"The Administration's request for the Fusion Energy Sciences Program is $257.3 million, far short of the $335 million approved by the House in H.R. 4 [energy legislation]. Fusion's potential to wean the Nation from fossil fuels is tremendous, but much research remains to be done before that potential can be realized. The Committee notes with approval that the Administration is reassessing the potential U.S. role in the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), which may significantly advance the science by achieving sustained-burning plasma. The Committee believes that U.S. participation in such important international research endeavors deserves serious consideration."

The entire document, and other additional views, including those of the committee's Democrats, can be accessed at http://www.house.gov/science/welcome.htm