The Hill says critics worry the committee has become less effective since 88-year-old Inouye took over from then 90-year-old Sen. Robert Byrd. The position is awarded based on seniority and Inouye is now the longest-serving U.S. senator.

According to The Hill: “Some colleagues are frustrated the Appropriations Committee has become what they see as a rubber stamp for the Obama administration’s priorities. It does not wield the same clout it did under former Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) during the George W. Bush administration, they say.”

Interestingly, the criticism of Inouye seems to be more about lack of effectiveness than concerns over his health. The situation is rekindling the debate over term limits for committee chairs, the Hill says.

Inouye has been hospitalized for more than a week and his staff is closed-mouth about his condition and his prognosis, as Civil Beat reported today.

The Hill reports receiving a statement from Inouye — it doesn’t say when — defending his accomplishments as Approps Chair and saying he has no plans to give it up.

“The committee has done its best for the American people and I look forward to returning to the Senate in the near future to continue with my responsibilities,” he told The Hill.

There’s much, much more to The Hill’s report which you can read in full here.