[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 85 (Thursday, June 7, 2012)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1019] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] PERSONAL EXPLANATION ______ HON. NIKI TSONGAS of massachusetts in the house of representatives Thursday, June 7, 2012 Ms. TSONGAS. Mr. Speaker, I missed votes on the day of June 1, 2012, because I was unavoidably detained at a family funeral. Had I been present, I would have voted against amendments to the FY 2013 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act that sought to reduce funding for renewable energy and energy efficiency programs. I would have instead supported amendments that support and expand renewable energy and energy efficiency programs, and also increase funding for weatherization assistance and state energy programs. Finally, I would have voted for an amendment to strike language undermining Clean Water Act protections for streams, wetlands, and other waterways. The underlying bill strikes protections that help safeguard drinking water sources from pollution, protect lives and property from flooding, and ensures the viability of economically beneficial fish and wildlife habitat. ____________________