, DOE funds have been granted to universities, 

19 
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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Paul Dabbar 

private companies, and national labs with the aim to make solar energy a low-cost source for all 

Americans. In 2012, DOE's SunShot program established five Regional Test Centers (RTCs) 

across the United States, including a location in Henderson, Nevada, to spur research and 

development in solar technology. These test centers are generating the data needed to attract 

financial investors and drive widespread solar energy deployment. But under President Trump's 

proposed budget there is a proposed 71% funding reduction. These cuts will hurt a thriving 

industry and clean energy jobs in Nevada. Do agree with these proposed budget cuts and how 

would you prioritize programs like these moving forward if confirmed? 

Answer: The President's FY 2018 budget request set the priorities for the Department. l commit 

to follow the appropriations law passed by Congress and signed by the President. 

Question 11: The nominee for Deputy Secretary, Dan Brouillette, commented in his nomination 

hearing that if the science is not there that he would not support Yucca Mountain as a permanent 

repository. Yucca Mountain has serious safety and environmental concerns which are detailed in 

the hundreds of contentions filed by the state of Nevada, the most the NRC has ever considered. 

The contentions alone will take up to 4 years to adjudicate, but even if the site was greenlighted, 

it would take up to 50 years to build infrastructure in Nevada and across the country and to allow 

the waste to cool and be shipped through heavily populated communities. I know that you may 

not be engaged with the Yucca Mountain project, but I want to quickly note that even if you are 

involved in the most peripheral way, that data, sound science, and consent have to be at the 

forefront of this conversation. Do you agree with that statement? 

Answer: All scientific decisions related to Yucca Mountain should be based on sound science. If 

confinned, I will ensure that scientific decisions related to Yucca Mountain continue to be based 

on sound science. 

Question 12: In Nevada, DOE has provided the essential funding for state-run energy programs 

that are helping local communities save taxpayer dollars. For example, Nevada's Pershing 

County School District is saving $72,000 every year after installing rooftop solar panels on 

schools, while energy efficient lighting in the Carson City school district is saving close to 

$80,000 a year for taxpayers. Do you believe federal funding cuts to state-run energy programs 

will hann state initiatives that save taxpayers money and create clean energy? 

Answer: The budgetary priorities are described in the President's FY 2018 budget proposal. 

support the President's FY 2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the budgetary 

process. If my nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will ensure that the enacted budget 

is carried out. 

Question 13: How would you prioritize these programs if you were to be confirmed? 

Answer: The budgetary priorities are described in the President's FY 2018 budget proposal. 

support the President's FY 2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the budgetary 

process. lfmy nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will ensure that the enacted budget 

is carried out. 

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100 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Douglas W. Domenech 

Questions from Ranking Member Maria Cantwell 

Question 1: Addressing the labor violations in the 1990's and 2000's that Jack Abramoff 

famously helped perpetuate took both local and federal action. What steps will you take on the 

federal level to prevent deplorable labor practices that are beginning to remind us of the 

Abramoff era? 

Response: As I indicated at the hearing, given my nomination to this position I have not 

been directly involved in Insular Area policy decisions. While I would need to be briefed 

on this matter to understand the current extent of the problem, if confirmed as Assistant 

Secretary for Insular Areas I will work with the governments of the territories to ensure 

that the appropriate laws are followed. I had the privilege of meeting with Congressman 

Sablan after my nomination, and he alerted me to the worker-visa issue. If confmned, I 

look forward to working with him and the rest of Congress on this important issue. 

Question 2: Are you aware of a Treasury Department investigation into the Best Sunshine 

casino activities? 

Response: As I indicated at the hearing, given my nomination to this position I have not 

been directly involved in Insular Area policy. I am vaguely aware of a Treasury 

Department investigation into Best Sunshine casino activities, but have not been involved 

in the process. 

Question 3: What will you do to ensure that money laundering will not be tolerated in the 

Northern Marianas, or any other Territory? 

Response: As I indicated at the hearing, given my nomination to this position I have not 

been involved in insular area matters. While I would need to be briefed on this matter to 

understand the current extent of the problem, if confirmed as Assistant Secretary for 

Insular Areas I will work with the governments of the territories and U.S. Federal 

agencies, as appropriate, to ensure that the appropriate laws are followed. Where 

necessary, I would also work with Congress on this issue. 

Question 4: What will you do to ensure the Palau compact is implemented? 

Response: If confirmed I will work with the Committee to ensure that the 

Administration meets its obligations with regard to the Palau compact. I understand that 

the President's FY 2018 budget request includes funding for the compact within the 

Department of Defense budget request and, as I said at the hearing, both the House and 

Senate have included funding in their respective defense authorization bills for next year. 
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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Douglas W. Domenech 

Question 5: What will you do to ensure the economy of the United States Virgin Islands does 

not destabilize? 

Response: As I indicated at the hearing, given my nomination to this position I have not 

been involved in insular area matters and would need to be briefed on this matter to better 

understand it. I am aware, however, that the Department has recently provided a number 

of grants to the U.S. Virgin Islands through its Teclmical Assistance Program, including 

to develop a new Consumer Price Index that will provide data for use in assessing the 

economy and prospects for future growth and develop. I also had the privilege of 

meeting with Congresswoman Plaskett prior to my hearing to get her perspective. We 

discussed multiple issues including permanently extending the Rum Cover-Over, 

infrastructure needs and National Park Service. I look forward to working with her, the 

Governor, and Congress to continue supporting these efforts. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Douglas W. Domenech 

Questions from Senator Bernard Sanders 

Question 1: President Trump has suggested in the past that climate change is a hoax. Is the 

President correct? Is climate change a hoax? 

Response: As I indicated at the hearing, the climate is changing and man has an 

influence. 

Question 2: Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that climate change is real, it is 

caused by human activity, and that we must aggressively transition away from fossil fuels toward 

energy efficiency and sustainable energy like wind, solar, and geothermal? 

Response: As I indicated at the hearing, the climate is changing and man has an 

influence. I the territories -especially lower lying islands and atolls - are uniquely 

impacted by sea level rise. 

Question 3: Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that the combustion of fossil fuels 

contributes to climate change? 

Response: Yes 

Question 4: Do you believe that DOl has a role in reducing the extraction and use of fossil fuels? 

Response: I am not aware that Congress has ever provided that direction to the 

Department of the Interior. I believe in the responsible development of our nation's 

natural resources as well as the renewable energy sources to fulfill the Secretary's goal of 

establishing American energy independence. 

Question 5: If confirmed, how will you work to address climate change? 

Response: As I stated in the hearing, I will pursue the best available science to make 

informed management decisions on the behalf of the Department and the Insular Areas. 

Question 6: Which improvements to the management of federal public lands do you hope to 

achieve, if confirmed? 

Response: Secretary Zinke has made the maintenance backlog one of his top priorities. I 

will work with him, Members of Congress and our Insular Area constituents in a 

cooperative manner to address these issues. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Douglas W. Domenech 

Question 7: The Department of the Interior is the most important federal government agency for 

dealing with the issues that affect Native American tribes. The Assistant Secretary for Indian 

Affairs "assists and supports the Secretary of the Interior in fulfilling the United States' trust 

responsibility to the federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes and villages 

and individual Indian trust beneficiaries, as well as in maintaining the Federal-Tribal governmentto-government relationship." If confirmed, will you commit to an open door policy for tribal 

leaders to ensure that the federal government upholds its trust responsibility and maintains its 

government-to-government relationship with tribal leaders? 

Response: I have been nominated for Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas, which is 

separate from the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs position you cited. 

However, I do share Secretary Zinke's belief that tribal consultation is vital and if 

confirmed will continue to hold that position. 

Question 8: DOl's eight regional Climate Science Centers (CSC) cover the continental U.S., 

Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands. Each CSC is based out of a host university in 

their region and most are comprised of multi-institution consortia, which include university and 

non-university partners. In 2016, the work of the centers included assessments of warming on 

river flow, working with tribes to assess management strategies, and developing tools for 

decision-making. If confirmed, will you support the CSCs? If so, how? 

Response: As stated before, I will always pursue the best available science to make 

informed management decisions on the behalf of the Department and the Insular Areas. 

Question 9: Do you promise to uphold the merit system principles set forth in Chapter 23 Title 

5 U.S. Code, which prohibit factors other than merit from consideration in civil service 

employment decisions? 

Response: I support the merit system principles. 

Question 10: The Holman Rule allows any member of Congress to propose amending an 

appropriations bill to single out a government employee or cut a specific program. If confirmed, 

do you commit to opposing any acts of Congress to individually target DOl employees based on 

political whims? 

Response: Congress sets its rules. If confirmed, it will be my responsibility to follow the 

law and advise the Secretary on any proposal that affects the Insular Areas, and I will do 

so. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Douglas W. Domenech 

Questions from Senator Debbie Stabenow 

Questions: I understand you previously worked for the Texas Public Policy Foundation, a think 

tank that depreciates climate change as simply, "justification for onerous climate policies that 

will limit or eliminate the use of fossil fuels." 

As Assistant Secretary of Insular Affairs you will be responsible for carrying out federal policy 

for, and administering federal assistance to, U.S. territories- many of which are especially 

vulnerable to the earliest and worst impacts of climate change due to their geographical location, 

concentration of infrastructure along coastlines, and dependence on unique and fragile 

ecosystems. 

In your opinion, how severe of a problem is climate change? What is the role of the federal 

government in addressing the current and future impacts of climate change? 

Response: As I indicated at the hearing, the climate is changing and man has an 

influence and I will pursue the best available science to make informed management 

decisions on the behalf of the Department and the Insular Areas. As I also mentioned in 

my hearing, throughout my time as Secretary ofNatural Resources for the 

Commonwealth of Virginia, I worked hard to deal with shoreline erosion issues on 

Tangier Island in the Chesapeake Bay. If confirmed, I will apply the same pragmatic, 

solutions-driven approach with the Insular Areas. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Douglas W. Domenech 

Question from Senator Steve Daines 

Question: Do you see the position of Assistant Secretary of Insular Affairs as playing a 

prominent role in the economic growth, security, and well-being of the U.S. territories? 

Response: Yes 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Douglas W. Domenech 

Questions from Senator Catherine Cortez Masto 

Question 1: Do you believe in sound science determining policy? 

Response: Yes 

Question 2: Do you believe the government should adequately invest in the programs that make 

a difference in lives of the communities in my state and across the country? 

Response: Yes 

Question 3: What more can DOl do for our communities? 

Response: Secretary Zinke has made it a priority for the Department to be a good 

neighbor. If confirmed, I look forward to partnering with the Insular Areas Congressional 

delegation, Governors and constituents to craft real solutions that will last. 

Question 4: What do you think should be budgetary priorities for your office/Department? 

Response: Secretary Zinke has made the maintenance backlog one of his top priorities 

and the President's budget request included funding to fulfill our compact obligations in 

the Pacific. After meeting with each of the Congressional members from the territories, 

they echoed the same message. If confirmed I will work with Secretary Zinke, the 

Administration, Members of Congress and our Insular Area constituents in a cooperative 

manner to address the most pressing issues facing our territories. 

Question 5: Why do you believe you are qualified for the position you are nominated for? 

Response: I have a true passion for the Territories and have extensive experience that 

will serve the Insular Areas well. During my time in the Bush Administration, I was 

asked by then Secretary Dirk Kempthome to serve as his appointee to the Advisory 

Council for the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico and later as the Acting Deputy 

Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas. That appointment gave me the opportunity to work 

on issues and travel to Guam, the Virgin Islands, and the Mariana Islands. These visits 

afforded me the occasion to work on health care capacity issues, foreign worker policy, 

iovasive species concerns, and the unique challenges of affordable energy on the islands. 

After my service with the Bush Administration, I was honored to be selected and 

confirmed as Virgioia's Secretary ofNatural Resources. In that role I oversaw six state 

environmental, recreation, and historic resource agencies and worked with the Governor 

to improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay, achieve the best year on record for clean 

air, build oyster and blue crab populations, and reintroduce elk to southwest Virginia. 

We invested io land conservation and worked with Virginia's II state recognized Indian 

tribes to permanently protect historically significant Werowocomoco, the village of 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Douglas W. Domenech 

Indian Chief Powhatan. In addition, I worked hard to combat shoreline erosion on 

Tangier Island. I was able to share these on-the-ground experiences with each of the 

Governors and Congressional Delegates from the territories and was honored to receive 

endorsements from each of the territories. 

Question 6: If Secretary Zinke reassigns functions in some of your offices/departments and 

moves forward with decentralizing the Washington, DC office to regional offices, what do you 

believe should be reassigned to regional offices? 

Response: I share Secretary Zinke's priority of making sure the Department gets the 

right tools and resources out to the field. If confirmed, I look forward to making sure we 

implement this vision in the territories. 

Question 7: What do you believe should remain as a priority in your office? 

Response: If confirmed, we must seek to fulfill our compact obligations, serve our 

Insular Area constituents in a collaborative manner and craft real solutions to challenges 

before our territories. 

Question 8: Your agency, like so many others within the federal government, have dealt with 

continued shortfalls in budgetary funding, which has hurt our government's ability to partner 

effectively with private industry and have inflicted negative impacts on our nation's parks, 

forests and wildlife conservation programs. Do you believe more funding would allow the 

Interior Department to be a better partner to industry and the taxpayer? 

Response: I support the goals and mission of the President's budget. I know that 

sufficient resources are needed to carry out any public function. I also know that 

resources are limited and the money alone cannot solve any problem. I believe that 

decisions with public dollars must be fully informed and made very carefully with the 

objective of maximizing efficiencies with those resources. However, the budget request is 

part of process that requires collaboration with Congress. Should I be confirmed, I 

commit to working with Secretary Zinke, the Administration, and the Congress to 

facilitate appropriate funding for our Insular Areas that is consistent with the President's 

budget and priorities and the intent of Congress. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. David Jonas 

Question from Ranking Member Maria Cantwell 

Question: Since 1993 the Department of Energy's Power Marketing Administrations, including 

the Bonneville Power Administration, have reported to the Deputy Secretary. If you are 

confirmed as General Counsel will you advise the Secretary that the PMAs should continue to 

report direct! y to the Deputy Secretary? 

Answer: I recognize the importance of the PMAs to Western states, especially the Bonneville 

Power Administration's importance to your home state of Washington. I have not been fully 

briefed on the reporting structure of the Department, nor do I have any details about the future of 

that structure. However, I will commit to working with you and your staff on the issue to ensure 

that the Department operates in accordance with the law and in an efficient manner that is 

respectful to the American taxpayer. 

Question from Senator Ron Wyden 

Question: Protection ofwhistleblowers is an issue I take very seriously. As you know, Sen. 

Grassley and I head up the bi-partisan Senate Whistleblower Protection Caucus and over the 

years, I have found whistleblowers play an essential role in uncovering the facts, especially at 

places like the Department of Energy's Hanford reservation. In my view, DOE has a terrible 

record on the treatment ofwhistleblowers; a view confirmed by a U.S. Government 

Accountability office report issued last year ("Department of Energy- Whistleblower 

Protections Need Strengthening; GA0-16-618, July 2016) and the new administration is off to a 

bad start. One of the first things the administration did at DOE was to suspend recently issued 

regulations that would allow the Department to take action against contractors who retaliate 

against whistleblowers. 

If confirmed, please tell me what you are going to do as General Counsel to end the 

Department's hostile whistleblower practices, especially with regard to its contractors? 

Answer: I know when we met that you made it clear how important this issue is to you and I 

appreciate your commitment to ensuring that the Department of Energy (DOE) is a safe work 

environment for our employees and contractors. I share that goal. All workers should feel 

empowered to come forward with concerns without fear of retaliation. If confirmed, I will look 

into current protocols in place. It is my intention to emphasize the processes under that structure 

and to protect the people who take pride in looking after the good work of the Department. I will 

also make sure the laws, regulations and policies regarding whistleblowers are enforced, 

including the protections offered under the Whistleblower Protection Act. If confirmed, I hope 

to help instill a culture of safety and openness for DOE's federal and contractor employees. 
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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. David Jonas 

Questions from Senator Bernard Sanders 

Question 1: President Trump has suggested in the past that climate change is a hoax. Is the 

President correct? Is climate change a hoax? 

Answer: I believe the climate is changing. I also believe that we are having some impact. 

agree with Secretary Perry that the focus should not be so much on if the climate is changing, 

but how we address this issue in a way that doesn't compromise economic growth, the 

affordability of energy, or American jobs. 

Question 2: Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that climate change is real, it is 

caused by human activity, and that we must aggressively transition away from fossil fuels 

toward energy efficiency and sustainable energy like wind, solar, and geothermal? 

Answer: I believe that the climate is changing and that we are having some impact. I agree 

with Secretary Perry that the focus should not be so much on if the climate is changing, but 

how we address this issue in a way that doesn't compromise economic growth, the 

affordability of energy, or American jobs. 

Question 3: Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that the combustion offossil 

fuels contributes to climate change? 

Answer: I believe the climate is changing and that we are having some impact. If confirmed, I 

look forward to getting a better understanding of these dynamics. 

Question 4: Do you believe that DOE has a role in reducing the extraction and use of fossil 

fuels? 

Answer: According to the Department of Energy Organization Act, I believe that the 

Department's roles were created by Congress and may be updated by Congress. For example, 

Congress has stated that, "a strong national energy program is needed to meet the present and 

future energy needs of the Nation consistent with overall national economic, environmental 

and social goals." I believe in those goals, and, if confirmed, I will advise the Department on 

how to implement policies in accordance with the law. 

Question 5: If confirmed, how will you work to address climate change? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide 

legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy as a whole. I do not believe that 

the role of the General Counsel is a policy making role and therefore, ifl was confirmed, I 

would not be taking a position on climate change. If confirmed, I look forward to helping the 

Department implement its policies in accordance with the law. 

Question 6: DOE's Office of Science is the single largest funder of basic research in the 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. David Jonas 

physical sciences in the United States. What do you see as the most pressing priorities for the 

office? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide 

legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the policy 

question, the President's FY18 budget refocuses the Department's energy and science 

programs on early-stage research and development at our National Laboratories to advance 

American primacy in scientific and energy research in an efficient and cost-effective manner. 

Ouestjon 7; What role should DOE play in advancing clean energy innovation in the U.S.? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide 

legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy (DOE), as a whole. I believe the 

Department's roles were created by Congress and may be updated by Congress. For example, 

Congress has stated that, "a strong national energy program is needed to meet the present and 

future energy needs of the Nation consistent with overall national economic, environmental and 

social goals." 

As to the policy question, DOE plays a critical role in early-stage, fundamental energy research 

and innovation. I believe that Secretary Perry is working hard to promote further clean energy 

innovation at the Department of Energy because he believes it is American innovation and 

technology that will clean up the environment. 

Question 8; Secretary Perry requested a study in April to ascertain whether wind and solar 

power are threatening electric grid reliability. It has been reported that the study found no such 

threat. Do you agree with the science that demonstrates wind and solar can in fact improve 

reliability while decreasing costsry 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide 

legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the policy 

question, I support the Administration's "all of the above" energy strategy, and renewable 

energy plays an important role in that strategy. From what 1 understand, the study is an internal 

review of the affordability, reliability, and resiliency of the electric grid. At the time of these 

answers, I do not believe that the final grid study has been issued. 

Question 9; The National Academy of Sciences was asked to conduct an assessment of the 

progress Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) has made toward achieving 

its congressionally mandated mission and goals. It found that "there are clear indications that 

ARPA-E is making progress toward its statutory mission and goals." If confirmed, do you 

commit to fully supporting ARP A-Ery 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide 

legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the policy 

question, l support the Department's shift to focus on early-stage research and development at 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. David Jonas 

our national laboratories to more efficiently and cost-effectively advance American dominance 

in scientific and energy research. Congress and the President will ultimately arrive at an 

agreement regarding funding of ARP A-E, and I will advise the Department about honoring that 

agreement in accordance with the law. 

Ouestjon 10: The president has called for "energy dominance," yet China leads the world in 

solar photovoltaic manufacturing. The largest markets for solar and wind are also in China. Do 

you believe the US is falling behind in the international clean energy market? Will competing 

with China to develop renewable technology be a priority if you are confirmed? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide 

legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the policy 

question, I understand that competing with China to develop not only renewable technology, 

but all kinds of energy technologies, will be a priority of the Department. The United States is 

the world's leader in clean energy technology and I understand that the Secretary is committed 

to keeping it that way. One of the things that makes America great is that we have a vibrant 

private sector that is actively competing with China. 

Question 11: When I met with Secretary Perry, we discussed subsidies for the fossil fuel 

industry. He reminded me that he made a campaign promise to "eliminate direct subsidies and 

tax credits" for energy. Will you commit to working with him to repeal all fossil fuel subsidies? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide 

legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. If confirmed, I commit 

to working with Secretary Perry to ensure that the Department's programs are operating in the 

best interests of the American people in accordance with the law. Since many of the subsidies 

for various forms of energy are defined in laws we will work with you and your colleagues in 

Congress to prioritize. 

Question 12; President Trump's FY18 budget proposal would revive the approval process for 

the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste site. If confirmed, will you commit to blocking the unsafe 

Yucca Mountain proposal and instead work to find a publicly-accepted, safe, long-term 

solution to this country's significant problem of nuclear waste disposal? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide 

legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. lfl am honored to be 

confirmed, I will be committed to follow the law, including the Nuclear Waste Policy Act. The 

Nuclear Re6>ulatory Commission is the final arbiter to determine whether Yucca Mountain is 

safe and should they approve it, I will implement any DOE activities in accordance with that 

direction. I recognize that the problem of nuclear waste management is extraordinarily 

complex, and if confirmed, am committed to working with all stakeholders to meet our 

commitments. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. David Jonas 

Question 13: Do you promise to uphold the merit system principles set forth in Chapter 23 

Title 5 U.S. Code, which prohibit factors other than merit from consideration in civil service 

employment decisions? 

Answer: Yes. 

Question 14: The Holman Rule allows any member of Congress to propose amending an 

appropriations bill to single out a government employee or cut a specific program. If 

confirmed, do you commit to opposing any acts of Congress to individually target DOE 

employees based on political whims? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide 

legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. I am committed to the 

outstanding staff and work of the Department. 

Question 15 (a-d): The Trump administration, following in the footsteps of its predecessor, is 

seeking to end construction of the mixed-oxide (MOX) fuel fabrication plant at the Savannah 

River Site in South Carolina. The U.S. effort to dispose of its plutonium via the MOX fuel path 

has suffered from large cost increases and schedule delays that put the project in jeopardy. 

NNSA estimates the total construction of the project at $17 billion, of which approximately $5 

billion has already been spent. The agency projects the annual cost to operate the facility at 

$800 million to $1 billion. 

The alternative "dilute and dispose" process would down-blend the plutonium with an inert 

material for direct disposal in a repository, namely the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in New 

Mexico. That approach can be implemented decades sooner at a much lower cost and with 

fewer risks, according to NNSA. The agency plans to spend $500 million to get the alternative 

approach up and running and $400 annually to implement it. 

Despite the Energy Department's efforts to terminate the MOX fuel project, Congress has 

refused to abandon it. Meanwhile, Russia last fall suspended implementation of the 2000 

Plutonium Management and Disposition Agreement, which committed each country to dispose 

of the 34 tons of plutonium. 

a) Does the United States plan to stick to its commitment under the PMDA to dispose of 

the 34 metric tons of plutonium despite Russia's suspension of the agreement? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to 

provide legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the 

policy question, I have not been fully briefed on the particulars of the PMDA and as such 

cannot comment on the official position of the Administration. 

b) What is the Energy Department's plan to convince Congress to abandon MOX and fund 

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the alternative dilute and dispose approach? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to 

provide legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the 

policy question, I understand that the President's FY 2018 budget request proposes to 

terminate the MOX project and pursue "dilute and dispose." 

c) Does the Department of Energy believe that all of the 34 tons of plutonium declared 

excess to U.S. military needs will be able to fit in the underground storage spaces at 

WWP~ 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to 

provide legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the 

policy question, I am not an Administration official at this time, so I cannot comment on 

the official positions of the Administration. 

d) Is it possible to emplace most, if not all, of the diluted plutonium at WWP without 

changing the WIPP Land Withdrawal Act? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to 

provide legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the 

policy question, I am somewhat familiar with the Act, but will need to carefully review 

legal issues relating to WWP before commenting on the matter. 

Question 16 (a, b): The United States already has the world's most formidable nuclear 

arsenal. 1t is on track to spend more than a trillion dollars over the next three decades to sustain, 

replace, and refurbish delivery systems, warheads, and their supporting infrastructure. The 

plans include the pursuit by NNSA of the so-called "3+2" nuclear warhead modernization 

strategy. 

Congress has repeatedly questioned the wisdom of the 3+2 approach, which could cost over 

$60 billion, citing the cost and risks involved with the interoperable warheads. 

In addition, a report published in April by the Government Accountability Office disputed 

NNSA's claim that its long-term plans to sustain and rebuild U.S. nuclear warheads and their 

supporting infrastructure are affordable, calling this conclusion "optimistic." 

a) Does the Energy Secretary plan to undertake a comprehensive review of the need and 

affordability ofNNSA's modernization plans? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to 

provide legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the 

policy question, I believe that the Department is committed to nuclear security, including 

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its modernization functions. 

b) Would the Secretary, in consultation with the White House and Nuclear Weapons 

Council, be open to altering the pace and scope of the current modernization plans if it 

is clear significant taxpayer savings can be achieved while meeting deterrence 

requirements? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to 

provide legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the 

policy question, while I am not an Administration official at this time, I believe that the 

Administration is committed to spending taxpayer dollars in a cost-effective manner 

while maintaining our national security. 

Question 17 (a, b): Twenty years ago, the United States was the first country to sign the 

Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), which now has 183 signatories. Today only one state 

-North Korea- conducts nuclear test explosions. 

But the treaty has not yet formally entered into force because the United States and seven other 

states have not yet ratified the pact. Nevertheless, Democratic and Republican administrations 

have supported the U.S. nucleartest moratorium in place since 1992 and the global monitoring 

system to detect and deter nuclear testing, and we have worked hard to prevent the resumption 

of nuclear testing by others. 

a) What in your view would be the strategic consequences if the United States withdrew 

its signature from the CTBT? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to 

provide legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the 

policy question, I have not been briefed on the particulars of the CTBT, and I commit to 

receiving appropriate briefings should my nomination be confirmed by the U.S. Senate. 

b) How do you think other nuclear-armed states would react if the United States withdrew 

from the CTBT? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to 

provide legal advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy as a whole. As to the 

policy question, I have not been briefed on the particulars of the CTBT, and I commit to 

receiving appropriate briefings should my nomination be confirmed by the U.S. Senate. 

Question 18 (a, b): A series of investigative reports published in June by the Center for Public 

Integrity cites numerous internal reports and other documents outlining federal regulators' 

concerns about safety lapses at Los Alamos National Laboratory over the years, including 

spilled plutonium and workers positioning plutonium rods in a way that could have been 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. David Jonas 

disastrous. The report also described how the penalties imposed by the government for these 

errors were typically small, relative to the tens of millions of dollars the NNSA gives to each of 

the contractors annually in pure profit. 

a) What is the Department doing to address all identified issues with its plutonium 

programry 

Answer: If my nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I commit to receiving briefings 

on this subject. 

b) Have all of the identified safety issues been resolved? If not, why notry 

Answer: If my nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I commit to receiving briefings 

on this subject. 

Question 19: A February report by the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board said Los 

Alamos needs 27 fully qualified safety engineers specialized in keeping plutonium from going 

critical (i.e. fissioning out of control), but that the lab only has 10. What is the Department 

doing to increase the number of engineers to the recommended level as quickly as possible? 

Answer: I am not an Administration official at this time, so I cannot comment. If my nomination 

is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I commit to receiving briefings on this subject. 

Question from Senator Steve Daines 

Question: With your extensive experience within the military and in the National Nuclear 

Security Administration, do you agree that it is important for the U.S. to continue to be a world 

energy leader? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide legal 

advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. However, I know that the 

President and Secretary Perry believe that the U.S. must maintain its global leadership in the 

energy industry. 

Question from Senator Joe Man chin III 

Question: My home state is known for coal. But what we're less known for is the work we've 

done to burn that coal more cleanly. The bulk of DOE's fossil energy research is centered at the 

National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL). One ofNETL's facilities is in Morgantown, 

West Virginia, where NETL has worked with the private sector on the technologies we use to 

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July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. David Jonas 

remove particulates and other harmful substances from coal. The National Energy Technology 

Lab in Morgantown, West Virginia is an extraordinary complex that is near and dear to my heart 

and employs 612 people. The budget proposed consolidation of the 3 lab facilities that make up 

NETL in a phased approach. I had the opportunity to sit down with Secretary Perry at NETL 

earlier this month and I was encouraged by his interest in the work that these world-class 

researchers have undertaken. I believe that research and development is critical to the 

Department of Energy mission and the national lab system is vital to ensuring that we are on the 

cutting edge of energy technology development. The Morgantown facility is seen as a mainstay 

of fossil fuel technology development. Their projects on carbon capture, efficient utilization of 

coal, and how to integrate fossil fuel systems with renewable energy are vital to our energy 

future. So you can understand why the consolidation proposal may cause me and many West 

Virginians some heartburn. 

If you could each tell me about an experience you had with our national labs that better qualifies 

you to help oversee them? 

Answer: I agree that our national laboratories are a critical part of the Department of Energy 

enterprise and are national treasures. Our national laboratories are the crown jewels of the nation 

and I plan to support and advocate for their work in accordance with the law, even though the 

General Counsel does not directly oversee the labs. 

l would encourage each of you to visit the NETL Morgantown facility to get an up-close look. 

Answer: If my nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, and my official duties and budget 

permit, I would like to visit NETL Morgantown and the other national laboratories. In so doing, I 

would not only meet with the federal and contractor officials there, but with the outstanding 

federal and contractor attorneys there. 

Questions from Senator Catherine Cortez Masto 

Question 1: l want to make sure that all nominees for the Department of Energy understand the 

important relationship between renewable energy and economic development. How does the 

proposed DOE budget support its R&D programs that have helped develop clean energy 

technologies, improved national security, and grid reliability? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide legal 

advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. My understanding of the 

President's FY 2018 budget is that it focuses on early-stage research and development that will 

allow the United States to remain a leader in science and technological innovation. Such 

leadership is important not only for science but for the economic growth and security of our 

nation. 

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Question 2: What do you think should be budgetary priorities for your office/Department? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide legal 

advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the policy question, the 

budgetary priorities are laid out in the President's FY18 budget proposal. I support the 

President's budget, but also recognize that through the budgetary process Congress will make 

appropriations decisions. 

Question 3: Do you believe DOE and the National Labs' R&D and clean energy technology 

work is integral to the United States securing energy independence and staying globally 

competitive? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide legal 

advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the policy question, I 

believe that all forms of energy contribute to the nation's energy independence and global 

leadership. 

Question 4: Are there areas where DOE should do more? 

Answer: Because I am not an Administration official at this time, I feel constrained in 

commenting on this topic. However, if confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I look forward to working 

with the President, Secretary Perry, and the Department's leadership to provide the highest level 

of service to the American people. 

Question 5: Why do you believe you are qualified for the position you are nominated for? 

Answer: My extensive experience in litigation, international law, general law, government 

contracting, national security law, academia, and previous service as the General Counsel of two 

federal government agencies, including the NNSA, a separately organized agency within the 

Department of Energy (DOE), has prepared me for the role of DOE General Counsel. In his 

letter to this Committee, Scott Harris, the DOE General Counsel under President Obama, noted 

that "Dave may well be among the most prepared to be General Counsel of the Department of 

Energy of all those to have been nominated for the position." 

Question 6: Secretary Perry indicated that he may reassign functions in some of your offices. 

What do you believe should remain as a priority in your office and what should be assigned to 

your office? 

Answer: Since I am not an Administration official at this time, I feel constrained to comment on 

this topic. However, if confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I look forward to working with Secretary 

Perry and the Department's leadership to make the best use of resources within the Department 

and the talent of the Department's employees. 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. David Jonas 

Question 7: Should anything be reassigned to another office? 

Answer: If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I look forward to working with Secretary Perry and 

the Department's leadership to make the best use of Department resources and the talent of the 

employees. 

Question 8: The nominee for Deputy Secretary, Dan Brouillette, commented in his nomination 

hearing that if the science is not there that he would not support Yucca Mountain as a permanent 

repository. Yucca Mountain has serious safety and environmental concerns which are detailed in 

the hundreds of contentions filed by the state of Nevada, the most the NRC has ever considered. 

The contentions alone will take up to 4 years to adjudicate, but even if the site was greenlighted, 

it would take up to 50 years to build infrastructure in Nevada and across the country and to allow 

the waste to cool and be shipped through heavily populated communities. I know that you may 

not be engaged with the Yucca Mountain project, but I want to quickly note that even if you are 

involved in the most peripheral way, that data, sound science, and consent have to be at the 

forefront of this conversation. Do you agree with that statement? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide legal 

advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the policy question, all 

scientific decisions related to Yucca Mountain should be based on sound science. If confirmed, I 

will ensure that such actions related to Yucca Mountain will be in accordance with applicable 

law. 

Question 9: In Nevada, DOE has provided the essential funding for state-run energy programs 

that are helping local communities save taxpayer dollars. For example, Nevada's Pershing 

County School District is saving $72,000 every year after installing rooftop solar panels on 

schools, while energy efficient lighting in the Carson City school district is saving close to 

$80,000 a year for taxpayers. Do you believe federal funding cuts to state-run energy programs 

will harm state initiatives that save taxpayers money and create clean energy? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide legal 

advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the policy question, the 

budgetary priorities are laid out in the President's FY 2018 budget proposal. I support the 

President's budget, but also recognize that through the budgetary process, Congress will make 

appropriations decisions. 

Question 10: How would you prioritize these programs if you were to be confirmed? 

Answer: It is my understanding that the role of the General Counsel is primarily to provide legal 

advice to the Secretary and the Department of Energy, as a whole. As to the policy question, the 

budgetary priorities are laid out in the President's FY 2018 budget proposal. I support the 

President's budget, but also recognize that through the budgetary process Congress will make 

appropriations decisions. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

Questions from Chairman Lisa Murkowski 

Question 1: Alaska faces some of the highest energy costs in the nation. It's not uncommon for 

our more than 200 rural villages to pay more than ten times the national average to heat their 

homes. Many households spend over half of their income on heat. If confirmed, what will you do 

to help reduce enerf,>y costs for Alaska's rural villages? 

Answer: I agree Alaska has many unique challenges and opportunities to address. l believe 

energy costs can be addressed several ways, including technological improvements in diverse 

fuel generation, infrastructure, micro-grids and an increase in supply. Should my nomination be 

confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I commit to reviewing what previous Administrations have done, 

or failed to do, and develop new options designed to reduce energy costs for Alaska's rural 

villages. 

Question 2: Much of Alaska was electrified more than forty years ago. The majority of our rural 

energy infrastructure is now at the end or beyond its useful life, leading to frequent power 

outages and increased costs. What role can DOE play in helping our rural villages modernize 

their infrastructure? How will you support energy reliability and address emergency 

preparedness in these regions? 

Answer: I will work with your staff to more fully understand the challenges faced by the State of 

Alaska with its aging rural energy infrastructure. Should my nomination be confirmed by the 

U.S. Senate, I will review existing DOE authorities and programs to determine what specific 

roles DOE can play to help your rural villages have reliable and affordable power. 

Question 3: Will you follow the statute governing the Department of Energy's Office of Arctic 

Energy, which directs the office be located at a university with expertise in the matters specified 

by 42 U.S.C. 7144d(b)? 

Answer: Should my nomination be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will follow all applicable 

statutory and budgetary requirements, with input from the Office of General Counsel at the 

Department of Energy. 

Question 4: The Department of Energy currently has only two employees based in Alaska. 

However, the Department has acknowledged in past years that it should have at least four 

individuals for the Alaska office. Will you commit to review staffing in Alaska and consider 

additional employees? 

Answer: Yes, should my nomination by confirmed by the U.S. Senate. 

Question 5: The needs of rural Alaska and Indian Country are significant and well documented. 

Should you be confirmed, how would you approach energy development on Native lands, 

including Alaska Native lands? Do you support continued funding for energy development on 
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Native-owned lands and do you support allowing the funds to be used as grants to actually build 

energy projects, or only to be used to provide research or technical assistance for such projects? 

Answer: I support energy development on Native lands, including Alaska Native lands. If 

confirmed, I will be a strong advocate for energy development on such lands. I will review 

current and past practices regarding the use of grants and assistance, as well as the statutory 

requirements, and look forward to learning more about this issue and getting recommendations 

from your staff. I will also work with the Department's Indian Energy office to ensure we are 

aligned and leveraging all our resources to safely and effectively develop energy on Native 

lands. 

Questions from Ranking Member Maria Cantwell 

Question 1: The budget proposes to eliminate the Weatherization Assistance Program and State 

Energy Program, which provide critical technical assistance and state-controlled competitive 

grant funding to all 50 states to support state- and county-level energy projects. Do you support 

eliminating the Weatherization Assistance Program and State Energy Program? 

Answer: I support the President's FY2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the 

budgetary process. If my nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will ensure that the 

enacted budget is carried out. 

Question 2: The budget proposal includes draconian cuts to the Office of Energy Efficiency and 

Renewable Energy, the Ofiice of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability, and other applied 

energy programs. These programs invest in all stages of innovation cross a diverse portfolio of 

energy technologies to enhance economic competitiveness and secure America's long-term 

energy security. Do you agree with these cuts? Do you believe there is a Federal role in investing 

in R&D in these areas? 

Answer: I support the President's FY 2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the 

budgetary process I believe there is a federal role in investing R&D especially at the earliest 

stages. 

Question 3: What is your view of where our country should be headed in the development and 

promotion of renewable energy? What types of technologies do you believe DOE should be 

supporting, and at what budgetary level? 

Answer: T believe that the future for renewables is bright. During my time in the private sector, 

I saw firsthand the positive role renewable energies, such as hydro, wind and solar, can have in 

meeting our nation's energy needs. 

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Question 4: Do you agree with the scientific consensus that the earth's climate is changing and 

is primarily caused by human activity? 

Answer: I believe the climate is changing. Some of it is naturally occurring and some from our 

activities. 

Question 5: What actions should be taken to mitigate climate change and its impacts? 

Answer: I believe a strong, vibrant economy is the best way to mitigate any impacts from 

climate change. lf confirmed, I will work to implement policies at DOE that will empower 

innovative approaches and technologies to mitigate climate change. 

Question 6: Do you commit to protecting the climate science and data functions at DOE? 

Answer: I strongly believe in the importance of objective research and the freedom of scientific 

inquiry. 

Question 7: Can you commit to reviewing the findings and recommendations from the first and 

second installments of the Quadrennial Energy Review and consider continued support of the 

recommendations as they have received bipartisan support in the past? 

Answer: I have not been fully briefed on the Quadrennial Energy Review (QER). If confirmed, 

I will seek more information about the value of the QER, including input from key stakeholders. 

I would certainly look to leverage the expertise of the DOE staff in any multi-agency energy 

review process. 

Question 8: What is your view on the best way to address critical challenges that span DOE's 

diverse mission areas? 

Answer: The Department of Energy has a vast and diverse mission executed by the tremendous 

career workforce and the national labs. If confirmed, I intend to work closely with my 

counterparts across the agency to ensure that program efforts are not only well defined at the 

outset but are also coordinated, well managed and aligned with the Department's mission. 

Question 9: How do you view DOE's role in protecting the electric grid and energy systems 

from cyber attacks? 

Answer: Energy cybersecurity is a critical issue and a significant part of DOE's mission. If my 

nomination is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will build on the work of the Administration and 

Congress to give this high priority attention it deserves. The Department has taken a number of 

steps internally, across the interaganecy and with the private sector to be working together to 

identify, mitigate and respond to threats. 

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Question 10: What steps will you take to ensure that cybersecurity efforts, to protect the grid 

and energy systems and also to protect DOE assets, are coordinated across the Department? 

Answer: The reliability and security of our electric grid are and energy systems very important 

to me and are a crucial role of the Department. If confirmed, I look forward to a discussion about 

how to harden our grid, energy systems and prioritizing cyber security efforts. DOE should 

coordinate across the Department and other agencies, as well as the private sector, to develop a 

seamless and coordinated plan for addressing major attacks. If confirmed, I would work to 

ensure that communication across the Department, between principals, CEOs, and my office is 

strong, and that the efforts of this group continue to focus on removing barriers to information 

sharing and technology development efforts. 

Question 11: What is your view on the role of DOE's national laboratories in DOE's 

cybersecurity efforts? 

Answer: The national labs are the crown jewels of our nation. The security of our electric grid 

and energy systems is very important to me and protecting it is a crucial role of the Department. 

If confirmed, I look forward to exploring ways in which the national labs can further build on 

existing efforts to advance scientific development to harden our grid, our energy systems and 

prioritize cybersecurity efforts. 

Question 12: What is your view of the role DOE's national laboratories should play in a U.S. 

government cybersecurity strategy? 

Answer: I believe the national laboratories play a similar role in the U.S government as they do 

in the Department. The national labs are the crown jewels of our nation. The security of our 

electric grid and energy systems is very important to me and protecting it is a crucial role the 

Department. If confirmed, I look forward to exploring ways in which the national labs can 

advance scientific development to harden our grid, our energy systems and prioritize 

cybersecurity efforts. 

Question 13: Do you think that voluntary cybersecurity guidelines that may not be practiced by 

all of the pipeline industry are sufficient to protect our national security assets from foreign state 

actors? 

Answer: The reliability and security of our electric grid, our energy systems, including our 

pipelines, are very important to me; protecting it is a crucial role of the Department. If 

confirmed, I look forward to a discussion about how to harden protection of our pipelines, the 

grid, other infrastructure assets, and prioritizing cybersecurity efforts. I will also work to ensure 

communication and technology development efforts are strong. I will work to increase 

participation of the pipelines in the Department of Energy's energy sector cybersecurity 

coordination. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

Question 14: Should any additional measures be implemented to fortify pipeline cybersecurity? 

Answer: Ensuring robust physical cybersecurity measures is vital to our national security. 

However, I am not an Administration official at this time and have not been fully briefed. If 

confirmed, I will commit to looking further into this issue. 

Question 15: What steps will you take to make sure our energy networks are protected against 

the constant threat of cyberattack? 

Answer: The reliability and security of our energy networks are very important to me and their 

protection is a crucial role of the Department. If confirmed, I look forward to a discussion about 

how to harden our energy networks and prioritizing cybersecurity efforts. I will also work to 

ensure communication and technology development efforts are strong. 

Question 16: Will you commit to maintain the efforts of the previous administration to keep 

Hanford safe and work on making Hanford safer for workers and the community? 

Answer: I am committed to cleaning up the Hanford site and will make it a top priority if 

confirmed. Protecting workers and the surrounding communities is of paramount importance. 

look forward to getting up to speed on these issues and working with you and your staff, the 

State of Washington, its Congressional delegation, and other relevant stakeholders. 

Question 17: Do you acknowledge the extreme risk to workers at the Hanford site and commit 

to improving worker safety and improving the worker compensation program and the 

Departments contribution the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program? 

Answer: I am committed to cleaning up the Hanford site and will make it a priority if 

confirmed. As stated to your staff prior to my confirmation hearing and expressed during the 

hearing, protecting workers and the surrounding communities is of paramount importance. I look 

forward to being fully briefed on these issues and working with you and your staff, the State of 

Washington, its Congressional delegation, and other relevant stakeholders. 

Question 18: Do you acknowledge that the Department has a lot of work to do to improve how it 

helps sick workers? Will you commit to work with me to fix the Departments deficiencies and 

work with the unions and advocacy groups to get to the bottom of the problems plaguing the 

workers compensation program at Hanford? 

Answer: Protecting workers and the surrounding communities is of paramount importance. 

Should my nomination be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I am committed to being fully briefed 

and working with you and your staff, the State of Washington, its Congressional delegation, and 

other relevant stakeholders. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

Question 19: Will you commit to working with us to ensure the workers at Hanford are 

receiving the proper training and equipment and that they are not exposed to chemical vaporsry 

Answer: Protecting workers and the surrounding communities is of paramount importance. 

Should my nomination be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, you will have my commitment to be 

fully briefed on these issues and working with you and your staff, the State of Washington, its 

Congressional delegation, and other relevant stakeholders. 

Question 20: Do you understand the moral and legal obligations as well as the urgency for the 

Department of Energy to properly fund and proceed with the cleanup effort at the Hanford site, 

including construction of the Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plantry In your respective role 

will you commit to providing the necessary resources to complete the construction of the direct 

feed low-activity waste facilities as well as the high activity waste facilitiesry 

Answer: lam committed to cleaning up the Hanford site and will make it a priority if confirmed. 

I understand that DOE is actively working to meet its cleanup commitments while continuing 

key risk reduction and remediation activities at Hanford. I look forward to being fully briefed on 

these issues and working with you and your staff, the State of Washington, its Congressional 

delegation, and other relevant stakeholders. 

Question 21: Do you understand that any change in the Department's approach to treating tank 

waste at Hanford must include input from the state of Washington before moving forwardry This 

is critical to avoid costly litigation that will only hamper progress. Do I have your word you will 

work with the Washington delegation and state of Washington on the Hanford cleanupry 

~ I am committed to cleaning up the Hanford site and will make it a priority if 

confirmed. I will work with the Washington delegation and State officials to ensure we are 

making sustainable, risk-informed, and fiscally wise decisions regarding our Environmental 

Management obligations at Hanford. 

Question 22: Will you commit to including science and technology as an important component 

of cleanup work at EM sites, including Hanfordry 

Answer: Yes. 

Question 23: Will you commit to ensuring that existing lab capabilities that support Hanford 

will be stewarded and utilized before investments are made in new capabilities? 

Answer: Should I be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, I will work to ensure we are making 

sustainable, risk-informed, and fiscally wise decisions regarding our Environmental Management 

obligations at Hanford. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

Question 24: As you may be aware, many cleanup contracts around the EM complex are 

expiring. Because much of the funding for investments in science and technologies come through 

the cleanup contractors, new EM contract mechanisms are needed that provide appropriate 

incentives to these contractors to invest in innovative technologies to reduce costs, something 

that is not reflected in existing contract mechanisms. What will you do to ensure that EM utilizes 

contract mechanisms to provide these incentives in contracts that it will be re-bidding in 2017 

and beyond? 

Answer: I recognize the importance of effective contract management and ensuring that the right 

incentives are included. I am aware that DOE faces many challenges, among them project 

management and the accuracy of cost estimates, particularly for large projects. If confirmed, I 

will review the existing contract mechanisms and work with the Secretary to improve 

performance and management. 

Question 25: Do you agree that grid modernization is an important component of DOE's 

mission? 

Answer: Yes, the Secretary has stated his goal is to make modernizing the electric grid a 

priority and, if confirmed, I will ensure that the Department is focused on modernizing and 

improving the electric grid and the supply chain that supports it. 

Question 26: What steps will you take to ensure that national laboratories remain a strategic and 

important part of the Department's grid modernization and cybersecurity work? 

Answer: I value the national labs as the crown jewels of the nation and am aware of the 

Department's Grid Modernization Initiative (GMI) and Grid Modernization Multi-Year Program 

Plan (MYPP). I have yet to be fully briefed on either the initiatives or the program plan. If 

confinned, I will ensure that the Department is focused on modernizing and improving the 

electric grid and will continue to utilize the national laboratories as appropriate. 

Question 27: What steps will you take to build upon the strong public-private partnerships that 

exist in this area, including the role of public/private demonstrations at the regional level to 

accelerate grid modernization, resilience and security? 

Answer: I_am aware of the Department's Grid Modernization Initiative (GMI) and Grid 

Modernization Multi-Year Program Plan (MYPP). However, I have not been fully briefed on 

either the initiatives or the program plan. If confirmed, I will ensure that the Department is 

focused on modernizing and improving the electric grid. 

Question 28: Do you agree that a priority for the Department is to ensure system reliability as 

energy sources continue to evolve? 

Answer: Yes. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

Question 29: Do you agree that investing in transactive controls increases the reliability of our 

nation's energy system? 

Answer: This is an issue I look forward to being more fully briefed on if confirmed. I am 

committed to energy reliability and fulfilling this important mission of the Department. 

Question 30: What steps will you take to advance the reliability of our nation's energy system? 

Answer: The Secretary has stated his goal is to make modernizing the electric grid a priority 

and, if confirmed, I will ensure that the Department is focused on modernizing and improving 

the electric grid. The Secretary has also commissioned an agency-wide study on electricity 

markets and reliability of the electric grid. If confirmed, I look forward to reviewing this study to 

gain a better understanding of the challenges facing the grid and how we can advance the 

reliability of the nation's energy system. 

Question 31: Do you agree that eners>y storage is a critical component of a resilient, reliable 

grid? What steps will you take to move forward on energy storage if you are confirmed? 

Answer: I do believe there is a role for storage. As previously stated, the Secretary has 

commissioned an agency-wide study on the electric grid. If confirmed, I look forward to 

reviewing this study to gain a better understanding of the challenges facing the grid and how 

energy storage can assist in strengthening the grid. 

Question 32: What is your view on energy efficiency standards? How will you meet the Energy 

Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) and other statutory requirements for energy efficiency 

standards? 

Answer: Energy efficiency has been a priority of Congress and DOE and has helped provide 

significant energy savings to many Americans. I have not been briefed on the full array of 

Departmental efforts in this area. If I am confirmed, I will commit to learning more about the 

Department's role in meeting America's efficiency needs. 

Questions from Senator Bernard Sanders 

Onestion 1: President Trump has suggested in the past that climate change is a hoax. Is the 

President correct? Is climate change a hoax? 

A.l!.m.!:I.i. I believe the climate is changing, and I agree with others who have stated that we 

must have some impact. I agree with Secretary Perry that the question is how we address it in 

a thoughtful way that further supports economic growth, improves affordability of energy, and 

American jobs. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

Questjon 2; Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that climate change is real, it is 

caused by human activity, and that we must aggressively transition away from fossil fuels 

toward energy efficiency and sustainable energy like wind, solar, and geothermal? 

Answer; I believe that the climate is changing and that we have some impact on it. I believe 

that the cost of the benefits of climate-related policies need to make sense for American 

families and the American economy. 

Questjon 3; Do you agree with the vast majority of scientists that the combustion offossil 

fuels contributes to climate change? 

Answer: I believe the climate is changing and that we have some impact on it. If confirmed, I 

look forward to working with Congress and the experts in the Department to advance efforts 

to address climate change. 

Question 4: Do you believe that DOE has a role in reducing the extraction and use of fossil 

fuels? 

Answer: I support an "all the above" approach smartly using our energy resources. The 

Department of Energy Organization Act states that "a strong national energy program is 

needed to meet the present and future energy needs of the Nation consistent with overall 

national economic, environmental and social goals." I believe in those goals, and, if 

confirmed, I will follow the law 

Question 5· If confirmed, how will you work to address climate change? 

~ l believe the climate is changing and that we have some impact on it. If confirmed, I 

look forward to helping the Department implement its policies in accordance with the law. 

Question 6: DOE's Office of Science is the single largest funder of basic research in the 

physical sciences in the United States. What do you see as the most pressing priorities for the 

office? 

~The President's FY 2018 budget request focuses the Department's energy and 

science programs on early-stage research and development at our national laboratories to 

advance American primacy in scientific and energy research in an efficient and cost-effective 

manner. 

Question 7: What role should DOE play in advancing clean energy innovation in the U.S.? 

~DOE plays a critical role in early-stage, fundamental energy research and innovation. 

This early-stage research is critical to our etiorts and is often used by our private sector in 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

competing across the globe. 

Question 8; Secretary Perry requested a study in April to ascertain whether wind and solar 

power are threatening electric grid reliability. It has been reported that the study found no such 

threat. Do you agree with the science that demonstrates wind and solar can in fact improve 

reliability while decreasing costs? 

~I support the Administration's "all of the above" energy strategy, and believe 

renewable energy has an important role in that strategy. Ensuring the reliability of the grid 

and energy supply chain is important to supporting the American economy. I have not seen 

any drafts of the internal study but look forward to reading it when it is released. 

Question 9: The National Academy of Sciences was asked to conduct an assessment of the 

progress Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) has made toward achieving 

its congressionally mandated mission and goals. It found that "there are clear indications that 

ARPA-E is making progress toward its statutory mission and goals." If confirmed, do you 

commit to fully supporting ARPA-E? 

Answer: l support the Department's shift to focus on early-stage research and development at 

our national laboratories to more efficiently and cost-effectively advance American dominance 

in scientific and energy research. Congress and the President will ultimately arrive at an 

agreement regarding the funding of ARPA-E, and the Department will implement it 

according! y. 

Question 10: The president has called for "energy dominance," yet China leads the world in 

solar photovoltaic manufacturing. The largest markets for solar and wind are also in China. Do 

you believe the US is falling behind in the international clean energy market? Will competing 

with China to develop renewable technology be a priority if you are confirmed? 

~I understand that competing with China to develop not only renewable technology, 

but all kinds of technology, will be a priority of the Department. This includes our efforts in 

exascale computing. 

Question 11: When I met with Secretary Perry, we discussed subsidies for the fossil fuel 

industry. He reminded me that he made a campaign promise to "eliminate direct subsidies and 

tax credits" for energy. Will you commit to working with him to repeal all fossil fuel subsidies? 

~If confirmed, I commit to reviewing existing programs at DOE and working with 

Secretary Perry to ensure that they are in the best interests of the American people. Since 

many of the subsidies for various forms of energy are defined in laws we will work with you 

and your colleagues in Congress to prioritize. 

Question 12; President Trump's FY 2018 budget proposal would revive the approval process 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

for the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste site. If confirmed, will you commit to blocking the 

unsafe Yucca Mountain proposal and instead work to find a publicly-accepted, safe, long-term 

solution to this country's significant problem of nuclear waste disposaP 

Answer: lfl am honored to be confirmed, l will be committed to following the law, including 

the Nuclear Waste Policy Act. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is the final arbiter to 

determine whether Yucca Mountain is safe and should they approve it, I will implement any 

DOE activities in accordance with that direction. I recognize that the problem of nuclear waste 

management is extraordinarily complex and, if confirmed, am committed to working with all 

stakeholders to meet our commitments. 

Question 13: Do you promise to uphold the merit system principles set forth in Chapter 23 

Title 5 U.S. Code, which prohibit factors other than merit from consideration in civil service 

employment decisions? 

Answer: Yes. 

Question 14: The Holman Rule allows any member of Congress to propose amending an 

appropriations bill to single out a government employee or cut a specific program. If 

confirmed, do you commit to opposing any acts of Congress to individually target DOE 

employees based on political whims? 

Answer: I have briefly read about the Holman rule, but would defer to the Office of General 

Counsel as to how any action under it should be applied. 

Question from Senator Debbie Stabenow 

Question: As you know, the SuperTruck program is a 50/50 cost-shared, public-private 

partnership at the Department of Energy that promotes the research, development, and 

demonstration of technologies that improve the efficiency of Class 8 tractor-trailer trucks by 

more than 100 percent by 2020. These trucks haul as much as 80 percent of the goods 

transported in the country, and although they only make up 4 percent of vehicles on the road, 

they use about 20 percent of the fuel. 

The first phase of Super Truck produced enormous achievements that exceeded benchmarks for 

freight and engine efficiency. 

What is your assessment of the SuperTruck program? 

Answer: While I am not familiar with the SuperTruck program, the achievements you describe 

seem commendable, and, if confirmed, I commit to being fully briefed on the program. 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

Question from Senator Steve Daines 

Question: Coal plays an important role in the economy of Montana. The development and 

production of coal creates good-paying jobs and provides cheap, reliable energy across the state. 

With the advancements in technology coal has also become a cleaner form of energy that 

supplies consistent baseload power to the grid. With the production and consumption of coal 

expected to grow in the next decades it is important that we craft policies that will help foster the 

growth of coal in a responsible manner. Will you work with congress and Secretary Perry to 

promote research in clean coal and carbon capture technology so that we can reduce emissions 

while still protecting jobs and fostering economic growth through the production of our natural 

resources? 

Answer: Yes. 

Questions from Senator Joe Man chin III 

Question 1: I'd like to discuss the loan guarantee program at the Department of Energy for 

clean energy innovation which was established by the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Mr. Menezes, 

I believe you were a lead staffer on that bill. It has been proposed for elimination in the FY2018 

budget, the House energy appropriations bill and the Senate subcommittee bill. This program 

was created by a Republican Congress on a bipartisan vote and signed into law by a Republican 

President President George W. Bush. It has a 97.78% repayment rate. It has a demonstrated 

success of bringing advanced energy technology to market and makes money for the 

government. 

What are your thoughts on why this program is being proposed for elimination despite its 

strategic importance to our nation's energy goals~ 

Isn't its elimination essentially a conclusion that there is no additional innovative project out 

there that the federal government should partner with the private sector on? 

Answer: Should Congress eliminate future program funding, if confirmed, I will review how to 

make the best use of the remaining funds to continue successful programs. 

Question 2: I spoke with Secretary Perry regarding the grid study that the Department has 

undertaken at our budget hearing in June and when he visited West Virginia earlier this month. 

understand that just the undertaking of this study drew some criticism which is interesting 

because I think examining whether our grid reliability is at risk is a reasonable question to ask. 

As you know, West Virginia's existing installed capacity is over 90% coal- and those are 

reliable and resilient assets. For example, the Longview Power Plant in Maidsville, WV which 

Secretary Perry visited with me, is one of the most efficient coal-fired power plants in the world. 

This is a 700 megawatt mine-mouth plant that continuously produces enough electricity to power 

about 500,000 homes. Longview Power is a clean coal facility with best-in-class air pollution 

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U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

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control systems that result in much lower emissions than its permit limits, which are among the 

lowest in the nation for coal plants. In addition, Longview emits significantly less C02 than most 

other coal plants. But, merchant plants like Longview are having a harder time competing 

because of the lack of recognition of what baseload plants offer to the reliability of our grid. If 

we aren't asking these questions, we are not being vigilant in pursuit of a reliable and resilient 

electric grid on behalf of our constituents. So, I am looking forward to see what the experts at 

DOE find and, if confirmed, working with you to address these challenges. 

Can you please comment on your experience with issues related to grid reliability~ 

Answer: My experience with grid reliability is fairly extensive. I was involved in the enactment 

of the mandatory reliability standards in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and advised many 

utilities in compliance and implementation of those standards. As a utility executive, I have 

gained much experience in grid operations to ensure reliability during peak loads and stress 

periods across wide portions of the United States. 

How would you seek to balance the reliability of our grid with ensuring an all of the above 

energy mix? 

Answer: Grid reliability must be maintained with a combination of a diverse fuel mix, both to 

ensure the integration of variable resources and maintain baseload. Our energy markets are both 

regulated and evolving. If confirmed, l will review this matter and work with your office, 

Congress, and the other agencies to ensure a diverse fuel mix and a reliable, resilient grid. 

Question 3: My home state is known for coal. But what we're less known for is the work we've 

done to burn that coal more cleanly. The bulk of DOE's fossil energy research is centered at the 

National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL). One ofNETL's facilities is in Morgantown, 

West Virginia, where NETL has worked with the private sector on the technologies we use to 

remove particulates and other harmful substances from coal. The National Energy Technology 

Lab in Morgantown, West Virginia is an extraordinary complex that is near and dear to my heart 

and employs 612 people. The budget proposed consolidation of the 3 lab facilities that make up 

NETL in a phased approach. I had the opportunity to sit down with Secretary Perry at NETL 

earlier this month and I was encouraged by his interest in the work that these world-class 

researcher have undertaken. l believe that research and development is critical to the Department 

of Energy mission and the national lab system is vital to ensuring that we are on the cutting edge 

of energy technology development. The Morgantown facility is seen as a mainstay of fossil fuel 

technology development. Their projects on carbon capture, efficient utilization of coal, and how 

to integrate fossil fuel systems with renewable energy are vital to our energy future. So you can 

understand why the consolidation proposal may cause me and many West Virginians some 

concern. 

What is your experience with the national labs and what specifically qualifies you to work with 

them and/or oversee the labs~ 

13 
132 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20, 2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

Answer: As Chief Counsel to the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I gained extensive 

experience in the oversight of our nation's labs. In private practice, I worked with clients who 

interacted with the labs to deploy the latest technologies and to implement grants. I believe that 

broad knowledge of operations and programs makes me qualified to assist in the oversight of the 

labs. 

Questions from Senator Martin Heinrich 

Question 1: I understand the Office of Environmental Management will soon announce the 

award of a new management contract for legacy cleanup work at Los Alamos National Lab. The 

regional communities and pueblos in Northern New Mexico are anxious to be active partners 

with EM and the new contractor in the execution of legacy cleanup work. Do you agree it will 

be critical for DOE and the new cleanup management contractor to engage and work closely 

with the local community and pueblos to assure an effective and efficient operation? 

Answer: As I am not currently at the Department, lam not familiar with the details of this 

particular competitive process. If confirmed, I will work with the State of New Mexico, the New 

Mexico congressional delegation, pueblos, and other stakeholders to assure an effective cleanup 

and efficient operation. 

Question 2: I continue to be concerned that DOE/EM lacks a strategic plan for the Waste 

Isolation Pilot Plant and its mission of permanent disposal of defense transuranic waste. Will 

you make it a priority to complete an assessment ofWIPP's remaining space for disposal ofTRU 

waste to determine if it is sufficient for all currently planned sources of waste or if expansion of 

the facility will be necessary? In addition, EM should determine if projected plans for TRU 

waste disposal at WIPP will be in full compliance with each of the statutory disposal limits 

established in the 1992 Land Withdrawal Act, which was negotiated with the State of New 

Mexico. 

Answer: I have not been fully briefed on the remaining space for disposal of TRU waste at 

WIPP. If confirmed, l will make it a priority to assess the remaining space for its disposal at 

WIPP. 

Questions from Senator Catherine Cortez Masto 

Question 1. I want to make sure that all nominees for the Department of Energy understand the 

important relationship between renewable energy and economic development. How does the 

proposed DOE budget support its R&D programs that have helped develop clean energy 

technologies, improved national security, and grid reliability? 

Answer: My understanding of the President's FY 2018 budget request is that it focuses on earlystage research and development that will allow the United States to remain a leader in science 

14 
133 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

and technological innovation. Such leadership is important not only for science but for the 

economic growth of our nation. 

Question 2. What do you think should be budgetary priorities for your office/Department? 

Answer: The budgetary priorities are laid out in the President's FY 2018 budget proposal. I 

support the President's FY2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the budgetary 

process. If my nomination is confinned by the U.S. Senate, I will ensure that the enacted budget 

is carried out. 

Question 3. Do you believe DOE and the National Labs' R&D and clean energy technology 

work is integral to the United States securing energy independence and staying globally 

competitive? 

Answer: Yes. 

Question 4. Are there areas where DOE should do more? 

Answer: I am not an Administration official at this time; however, I commit to work with the 

Administration, the Secretary and Congress to prioritize the work of the Department. 

Question 5. Why do you believe you are qualified for the position you are nominated for? 

Answer: I have almost three decades of experience in the field of energy, both in the public and 

private sectors. As Chief Counsel to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, which has chief 

oversight responsibility for the Department of Energy, I developed a broad knowledge of the 

missions and challenges facing the Department, the national labs, and research and development 

programs. As a chief negotiator and drafter of several of the key provisions of one of our nation's 

bipartisan energy bills, which established several of the key programs at the Department, 

including the loan guarantee program for emerging technologies, incentives for renewables and 

other sources of generation and fuels, I have long recognized the need for a separate Under 

Secretary for Science. As I stated in my written statement, l have extensive management and 

performance training, and expertise in large corporations with diverse workforces and know how 

to measure and achieve performance goals. 

Question 6. Secretary Perry indicated that he may reassign functions in some of your offices. 

What do you believe should remain as a priority in your office and what should be assigned to 

your office? 

Answer: It is my understanding that Secretary Perry intends to return the Under Secretary 

positions to their traditional roles, consistent with the statutory designations of those roles by 

Congress. I am not familiar with any specific plans for reassignment of duties and without being 

15 
134 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

an Administration official at this time, I do not think it is appropriate for me to speculate on how 

the functions might be reassigned. 

Question 7. Should anything be reassigned to another office? 

Answer: It is my understanding that Secretary Perry intends to return the Under Secretary 

positions to their traditional roles, consistent with the statutory designations of those roles by 

Congress. I am not familiar with any specific plans for reassignment of duties and without being 

an Administration official at this time, I do not think it is appropriate for me to speculate on how 

the functions might be reassigned. 

Question 8. Geothermal energy is one of the fastest growing industries in Nevada. In 2013, there 

were 29 geothermal power plants operating in nine ofNevada's seventeen counties. The Nevada 

Department of Energy has estimated that at least 6,000 jobs would be created through 

geothermal energy investment. The proposed cuts to DOE will not provide for adequate funding 

for the Geothermal Technologies Office to continue researching geothermal energy innovations. 

Do you believe investments in geothermal energy should be prioritized? 

Answer: I support the President's FY 2018 budget request and, if confirmed, look forward to 

finding alternative solutions to advance these goals. I will also ensure that the will of Congress is 

carried out. 

Question 9. The nominee for Deputy Secretary, Dan Brouillette, commented in his nomination 

hearing that if the science is not there that he would not support Yucca Mountain as a permanent 

repository. Yucca Mountain has serious safety and environmental concerns which are detailed in 

the hundreds of contentions filed by the state of Nevada, the most the NRC has ever considered. 

The contentions alone will take up to 4 years to adjudicate, but even if the site was greenlighted, 

it would take up to 50 years to build infrastructure in Nevada and across the country and to allow 

the waste to cool and be shipped through heavily populated communities. l know that you may 

not be engaged with the Yucca Mountain project, but I want to quickly note that even if you are 

involved in the most peripheral way, that data, sound science, and consent have to be at the 

forefront of this conversation. Do you agree with that statement? 

Answer: All scientific decisions related to Yucca Mountain should be based on sound science. 

If confirmed, I will ensure that scientific decisions related to Yucca Mountain continue to be 

based on sound science. 

Question 10. In Nevada, DOE has provided the essential funding for state-run energy programs 

that are helping local communities save taxpayer dollars. For example, Nevada's Pershing 

County School District is saving $72,000 every year after installing rooftop solar panels on 

schools, while energy efficient lighting in the Carson City school district is saving close to 

$80,000 a year for taxpayers. Do you believe federal funding cuts to state-run energy programs 

16 
135 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

July 20,2017 Hearing: Pending Nominations 

Questions for the Record Submitted to Mr. Mark Wesley Menezes 

will hann state initiatives that save taxpayers money and create clean energy? 

Answer: The budgetary priorities are described in the President's FY 2018 budget proposal. 

support the President's FY 2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the budgetary 

process. If my nomination is confinned by the U.S. Senate, I will ensure that the enacted budget 

is carried out. 

Question 11. How would you prioritize these programs if you were to be confinned? 

Answer: The budgetary priorities are described in the President's FY 2018 budget proposal. 

support the President's FY 2018 budget request and recognize Congress' role in the budgetary 

process. If my nomination is confinned by the U.S. Senate, I will ensure that the enacted budget 

is carried out. 

17 
136 

Greg Abel 

Chairman, President and CEO 

July 19,2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

United States Senate 

304 Dicksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

Dear Chairwoman Murkowski, 

I am writing to convey my strong personal recommendation for the nomination of Mark 

Menezes as Under Secretary of Energy. In your capacity as a senior member of the Senate 

Energy and Natural Resources Committee, l ask that you support expeditious consideration 

of Mark's nomination, and that you strongly consider voting in favor of it 

I have come to know Mark well as part of the Berkshire Hathaway Energy team as he has 

served in our Washington, D.C. office as vice president of federal relations. He comes to the 

nomination with a very deep background on energy policy, having also served as general 

counsel to the House Subcommittee on Energy and Power, and as a partner chairing the 

energy practice at the law firm of Hunton and Williams. Along the way, he has accumulated 

more than 25 years of top level experience, including making material contributions to our 

efforts at Berkshire Hathaway Energy. Those include nation-leading renewable investments 

in pursuit of a low cost and diversified resource base on behalf of our customers. 

Mark's high knowledge, level of organization, and management skills are matched by a 

critical perspective that we feel strongly about at our company: putting the customer first 

And in that regard, our loss will be the American people's gain. I recommend him without 

reservation. 

Thank you for your consideration of this request I look forward to seeing you again soon 

and appreciate your continued efforts on behalf of the citizens of Oregon and the country. 

Sincerely, 

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY ENERGY 

P.O. BOX 657 • DES MOINES, lA 50306-0657, U.S.A. • 515-242-4000 • FAX: 515-242-4031 
137 

PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE 

OFFICER 

GregoryWetstone 

Joseph Desmond 

5VP,Bright5ource£nergy 

ManagingDirector,Pr:masonic 

Neil Gerber 

GlobaiDirector,5martLifecyde 

Asset Management, IBM 

July 18, 2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chair 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and 

Natnra1 Resources 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and 

Natural Resources 

Dear Chair Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

We are writing on behalf of the broad spectrum of renewable energy technologies, 

manufacturers, developers, end-users and investors in our membership to respectfully 

encourage swift approval of the nomination of Mr. Mark Menezes for Under Secretary of 

Energy. We believe that he is exceptionally well suited for this senior leadership role 

and will be a valuable addition to the new Administration. 

0

,,doiocd•co Mr. Menezes is a broadly respected in the electric power sector and would bring an 

Managing Director, BlackRock impressive range of relevant private and public sector experience to the position, along 

Mock Goodwic with expertise and professional judgement that will be essential in his consideration of 

President&CEO,ApexCleanEnergy the many energy issues facing our nation and the important role of DOE. He has served 

in several leading private sector organizations advancing a balanced approach to energy 

M"''''"''o'""ro'· M'''"' 5'"''1" generation and delivery and is, in our judgement, well-positioned to make an important 

contribution to the mission of DOE and to the nation's energy future. President, Onyx Renewable Partner$ 

Hennon Armstrong 

Jim Spencer 

President&CEO 

EverPower Wind Holdings 

Jacob Susman 

Kevin Walsh 

Patrick Woodson 

Chairman, E. ON North America 

We are enthusiastic about Mr. Menezes appointment, and respectfully urge Senate 

approval as soon as possible. Thank you for considering our views. Please let me know 

if we can provide additional information. 

Sincerely, 

Gregory Wetstone 

President and CEO 

American Council on Renewable Energy (A CORE) 
138 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski, Chairman 

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

United States Senate 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Senator Murkowski: 

July 19, 2017 

We are writing to express our strong support for the nomination of Douglas Domenech to serve as the 

Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior. 

The recreation and conservation community has worked with Mr. Domenech in several capacities during 

his service at the U.S. Department of the Interior and as Virginia's Secretary for Natural Resources. He 

has been receptive and responsive to public input and suggestions and has executed his responsibilities 

with remarkable energy and enthusiasm. 

We believe that Mr. Domenech's talents will serve the nation and the residents of American Samoa, 

Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands very well. He has 

a deep understanding of Interior programs and policies and will be able to aid in federal policy 

coordination for these areas. We also believe he will assist the Federated States of Micronesia, the 

Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau with technical and financial assistance as 

provided under federal laws and treaties. Moreover, Mr. Domenech understands and will remain in 

effective communication with organizations in the recreation and conservation fields and will likely seek 

to enlist our support to aid the shared interests of our nation and the territories. 

We urge the committee to approve his nomination and seek early action by the Senate on his 

confirmation. Thank you for considering our comments. 

Sincerely, 

American Recreation Coalition 

Archery Trade Association 

Boat Owners Association of The United States 

Marine Retailers Association of the Americas 

Motorcycle Industry Council 

National Marine Manufacturers Association 

National Park Hospitality Association 

PeopleForBikes 

Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association 

Recreation Vehicle Industry Association 

Snowsports Industries America 

Specialty Vehicle Institute of America 

1200 G Street, NW • Suite 650 • Washington, DC 20005 • 202-682-9530 
139 

LOLO M. MOUGA GOVERNOR 

March 16,2017 

Honorable Ryan Zinke 

Secretary 

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR 

AMERICAN SAMOA GOVERNMENT 

Telephone: (684)633-4116 Fax: (684)633-2269 

United States Department of the Interior 

United States Government 

Washington D.C. 20204 

Dear Mr. Secretary: 

LEMANU P. MAUGA LIEUTE~ANT GOVERNOR 

Serial: 189 

It is indeed a distinct honor, on behalf of the Government and the people of the Territory 

of American Samoa, to extend to you our warm and hearty congratulations for your appointment 

and confirmation as the Secretary of the Department of the Interior entrusted with oversight 

responsibilities for all the Territories of the United States. 

We are very much encouraged and comforted by the three priorities you have 

promulgated underscoring your vision and guiding principles for desired outcomes you wish to 

achieve in the next four years. American Samoa's National Parks is gaining popularity among 

the visitors to the territory and your stated commitment will mean further development of these 

national assets. Your purported investment in building the capacity of the frontline workers, 

along with providing adequate resources, is aligned with our own capacity building program. 

With our current disenfranchisement with proliferated federal encroachment on local 

sovereignty, we are overwhelmingly gratified by your declared respect for our indigenous rights 

and authority. 

Please excuse any possible breach of protocol by the content of this letter however, the 

achievement of your vision will depend on our arm's length collaboration inclusive of your 

Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs and the Director for the Office oflnsular Affairs. We are 

very thankful for Mr. Nikolao Pula's continued presence in the Office for Insular Affairs for his 

dedicated services to the people of the Territories and given his years in the agency he is well 

endowed with regard to total understanding of the issues affecting the territories. 

Notwithstanding, it is our hope that the person appointed to the position of Assistant 

Secretary for Insular Affairs is knowledgeable and comprehensively in tune with our needs. 

More importantly, thi~JlfMl:! l abl~<.to. seamlessly collaborate with all Federal Agencies 

to ensure that the neecfu'or'§fj ~~~fully articulated, considered and effectively 

addressed. 

SS0£00 
140 

During my last trip to Washington D.C. to attend the National Governors Association's 

Winter Meeting, I had the privilege to rekindle relationship forged in the past with Mr. Douglas 

Domenech during the Intergovernmental Group on Insular Affairs (IGIA). Mr. Domenech is well 

versed on territorial issues and well connected within the federal system along with solid ties 

with the leadership of the new administration. He served as the Acting Assistant Deputy 

Secretary oflnterior for Insular Affairs from January 2008 to January 2009. 

Accordingly, we humbly recommend that Mr. Domenech be appointed to the post of 

Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs. It is our hope that you will endorse and support our 

recommendation for this appointment. He will certainly champion the establishment of programs 

to improve the quality of the lives of all Americans living in our insular areas. 

I look forward to working closely with you and the DOIIOIA leadership to advance our 

mutual vision for the development of our Nation and its Territories. Congratulations again for 

your appointment and confirmation to lead one of the biggest and very important departments in 

the federal system. 

Sincerely, 

L~ m. mu{j~ Lolo M. Moliga 

Governor of American Samoa 

Cc: Honorable Justin R. Clark, Deputy Assistant to the President for Intergovernmental 

Affairs 

Honorable Nikolao Pula, Acting Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs 

Mr. Douglas W. Domenech, Senior White House Advisor 

Honorable Aurnua Amata Radewagen, Member of Congress 
141 

July 17,2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chair 

Energy and Natural Resources Committee 

United States Senate 

304 Dirksen Senate Building 

Washington, DC 20150 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Thomas f\1ernan 

CEO 

Energy and Natural Resources Committee 

United States Senate 

304 Dirksen Senate Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell, 

This letter is to express the American Wind Energy Association's support for the nomination of Mark Menezes 

to serve as Under Secretary of Energy. Recognizing that yonr committee will examine his record and 

qualifications closely, we appreciate the opportunity to express our views here. 

The Department of Energy has been an important partner with the nation's energy suppliers, including wind 

energy. In 2008, the Department published its first Wind Vision report detailing the potential of I 0% wind 

energy by 2020, and 20% by 2030. In 2015, the Department's second Wind Vision report affirmed the goals 

of the 2008 report, and looked ahead to what will be possible by 2050. The workers of America's wind energy 

sector responded to those calls, and today the Department of Energy tallies over I 02,500 men and women 

working to construct, operate, and maintain more than 52,000 turbines providing 82,000 megawatts of capacity 

to meet the nation's energy needs. 

As the energy sector continues to evolve to meet customer energy needs and expectations, including the 

contribution of wind energy, we believe that the Department of Energy would be well served by Mr. Menezes 

ability to help build a national consensus on issues such as energy security, electricity markets, energy 

efficiency, electric transmission, and other important policies. 

Mr. Menezes is Vice President of Federal Relations for Berkshire Hathaway Energy and was previously a 

partner at Hunton & Williams, heading its energy practice group. Prior to that, he served as chief counsel to the 

House Energy and Commerce Committee majority staff and played an instrumental role in the House-Senate 

conference that resulted in the Energy Policy Act of 2005. 

Mr. Menezes, with a background in both govemment and private sector, has developed a broad understanding 

of nearly all aspects of the energy sector and is respected across the industry. A WEA has coordinated with Mr. 

Menezes in his work for Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a company that has been a leader in wind and other 

renewable energy development. He has capably represented the company as a strong advocate for a balanced 

energy strategy that recognizes the value of renewable energy to meet customer needs a goal A WEA shares. 

We respectfully suggest that you favorably report his nomination to the full Senate for its prompt 

consideration. 

Best Regards, 

Thomas C. Kieman 

cc: Members of Senate Energy Committee 

900 j Washington, D.C 
142 

July 17, 2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

We, as leaders of agriculture, write to you in support of Ms. Susan Combs nomination for 

Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Policy, Management and Budget. Ms. Combs' 

experience of 16 years in a state-wide elected office demonstrates she has knowledge and 

presence to get things done and work with everyone. 

Ms. Combs spent eight years as Agriculture Commissioner, there she continued the tradition 

of leading a robust agriculture industry and grew her knowledge of land use practices across 

a large diverse state. The following eight years she was in charge of the State's budget as 

comptroller. The comptroller is responsible for writing the State's checks and giving the 

legislature a revenue estimate for a biennium budget. Prior to these 16 years she served as 

a state representative for two sessions. 

In addition to excelling in her professional career, Ms. Combs' upbringing and personality 

make her an ideal candidate to serve the people of our country in her role at the 

Department of the Interior. Coming from a West Texas ranch family, she knows first-hand 

what it is like to respect and care for the land while maintaining a business that must 

survive and is dependent our nation's great natural resources. 

Again, it is with great pleasure we as the undersigned organizations support Ms. Combs 

nomination. 

Sincerely, 

Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts 

Earth Moving Contractors of Texas 

Independent Cattlemen's Association of Texas 

Plains Cotton Growers, Inc. 

South Texas Cotton and Grain Association 

South Texas Private Property Rights Association 

Texas Agriculture Cooperative Council 

Texas Allied Association 

Texas Association of Dairymen 

Texas Broiler Council 

Texas Cattle Feeders Association 

Texas Citrus Mutual 

Texas Cotton Association of Dallas, Texas 
143 

Texas Cotton Ginners Association, Inc. Texas 

Texas Egg Council 

Texas Farm Bureau 

Texas Forestry Association 

Texas Grain Sorghum Association 

Texas Independent Ginners Association 

Texas International Produce Association 

Texas Irrigation Council 

Texas Land & Mineral Owners Association 

Texas Nursery and Landscape Association 

Texas Pest Management Association 

Texas Pork Producers Association 

Texas Poultry Improvement Association 

Texas Poultry Federation 

Texas Turkey Federation 

Texas Seed Trade Association 

Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association 

Texas Vegetable Association 

Texas Wheat Producers Association 

US Rice Producers 

Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas 
144 

'K. Suzanne 'BarGer 

1243 South ~Main Street 

§eorlJetOH'n, ·Texas 78626 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

I am Director of the Center for Identity and the AT&T Endowed Professor in Engineering at The 

University of Texas and I am writing to share my highest recommendation and strongest support 

for Susan Combs' appointment as Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and Budget at the 

Department of Interior. 

Mrs. Combs is a recognized leader, expert, and champion who understands the importance of 

securing our Nation's information assets and our citizens' privacy and has repeatedly and 

proactively led efforts to protect government data and guard against cyber threats. Mrs. Combs 

is a master of using data to identify problems and create solutions. Her data-d1iven business 

strategies motivated and influenced her relationship with The University of Texas Center for 

Identity (UT ClD). Recognizing the significant and quantifiable human and economic losses 

resulting from identity theft and fraud, Mrs. Combs reached out to lend her hard-driving and 

solutions-oriented business expertise and leadership. From its inception in 2010, the UT CID has 

grown into an internationally recogniz.cd research and education center of excellence. 

Mrs. Combs sen·ed with distinction on the UT CID Board of Advisors from 2011 to 

2014. Dming her service on the UT CID Board, Mrs. Combs contributed significant energy, 

leadership and vision. Mrs. Combs chaired impactful projects such as the Child Identity 

Protection Task Force that produced an enormous amount of awareness and resources helping 

parents and children better understand the value of their identity information and how to guard 

against identity theft and fraud. Most notably, Mrs. Combs envisioned and championed a 

successful effort to fund IDWisc (https://idcntity.utexas.cdu/idwise), a research and education 

program launched at the UT CID to give citizens the knowledge and resources to protect their 

privacy and combat identity theft and fraud. Funded by the Texas Legislature in 2013, IDWise 
145 

was the first of its kind, and a fonnidablc force to decrease identity-related crime and a%ociatcd 

economic losses, reputation damage, and emotional distrcs>. lDWisc ha> reached millions of 

U.S. citizens from all walks of life including those most vulnemble to identity theft children, 

older adults, veterans, actiYe military and small businesses. 

Following her service on the UT CID Board of A(hisors, The University of Texas Center for 

Identity was honored\\ hen Mrs. Combs accepted our invitation to serve as a Center Fellow in 

:?.014 and continue to lend her energy, vision and leadership. Throughout her service on the UT 

CJD Board and as a UT CID Fellow, Mrs. Combs has continually challenged and motivated the 

Center with her data-dri1en business style to identify where research and education programs arc 

needed most and subsequently, measure the clTcctiYcncss of the Center's research results and 

educational programs. For example, the IDWisc program funded a national workforce study that 

identified key deficiencies in the U.S. identity workforce. These findings served to motivate and 

infmm development of the UT Masters degree program in Identity Management and Secmity 

launched in 2016 as well as the 2017launch of the Identity Leadership Certificate program. 

It is her drive, her expertise, her passion and her leadcr>hip that come together to make our UT 

CJD partnership with Mrs. Combs so \'cry productiYe, Yalued and successful. 

The University of Texas was privileged to partner with Mrs. Combs and our Country is 

extremely fortunate that she has agreed to continue her public service. 

ln summary, Mrs. Combs has my strongest recommendation and support as our Nation will 

surely be the benefactor of her appointment as Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and 

Budget at the Department of Interior. 

Sincerely, 

K. Suzanne Barber 
146 
147 
148 

May 18,2017 

Dear Secreta1y Zinke: 

Assistant Secretary Insular Affairs 

tJp,n;,rhlnc""'t of the Interior, as <:1 former 

administration in this post. 

in 

of Staff at 

n",t"i"''t in his abilities to deal 

my full support and 
149 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

July 17,2017 

Senate Committee on 

Washington, D.C. 

and Natural Resources 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

and Natural Hesources 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

my wholehearted support lor Susan Combs' nomination 

to of Assistant 

Department oflnterior. Throu1ghout 

state of Texas and its citizens. 

am confident that her experience 

mission to protect and manage 

for and at the 

In ! 998, Mrs. Combs was elected Texas Agriculture Commissioner, and served in this 

position from 1999 to 2006. The first woman to Mrs. Combs 

the Texas 18 pcrecnt, 

In furtherance of her work as Texas Agricu!turc Commissioner, Mrs. Combs was 

instrumental in the dcveiopment and success ofthc Port Hood Credit 

landmark lor incentivlzing conservation of listed species. d"''·''hN>kerl 

en<iat:1gered songbird, challenges to Port Hood. As 

habitat on to 

the constraints on the base. 

published a 

off-site oflistecl species. was no 

which this oft:site conservation could be accomplished. At the 

leadership, Mrs. Combs convened a diverse group ofstakeholdcrs rcjJrescrrtir•g 

agriculture and environmental as well as state and federa1 

result of her eftorts led to of the Recovery Credit System, a fi·arnework 
150 

wluch redtll'..·-ed restrictions on tniEtary training aud inocntiviz~ttion ofpriva.h:: 1£mdowneJ'S 

to achvely manage f('):f encbngered species) whHe also providing an ovemH net 

et:msetvation gain in habitat fhr the GC\VA, :Vlrs, Cmnh's wnrk at 1-;'o!·t Hood not only 

provided bt:net1ts te military mi!)slenst the agdcuHw-e cotnhlllnity, and cl:n1stiV!lti01li~ts 

~like. bul {jlsu prvvided an econofnicaHy ltasible J"o::..:lfnap f6r tlHS cuustrFatloo of 

tndangercd species. 

Folknrling he;· ~ucces:-; m:: Te>;;:as. Agricuhliie CounTiieiiow:.::r1 :YltB. Cc:mlH> furth~;;Jed !':-.:;;!· 

public .service during her teumc as Texas Cornpiroller ufPublio At:;tounlS Jhml2007 to 

20] 5. The '::ltc.tle of Texas h;;l$ a SJ .6 ts iJlior: eco:-Jom.y~ £be :';t~cur:d Jargest state ecftnun1y iLl 

the Urut~d States. IV1l·s. Combs ~l!C0ts.<:;iully managtxlthis wieldy budget while also 

leading efflr-tts 1o tYu_:kc }Jcr nftke mme tnws;wrent to Tex~:s: citizens. A::i ComptroHer. 

tvlrs. Combs. also eont:.nued her (H .. ltstandi11g wo-rk on endange!"ed species issues~ serving 

as Chak of the lnteragC11cy Task Force on Ecouon1k Growth and Endangert:d Species 

estnblishild by tb~ Texas L~gisif'lnre in 2009. 

During this time, M·rs:. C-orr:h::: p:·ovided vital asslstnnce to \ViUiamson Co~Eity, Texn:; 1n 

J-ea3Jng \Vhh issues 1·d.ated h'l the Georgztow.n SSlbmander. In2012, :tDru' ·::etitral Texa:: 

salaE1.ander .species Weie pmposed. fOr listing by the Sen·ke. These species, pnrt1cularly 

the Georgetnvm Sal~unander, threatc:tJ6cl to severely limit the grDv;,.rth of the 1H-35 

wnidor, a vital tran.spor1atlon hub for Texans. 

1Y1f5. Combs 1vas successfhl1n ~ecuring an extension Of: the decision to list any of the 

four central Texas salamanders~ enabiihg th~ County and 0therEt involved tu finish 

gathering ndditional scientific data on the stntus of these species. Drawing on the 

relalion,hips li.>rgtd during her work at fort Hood, Mrs. Combs successfully senn:ed 

direct •·egional involv~mem from ;he Service. lrc doing so. Mrs. Combs facl!itated the 

County in development of rr conse:1:ration plan that prrrddes protettim:ts fN the species 

while stili aHowing far reside11tial and cor.:1mcrc.iat growth valuabk n~turai resmircc.s :and 

spede:s ln rexa;;, 

Sincerely. 
151 

The Honorable lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

17 July 2017 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural resources 

Washington, DC 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on and Natural resources 

Washington, DC 

Dear Chairman Murkowskl and Member Cantwell, 

wnmAneJam~mv endorse the nomination of Ms. Susan Combs for the 

~"''""'i·::~ru of Policy and at the United 

opportunities for our 

r:nmntrnlil&>r Public Accounts and 

During my time 

Ms Combs is a dedicated and selfless servant for our nation and her expertise and 

superb ability to resolve issues at the lowest levels will make her a tremendous asset 

within the Department of Interior. She is the consummate professional and has my 

highest endorsement, as she will only make the Department better. 
152 

'i cOIVs<' 0 ~ 4>,. 

"' I c-" '>' "' DUCKS :::. ;:'J UNLIMITED ~ 

V';J. 80 ~ 

President 

Rogers 5. 

Chairman of the Board 

Paul 

ChlefExecutlve Officer 

H. Dale Hall Memphis, Tenness~e 

July 19, 2017 

Senator lisa Murkowski: 

One Waterfowl Way 

TN 38120-2351 

{901) 758-3825 (901) 758-3850 

www.ducks.org 

Ducks Unlimited, the world's leader in wetlands and waterfowl conservation, wishes to 

express our support for the nomination of Ms. Susan Combs to become Assistant Secretary 

of the Interior for Policy, Management and Budget. Ms. Combs is a multi-generation Texan, 

and has served in both the private and public sectors of natural resource management. 

Ms. Combs' long experience of public service in Texas demonstrates her energy, 

knowledge and ability to serve in this critical position. 

Ms. Combs has managed her, family's cattle ranch in Big Bend, Texas, for more than 30 

years. She has been a leader in the management of wildlife and habitat by and for private 

landowners, and is a strong advocate for science~based resource management. She has 

served the people of Texas for over 20 years, 16 of those as a statewide elected official. 

Her knowledge of land use practices across such a large, diverse state has helped to 

strengthen the robust agricultural industry of Texas. During her 8 years as Texas 

Agriculture Commissioner, she often touted the importance of habitat conservation and 

economic diversification provided by sportsmen and outdoor recreation, The following 8 

years she was elected as State Comptroller serving as the chief financial officer of the state 

government. As comptroller, she was responsible for maintaining the state1

S finances, 

keeping accounts of state funds, acting as tax administrator and collector for the state, 

and furnishing research and statistics for estimating revenue. She also understands the 

needs of her constituents, since prior to these 16 years, she served as a state 

representative for two legislative sessions. 

She is highly qualified and will bring a straightforward approach to conducting the business 

of the Department of the Interior. During my time with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, I 

had many dealings with her on various topics and she was always thoughtful, innovative 

and willing to work with diverse stakeholders to create realistic solutions to complex 

Issues. We look forward to working with her in this role. We encourage a speedy 

confirmation by the Senate for this important position. 

H. Dale Hall 

Chief Executive Officer 

Rescue Our Wetlands 

Banding Together for Wateifowl 
153 

July 17,2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

U.S. Senate 

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

U.S. Senate 

Washington, DC 20510 Washint,>ton, DC 20510 

RE: Nomination of Mark Menezes 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell, 

I'm writing to express the support of the Geothermal Energy Association for the nomination of Mark 

Menezes, to be Under Secretary of Energy. 

Mark is well known to GEA companies from his work on the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and his service 

as Vice President for Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a company with roots in its geothermal power 

operations. He is respected among his industry peers and is very kilO\\ lcdgeable about energy policy 

issues and the energy industry, including the geothem1al industry. 

On behalf of the GEA Board and Members, I urge the Committee to support his nomination to be Under 

Secretary of Energy. 

Sincerely. 

Karl Gawell 

Executive Director 
154 

.July 19,2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Committee on 

304 Dirksen Senate Office 

Washington, DC 205! 0 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources 

304 Dirksen Senate Ot1ice Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

RE: Support for Nomination of Ms. Brenda Burman as Commissioner of Reclamation of the 

Department of the Interior 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

I write on behalf of the Gila River Indian Community in 

Brenda Burman to serve as Commissioner of Reclamation 

stems from our experience working with i'vfs. Burman when 

and her present position at the Salt River Project in Arizona. 

We believe Ms. Bum1ru1 is an excellent choice for Commissioner due to her extensive knowledge 

ofthc process, complicated water issues in the westem United States, and tribal water 

law. Community has the utmost confidence in Ms. Burman's ability to tackle the many 

complex issues that Reclamation must address such as the drought that is affecting the West 

Based on our experience on complex issues with Ms. Burman we have come to respect 

her as an experienced and strongly support her as Commissioner of 

Reclamation ofthe Department of the Interior. We believe has an understanding oftribal 

sovereignty and the United States' trust to tribal nations, including the Gila River 

Indian Community, and we look forward to working with her to tackle the thorny water 

issues impacting our region. 

Telephone: 
155 

Sintx,>rel.y, 

Stephen Roe Lewis 

Gov.:mor 
156 

JENNIFFER GONZALEZ·COL<)N 

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July 12, 2017 

((ongress of tbe Winiteb ~tates 

;!}ou!lr of i'\rpre!lentati\lt!l 

lllmlmll)ington, JlQ!: 20515-5400 

The Honorable Usa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

United States Senate 

522 Hart Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Chairwoman Murkowski: 

NATURAl RESOURCES 

SMALL OUSlNESS 

VETERANS' AfFAIRS 

I am pleased to share my views on Douglas William Domenech, the President's nominee 

for appointment as the Department of the Interior's Assistant Secretary for Insular 

Affairs. 

Mr. Domenech, if confirmed, will become the highest-ranking Puerto Rican in the 

Administration. More than a few of us have proudly followed Mr. Domenech's career 

from being the White House Liaison and Deputy Chief of Staff to the Secretary of the 

Interior, and as Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs serving as the 

federal liaison to five U.S. territories and three freely associated states during President 

George W. Bush's Administration. During that time, he also served and made valuable 

contributions to the White House Working Group on the Political Status of Puerto Rico, 

and as the Secretary's appointee on the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico. We then 

witnessed his exceptional work as Secretary of Natural Resources for the 

Commonwealth of Virginia, were he was responsible for being the steward of Virginia's 

environmental, natural and historic resources overseeing six state agencies with over 

2,000 employees, and an annual budget of $480 million. 

Many of the problems encountered by Puerto Rico over 75 years ago, when his ancestors 

were active in public service, are still prevalent today in some of the territories that 

Mr. Domenech has been nominated to oversee. His keen knowledge of Puerto Rico's 

political development, as well as other social, environmental and economic issues it 

shares with many of our nation's insular areas, will serve him well in overseeing all but 

one of our nation's territories if the Senate consents to his nomination. 

A Forestry and Wildlife Management graduate of Virginia Tech, Mr. Domenech served 

on the Virginia Board of Forestry, and worked for a national forestry association for 12 

PA1NTH) ON 11ECYCLED P.'\PER 
157 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

July 12, 2017 

Page 2 of 2 

years. Thus, his lifelong interest in forestry and conservation will provide a keen focus 

in stewarding the rich variety of natural resources in America's territories. In Puerto 

Rico, we have seen that first hand through the work he has performed, and continues 

to do, at the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico. 

His close ties to the President and the administration will allow him to be a strong 

advocate for the territories that lack political power and need all the help they can 

get, both in the Executive as well as Legislative branches. 

Doug Domenech's heritage, past experiences and extensive knowledge make him 

uniquely qualified to become the steward and advocate of our nation's insular areas. I 

urge you to provide your timely advice and consent and enable Doug Domenech to 

assume this new role as early as possible. 

Sincerely, 
158 

Greater Killeen 

Chamber of Commerce 

July 14, 2017 

The Honorable Usa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D. C. 20510-3905 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell, 

Nationwide: 

18667904769(GROW) 

chamber@gkcc.com 

The purpose of my letter is to endorse the nomination of Susan Combs to the position of 

Assistant Secretary of Policy Management and Budget at the United States Department 

of Interior. 

We have worked with, and observed the work of, Susan Combs over the course of her 

sixteen years in statewide elected positions first as Agriculture Commissioner, where 

she was the first woman to hold that post, to her work as Comptroller of Public Accounts, 

which effectively made her our state treasurer and chief financial officer. 

Susan's family ranching history has blessed her with a common sense approach to 

decision-making !hat is grounded in a unique feel for heritage, environment and the 

outdoors. She understands government, finance and the budgeting process. 

Our community is the home to Fort Hood, one of the U.S. Army's largest installation. We 

have always found Susan to be extremely responsive to the needs of the installation, 

those who run it, Soldiers and their families and our community. 

I doubt you could find a better qualified candidate for this position. 

Greater Killeen Chamber ot Commerce· One Santa Fe Plaza. PO Box 548 . Killeen, TX 76540. T(254) 526-9551 F (254) 526-6090 · ki!!eenchamber.com 
159 

7 June 2017 

The Hon. Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

The Hon. Marla Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

United States Senate 

304 Dirksen Senate Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Re: Nomination Jonas 

Dear Sen. Murkowski and Sen. Cantwell: 

before this Committee to testify about 

of the Department of Energy under President [am writing 

to support the nomination of my former DavidS. Jonas, to become the next General 

Counsel of the of Energy. In his and background arc even better 

suited to the than mine were. More l know from closely with him, 

that Dave has the strength of character and position with 

distincTion. 

in the Marine he became the first 

to argue the Supreme of the United 

career, Dave the Geneml Counsel of the National Nuclear 

the position in which he was serving when I joined the 

Jer1arrmenr of Energy. Even though Dave did not to me because of the structural 

re!ratlcmslhip of NNSA to the Department, he reached out to me when I the 

Department and we a close became a at our senior staff 

and we many legal together. I so highly of 

when he left his at NNSA, 1 brought him into my office as a senior legal and 

strategic advisor. 

Dave may well be among the most 

of all those to have been nominated 

to be General Counsel of the Department 

While all of the Dermrtmer'lt's 

n111'1(lt'tRnt none is more important than its in our nation's nuclear 

expert in nuclear nonproliferation law. He also has the contract experience, national 

security experience. and management experience that for a DOE general counsel. 

But more important even than experience, I believe that the general counsel of a federal 

must have the of character and the professional integrity to give their clients 

flOOn WASHiNGTON, DC 20036 I TEL2D2 730 1300 730 1301 HWBl!\W.COM 
160 

not to hear. And here is where Dave truly stands out. When I said that Dave 

a Marine, l meant that he carries with him a sense of right and wrong, 

can from personal that 

Dave will not hesitate to truth to his clients and, 

Congress. 

The bottom line that if confirmed, Dave Jonas has both the personal and protessionnl mettle to 

serve with distinction as the General Counsel of the Department of Energy. I hope the 

Committee will consider his nomination favorably. 

Respectfully Submitted, 

Scott Blake Harris 
161 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

June 14, 2017 

Energy & Natural Resources Committee 

United States Senate 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Senator Cantwell: 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Member 

Energy & Natural Resources Committee 

United States Senate 

Washington, DC 20510 

I am writing in support of the nomination of DavidS. Jonas for the 

of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). 

of General Counsel 

Dave Jonas and I worked together at DOE for several years, and so I know him well. l also 

know the job of DOE General Counsel and the portfolio of the Department very well~· having 

served as DOE's General Counsel from 2005-2009, and as the Department's deputy geneml for 

energy policy for the three years prior to that. 

Dave has the knowledge, skills and temperament to be an effective and successful General 

Counsel of the Department He knows the agency and its missions, and has worked 

with many of DOE's offices, laboratories, contractors and external stakeholders. I believe he 

would be an effective advocate for the Department's missions, and would help 

address the difficult and policy issues that can arise both within the Department itself, as 

well as between DOE and other parts ofthe federal government or with external 

Each DOE General Counsel confronts different challenges, and those that would await Dave 

Jonas are of course different from the ones presented to me when I served President Bush and 

Secretary Bodman as DOE's GC. But based on what! know about Dave, I believe he would do 

an excellent job serving the American people, the President and the Department of Energy in this 

and so strongly encourage you to favorably consider his nomination. 

David R. Hill 
162 

27 June 2017 

The Hon. Usa Murkowski 

Chairman 

The Hon. Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

United States Senate 

304 Dirksen Senate Bulldlng 

Washington, DC 20510 

Re: Nomination of David 5. Jonas 

Dear Sen. Murkowski and Sen. Cantwell: 

For over thirty four years I had the of ser\r!ng this great nation as a member of the Civil Service. 

I was appointed to the Senior Executive Service under President Clinton, attained meritorious rank 

under President George W. Bush and distinguished rank under President Obama for work in the 

Department of Defense, The National Nuclear Security Administration(NNSAJ and the Department of 

Energy. 

It is from this vantage point that I am writing to support the nomination of a trusted and true public 

servant. David s. Jonas, to become General Counsel of the Department of Energy. A position he is well 

and uniquely qualified to serve in. 

I spent over eleven years working closely wlt!l Dave on complex programmatic and departmental 

management issues confronting the NNSA and Energy Department A number of these issues involved 

Government wide and interagency challenges In procurement, Human Resources, and financial 

management, In ail areas, Dave demonstrated exceptional leadership and professionalism. 

As the Department of Energy Chief Human Capital Officer I relied heavily on Dave's support in building 

new recruitment and intern programs to attract and hire a greatly diverse generation of public servants 

into service, Dave and championed the legallntem and Honors program, achieving 

outstanding results in than a year. A single example of his commitment to advancing diversity and 

equal opportunity occurred when Dave Intervened with another Departmental General Counsel to 

assure that a number of Senior Executives and General Scl1edule were counseled on selective 

hiring practices which had direct potential to disadvantage women minorities, Direct actions by 

Dave changed not just hiring practices but attitudes In that program office. 
163 

Dalll! has unique qualifications and expertise In the multifaceted mfss!on of the Department of Energy 

from his veried Senior Ex:ecutlve Assignments within the NNSA and Department General Counsel 

Offices. Of note Is his service as General Counsel of the NNSA, where "stood up the Office" 

and established himself as a nationally acclaimed expl!rt in nuclear nonproliferation law. As the NNSA 

General Counsel Dave consistently fostered a climate of performance accountability. Often accepting 

unfair critidsm for holding firm to honest and complete assessment of his employees. This is not just 

the mark of a strong manager, but a testament to his intesrity as an executive responsible for 

developing and demanding the best from a!! civil servants. 

More importantly Dave has a full understanding and appredatlon for the diverse cultural organizational, 

and business practices within the Energy Department and it's separately organized administrations. A 

skill needed to be immediately successful in this critical appointment. 

Dave has the fortitude, personal conviction and dear $ense of right and wrong to ensure that the 

Congress and the Administration have and understand the truth. He also has the strength of character 

to pr£~fessional and pl!rsonal standards demanded of a Presidential Appolntee and 

a servants. The Congress, the Energy Department and the American People 

can not be better seNed by a nominee. 
164 

II 

Killeen Economic Development Corporation 

July 15, 2017 

The Honorable lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell, 

The Killeen Economic Development Corporation is charged with creating economic prosperity in 

our community. In that regard, we have worked with, and observed Susan Comb's work, over 

the past sixteen years during which she held statewide elected positions. 

The purpose of my letter is to endorse her nomination to the position of Assistant Secretary of 

Policy Management and Budget at the United States Department of the Interior. 

Susan's family ranching history, her work as Texas Agricultural Commissioner and her work as 

Comptroller of Accounts give her unique experience, and an understanding of, government, 

finance and budgeting. Couple that with common sense, a real feel for heritage and the 

environment and you have someone uniquely suited for the position to which she has been 

nominated. 

Killeen is home to Fort Hood. Obviously, there are economic benefits that come with hosting 

such an installation. We never knew what they were. It was Susan, and her team at the 

Comptroller's Office, who first developed an economic impact analysis for the installation. 

Because of her work, that process has now been repeated for every military installation in 

Texas. 

Susan has also been instrumental in working with Fort Hood to effectively coordinate military 

training, cattle grazing and the protection of endangered species on the installation, a difficult 

feat. She has the talent to work with diverse groups to arrive at win-win solutions. 

The members of KEDC join me in recommending her for this position without reservation. 

Killeen Economic Oevelopment Corporation· PO Box 548 · Killeen. TX 76540 · P (254) 526-9551 · F (254) 526-6090 · KllleenEDC.com 
165 

MARC B. LANGSTON 

2017 

The Hon. Lisa Murkowski. Chairman 

The Hon. Cantwell, 

'nrnn·•itt.~c on Energy and 

Senate 

Senate Building 

Washington, DC 

Dear 

ESQ. 

advice event for the 

Alumni Association 

Roben J. Dole's public 

States Senate Youth Program. honoring former U.S. Senator 

During my internship, I observed that Office 

the General Counsel. felt free to have open m'"<~'"ll"" 

people felt free to their opinions 

of them in lc~rms of their professional resoonsibil:itics. 

DOE's Office General 
166 

Dave ensured that I received quality as~;igJllllenls, 

procurement law. As this was my 11rst \Vhich continues to be 

my primary focus in Dave's mentorship proved instrumental in me 

towards an area law much enjoy. Dave reviewed my work provided 

insightful and constructive He remains a large influence on my legal work ethic.. 

As I continued to work in various in I often career advice 

from Dave because I value his highly. Over the years, he wrote numerous 

recommendation letters on we communicated, he was always happy to 

hear about when 1 began a new rdatic>nslli!l. He met current boyfriend last year at a 

reception, and expressed great interest in persona! and profession. 

internship, Dave and I discussed 

those cmwersatim1s feeling Dave my 

views with which he disagreed. I know 

"Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy that Dave evolved on views on 

military as well as other LGBT issues. Dave always treated me 

and lam conlident that he would do same toward any another member 

community working at DOE 

Marc R Langston 

2 
167 

THE UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS 

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR 

GOVERNMENT HOUSE 

Charlotte Amalie, V.I. 00802 

Honorable Donald J. Trump 

President 

The White House 

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue 

Washington, D.C. 20500 

340.. 774-0001 

June!, 2017 

Honorable Ryan Zinke 

Secretary of the Interior 

Department oflnterior 

1849 C Street, NW 

Washington, D.C. 20240 

Subject: Letter of endorsement of Douglas William Domenech 

Dear Mr. President and Secretary Zinke; 

As Governor of the Territory of the United States Virgin Islands, I welcome this 

opportunity to offer my strong support of Douglas William Domenech, an excellent choice as 

Assistant Secretary of the Interior. Having studied his impressive credentials and extensive 

experience in public service, I am confident that our mutual priorities for the territories will he 

advanced in the best interests of all concerned. 

It is an additional reassurance of Mr. Domenech's suitability for this post that he is familiar 

with the work of the Office oflnsular Affairs, a most critical resource for the territories in virtually 

all aspects of our relations with the United States. Undoubtedly, he has gained valuable insight 

into the issues most important to our growth and development in vital areas. 

I thank you for considering my endorsement of this most competent public servant, with 

whom we look forward to working in the interest of American citizens wherever they reside. 

Most ially, 

~ .· 'l.i~r:fl J; eth E. MaJlll'mifl3l:I:J3S 3i\llfl:J3)(3 

Governor 3:-!1.:10 331.:1.10 

Cc: Mr. Rickbb~~Jtfi, ks;i~QJ;'t~bl\te President and D~~y\tif,}(\Staff Mr. John Desfe~a. AS!i~ant to the President and Director of Presidential Personnel 

Mr. Justin Cld:rt;,l~~ite House Office of intergovernmental Affairs 
168 
169 
170 
171 

PRO-BUSINESS • PRO-TEXAS 

July 14, 2017 

The Honorable Usa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

FOR OVER 85 YEARS 

It is my distinct pleasure to write a letter recommending confirmation of Susan Combs for the position 

of Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget at the Department of the Interior. 

I have known Susan for nearly twenty years and know her to be thoughtful, objective, and careful in 

decision making. In her last elected position as Comptroller for the State of Texas, she was responsible 

for the Treasury, managing over $50 billion, and also for all payments for the State of Texas, whose 

annual budget was in excess of $100 billion. 

She was widely respected also for her nationally recognized efforts in budget and public fund 

transparency, putting all state expenditures online within a matter of months of her assuming office. 

Her ability to transform and modernize two state agencies produced significant savings for the state, 

allowing much needed resources to be used more effectively. 

As the CEO of the Texas Association of Business, and knowing her for so many years, I have always 

appreciated her non-partisan approach to state matters. She has also demonstrated a real commitment 

to finding solutions to difficult issues through working collaboratively and inclusively. I recommend her 

to you without reservation for this important post to which she has been nominated. 

Sincerely, 

Jeff Moseley 

Chief Executive Officer 

1209 Nueces • Austin, Texas 78701 

512.:177.6721 • 512.477.0836 • www.txbi%.org 
172 

July 14, 2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski, Chairman 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, DC 20510~3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell, Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, DC 20510~3905 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

I am pleased to offer this letter of recommendation for Susan Combs, who has been nominated to 

serve as the Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management and Budget at the Department of the 

Interior. have known Susan for a number years in her elected capacity in Texas. 

She has performed admirably in all of her positions and merited the trust and confidence of 

colleagues and the public. People trust her to be an impartial judge of the facts al!d to deliver 

efficient and effective public service. As Comptroller for eight years, she managed complex tax 

Issues, management and procurement projects, and the Treasury of the State of Texas. 

I have every confidence that she would be responsive and accountable to any member of the Senate 

House of Representatives on any topic, She always dealt with matters on a strictly non~partisan 

basis, ensuring that any decision was sound and thoughtful. 

As a former member of Congress, I recommend her to you without reservation. 

Sincerely, 

Randy Neugebauer 

Member, United States House of Representatives, 2003·2017 
173 

The Honorable Usa Murkowski 

Chairman 

15 July 2017 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

Dear Chairman M urkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

As the Commander of the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hood, from 2001 through 2004 I had the 

great pleasure and opportunity to work closely with then-Agriculture Commissioner (and later 

Comptroller of Public Accounts) Ms. Susan Combs on an initiative she developed with national strategic 

importance known as the Recovery Credit System (RCS). I vividly remember the day she asked the Ill 

Corps/Fort Hood Commanding General, LTG Tom Metz, what she could do to assist Fort Hood better 

train Soldiers; within weeks, the 4'h Infantry Division would deploy from Fort Hood to Operation Iraqi 

Freedom. His response was "help me mitigate the impacts of Endangered Species on training." 

Almost half of the maneuver area at Fort Hood, a federal installation, was subject to habitat 

restrictions and encumbrances resulting from two migrating Mexican songbirds- the Golden Cheeked 

Warbler and Black Capped Vireo. Within weeks, Ms. Combs pulled together the Federal and State 

regulators and stakeholders and personally led the effort to increase the populations of both species 

using suitable habitat on private lands adjacent to Fort Hood. In addition to creating a process that 

vastly improved the ability of scientists and researchers access to both species, her Recovery Credit 

System saved the taxpayers ofTexas and the United States untold millions of dollars. Whether her 

efforts can be linked to increasing the populations, or facilitating the study of the birds (or both) she 

removed a significant burden from me at a time when my focus was on preparing Fort Hood Soldiers to 

go to war. 

I never sufficiently thanked her for her patriotic and unselfish service to Fort Hood. The 

Recovery Credit System is now a "gold standard" for recovery of endangered species. I hope this letter 

adequately conveys my assessment that there is no finer and qualified person suited for this position. 

She will be a tremendous asset to the Interagency Process and the nation. 
174 

STACEY L PLASKETT 

VmGJN 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairwoman 

July 19, 2017 

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

United States Senate 

522 Hart Senate Oftlce Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Senator Murkowski: 

It is my pleasure and prhilege to support Mr. Douglas William Domenech as the nominee for 

appointment as the Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs. 

Through his work as the Senior Advisor to the Secreta!)' of Interior, as the Secretary of Natural 

Resources tor the Commonwealth of Virginia, and with the Forest Resources Association, 

Mr. Domenech has built a career devoted to public service and improving our nation's natural 

resources. I am pleased that Mr. Domenech is not a stranger to the Depmtment of Interior and, 

if appointed, will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to his role as the Assistant 

Secretarv for Insular Affairs. Based on our interactions and conversations, l am confident that 

his tran;ition v\ill be seamless and he will bring exemplary leadership to the Office of Insular 

Affairs (OIA). 

I had the oppmtunity to meet with Mr. Domenech both in my district and in my Washington, 

D.C. office and found that he understands and is vvilling to work with my territorial colleagues 

and me on issues that are unique to our constituents. His familial ties to Puerto Rico brings a 

personal understanding and passion to the OIA vvhich is essential in developing a successful 

working relationship to address the needs of the U.S. territories. 

It is my hope that Mr. Domeneeh will have a successful confirmation and I am happy to add my 

support. 

60 VI 
175 

962 Wayne Avenue • Suite 610 • Silver Spring, MD 20910 • 202·265·PEER(7337) • fax: 202·265·4192 

a•mai!: info@peer.nrg ot web$ite: www.peeung 

Senator Lisa Murkowski 

Chairperson 

U.S. Senate Committee on 

Energy and Natural Resources 

304 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

Senator Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

U.S. Senate Committee on 

Energy and Natural Resources 

511 Hart Senate Office Building 

Washington, D.C. 205!0 

July 17, 2017 

Re: Nomination of Brenda Burman to serve as Commissioner ofReclamatitm, U.S. 

Department of Interior 

Dear Senators Murkowski and Cantwell, 

I am writing you on behalf of Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) to 

request that you ask Commissioner of Reclamation nominee Brenda Burman about her 

committnent to address illegal conduct and waste of funds that has been raised by whistle blowers 

represented by PEER at tbe Office of Special Counsel (OS C) and confirmed by the Department 

oflnterior's Inspector General (!G). The OSC referred the matter for investigation by the 

Department of Interior, which tasked the investigation to its Office oflnspector General. The 

Inspector General issued repmts confirming the whistleblowers' allegations, but the Bureau of 

Reclamation has refused to accept the IG's findings or follow any of its recommendations to 

prevent future abuses. 1 The OSC is expected to issue its report on the matter to the President and 

your Committee shortly. 

In response to a complaint to the OSC by two Bureau of Reclamation wh.istleb!owers, the IG 

fmmd that Reclamation had entered into an illegal cooperative agreement with the Klamath 

Water and Power Agency (KWAPA). The agreement supplied $32.2 million dollars in federal 

funds to purchase groundwater for i.nigators and pay them for idling land2 Because of the 

1 The IG's Audit Report is available at 

Field Offices: California • Florida • New England • New Jersey • Rocky Mountain • Tennessee 
176 

absence of!egal authority for these expenditures, the IG found that all $32.2 million was 

"wasted." 3 Evidence from the whistleblowers shows that Reclamation officials colluded with 

irrigators to create KW AP A and fund it to illegally funnel money to irrigators. 

The Bureau justified these expenditures under the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, 16 U.S.C. 

§ 661, et but the IG found that law did not apply because there was no benefit to fish and 

wildlife. In the unsustainable groundwater pumping that occurred under the agreement 

reduced the total amount of water in the Klamath Basin, to the detriment of fish and wildlife, 

including endangered The record shows that excessive pumping caused groundwater in 

some areas of the Klamath Basin to drop 25 to 35 feet, causing private and municipal wells to 

rrm dry or produce insufficient amounts of water. The KW AP A agreement then funded well 

owners to deepen their wells or drill new ones to compensate them for their losses caused by the 

unsustainable pU113ping ftmded by the KW AP A The negative impacts to fish and 

wildlife from decreased groundwater table are doclll13ented in literature. The Klamath Basin 

is considered an alpine desert. The recharge rate of the groundwater table will likely be slow and 

have long-term consequences. 

The IG made recommendations for procedures to insure that future cooperative agreements are 

properly supported by applicable legal authority. Reclamation has so far refused to implement 

any of the IG's recommendations, to hold any of its employees accountable, or to take any other 

action to avoid similar waste of federal funds and harm to the environment in the future. 

Questions for Ms. Bmman: 

1. Will you implement and support the IG's recommendations: 

1) USBR discontinue funding water supplementation and demand reduction activities in the 

Klamath Basin unless specific legal authority is provided or obtained; and 

2) USBR take steps to ensure that financial assistance agreements are not funded without 

specific and applicable legal authority and without a clear and accurate description of the 

activities to be performed; and 

3) The Department establish and implement new policies, procedures, and practices to 

ensure that financial assistance agreements are reviewed by the Solicitor for legal sufficiency and 

that the Solicitor's basis tbr approval is thoroughly explained. 

2. Will you commit to institute training in acquisition practices and ethics to prevent similar 

future abuses? 

3. Will you conm1it to increased oversight of assistance and other contracts, such as 

requiring quarterly reports from vendors as to how objectives and goals are being met, to be 

reviewed by Reclamation contract officer representatives and grants officer representatives? 

3 Prior to the creation ofKWAPA, Reclamation operated a Water Bank Program for seven years at a cost of over 

$32 million. The prior Water Bank Program is pertinent in that the Water Bank Program was similar to the Water 

User Mitigation Project (WUMP) operated by KWAPA and tunded by Reclamation. Thus, it is likely that improper 

financial assistance to Klamath Project irrigators have been occurring since 2001 and is in excess of 60 million 

dollars. 
177 

4. Will you commit to insuring that all Reclamation employees receive training in 

whistleblower rights and laws? 

5. What actions will you take to insure that the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act is not 

abused as authority for other assistance agreements or Reclamation programs that are not in fact 

designed to benefit fish and wildlife? 

6. What actions will you take to discipline Reclamation employees who are responsible for 

the illegal expenditure of federal funds in the KW AP A agreement? 

7. Will you commit to directing additional funding to environmental protection, including 

support for fish biologists, river ecologists and other environmental specialists, to repair the harm 

that has been done by the KW APA agreement and other similar agreements that assisted 

in-igators instead of benefitting fish and wildlife as their authorizing authority required? 

Apart from being illegal, the KW AP A agreement funded an expensive, unsustainable and 

ultimately counter-productive response to the ongoing problem of water scarcity in the Klamath 

Basin. KW AP A provided only a short-term, a year-by-year bail-out to Klamath Project 

irrigators. In other words, federal funds have been wasted on stop-gap and unsustainable 

measures that only worsened the long-term problem, and se.rved only to put money in the pockets 

of Klamath Project irrigators for the short term. The expenditure of these funds has diverted large 

amounts of time and money from the work needed to find long-tenn solutions to water scarcity 

in the Klamath Basin. 

1. What will you do to develop long-term solutions for water scarcity in the Klamath Basin 

and elsewhere that will increase water use efficiency, reduce demand, and support agricultural 

activities appropriate for a water-constrained environment while protecting fish and wildlife and 

environmental quality? 

2. Will you commit to utilizing and enhancing your own fisheries and natural resources 

expert staff to take the lead in developing these solutions? 

In response to the whistleblower' s complaint, Reclamation stated that it is "intended to discharge 

the obligation ofthe Secretary oflnterior ... under 5 U,S.C. l213(d)." However, the statute 

clearly does not allow this delegation, since the statute requires a "written report setting forth the 

findings of the agency head." The agency head in this case would be the Secretary ofthe Interior. 

l. Will you commit to following the regulation by not allowing the delegation of the agency 

head's obligation for the written report under 5llS.C. 1213(d)? 

We would appreciate your assistance in posing these questions to Ms. Burman, and would be 

glad supply any further information you may seek these matters. 

Sincerely, 
178 

Paula Dinerstein 

Senior Counsel 
179 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee 

304 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Chairman Murkowski: 

HaUooal CatUI1l~!iM1 S 

le«ri' AR~m:latloo 

July 19.2017 

The Public Lands Council (PLC) and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCB A) would like to take 

this opportunity to express our support for the confinnation of Susan Combs to be the Assistant Secretary of 

the Interior for Policy, Management, and Budget. PLC is the only national organization dedicated solely to 

representing the roughly 22,000 ranchers who hold federal grazing pennits and operate on federal lands. 

NCBA is the beef industry's largest and oldest national marketing and trade association, representing 

American cattlemen and women who provide much of the nation's supply of food and om1 or manage a large 

portion of America's private property. 

Ms. Combs has a wealth of experience in financial management and the livestock industry. She grew up in a 

ranching family in West Texas, has scn·ed on the boards of the Texas and South\vestem Cattle Raisers 

Association and the Texas Beef Council, and today nms a cow-calf operation. In addition to her noteworthy 

agriculture background, she also sen·ed in the Texas House of Representatives and two tem1s as the Texas 

Commissioner of Agriculture-the first woman to be elected to the position. After her scn·ice to the Texas 

Department of Agriculture she was elected as Comptroller of Texas in 2006, where she served with distinction 

until20l5. Ms. Combs is well respected within the agriculture industry and understands the vital role that 

livestock grazing plays in boosting the mral economy and maintaining America· s public lands. 

Westem ranchers om1 approximately 120 million acres of the most productive private land in the west and 

manage nearly 250 million acres of public land. Ranchers who hold grazing penn its on public land do vital 

work that benefits public land including the improvement of water sources, improvement of wildlife habitat, 

and maintaining the open space that Americans enjoy. Having leadership at the Deparlulent of Interior who 

understand the agriculture industry and role it plays in the stewardship of America's public lands is vital to 

ensure the continuity of this national heritage. 

PLC and NCBA appreciate the opportunity to provide our input on behalf of our members- the nation's food 

and fiber producers. We urge the Senate to contlnn Susan Combs without delay. 

Sincerely, 

Dave Eliason 

President 

Public Lands Council 

Craig Uden 

President 

National Cattlemen's Beef Association 
180 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee 

304 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Chaim1an Murkowski: 

Rational Caftiema1s 

Beef Al>st~~~iafflln 

July 19,2017 

The Public Lands Council (PLC) and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) would like to take 

this opportunity to express our support for the confim1ation of Douglas Domenech to be Assistant Secretary of 

Interior for Insular Affairs. PLC is the only national organization dedicated solely to representing the roughly 

22,000 ranchers who hold federal grazing pennits and operate on federal lands. NCBA is the beef industry's 

largest and oldest national marketing and trade association, representing American cattlemen and women who 

provide much of the nation's supply of food and own or manage a large portion of America's private property. 

Mr. Domenech is well qualified for this position. His leadership at the Department of the Interior during the 

presidential transition was invaluable, as was his service there as Deputy Chief of Staff during the George W. 

Bush Administration. In addition, he served the Commonwealth of Virginia as the stale's eighth Secretary of 

Natural Resources. As a Puerto Rican and the Interior Secretary's representative on the Advisory Committee 

of the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico, his knowledge of insular affairs will be of great value to the 

American people. Mr. Domenech has the full support of the ranching community. 

Western ranchers own approximately 120 million acres of the most productive private land in the west and 

manage nearly 250 million acres of public land. Ranchers who hold grazing penn its on public land do vital 

work that benefits public lru1d including the improvement of water sources, improvement of wildlife habitat, 

and maintaining the open space that Americans enjoy. Having leadership at the Department of Interior who 

understand the agriculture industry ru1d role it plays in the stewardship of America's public lm1ds is vital to 

ensure the continuity of this national heritage. 

PLC ru1d NCBA appreciate the opportunity to provide our input on behalf of our members- the nation's food 

and fiber producers. We urge the Senate to swiftly confinn Douglas Domenech. 

Sincerely, 

Dave Eliason 

President 

Public Lm1ds Council 

Craig Uden 

President 

National Cattlemen's Beef Association 
181 

July 18,2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chair, Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

709 Hat1 Senate Building 

Washington, DC 2051 0 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member, Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

511 Hart Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Chairwoman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell, 

I write today regarding the Nomination Hearing to Consider DOE and DOl Nominees, and 

specifically in regard to Mr. Douglas W. Domenech, Nominee to be Assistant Secretary of the 

Interior for Insular Affairs. 

My career has crossed paths with Doug's career throughout the decade and I have always found 

him to be a good partner in our work to improve recreation. Doug is open and transparent and 

has dedicated himself to the management of our nation's public lands, during his time in the 

Bush administration, within the Virginia governor's office, and in his acting roles in the Trump 

administration. 

I am familiar with Doug's work to help improve recreation in Virginia when he worked 

for the governor. During his tenure as secretary of natural resources, Doug promoted the creation 

and development of new Virginia state parks, including Powhatan State Park, which includes 

several miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, and a kayak and canoe launch on the James 

River. This park frequently hosts mountain bike and trail running races. As secretary, Doug 

supported and helped organize the various agencies necessary to plan and construct an 

International Mountain Bike Association certified rider center at Pocahontas State Park. The 

mountain bike park is the first located in a Virginia state park and one of the only mountain bike 

parks in the nation that accommodates off-road handcycles. This mountain bike park is also 

unique in that it includes the urban trails found in the city of Richmond's James River Park. 

Doug not only supports outdoor recreation but is an avid hiker and outdoorsman. Recreation in 

Virginia benefitted from his work as secretary of natural resources, and his love for the outdoors 

has been apparent throughout our time knowing each other. I hope Doug will receive a fair 

hearing and a smooth confirmation process. 

Amy Roberts 

Executive Director 

Outdoor Industry Association 
182 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Senate 

Washington, DC 205!0 

July !9. 20!7 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

l.!.S. SMale 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Senators Murkowski and Cantwell, 

!write 

SecretarY for 

holding~ confirmation hearing tomorrow. 

Domenech to be Assistant 

Interior, about which you are 

First, I appreciate that the new administration has decided to maintain the position 

of Assistant to lead Interior's Office oflnsular Affairs. The four 

who 

recommendation in March to Secrelaty 

insular affairs at the Assistant Secretary leveL 

that the President nominate an individual from 

I understand that Mr. Domenech 

He bas also managed the O!Iice 

am>re,,ialion of island culture and of 

opporturtitv to meet with Mr. Domenech. since his nomination. We 

Mariana Islands that cnme under the purview of' the 

apJoreciatcd that Mr. Domenech made the time to introduce 

himself to me and to have I that this ellort on his part portends 

degree of collaboration between OIA and congressional representatives tbat 

has sometimes been lacking. 

!look forward to working productively with Mr. Domenech should he he 

confirmed by the U.S. Senate. 

Sincerely. 

Member of Congress 
183 

CENTRAl CAliFORNIA 

IRRIGATION DISTRICT 

SAN LUIS CANAl 

COMPANY 

FIREBAUGH CANAl 

WATER DISTRICT 

COLUMBIA CANAl 

COMPANY 

July 17,2017 

The Honorable Mitch McConnell 

Leader 

The Honorable Charles E. Schumer 

States Senate 

317 Russell Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chair 

United Senate 

322 Hart Senate Office Building 

Washington, D.C, 20510 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Member 

Committee on Energy and Natural 

Resources 

on Energy and Natural 

Resources 

United States Senate United States Senate 

304 Dirksen Senate Orticc Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

304 Dirksen Senate Of!icc Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

RE: San Joaquin River Exchange [on tractors Support for lJremla 

Burman Commi.,:siouer, Bureau of Reclamation 

Leader McConnelL 

lvnn·K,nw"' and Ranking Member 

Leader Schumer, Chairman 

The San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Water Authority 

Contractors) are lo support the nomination of Brenda Burman to 

Commissioner Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation). '"llle Exchange 

Contractors serve water to fmmcrs in the San Joaquin Valley. 

\Vater issues, \Vhich comprise n large component 

record 

management. 
184 

Honorable Mitch McConnell, et al. 

RE: San Joaquin Ri••er Excfta11ge Colllractors Support for Bre11da BurmanCommissioner, Bureau of Reclamatiou 

July 17.2017 

Page2 

The Exchange Contractors urge you to work with your Senate colleagues to confirm Ms. 

Burman's nomination as soon as possible. 

Thank you for your time and consideration of Ms. Burman's nommation. 

cc: Senator Dianne Feinstein 

Senator Kamala Harris 

~hedester n~ 

Executive Director 
185 

July 3, 2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski, Chairman 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell, Ranking Member 

The United States Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Support for Nomination of DavidS, 10. 

Dear Senators Murkowski 

are pleased support the nomination of David S. Jonas, 

the Department of Energy. Mr. Jonas is a respected parHime at the George 

Washington University, and a member of Service Employees lntemational Union (SEIU), Local 

500, whkh is the collective bargaining representative for those university faculty. Local 500 is 

proud to represent the prestigious part-time faculty ofthe George Washington 

School of Law,. and Professor Jonas has been an active contributor 

to improve the educational environment for GWU students, as 

the faculty we represent. 

David Involvement with the Union has been marked by his 

partisan professional ideals. We anticipate that he will exhibit those 

Counsel for the Department of Energy, 

Respectfully submitted, 

President 

as General 
186 

July 14.2017 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

511 Hart Senate Office Building 

Washington, D.C. 205!0-0001 

To Senator Cantwell: 

It is my honor to write you to recommend that the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee 

promptly vote to rcpott the nomination of Susan Combs to be the Assistant Secretary for Policy! 

Management, and Budget at the Department of Interior .so that she can promptly be continued by thee 

Whole Senate. President Trump made a fantastic decision in nominating Susan to this important position; 

and I strongly recommend that she be confirmed by the Senate so that she can start in this position. 

Susan is a public servant, a business leader, and an author who served the State of Texas as a state 

representative, as Texas! first female Agricultural Commissioner, and as Texas State Comptroller. As 

Comptroller, Susan brought a common sense approach to a previously unwieldy bureaucracy. There, she 

streamlined tax process, decreased response time to taxpayer inquiries, saved the state over $12 million, 

and cufnearly $400 million in govemmeni purchasing. 

After leaving the Comptroller's office, Susan joined Lone Star Success, where she highlights the social 

and economic strengths of our great state. Additionally, she's the author of the book Texas Tenacity: A 

Call for Women to Direct their Destiny, which encourages women to overcome obstacles and push to 

succeed in their careers. Susan is exactly the person we need at the Department oflntedor to continue to 

push the changes we need to make our federal bureaucra~y run more like a business. 

1 am pleased to strongly recommend that the Senate con finn Susan to this important position. I can be 

reached directly at 214.215.5849 or Q{!gkff£R.~~..©-~iQM.:.2QJJ] if you have any questions. Thank you for 

consideration of this recommenJation and your service to our nation. 

Pete Sessions 

Member of Congress 

PS\BY 
187 

I 

July 17, 2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman, Senate Committee on Energy 

and Natural Resources 

304 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Democrat, Senate Committee on Energy 

and Natural Resources 

304 Dirksen Senate Office Building 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Democrat Cantwell: 

As President and Chief Executive Officer of the Solar Energy Industries Association, I 

would like to express the support of our association for two Department of Energy 

nominees currently pending before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources 

Committee. We believe that Mark Menezes and Paul Dabbarwould provide the 

knowledgeable and balanced understanding on energy issues needed to ensure our 

nation continues to move forward in developing a world-class energy system that 

serves the needs of our people and our economy. 

Mark Menezes has been nominated to serve as Under Secretary of Energy. Mark has 

the right balance of experience and temperament for this important position. He was 

chief majority counsel to the House Energy and Commerce Committee when the 

Energy Policy Act of 2005 was enacted and has a unique understanding of energy 

policy issues. He also has worked in the electric utility industry and in private law 

practice representing a broad range of energy clients. We know Mark understands the 

solar industry and its importance in achieving America's future energy goals. 

Paul Dabbar has been nominated to serve as Under Secretary for Science, 

Department of Energy. Paul is currently the Managing Director for Mergers & 

Acquisitions for J.P. Morgan, and has over $400 billion in investment experience 

across all energy sectors including solar, wind, geothermal, distributed-generation, 

utility, LNG, pipeline, oil & gas, trading, energy technology, and has also led many of 

the nuclear transactions. Paul broad experience with many different sources of 

energy development will be an important asset for the DOE and for the Administration. 
188 

Once again, thank you Senators for your continued leadership in the Congress on 

important energy issues facing our nation. We believe these two nominees will make 

significant contributions to balanced and informed decision-making at the Department 

of Energy. 

Sincerely, 

Abigail Ross Hopper, Esq. 

President & CEO 

Solar Energy Industries Association 
189 

Chairman Emeritus 

Watter Negley 

Director Emelitus 

Eduardo Hlnofosa 

AUceEast 

AC. "Dick" ,Jones, IV 

Alonzo Petla 

Ex.ooutlve Director 

Susan J. Kibbe 

July 17,2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chainnan 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Rcsourees 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

and Natural Resources 

Dear Chainnan Mnrkowskl and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

The board of directors of the South Texans' 

We have been directly involved v.ith Ms. Combs in her efforts to balance the 

legitimate concerns 

species mthout 

membership and we have nmrticioated 

provide 

scientific 

Considering her personal in land management and stewardship and 

her professional and as Comptroller and Agriculture 

second leading agricultural state in the nation, we would be hardpressed to put forth a candidate who could 

consideration of our recommendation and 

Combs the Department 

v.iU do a11 senice to the nation. 

Susan J. Kibbe 

STPRA. Executive Director 

South Texans' 

P.O. Box 3971 Falfunias, TX 78355 I 0: C: 361-522-5194 I ViWW.Slpra.org 
190 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

The United States Senate Committee 

On Energy and Natural Resources 

The Honorable Marla Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

The United States Senate Committee 

On Energy and Natural Resources 

Dear Senators Murkowski and Cantwell, 

June 28, 2017 

I respectfully write on behalf ofMJ'. David Jonas, Esq., whose nomination to be the 

DepaJ'tment of Genei"al Counsel is before your Committee. I worked with Mr. 

of his employment as General Counsel to the DNFSB. I found Mr. 

Jonas to be measured, and of sharp legal acumen. Were I the 

official (1 was not then Chairman of the DNFSB), I would have rated Mr. Jonas as out.~utnu1ng, 

the highest possible rating under the Senior Executive Service Performance Manai!:em,ent 

System. 

Mr. Jonas produced eleven memoranda his !enure containing detailed 

analysis and advice on significant issue.s for DNFSB, including the historical ",.,i,nn~t,, 

protection" standard as directed by Congress and interpreted by the Courts, the limits of the 

DNFSB jurisdiction, and legislative changes to the DNFSB organic statute. As prior practK:mg 

attorney and new DNFSB Member, found these memoranda to be thoroughly researched, 

ex!:ep·tio:nally well written, and most objective as regards the DNFSB duties and 

obligations under the law. To this day, I refer to and rely upon the legal analysis and 

advice Mr. Jonas during his DNFSB tenure. No other DNFSB General Counsel, 

whether serving prior to or subsequent to Mr. Jonas, has produced legal analysis of that caliber 

and usefulness. 

If l may be of any assistance to your committee, please contact me at (202) 694-7080, or 

Chairman 
191 

July 17,2017 

The Honorable Usa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, DC 2051 0-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, DC 20510-3905 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) is a 140-year-old trade association and is the 

largest and oldest livestock organization based in Texas. TSCRA has a membership of more than 17,500 beef cattle 

operations, ranching families and businesses. These members represent over 55,000 individuals directly involved in 

ranching and beef production who manage over 4 million head of cattle on more than 76 million acres of range and 

pasture land primarily in Texas, Oklahoma and throughout the Southwest 

TSCRA strongly supports the nomination of Ms. Susan Combs for the position of Assistant Secretary of the Interior 

for Policy, Management and Budget Her 16 years of service to the citizens of Texas in state-wide elected office 

reflect her knowledge and commitment to getting things done. 

Ms. Combs began her service to the State of Texas with four years in the Texas House of Representatives. She 

then, for eight years, served as Texas Agriculture Commissioner. During that time, she continued the tradition of 

leading Texas' robust agriculture industry and demonstrated her commitment to beneficial land use practices across 

a large and diverse state. Following her tenure at the Texas Department of Agriculture, she was twice elected to 

serve as the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. In her role as Comptroller, Ms. Combs was responsible for 

issuing the state's checks as well as guiding the legislature in revenue and budget matters. In her eight years as 

Comptroller she firmly established her aptitude for making skilled and sensible decisions on complex tax, revenue 

and expenditure issues. 

In addition to her robust public service credentials, Ms. Combs brings to the table a unique and valuable personal 

perspective that make her the ideal candidate to serve our nation at the U.S. Department of the Interior. She was 

raised in a West Texas ranching family, and continues to be very involved in the management of her family's land. 

She knows first-hand the importance of caring for the land that allows her family ranching business to survive for 

future generations. She understands that ranchers are committed to being the best possible stewards of their land. 

Ms. Combs is also an Honorary Vice President for TSCRA and her involvement with TSCRA has been extremely 

beneficial to the thousands of ranchers that TSCRA represents. TSCRA is confident that she will bring the same 

commitment, skill and expertise to her role at the Department of the Interior. 

Please contact me or Jason Skaggs at (512) 469-0171 or jskaggs@tscra.org should you have any questions or 

need further information from TSCRA 

K~~ President 0 
192 

1967-2017 

TEXAS 

CATTLE 

FEEDERS 

ASSOCIATION 

5501140W. 

Amarillo, TX 791064617 

(806) 358-3681 

FAX (806) 352-6026 

info@tcfa.org 

www.tcfa.org 

Jim Lovell 

Chairman 

Jason Peeler 

Chairman~Eiect 

Levi Berry 

Vice Chairman 

Ross Wilson 

Pres!dent & CEO 

DIRECTORS 

Scott Anderson 

CeeArnett 

David S. Baumann 

Jody Bellah 

Michael Bezner 

William Bransgrove 

Paul J. Defoor 

Blain Ferris 

Ben Fort 

Tyler Keeling 

Tom McDonald 

Steve Olson 

Joe Richards 

Jimmy Schwertner 

Kynan Sturgess, DVM 

Dwayne Thompson 

July 17, 2017 

Chairwoman Lisa Murkowski 

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

304 Dirksen Senate Building 

Washington, DC 20510 

Dear Chairwoman Murkowski: 

Texas Cattle Feeders Association (TCFA) wholeheartedly supports Susan Combs to 

serve as the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Policy, Management and Budget. 

TCFA members and staff have worked closely with Susan over the last 30 years and 

can attest to her work ethic and passion for preserving our natural resources and 

protecting private property rights. 

Susan was elected to statewide office on four separate occasions. She served as 

Texas Agriculture Commissioner for eight years and was a tireless, effective advocate 

for farmers, ranchers, landowners and rural economic development. She also led the 

creation of what is known as the Recovery Credit System, which ensured that 

ranchers near Fort Hood and the U.S. Army were able to find a solution to the 

challenging issues of dealing with endangered species. Two birds in particular, the 

Black Capped Vireo and the Golden Cheeked Warbler, had imposed significant 

limitations on the ability of the Army to use some of its training ground. This innovative 

credit system reversed decisions that had been adverse to both the Army and the 

ranchers. It is now viewed as a national model. 

Following her time as Commissioner of Agriculture, Susan was elected the Texas 

Comptroller of Public Accounts and served in that capacity for eight years. She 

continued her steadfast work to steward our natural resources, protect landowners 

and ensure continued economic development, crafting an innovative plan to 

encourage conservation efforts without causing undue economic consequences. 

During her tenure, a proposal to list the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard in the Permian 

Basin posed a significant threat to the ability of both Texas and the U.S. to develop 

its oil and gas resources. Through collaboration with landowners, the agriculture 

community and the energy sector along with a wide range of other interested parties, 

Susan developed the Texas Conservation Plan as a way to address the proposed 

listings under the Endangered Species Act. Because of the plan's design and 

innovative approach, the lizard was subsequently not listed. The plan later prevailed 

in federal court, setting a national precedent for rational and pragmatic thinking with 

regard to species conservation efforts. 

These are just two of many examples of Susan's tireless efforts to uphold our 

economy and protect our natural resources through the development of 

commonsense conservation programs. She is an intelligent, passionate and 

experienced servant leader. Susan is the ideal candidate for Assistant Secretary of 

the Interior for Policy, Management and Budget. TCFA fully supports her nomination. 

Sincerely, 

Ross Wilson 

President & CEO 
193 

July 14, 2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairwoman 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

Dear Chairwoman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

Texas Farm Bureau offers its support and endorsement for the confirmation of Susan 

Combs as Assistant Secretary of the Interior. 

She has long been an advocate of private property rights while balancing the legal 

duties of governmental laws and regulations. Combs' background as an attorney and 

Texas Comptroller are all attributes fitting her appointment to the Department of 

Interior as well. She not only brings the required regulatory function of government, 

but also a dutiful accounting of government to the people. 

Susan Combs is a dynamic leader with proven abilities to organize and lead a 

government agency. Texas Farm Bureau expects that with her abilities and energy, the 

results previously achieved in Texas will be amplified throughout the United States of 

America. 

It is our pleasure to support Susan Combs in her new appointment. 

Sincerely, 

~0~ Russell W. Boening 

President 

RWB:GR:en 
194 

July 18, 2017 

The Honorable Usa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510·3905 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell, 

We at the Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) are delighted to offer our unconditional 

support for the nomination of Susan Combs as Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management 

and Budget at the Department of the Interior. 

Susan is a spirited Texan who comes from a rural background, owning and operating her 

family ranch for over three decades in the Big Bend of Texas. She has served our state 

admirably for nearly twenty years, and her work has been marked by her steadfast 

insistence upon transparency, accountability, and effective public service. 

As Commissioner of Agriculture and then as Comptroller, she increased services while 

saving a portion of the State's budget. She accomplished this through a mixture of 

processes: streamlining tasks and duties, often through increased online transformation; 

sharing services across divisions or departments; and insisting that all state officials and 

employees remain accountable to the public they serve. 

TPPF was thrilled when Susan joined us in 2015 as a Visiting Senior Fellow after her public 

service career with the state ended. She jumped straight into our work, informing Texans 

about innovative ways to reform public debt and spending. Her innovative approach to 

transmitting education information from our public school system through the Financial 

Allocation Study of Texas (FAST), and her insightful responsiveness to the public, brought 

her widespread acclaim as a policy scholar and a stalwart of common-sense conservative 

reform. 
195 

Sim:e !eavir.g ;;ublk office at the end of 201~·, shE continues to advocate for government 

trans9a:ency, has estB:bllshed Zl we· man's empowerrnent vvebsite ond online plrttform, :mti 

cmdes on her education (epcrts through ·rexas Smart Schoofs. 

We urge you to con fir:-:-! her appointment at ~he eadiest possible date. Thar.i< you for youratt2ntior. to this maHer . 

.:;~~~- VVendy lee Gramm 

Cheirman ofthe Boacd 

Texas Public Policy Foundation 

Brooke Roilins 

President & CEO 

Texas Public Policy Fo;;odaticn 

Em est A;,gelo 

Treasure~· 

Texas Public Policy ~oundation 
196 

July 5, 2017 

The Honorable Lisa Murkowski 

Chairman 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

The Honorable Maria Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 

Washington, D.C. 20510-3905 

Dear Chairman Murkowski and Ranking Member Cantwell: 

Texas Wildlife Association was founded in 1985 and currently has approximately 10,000 

members who collectively own or manage over 40 million acres of rural lands in Texas. We 

work to educate Texans on the value ofland stewardship, open spaces, and wildlife habitat 

Texas Wildlife Association strongly supports Susan Combs for the Assistant Secretary position 

in the Department of Interior she has been nominated to by President Trump. Ms. Combs has a 

well-earned reputation of pragmatism and fiscal responsibility from a lengthy career of public 

service here in Texas. We believe she would be a true asset in an agency that has such a large 

impact on the natural and wildlife resources of America. 

Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly. Thank 

you for your consideration and for your service to our great nation. 

Respectfully, 

R. David Yeates 

Chief Executive Officer 

Texas Wildlife Association 

(21 0) 826-2904 

dyeates@texas-wildlife.org 
197 

COMMONWEALTH OF TilE NORTHJ~RN MARIANA ISLANDS 

DLG. Torres 

Governor 

The Honorable Donald J. Trump 

President 

WhiteHouse 

Washington, DC 20050 

Dear Mr. President, 

MAY 2017 Victor B. 

Lieutenant 

l write to congratulate of Douglas Domenech to 

Assistant Secretary of Insular Affairs. Mr. Domenech has wide 

notable experience with the US Insular and with him the mrlers.mr>dir><• 

the many islands and has understanding of the people 

and culture Islands. 

The nomination of Mr. Domenech to this rok has full support and I look forward to 

your administration 

and Commonwealths. 

If I can be assistantce in ensuring lV!r. Domenech's confirmation to this position, 

stand ready to of service. 

Northern Mariana Islands 

l 0007 Saipan, Tdephnne: 
198 

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 

CECC·ZB 20 June 2017 

The Hon. Usa Murkowski 

Chairman 

The Hon. Maria Cantwell 

member 

cn,,..,m,;tt., ... on and Natural Resources 

United States 

304 Dirksen Senate Building 

Washington, D.C. 20510 

RE: Nomination of DavidS. Jonas 

Dear Sen. Murkowski and Sen. Cantwell, 

to you as a current member of the Senior Executive Service in the Federal 

r;;"'""""m'""t I want to express and enthusiastic Jonas to 

become the next of General CounseL 1 Dave Jonas ten 

ago at the Administration (NNSA). was 

serving as the General Counsel for 

Procurement, (an position). I have told 

Dave several is by far the best supervisor ever worked with/for. Dave is 

the kind of leader I strive to become. He is clear about his expectations and is very 

consistent in the professionalism with which everyone. 

I believe having Dave Jonas as career in ways. He is the 

first one to hire me as a member Corps sure I earned respect and 

trust of that title. He met with me discuss leadership and substantive legal issues. 

He me to out-of zone and communication skills. Dave 

all his reach There are many females 

h.,r,.,fi!t"'rl tremendously from Dave's and encouragement 

started under Dave's as GS-11 s and are now serving in 

grade of GS-15. When I to go to the US of 

my Dave my new boss with a 

a impact only on my self-esteem, but also on my 

career progression. 

oflhe NNSA 

his tenure as 

apJ~recia·tive of diverse n"'''"'n''"tiiJ"'"' 

hard dedication to the 

As a Marine, Dave commands 

sullervis<lrsJ'!ea,ders in my 29 years of service, as a 
199 

CECC-ZB 

JAGC Officer, a DOD civil servant, the Deputy General Counsel for NNSA, and now the 

Deputy Chief Counsel for the US Army Corps of None of !hose 

demonstrated the of character Dave. Dave Jonas has 

<>v••m•~l"''" role model leadership motivation. taken some of his l""'rl"'''"hin 

t .. rchninw•" and them to own. In addition to what I mention this has 

n.,,,,,.l,"'r"'''"'t and growth. I still reach out to him leadership 

be an invaluable mentor to me. 

2 
200 

June 29, 20 l7 

The Honorable Lisa Murkovl'ski 

Chairman 

The Honorable Marla Cantwell 

Ranking Member 

Committee on Energy a11d Natural Resources 

United States Senate 

304 Dirksen Senate Building 

Was:hln!~ton, DC 205!0 

Re: DavidS. Jonas Nomination 

Distinguished Senators Murkowski and Cantwell, 

I write to you today in support of the nomination of DavidS. Jonas General Counsel of the 

United States Depattment of Energy. l have known Davtl fur almost two years. l was a student of 

his at The George Washington Law School. l was also his research assistant, worki11g 

closely with him on publications relating to nuclear 110nproliferation. 

As a female a feminist, and a registered Democrat, I readily atlcst to Dave's 

professionalism and character. Througl1out the time that I have known him, Dave has treated me 

and his sh1dents with tlte utmost respect·~"regarding \IS a! all times as valued colleagues. He takes 

everyone's opinions and work seriously and is, cm1sequently, among his 

students, 1, ;md many others, have beneiited greatly from his expertise, suppmt, and 

Dave is also extremely competent Having studied and worked with him, I know that he holds 

himself and those around him to the highest standards. He takes his work, both academic and 

pro,fessioJtllll, very seriously. l am continually by his and by his ability to 

consider the merits eannot speak highly enough of his qnaliJ1c<•tions. 

I know Dave as a mcntol', a colleague, and a friend, and I know him to be a person of great 

eharacter. I have no doubt that, if confirmed, Dave wo~1ld be a credit to the United Slates 

Government both by his conduct and by his competence. I your attention to this letter 

and hope ym1 will consider favorably David Jonas's no1:nirtaUon. 

0