E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 105 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

Vol. 143 WASHINGTON, THURSDAY, JULY 31, 1997 No. 111 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE He is retiring at the end of this month, The Reverend Don Bowen, Downtown A message from the Senate by Ms. and it is our privilege and honor that Baptist Church, Alexandria, VA, of- McDevitt, one of its clerks, announced he has an opportunity to address this fered the following prayer: that the Senate had passed without body. Our Father who art in heaven, we amendment a concurrent resolution of He has done a tremendous service to seek to hallow Your name as we pause the House of the following title: the entire Washington metropolitan at the beginning of this day’s proceed- area, in mission outreach, in serving ings to ask Your forgiveness for past H. Con. Res. 98. Concurrent resolution au- thorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for our youth, in so many areas. He has wrongs and to seek Your guidance for the SAFE KIDS Buckle Up Car Seat Safety been the president of the ministers the days before us. We need You, Lord, Check. conference and the president of the for we are prone at times to depend too The message also announced that the Mount Vernon Baptist Association. He much upon our own wisdom and too lit- Senate had passed with amendments in has been the chairman of the Commit- tle upon Yours. We pause this day to pray for those which the concurrence of the House is tee to Study Baptist Priorities of the who have suffered loss of life and home requested, bills of the House of the fol- 1980’s and beyond. He has achieved any in these recent days. We pray also for lowing titles: number of credentials, but most impor- those who have left family and home to H.R. 1866. An act to continue favorable tant he is a man of God who has served defend the freedoms which all of us treatment for need-based educational aid his community in an exemplary fash- under the antitrust laws. ion. He has also preached revivals enjoy. H.R. 2169. An act making appropriations We pray, God, for all who carry upon around the country, in Virginia, North for the Department of Transportation and Carolina, Georgia, Maryland, West Vir- their shoulders the burden of leader- related agencies for the fiscal year ending ship, for theirs is a great responsibil- September 30, 1998, and for other purposes. ginia, and particularly, in Mississippi. ity. Help all of us to remember that The message also announced that the Mr. Speaker, that will be my segue to You require one thing above all else Senate insists upon its amendment to yield to the gentleman from Mis- from each of us, that we do justly, have the bill (H.R. 2169) ‘‘An Act making ap- sissippi [Mr. WICKER], who attends the mercy, and walk humbly with You. propriations for the Department of Downtown Baptist Church and would May we do so as we walk in the foot- Transportation and related agencies like to say a few words as well. steps of the One who so clearly personi- for the fiscal year ending September 30, Mr. WICKER. Mr. Speaker, I thank fied this for us, even Jesus Your Son. 1998, and for other purposes,’’ requests the gentleman for yielding to me. Amen. a conference with the House on the dis- Although I have not heard Reverend f agreeing votes of the two Houses there- Bowen preach a revival in Mississippi, I on, and appoints Mr. SHELBY, Mr. DO- THE JOURNAL have had the opportunity to visit MENICI, Mr. SPECTER, Mr. BOND, Mr. The SPEAKER. The Chair has exam- Downtown Baptist Church and to hear GORTON, Mr. BENNETT, Mr. FAIRCLOTH, ined the Journal of the last day’s pro- the sermons of Rev. Don Bowen on nu- Mr. STEVENS, Mr. LAUTENBERG, Mr. ceedings and announces to the House merous occasions when I found myself BYRD, Ms. MIKULSKI, Mr. REID, Mr. his approval thereof. in Alexandria. I would observe that it KOHL, Mrs. MURRAY, and Mr. INOUYE, to Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- takes good oratory and skills of per- be the conferees on the part of the Sen- nal stands approved. suasion to be a successful preacher. ate. f But there is something even more spe- f cial about the people skills and spir- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE WELCOME TO REV. DON BOWEN itual gifts necessary to lead a con- The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman (Mr. MORAN of Virginia asked and gregation and to become a great pas- from Alabama [Mr. EVERETT] come for- tor. ward and lead the House in the Pledge was given permission to address the of Allegiance. House for 1 minute and to revise and Mr. Speaker, it occurs to me that Mr. EVERETT led the Pledge of Alle- extend his remarks.) Rev. Don Bowen during his 30 years at giance as follows: Mr. MORAN of Virginia. Mr. Speak- Downtown Baptist Church in Alexan- I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the er, today’s invocation was given by the dria has exhibited all of these quali- United States of America, and to the Repub- Reverend Don Bowen who has been the ties. I could congratulate Don Bowen lic for which it stands, one nation under God, Pastor at the Downtown Baptist on 30 years of service, and I wish him indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Church in Alexandria VA, for 30 years. Godspeed upon his retirement.

b This symbol represents the time of day during the House proceedings, e.g., b 1407 is 2:07 p.m. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

H6619 H6620 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER people are finally going to get a tax ed States citizens residing in Puerto PRO TEMPORE cut. To my friends on this side of the Rico and the other territories. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. aisle who voted no in 1993, when Presi- f LAHOOD). The Chair announces that dent Clinton and the then-liberal STEP 21 FOUNDATION BASED ON there will be ten 1-minutes on each Democratic majority engineered the GREED, NOT FAIRNESS side. largest peacetime tax increase in American history, I commend you for f (Mr. WALSH asked and was given your hard work and your perseverance. permission to address the House for 1 TAX RELIEF To my colleagues who came here with minute and to revise and extend his re- (Mr. TIAHRT asked and was given me in 1995, pledging to cut taxes, I marks.) permission to address the House for 1 share in your excitement. We have de- Mr. WALSH. Mr. Speaker, in the de- minute and to revise and extend his re- livered on our promise. bate over the future of transportation marks.) Finally, to the liberals in this House, in this country, STEP 21’s continuing Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, it has I offer my condolences. I know how dif- refrain that ISTEA is unfair because been 16 years since Americans have had ficult this must be for you. After years some States receive less Federal trans- tax relief. Since that time they have and years of taxing and spending, the portation money than they collect in talked about and dreamed about keep- tide has finally turned. The American Federal gasoline taxes is an invalid, ing a little more of their hard-earned people are going to get to keep more of misleading comparison. money. In those past 16 years, not once the money that they earn, and Wash- If the STEP 21 States believe that but twice has this Government raised ington bureaucrats are going to have fairness in these matters is best de- their taxes, taking more of what they to learn to do with a little less. That is fined by the amount of money a State worked so hard to keep. the way it ought to be. sends to Washington, then such logic With the Federal taxes and the State Mr. Speaker, the liberal minority has should be used on all moneys that pass taxes and the hidden taxes like the 28 ranted and raved for the last several between the Federal Government and cents and a dollar loaf of bread that weeks about tax cuts for the rich, to- the States. goes back to our governments, we tally bogus. Next year when tax time According to a study prepared by a worked nearly half of a year just to comes, millions of working class Amer- major university, ISTEA works States pay the governments’ taxes. So it is ap- icans are going to realize that what send over $1,000 per person to Washing- propriate that today this body will they heard from the liberals was not ton more than the STEP 21 States. The vote to give tax relief to Americans true. Let us cut taxes. average amount of taxes STEP 21 like those working Americans in Wich- f States send to Washington is $4,400 per capita, while the average ISTEA State ita, KS, who work so hard and will now b 1015 be able to keep more of their own sends $5,400 per capita. Where is the money. U.S. HEALTH POLICY DENIES fairness in that? f EQUAL FUNDING FOR U.S. CITI- The study done annually on the bal- ZENS OF PUERTO RICO ance of payments to the States clearly MOLLIFYING BOB DORNAN (Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO´ asked and shows that when all funds are consid- (Mr. PALLONE asked and was given was given permission to address the ered, most STEP 21 States are receiver permission to address the House for 1 House for 1 minute and to revise and States while ISTEA works States are minute.) extend his remarks.) the real donor States. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, how Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO´ . Mr. Speak- f much will it cost the American tax- er, I rise to speak to the $24 billion FBI LEAKS TO PRESS ARE NO payers to mollify Bob Dornan? So far children’s health initiative contained MISTAKE the Republican leadership has allowed in the budget reconciliation agree- the House Committee on House Over- ment. The President has stated that (Mr. TRAFICANT asked and was sight to waste hundreds of thousands of this is a victory for every child in a given permission to address the House dollars on an investigation that has poor household who needs health care. for 1 minute and to revise and extend produced nothing. Unfortunately, there is no victory cele- his remarks.) The victory of the gentlewoman from bration by the children in Puerto Rico Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Speaker, Louis California [Ms. SANCHEZ] over Bob Dor- and the other territories. Freeh said the FBI did not leak the nan was certified by the Republican This initiative extends to the chil- name of Richard Jewell as the Atlanta secretary of State of California. It is dren living in the territories an egre- bomber to the press. Who is kidding valid. However, Bob Dornan cannot get gious United States national policy whom? Every policeman in America over the fact that he lost to a Hispanic which views the lives and health of knows it is a common practice of the woman, and for some unknown reason United States citizens in Puerto Rico FBI to leak information to the press. he can command the Republican lead- and the other territories as far less val- Let us tell it like it is. The FBI is ership to jump to attention and harass uable than the lives and health of those once again lying through their teeth. the gentlewoman from California [Ms. residing in the States. They lied about Ruby Ridge, they lied SANCHEZ] for over 9 months now. Puerto Rico’s participation in the about Waco, they are lying about Rich- Mr. Speaker, it is not in the public children’s health care program is less ard Jewell. Lies, lies, lies, and they say interest to spend hundreds of thou- than one-seventh of what it would re- they are mistakes. sands of dollars to hold a kangaroo ceive under the standards established Let there be no mistake, Congress, court aimed at nothing other than po- for the States. There is one and only these are not mistakes, these are litical payback. The people of the 46th one reason for this treatment: The crimes and it is time for FBI criminals District of California have chosen their United States citizens residing in the to be prosecuted. Stand up, Congress. Representative, and we should respect territories have no voting representa- f their choice. tion in Washington, DC, and, therefore, f no viable means of defending them- A DAY FOR CELEBRATION selves against such unjust treatment. (Mr. WHITFIELD asked and was 105TH CONGRESS MAKES HISTORY It is already unjust that U.S. na- given permission to address the House WITH TAX CUTS FOR WORKING tional health policies deny equal fund- for 1 minute and to revise and extend AMERICAN FAMILIES ing for adult United States citizens of his remarks.) (Mr. CHABOT asked and was given Puerto Rico and other territories. How- Mr. WHITFIELD. Mr. Speaker, today permission to address the House for 1 ever, it is absolutely outrageous that is a day of celebration. This House will minute.) the United States would endorse a dis- take up an agreement reached between Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, for the criminatory policy denying equal the Congress and the White House on a first time in 16 years, the American health care to the children of the Unit- tax reduction package. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6621 The last time Congress and the White We are going to increase the deduct- via facsimile from the Wilkins family House reached an agreement on a tax ibility of health insurance for the self- in Casa Grande, AZ. The Wilkins fam- package was in 1993, and at that time employed farmers, small businessmen, ily, Barney and Margie, are school taxpayers were not celebrating. They to 100 percent. We are going to cut cap- teachers. Their kids are B.J., Megan, were not celebrating because that tax ital gains taxes, something very impor- and Molly. package was the largest tax increase in tant to a farmer who defers his income The letter reads, Mr. Speaker, U.S. history. to the day that he retires. ‘‘Thanks for such a nice 19th wedding So today marks a much different We are going to provide favorable tax anniversary gift.’’ They are talking kind of agreement. We are going to treatment for livestock sold when they about the tax cuts we will pass later allow working men and women to keep have to get rid of their herd because of today. ‘‘We appreciate your hard more of their money and we are going bad weather. We are going to retain work.’’ And the P.S. says this: ‘‘Please to give less money to the U.S. Govern- current provisions on ethanol. And we continue to cut taxes so we don’t have ment. are going to, for businesses that are to work three jobs.’’ f small, reduce the AMT. This is what it is all about. Why Mr. Speaker, this is a good day for should working families sacrifice so A GENUINE COMMITMENT TO farmers and small businesses in small that Washington can waste money? EDUCATION towns all across rural Iowa and Amer- The contrary should be true. Washing- (Mr. BLAGOJEVICH asked and was ica. ton should sacrifice so that working given permission to address the House f families can keep more of their own for 1 minute and to revise and extend money, and we make that start today. his remarks.) CONGRESS SHOULD VOTE TO END f Mr. BLAGOJEVICH. Mr. Speaker, it SOFT MONEY FOR NEXT ELECTION was Abraham Lincoln who said, ‘‘Upon (Mr. MILLER of California asked and TIME TO BRING THE INVESTIGA- the subject of education, I can only say was given permission to address the TION OF CALIFORNIA’S 46TH DIS- that I view it as the most important House for 1 minute and to revise and TRICT ELECTION TO AN END subject which we as a people may be extend his remarks.) (Ms. KILPATRICK asked and was engaged in.’’ Mr. MILLER of California. Mr. given permission to address the House Mr. Speaker, most of us, if not all of Speaker, over 2 years ago the gen- for 1 minute and to revise and extend us, agree that education is essential for tleman from Georgia, Speaker GING- her remarks.) the next generation of Americans to RICH, and President Clinton shook Ms. KILPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I compete in the global economy. But hands saying they wanted to reform rise in support of the gentlewoman education is not only about multi- the campaign finance system in this from California, Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ, national competition. At root, provid- country. A bipartisan group of Mem- duly elected to the 46th District in ing educational opportunities is a bers of Congress wrote the President California 10 months ago, certified by moral issue, for it is our obligation to the beginning of this session and asked the Republican Secretary of State 10 the next generation and our obligation that we do campaign finance reform in months ago. to the future of this country. the first 100 days. Just this last week, It is important that we bring this to This budget is a step toward honor- 25 Members of Congress asked the a close. The Committee on House Over- ing Abraham Lincoln’s commitment to Speaker to schedule campaign finance sight has been hearing in special ses- education. It calls for a $31 billion in- reform in September. sion all the evidence. It is now, Mr. vestment in our Nation’s schools. It We have heard nothing from the Speaker, that we call for a close. The contains a $500-per-child tax credit Speaker since he shook hands with the gentlewoman from California won over that will make it easier for more fami- President of the United States over 2 a 900 vote plurality and has been duly lies to send their children to college. It years ago. We have received no re- elected. Let us bring this to a close, let increases funding for Pell grants, offers sponse from the Speaker, and campaign the gentlewoman serve her people in tax relief for new college students, and finance reform is not scheduled. that district and get down to the work takes several other steps at lightening This leaves us only one alternative. of the American people. the increasingly heavy burden of col- Those of us who believe that this is a lege tuition costs on working families. critical matter on the agenda of Con- f For the millions of American chil- gress, and that we should have a right CONGRESS IS GIVING CHILDREN dren who will now be able to make it to to vote on ending soft money for the OF AMERICA THE GIFT OF ECO- college, this budget offers a step to- next election, will use all of the au- NOMIC SECURITY ward providing new opportunities for thority given to us by our constituents them. to make sure that this is on the agenda (Mr. ROGAN asked and was given f in September. If the only alternative permission to address the House for 1 we have is a showdown in September to minute and to revise and extend his re- TAX REDUCTIONS BENEFIT end soft money, we will take that offer, marks.) FARMERS, SMALL BUSINESSMEN Mr. Speaker. Members should come Mr. ROGAN. Mr. Speaker, today my (Mr. GANSKE asked and was given early and plan to stay late. family celebrates the fifth birthday of permission to address the House for 1 f my twin daughters, Dana and Claire. minute and to revise and extend his re- But long after the presents that they marks.) FAMILY FINANCE QUESTIONS open today are put away and forgotten, Mr. GANSKE. Mr. Speaker, a week SHOULD COME FIRST this Congress will have given them, ago I participated, for a day, in the an- (Mr. HAYWORTH asked and was and given to the children of this coun- nual bike ride across Iowa. And as I given permission to address the House try a much greater present. It is be- rode my bike through those rolling for 1 minute and to revise and extend cause today marks the end of a historic hills of corn and beans, I could not help his remarks.) week in our Nation’s economic history. but think about how today Iowa farm- Mr. HAYWORTH. Mr. Speaker, to be For the first time in almost 30 years, ers are going to be smiling. certain, campaign finance questions Congress will pass a balanced budget Why? Well, we are going to raise the are important, but family finance ques- and tax relief for working Americans, exemption for death taxes to $1.3 mil- tions should come first. so that families who earn the money lion. Something important for family Mr. Speaker, today on the floor of will be able to keep more of the money farmers. We are going to allow them to this House we will take an important they earn. The day where Washington pay those death taxes in installments step to ensure that American families and the IRS have first claim on family and extend that. We are going to allow keep more of their hard-earned money income is over. family farmers to income average in and send less of it here to Washington. This Republican Congress, working order to smooth out the rough edges of Mr. Speaker, I hold in my hand just with our friends on the other side of lean years. the ‘‘fax’’, F-A-X, a letter sent to me the aisle, are giving my children and H6622 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 the children of every working parent in able. Vocational education, college Men like Thomas Jefferson and this country the greatest gift of all: education, $5,000 in tax credits over 4 James Madison wrote extensively the gift of economic security for their years of college; tax savings accounts, about these threats to freedom, and future, and for future generations of education savings accounts that are they were right. Today I would like to Americans. going to be tax free, that allow families call special attention to the threat to f to save for college. We will not be tax- freedom that Thomas Jefferson feared ing the interest on student loans any the most, too much power in the hands DEMOCRATS STOOD UP AND more. of government. When the government FOUGHT FOR HARD-WORKING This is a great day for American fam- takes nearly one-half of a family’s in- FAMILIES ilies, Mr. Speaker. come, government has too much power. (Ms. DELAURO asked and was given f Today we consider whether to take a permission to address the House for 1 cue from President Jefferson and re- DEMOCRATS MADE TAX BILL minute and to revise and extend her re- duce the power of government by pass- BETTER FOR WORKING FAMILIES marks.) ing the tax relief package currently be- Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked fore Congress, before us now, and to re- today to remind my Democratic col- and was given permission to address turn the authority to the very families leagues of what we can accomplish the House for 1 minute and to revise that sent us here to do the job. when we stand up and fight for what we and extend her remarks.) f believe in. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Last week our Republican colleagues Speaker, I think all of us have a recol- TAXPAYER RELIEF ACT were calling a tax cut for hard-working lection of gathering at the family (Mrs. TAUSCHER asked and was police officers and kindergarten teach- home and knowing that in the kitchen given permission to address the House ers welfare. But Democrats stood tall a stew is brewing. But that stew does for 1 minute.) and fought hard for tax relief for all not begin to get good until it gets Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Americans who work for a living, who stirred. Today we vote on a bill that in support of the Taxpayer Relief Act pay taxes, even though they may not the Democrats stirred and made well. and to celebrate the balanced budget make a lot of money. I want to speak to those individuals agreement. Today, this House will vote on a tax that may be in fact not where our voice The balanced budget agreement that bill that includes a $500 tax credit for can be heard. Maybe they have a black we are voting on to implement this all of America’s working families. This and white television set, maybe they week will eliminate the deficit and bill also provides a $1,500 HOPE schol- do not have access to the C–SPAN, but strengthen the foundation of our econ- arship to make college more affordable let me tell them, as they go to their omy. It will also put more money in for middle-class families, and $24 bil- jobs and make $20,000 a year, the the hands of the American taxpayers lion for children’s health care, the sin- Democrats have put together a tax bill through the child tax credit, the HOPE gle largest investment in health care that will help them. scholarship plan, and reductions in the since 1965. Or maybe they make $25,000. The capital gains tax rates and greater pro- All of these priorities the Democrats Democrats have stirred the pot to help tection from estate taxes. in the last several weeks have fought them, because they get a $500-a-year Most importantly, this agreement and stood tall on and have won. The child tax credit, and we respect the provides tax relief in a fair and equi- Democrats said, in fact, that what they fact that they are out working for a table manner. Working families in did not want to do was to provide tax living. The Democrats also gave them America who deserve the child tax breaks for the richest and the wealthi- $1,500 so they can start that college credit will be eligible to receive it. est in this country. It is middle class education in the Houston Community Middle-class families struggling to families who have won the benefit of College, which I represent, or any com- save enough money to put their chil- the Democrats’ hard work in these last munity college around the Nation. dren through college will qualify for several weeks. The Democrats recognize that these the HOPE scholarship plan, and in- f working families they may not be creased protection from estate taxes somewhere advocating and lobbying, will protect more families from TODAY MARKS A START IN REVIS- but we recognize that they make unaffordable tax bills when they in- ING TAX SYSTEM AND TAX PHI- America work. And to the small busi- herit a small family business or farm. LOSOPHY IN UNITED STATES nesses, we say we count on them too, At the same time, reckless and (Mr. BLUNT asked and was given because the Democrats give them a $1 unaffordable tax cuts have been permission to address the House for 1 million tax exemption that starts next dropped in this agreement, protecting minute and to revise and extend his re- year! the budget from exploding deficits in marks.) The Democrats stirred the pot on the future. The balanced budget agree- Mr. BLUNT. Mr. Speaker, we are this tax bill, and made it fair. ment provides a sensible path toward here today taking a step toward revis- f eliminating the deficit and providing ing the tax system and revising the tax b 1030 tax relief. philosophy that has too long been Mr. Speaker, I strongly support the headed in the other direction. We are THREAT TO FREEDOM, TOO MUCH balanced budget agreement, and I en- here today to decide that American POWER IN HANDS OF GOVERN- courage my colleagues to support it as families can spend their money better MENT well. than the Government can spend their (Mr. BOB SCHAFFER of Colorado f money. asked and was given permission to ad- The only bad news in the bill for dress the House for 1 minute and to re- GREAT DAY FOR EVERY working families today is it is going to vise and extend his remarks.) AMERICAN be 6 months before they begin to see Mr. BOB SCHAFFER of Colorado. (Mr. DREIER asked and was given what really happens when they have Mr. Speaker, when the Founders were permission to address the House for 1 their money back instead of the Gov- debating the Constitution in Philadel- minute and to revise and extend his re- ernment having that money. phia in 1787, one of the most important marks.) A $500-per-child tax credit means to a subjects of debate concerned what they Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, what an family of three, a working family of considered to be threats to freedom. incredible difference the Republican three, $125 every month that the Gov- Some thought that too much govern- Congress makes. Just a few short years ernment has been spending that they ment power was the greatest threat to ago, we saw the largest tax increase in can now start spending next year. It is freedom. Some thought that too much history proposed by President Clinton. going to make a difference. power in the hands of the majority We are going to be repealing large This bill will make a difference as we would be a threat to the freedom of mi- parts of that today, and we saw a plan work to make education more afford- norities. for nationalized health insurance, July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6623 much of which is going to be addressed CONFERENCE REPORT ON H.R. 2014, ing, and housing combined. Hard work- successfully with our private sector ap- TAXPAYER RELIEF ACT OF 1997 ing people who save for retirement or proach that is included in this bill. Mr. DREIER, from the Committee on struggle to build a small business or Today we celebrate the first balanced Rules, submitted a privileged report family farm see Federal taxes eat up budget in nearly three decades, we cel- (Rept. No. 105–221) on the resolution (H. far too much of their savings and in- ebrate the first tax cut in 16 years, and Res. 206) waiving points of order vestments. The Archer bill will help to we mark the transformation of Bill against the conference report to ac- address those problems. Clinton from a tax-and-spend liberal to company the bill (H.R. 2014) to provide Last November, the American people custodian of the Republican legacy of for reconciliation pursuant to sub- gave Congress and the President a lower taxes and less government. It is sections (b)(2) and (d) of section 105 of mandate to balance the Federal budg- a great day for every American. the concurrent resolution on the budg- et, provide tax relief for working fami- lies, create incentives for private sec- f et for fiscal year 1998, which was re- ferred to the House Calendar and or- tor job creation, preserve the Medicare TAXPAYER RELIEF ACT dered printed. program, and promote quality edu- Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, by direc- cational opportunities for all children. (Mr. MCDERMOTT asked and was Let us face it, Mr. Speaker, many given permission to address the House tion of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 206 and ask for its Americans did not believe that we for 1 minute and to revise and extend would deliver. Commitments from his remarks.) immediate consideration. The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- elected officials mean little or nothing Mr. McDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, the lows: to those disillusioned by broken prom- last speaker and I probably are book- H. RES. 206 ises of big government and high taxes. ends for this Congress. Yesterday and A Washington Post columnist, David today, 44 million people without health Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- lution it shall be in order to consider the Broder, once described the President’s insurance in this country; maybe we conference report to accompany the bill trust deficit with the American people gave health insurance to 2 million chil- (H.R. 2014) to provide for reconciliation pur- as even more damaging than the budg- dren. The other 42 million, we could suant to subsections (b)(2) and (d) of section et deficit. Congress is helping to elimi- not seem to address that issue, while 105 of the concurrent resolution on the budg- nate both. we can give a $95 billion tax break this et for fiscal year 1998. All points of order In November of 1994, American voters afternoon. against the conference report and against its made Republicans the majority in Con- Now, in my view, this is payday for consideration are waived. The conference re- gress for the first time in four decades. people who pay for campaigns. There port shall be considered as read. The con- ference report shall be debatable for two and They wanted a change, and the new are a few bones for people who have one half hours equally divided and controlled Congress vowed to succeed where pre- kids and a little bit for education, but by the chairman and ranking minority mem- vious Congresses had failed. That the long-term effects of this bill are for ber of the Committee on Ways and Means. change in leadership sent us down the those people who contribute to cam- Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, for pur- path that we are on today. paigns. poses of debate only, I yield the cus- Mr. Speaker, the Republican major- The New York Times says the deal’s tomary 30 minutes to the gentleman ity believed that keeping promises was long-term effects has economists un- from Texas [Mr. FROST]. All time yield- as important a goal as balancing the easy because they look at what hap- ed is for the purpose of debate only. budget, cutting taxes and reducing the pens in the long run. I believe that we Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time size and scope of the overly intrusive have to deal with the issue of soft as I may consume. Federal Government. Now, there is no money in campaigns when we come (Mr. DREIER asked and was given doubt that this zeal did not always back in September. The Members of permission to revise and extend his re- adapt well to the political realities of this House have to be prepared to sit marks and to include extraneous mate- divided government. The American and deal with that issue if we are going rial.) people have watched Washington’s to change the way this country’s eco- Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, if I were rocky moments with some understand- nomics go. to address the American people, I able frustration, but they have also f would say, Today, you can finally be- witnessed some momentous accom- lieve that you will get a tax cut. We plishments, and from my perspective, MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT will pass it. The President will sign it. the Archer tax relief legislation is at A message in writing from the Presi- You can take this tax cut to the bank. the top of that list. As the sponsor of the bipartisan, job dent of the United States was commu- This rule provides for consideration creating and investment encouraging nicated to the House by Mr. Sherman of the conference report on H.R. 2014, capital gains tax relief bill, which I Williams, one of his secretaries. the long-awaited Archer tax cut bill. The rule waives all points of order join with my colleague, the gentle- f against the conference report to ac- woman from Kansas City, MO [Ms. company H.R. 2014 and against its con- MCCARTHY] and other Democrats and MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE sideration. The rule provides that the Republicans, we put together the larg- A further message from the Senate conference report be considered as est number of cosponsors, I want to by Mr. Lundregan, one of its clerks, an- read. The rule also provides for 21⁄2 thank the gentleman from Texas [Mr. nounced that the Senate has passed a hours of debate equally divided and ARCHER], the chairman, for the tremen- bill of the following title in which the controlled between the chairman and dous work that he did in the face of the concurrence of the House is requested. ranking minority member of the Com- outdated class warfare rhetoric that S. 871. An act to establish the Oklahoma mittee on Ways and Means. came from some of our colleagues on City National Memorial as a unit of the Na- Mr. Speaker, I want to point out at the other side of the aisle. Reducing tional Park System; to designate the Okla- the beginning that a balanced budget, the job killing, investment stifling cap- homa City Memorial Trust, and for other even with this tax relief, will not solve ital gains tax is the single best way to purposes. all of our Nation’s problems. However, promote wage growth, spur real eco- The message also announced that the the Archer bill is a major victory for nomic growth, and ensure that we will Senate agrees to the report of the com- American workers who pay the tax- balance the budget by the year 2002. I mittee of conference on the disagreeing ation that run the Government. applaud the effort of our negotiators votes of the two Houses on the amend- The American family has not seen because they share the commitment to ment of the Senate to the bill (H.R. tax relief from their excessive Federal raise the wages of American workers 2015) ‘‘An Act to provide for reconcili- tax burden since 1981. Taxes eat up too and ensure that strong growth balances ation pursuant to subsections (b)(1) and much of the average family budget. I the budget. (c) of section 105 of the concurrent res- am honored to represent many working At the end of the day, when the dust olution on the budget for fiscal year families who, unfortunately, pay more clears, we must look back over the past 1998.’’. in taxes then they spend on food, cloth- 3 years with some amazement and H6624 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 pride. We have enacted a balanced President in insisting that the HOPE who are doing so well today that the budget, cut taxes on families and job scholarship program be instituted to stock market has soared in value, so creators, reformed welfare, controlled make the first 2 years of college as uni- much so that it has increased in value illegal immigration, saved Medicare, versally available as a high school di- by 50 percent in the past 2 years. and made private sector health insur- ploma is today. That deficit reduction package which ance more available and affordable. We need more opportunities for our the Republicans opposed unanimously Combine the achievement of those young people to advance their edu- set the stage for the action of the Con- bedrock Republican Party goals with cation, and Democrats insisted that gress this week. That package created the expansion of free trade through the this package provide a way for every- an economy which this year has the North American Free Trade Agreement one to continue education. And this lowest unemployment rate in 24 years and the GATT Uruguay Round of the package does that. We have compo- and has created 12.5 million new jobs. I General Agreement on Tariffs and nents of this package which will go a voted for that package in 1993, just as Trade in the 103d Congress and the long way toward ensuring that our I voted for the spending cuts on election and historic reelection of the work force in the 21st century is pro- Wednesday. I voted to bring Federal Republican Congress, and we can make ductive and globally competitive. spending under control and to balance the case that President Clinton has Democrats stand for things like pen- the Federal budget for future genera- compiled one of the most impressive alty-free IRA withdrawals for under- tions. Republican legacies of any President in graduate, post-secondary vocational, Mr. Speaker, my Republican col- this century. and graduate education expenses. leagues now crow and claim credit for Mr. Speaker, the Republican-led Con- Democrats stand for tuition tax credits balancing the budget, but more impor- gress has put policy ahead of blind par- for juniors, seniors, undergraduate stu- tantly, Democrats can claim credit for tisanship. I congratulate the President dents, and for working Americans who ensuring that the proposals of the Re- for working with us to make Govern- are seeking to enhance or upgrade publican majority are tempered and ment a more cost-effective vehicle, for their skills. Democrats stand for things made much more fair for working men improving the standard of living of the like education savings accounts and for and women, their children, our seniors American people. extending the exclusion of employer- and for our vulnerable groups in soci- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of provided undergraduate educational ety. Democrats stand for fairness and my time. benefits. equity as do the American people. I Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Mr. Speaker, since those things are think we won on these basic points in self such time as I may consume. in this tax bill, Democrats achieved this debate. Mr. Speaker, at the end of the day, what they stand for. Mr. Speaker, the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of when this tax package is taken apart, fact that this tax bill provides for fami- my time. it will be apparent that House Demo- lies and for those Americans who want Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I was very crats, who have throughout this debate to pursue an education make this bill privileged to come to the Congress in insisted on fairness, have been success- much more palatable to Democrats. 1981 and vote for the Economic Recov- ful. What started out as a bill cutting But I should point out that in spite of ery Tax Act of Ronald Reagan. I did so taxes solely for the benefit of the the infusion of fairness in this package, along with my very dear friend from wealthiest among us, while denying our Republican colleagues have man- Glens Falls, NY, the distinguished any sort of tax relief to those who real- aged to ensure that the upper end of chairman of the Committee on Rules. ly need it the most, has been modified the income scale has been taken care Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he to meet the fairness test. of. may consume to the gentleman from My Republican colleagues have for b New York [Mr. SOLOMON]. months insisted that working families 1045 Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I thank who make less than $30,000 a year do I wonder how many of us really un- very much the gentleman from Califor- not pay taxes and should not get a tax derstand that the child tax credit is nia, the vice chairman of the Commit- break. But House Democrats have available in some form for couples with tee on Rules, for yielding me this time. stood fast and insisted that young fam- adjusted gross incomes up to $150,000 a Yes, Mr. Speaker, the gentleman ilies with children, those families just year. Democrats are, of course, in the from California [Mr. DREIER] is right. I starting out in life who are trying to minority in the House and we cannot had been here for a couple of years be- make ends meet, perhaps pay a mort- win on every point, but I do find it in- fore he and Ronald Reagan arrived. gage, take the kids to McDonald’s and teresting that a party that was so will- With the gentleman and Ronald maybe see a movie every once in a ing to deny this tax credit to families Reagan and the gentleman from Texas while need a tax break also. making less than $30,000 a year is now [Mr. ARCHER] in the back here, and the Why, we wondered, should a family so willing to extend it to families mak- rest of us Republicans, we began to making $29,000 a year be denied tax ing five times that much. change the philosophy of this Govern- credits? Who says they do not pay However, Mr. Speaker, that we are in ment, we began to cut taxes, meaning- taxes? Not the Democratic Members of a position to be able to discuss a bal- ful tax cuts and shrink the size and the the House, that is for certain. We know anced budget and tax cuts simulta- power of the Federal Government to go that everyone that works pays taxes. neously is because 4 years ago, this along with it; and yes, Ronald Reagan’s We all pay income tax, but we also pay House, or should I say the Democrats legacy lives on and is being carried out Social Security and Medicare taxes, in this House, passed a deficit reduc- today. State income taxes, and unemployment tion package that has now produced an Mr. Speaker, I hope the former Presi- taxes. Those taxes count every bit as economy that is so healthy and so pro- dent, one of the greatest Presidents much for the family making $29,000 a ductive that our deficit has fallen by 75 this country has ever known, is able to year as they do for a family making percent since 1993. When the House watch part of this debate today be- twice or three times as much. Maybe passed that package, Mr. Speaker, it cause it is devoted to him. they count even more. was done without a single Republican Yes, back in 1981, President Reagan And so, in the end, Mr. Speaker, vote. It was done, Mr. Speaker, while signed into law the historic 25 percent Democrats have prevailed in our posi- the current Republican leaders la- across-the-board tax cut for all work- tion. This bill will provide the tax cred- mented loudly that it would send the ing Americans, a package that liber- it for every family with children under economy straight down the tubes. ated our economy and our Nation from the age of 17 who make $18,000 or more Yes, as my Republican colleagues are the fiscal straitjacket of stagflation, a year. That is what Democrats stood so fond of pointing out, that deficit re- and the rising unemployment of the for, and that is what Democrats duction package did contain some tax 1970’s. President Reagan’s foresight achieved. increases, but I would like to remind paved the way for the longest peace- Democrats have stood firm in our in- my colleagues that those increases time economic expansion in our Na- sistence that education be a top prior- were aimed primarily at the upper end tion’s history, that created 17 million ity in this bill and we joined with the of the economic scale, at those people new jobs, an increase in real average July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6625 family income from the richest to the tax credits. How terribly important for ensuring that those who did make poorest income groups and a steady that is to the average American in this under $30,000 a year were treated as and sustained growth in real GDP and country. American citizens and respected for productivity throughout the entire Mr. Speaker, contrary to what we are what they have given to this Nation, 1980’s. This was one of the most suc- going to hear from the other side of the by giving them tax relief. cessful decades of the history of this aisle, the majority of this tax relief, This agreement cuts Federal taxes great country of ours. more than 72 percent of it, will go to $95.2 billion over 5 years, nearly $10 bil- Today, 16 years later, the Republican middle-income wage earners, families lion more than the House-passed bill. Congress and President Clinton, stand making between $20,000 and $70,000 a Why did that happen? Because it was on the threshold of delivering Ameri- year. This will better enable all Amer- the Democratic caucus that forced that ca’s working families and America’s ican families to care for their children, increase so that tax cuts could come to businesses a long-awaited second in- to improve their communities, and rep- those lower-income families who earn stallment of that tax cut, an install- resents a good first step in rolling back the earned income tax credit. They too ment that Ronald Reagan tried for the high level of Government inter- can get a child tax credit. This effort years to get after the initial tax cut in ference which has grown out of all pro- stands and represents those who are 1981 but was deprived of by the Demo- portion over the last 20 to 30 years. least vocal and most vulnerable. It crats in this House. Mr. Speaker, while this tax cut may gradually raises the amount exempt In 1994, when the American people represent a major victory for the Re- from Federal estate taxes to $1 million, gave Republicans control of the peo- publican Party and the American peo- and it makes IRA’s more widely avail- ple’s House, we promised to cut taxes. ple, it is also the product of bipartisan- able, so to encourage Americans to Today Republicans deliver on that ship. In the same spirit, let me repeat save. promise. Yesterday we delivered on the a quote I stated yesterday. In introduc- What does that say? Mr. Speaker, promise of a balanced budget. Today on ing his tax cut plan to the American what that says is to the many small tax cuts. It makes me proud to be a Re- people in 1962, President John F. Ken- businesses around this Nation who publican today. Both are real, both are nedy, a Democrat, and I was a John F. have cropped up over the last 20 years, consistent and both, Mr. Speaker, are Kennedy Democrat back in those days, who pay their taxes, who work either sustainable. stated that, quote, ‘‘prosperity is the in their homes or small offices, who Four years ago this same Congress real way to balance the budget. By low- employ only one or two persons or under a Democrat majority passed the ering tax rates, by increasing jobs and maybe a little bit more, it says that largest tax increase in American his- incomes, we can expand tax revenues Democrats understand that small busi- tory. Today the Republican Congress and finally bring our budget into bal- nesses have become the business of will roll back our Nation’s tax burden ance.’’ America. by at least $95 billion. And you have President Kennedy was right then Then we go to the HOPE scholar- not seen nothing yet. Wait until next and this bill before us today is right ships, something that was confused year and the year after, because we are now. Over the past 16 years, this Con- under the Republican plan, did not re- going to come back to eliminate cap- gress has raised our Nation’s taxes over spect those who might be moving from ital gains taxes and we are going to five times and by hundreds of billions welfare to work, looking for opportuni- further cut taxes off the American peo- of dollars, taking money out of the ties at less expensive community col- ple. pockets of the American people. Today leges or junior colleges or 4-year col- Mr. Speaker, this permanent tax re- we reverse that trend and we pass the leges. We give the HOPE scholarship lief takes many forms and will assist first tax cut in 16 years and make good with no strings attached. You can get many sectors of our economy. A sharp on another promise to the American 100 percent of $1,000 the first year. You cut in the capital gains tax cut will, people. Yes, Republicans. Promises can get your foot in the door. We did without question, stimulate job made, promises kept. Come over here not hear from large businesses and ad- growth, and investment, and the real and vote for this great bill and let us vocates of large tax cuts on this issue. incomes of all working American fami- keep this economy moving. However, Democrats realize that edu- lies. Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 cation is the great equalizer, so along According to the Congressional Budg- minutes to the gentlewoman from with President Clinton we fought for et Office, and this is so terribly impor- Texas [Ms. JACKSON LEE]. this change. tant because it goes back to this busi- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. To my family farmers, let me say we ness of class warfare. According to the Speaker, it gives me a great deal of heard your voices. I am from an urban Congressional Budget Office, three- pleasure to come and simply add to set- district, however most of my constitu- quarters of America’s families own as- ting the record straight and clearly ents have come in from the rural areas sets such as stocks, bonds, homes, real speaking to those who least of all have and their families are still harvesting estate and businesses. NASDAQ reports an ability to come to this House and the crop on small family farms. How that 47 percent of all investors are lobby for their causes. gratified I am to be able to give them women. The Treasury Department, and Let me say, Mr. Speaker, that any a $1.3 million unified tax credit, some- this is perhaps the most important of legislation that is passed in this body thing that will start not 7 years down, all, the Treasury Department reports does nothing unless it gets to those not the year 2000-and-something, but that nearly two-thirds of all tax re- who are at home and on the front line. January 1, 1998. turns reporting capital gains income Democrats are known for confronting Democrats, realizing who drives this are filed by people whose incomes are the hard issues and working to get leg- Nation, fought hard in conference and under $50,000. Fifty percent of two- islation that practically addresses before in strategies on the floor of this thirds of all of these people are senior those who every day are turning the House to say that we must stand up for citizens living on fixed incomes with a engine of this Nation, to ensure that working people, the most vulnerable on few returns of the stocks and bonds those who are running the engine of welfare, and family farmers and small from their investments. Clearly these this Nation by working every day are businesses. Yet I have supported tax in- figures show that a capital gains tax appropriately protected and defended. centives to help large businesses invest cut benefits middle-class American That is why I can rise with maybe a in job creation. families and older Americans. troubled heart but a sure mind that we And then we understand that there In addition, family-owned small busi- are making the right decision today are some of us that can save a few nesses and family farms are provided and I am making the right decision more pennies. We can save a few more further relief through cuts in the es- today to vote not only for this rule but pennies, those of us who do that, by a tate tax. Educational and retirement for this tax agreement. It allows me to deduction of up to $2,500 on interest for opportunities are enhanced. And, Mr. thank those who were around the nego- qualified student loans. Speaker, middle-class parents are al- tiating table but it has also allowed me Mr. Speaker, I realize that we cannot lowed to keep more of their income to to thank those who finally listened to come to this floor and abdicate our re- take care of their families with child my constant agitation and advocation sponsibilities, and so I say to Members H6626 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 that I am going to be a diligent student residing in a cave. The President has But I want to say this, I hope this of this tax plan. I am going to be embraced our agenda and, some say, is bill is the end of this class warfare. We, watching whether there is a potential receiving more credit for it than are they; they, we; rich, poor; old, young; of exploding the deficit in the outyears the Republicans. That is OK. It has politics of division, politics of fear, pol- and be at the fight to correct and fix been said, ‘‘Anything can be accom- itics that are bad for America, politics what may damage the most vulnerable plished if you don’t care who gets the that are wrong for America, politics of this Nation. credit for it.’’ that are dangerous for America. I voted for this tax bill all the way b 1100 This is a day, Mr. Speaker, when empowerment is being returned to through, I am going to vote for it Nevertheless, at the same time I am hard-working Americans, and that is today, and I want to close with com- going to be able to go to my commu- where it belongs. I commend everybody mending now Democrat leaders who nity and get to working on cleaning up who had a hand in it, Democrats, Re- have taken out some of the provisions inner-city areas because we have got a publicans alike, but most particularly I that I did not like either, but the Re- 3-year brownfield tax incentive that al- say to the gentleman from Texas [Mr. publican Party kept the President’s lows economically distressed areas to ARCHER], chairman of the Committee feet to the fire. That is the bottom clean up environmentally damaged on Ways and Means, Well done. line, and I think it is good for our areas. Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 country. And yes, this tax bill follows an minutes to the gentleman from Ohio Our Government is working. amendment that I made as a freshman [Mr. TRAFICANT]. Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I yield in this House to give tax incentives to (Mr. TRAFICANT asked and was myself such time as I may consume. employers who hire welfare recipients. given permission to revise and extend Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from We are going to do that now because his remarks.) Youngstown, OH [Mr. TRAFICANT] for Democrats recognize that we want to Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Speaker, when telling it like it is. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the boost up the opportunity for those the President first took office, he in- gentleman from Florida [Mr. GOSS], moving from welfare to work. vited 5 groups of 13, 65 total, to the distinguished chairman of the House This is a bill that needs to be sup- Cabinet room. I was in the last group. Permanent Select Committee on Intel- ported, it needs to be watched, it needs He told us that he caught that Grey- ligence and chairman of the Sub- to be monitored, the Tax Code must be hound and it is different than what he committee on Legislative and Budget simplified, and we need to stand ready thought it was and he was going to to fix anything that hurts Americans Process. have to raise taxes. I was later told by (Mr. GOSS asked and was given per- as this bill moves forward to drive the the Vice President that 64 of the Mem- mission to revise and extend his re- economic engine of this Nation in order bers there said they agreed with him marks.) to create more jobs for all Americans. and they would support him. They said Mr. GOSS. Mr. Speaker, I thank my Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I yield I was the only one that disagreed with friend from downtown San Dimas, CA myself such time as I may consume. him and told him not only would I not Mr. DREIER, vice chairman of the Com- What a fascinating debate. The support a Btu tax, I would work to de- mittee on Rules and chairman of the American people know that the words feat a Btu tax. Subcommittee on Rules and Organiza- ‘‘tax cutting’’ and ‘‘Democrat’’ here- I also reminded the President when tion of the House. I commend him for tofore would clearly be an oxymoron. he campaigned in my district, the big- his very hard work to eliminate the pu- It is wonderful now to hear the great gest crowd he ever had in his political nitive and the self-defeating taxation statements emerging from the other life, he made a promise to cut taxes. on capital gains, and I know he feels side of the aisle. I have to say that one Not only was he not going to cut taxes, there is a great step forward here today of the fighters for meaningful tax re- he was going to have the biggest tax and even more to do down the road. duction is my very good friend from increase in our history, and he also Two years ago a new Republican-led Guilford County, NC. said, ‘‘Don’t worry about it, we’re also majority pledged to balance the budg- Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the going to hit the rich.’’ et, to save Medicare, and provide over- gentleman from Greensboro, NC [Mr. I told the President then that I due tax relief to the American people. COBLE]. thought that type of strategy and poli- Republican after Republican and some Mr. COBLE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the tics was very bad, ‘‘We’ve already Democrats joined us here in the well gentleman from California for yielding chased jobs, Mr. President,’’ exactly and said we would do those things, and this time to me. what I told him, ‘‘in factories overseas. we are doing them. The naysayers and How far down this road we have ad- Be careful you don’t chase our money the big spenders said it cannot be done, vanced. Now a balanced budget is with- overseas.’’ cannot be done, country cannot afford in our grasp. The White House, Repub- Vice President come to me, he said, it, we have to keep raising taxes. Well, licans, Democrats are all taking credit ‘‘I can’t believe, Jim, you take this po- my colleagues, they were wrong. Here for it, and that is fine. But these tax sition.’’ we are today to prove it. reductions, Mr. Speaker, would not be I said, ‘‘It’s very simple, Mr. Vice Today on this House floor we are before us were it not for a Republican President. I come from a poor family. going to complete the pledge that we Congress, and if there are those who do My dad never worked for a poor guy.’’ made by providing Americans with the not believe this, see me after work and This politics of class warfare is very first relief from taxation in 16 years, I will sell you a used bridge. Capital bad. I disagreed with it then, I dis- almost a generation. The good news is gains tax reduction, educational tax agreed with it throughout this whole there is something in this package for benefits, estate tax exemption thresh- debate, and I want to now commend just about everyone in America, across old increased. the Democrats for taking a look at the the land, in all different pursuits and I could recall just a few recent years facts, and I want to give credit to the in all different situations. ago when some of our Democrat friends Republican Party. The Republicans For families trying to pay bills, that were daring to lower the threshold of have kept the President’s feet to the is most of us, we have provided a $500 the estate taxes from $600,000 down to fire on the campaign promise to cut per child tax credit. That is $500 more $200,000. That sent a shock wave taxes for people in America. That is that you can use for things like school throughout America, throughout rural the truth of it. clothes or taking the kids for a sum- America particularly, and now family I support tax cuts. I supported them mer vacation, some have not been able farms and residents and estates will all along. I knew that some of those to do that, or anything else that they now be exempt from that heavy hand of provisions would be removed, but I am choose to do, because the bottom line the death tax. It has been a long time a Democrat, and Democrats were the here is that the people are going to de- coming, but it is here. very first to cut taxes with JFK, and cide what they are going to do with These matters, Mr. Speaker, con- by God, as a party, how did we give the their money, not the folks here in stitute the Republican agenda. Every- Republicans the patent on it in the Washington who may have a different one knows that unless they have been first place? idea about how to spend it. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6627 For senior citizens about to embark so well together, is making the deci- 1980’s when the largest, most profitable on their retirement, and many of those sions. corporations in America not only did come to Florida and my district, we I urge support of this rule and the not pay taxes, they got tax refunds have cut the capital gains tax so they very important tax cuts that it makes paid for by the rest of us for taxes they can sell some assets without Washing- in order. did not pay, that Ronald Reagan sup- ton confiscating, ‘‘confiscating’’ is the Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 ported putting in place an alternative word I choose, nearly one-third of the minutes to the gentleman from Oregon minimum tax for corporations. They gain. [Mr. DEFAZIO]. are repealing that here today. That But most importantly, as we look to Mr. DEFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, I thank will cost $20 billion, a nice gift to the the future of our children, we have the gentleman for yielding this time to large corporations. Oh, that is for mid- made it easier for young Americans to me. dle-income America. Mr. Speaker, here we are today on get a college education, and I see lots b 1115 of young Americans around this build- the last day of this session of the Con- ing this time of year. gress before the big recess engaged in That is for middle-income America. Our package is going to allow Ameri- the big lie, the big lie. This is a bal- Sure it is, Mr. Speaker. cans to withdraw tax free from new anced budget agreement. Well, after we Then we have the subtotal here for super IRA’s to pay for college edu- voted yesterday, the Congressional gift and generation-skipping tax provi- sions, which they call estate tax relief, cation expenses. This commonsense Budget Office came up with an analy- $35 billion. So the sum total here today provision was part of our Contract sis, and the analysis is, guess what? is $275 billion in tax rates; crumbs for With America, many will remember, Deficits have gone down for the last 5 the middle class, and just wonderful and I am pleased that these new Amer- years, but next year for the first time in 5 years they will go up and we will bounty for the wealthiest in America. ican dream savings accounts are soon Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I am going to be an option for all Ameri- double the deficit by 1999. The American people know we can- happy to yield 3 minutes to the gentle- cans. woman from Columbus, OH [Ms. We have also created the HOPE not give away huge tax breaks, in- PRYCE], the hardworking Secretary of scholarship, which will provide $5,000 in crease spending, and balance the budg- et. Congress did this once before in the the Republican Conference and a mem- credits for individuals who wish to go ber of the Committee on Rules. to college or get a graduate degree. early 1980’s, and guess what. Three years later they came back and they Ms. PRYCE OF Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. Speaker, these are the right kind thank the hardworking gentleman of incentives, and I hope that Ameri- had to repeal substantial portions of from California [Mr. DREIER], who has cans will take advantage of them, and what they did. This bill today will reduce revenues fought so hard over the last several I know they will take advantage of years for tax fairness, for yielding me them because I talk to Americans to the Federal Government by $275 bil- lion over 10 years, and it is going to this time. every day who are looking for these Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support things. balance the budget. This is great. We are going to have zero tax on capital of the rule for the Taxpayer Relief Act. As my friend from California [Mr. Just as history shows tax increases DREIER] knows, though, we are far from gains, the Republicans tell us now by next year, and that will balance the hamper economic growth, it will also done. We need to come back next year show that the proper path to creating to zero out the capital gains tax and budget. We will not tax capital gains, but all those little people who work for new jobs in growth is by lowering eliminate the marriage penalty as well, taxes. That is what we are about to do send the right incentive about our fam- wages will pay taxes, and that is how we will balance the budget. today with this historic conference re- ily values. We need to repeal the Clin- port. We are going to put America back ton tax hike on Social Security bene- What an absurd and very, very cyni- cal assertion on their side of the aisle. on track to growth and prosperity. fits, particularly of doctors. This is For years Republicans have wanted such an onerous benefit on senior citi- Listen to a few things in here: Simplify foreign tax credit limita- individuals and families to control zens who are on fixed income, and I tion for dividends from 1,050 companies their own economic destinies. We have again a great many in southwest to provide look-throughs starting in fought for changes in the Tax Code to Florida, where I represent, have the 2003. Now all the middle-class Ameri- allow them to keep more of their hard- honor to represent, and these folks get cans out there looking for that foreign earned dollars, and we have pushed for taxed who cannot afford to pay the tax. deduction for the look-through start- commonsense changes to encourage They are on fixed income, they are be- ing in 2003, that is a billion dollar gift. savings and investment. yond their earning years, what do they Well, I am sure that a lot of my con- Today, Mr. Speaker, I am absolutely do? This is a tax that needs to be re- stituents, average working Americans, elated that we are taking another his- pealed. We have not got it done here are looking forward to that. toric step, indeed, a giant leap in fact, today. It is a target for tomorrow. The Then we have the capital gains provi- toward a new era of growth and oppor- Clinton administration was wrong on sions, $21 billion, and now they say tunity that will touch the lives of all of that tax, and they should help us in they want to repeal the tax. those who still believe in the American that effort to repeal it. But most of all, Had a young woman in my office yes- dream. we need to have comprehensive reform terday. She wants to become a neuro- This conference agreement is a bal- to simplify and flatten our convoluted, surgeon. We talked a little bit. She anced plan to unite our country behind incomprehensible, and unfair Tax Code, said, ‘‘What does this mean?’’ a new economic strategy that will ex- and that lies ahead for us to do as well. I said, ‘‘It means if you become a pand opportunities for so many Ameri- I know that when I return to my dis- neurosurgeon, you earn $250,000 a year, cans. I implore my colleagues who trict in southwest Florida and other you’ll pay 40 percent of your income in might oppose this bipartisan effort to colleagues return to their districts taxes. But the rich kid who went to put away the tired refrains of class around the country we can now look college with you who has not worked a warfare. As my Democratic colleague, constituents in the eye after we pass day in his or her life who then just in- the gentleman from Youngstown, OH this bill and say ‘‘Look, next year vests for a living will pay taxes at half [Mr. TRAFICANT], earlier so rightly Uncle Sam’s tax bite isn’t going to be that rate. stated, this is not good for America, it quite as bad because we’re listening to She was outraged. She said, ‘‘How is not right for America, and it is actu- you and doing the job you asked us to can that be fair?’’ ally very, very dangerous for America. do.’’ I think we are going to be able to Well, they are saying it is not fair, It is time to recognize that an eco- let them know that more of their the rich kid who inherits the money nomic system that allows individuals money and decision making is going to tax free should pay zero income tax his and families to create opportunities for stay with them, their own individual or her entire life; that is the Repub- themselves and their communities is responsibility, and I think that is a lican position. That is absurd. infinitely more preferable than govern- great trend and a great sign for Amer- Then we have the alternative mini- ment barriers to entrepreneurship and ica. That is what we are great at doing mum tax. It was so embarrassing in the innovation. H6628 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 Mr. Speaker, it is hard to find some- are going to reduce the tax rate on cap- my colleagues on both sides of the aisle one this Taxpayer Relief Act does not ital gains to zero in the next Congress. to do the same. help. To ease the financial burden on That means if you are out there work- Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- families with children, this plan in- ing as an aerospace mechanic for the self such time as I may consume. cludes a $500-per-child tax credit. There Boeing Co. and you make $35,000 or When the vote occurs later in the is capital gains relief. There is estate $40,000, you will be paying somewhere day, Mr. Speaker, on this conference tax or death tax relief, as it should be between 15 or 20 percent of your income report, a significant number of Demo- called. There is an equally important in taxes. But if you are making all crats will vote in favor of it. I would provision to make higher education your money in capital gains, you will point out to those watching this pro- more affordable, to expands IRA’s and pay nothing. That is unfair, and this ceeding on television that no Demo- to increase tax deductions for the self- bill ought to be defeated. crats who are going to vote in favor of employed. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE it have asked for time during this de- Mr. Speaker, these are just a few of The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. bate. The only Members who have the items in this package that I believe LAHOOD). The Chair will remind all asked for time are the ones who are op- will change this Nation’s economic des- persons in the Gallery that they are posed. The Committee on Rules grants tiny for the better. When all is said and guests of the House, and that any man- the time to the Members who come to done, I am confident that we will look ifestation of approval or disapproval of the Chamber and ask for time. back at what we began here this week proceedings is a violation of the rules Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the and say that we curbed the size of gov- of the House. gentleman from Rhode Island [Mr. ernment, we lowered taxes, and we re- Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I am KENNEDY]. vived the economic potential of the happy to yield 2 minutes to my good Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island. Mr. American people. Better than that, friend, the gentleman from Iowa [Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from there will be more to come next year. GANSKE], an able member of the Com- Texas for yielding time to me. Most important, Mr. Speaker, we will mittee on Commerce. Mr. Speaker, the reason I am going be able to say that we gave the tax- Mr. GANSKE. Mr. Speaker, I want to to be voting against this tax cut is that payers the tools they needed and they talk briefly about two important items I do not think it is good public policy completed the job. Mr. Speaker, I urge in the tax bill. One is the tax bill does for this country. I came in in the 104th my colleagues to restore the economic close loopholes. People have been con- Congress and I heard a lot from my Re- hope across the country. Vote for this cerned about the Tax Code providing publican colleagues how they wanted fair rule. Support the Taxpayer Relief special breaks. In a bulletin put out to balance the budget, reduce deficit Act. yesterday by the Joint Committee on spending, preserve prosperity for the Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 Taxation, there are four pages of fine future of this country. Guess what? minutes to the gentleman from Wash- print provisions on closing tax loop- Two years into the leadership, guess ington [Mr. MCDERMOTT]. holes, one of the most important being what they do? They go back to the voo- (Mr. MCDERMOTT asked and was the so-called Morris Trust structure doo economics that got us into this given permission to revise and extend used by several companies to sell sub- deficit dilemma to begin with. his remarks.) sidiaries on a tax-free basis. That is Just understand what this rule is Mr. MCDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, the closed. The bill also eliminates hedging saying. It puts in order a tax bill that political vote today is yes, but I intend techniques such as shorting against the will basically lock in a tax cut to the to vote no because of the issue of fair- box and equity swaps. tune of $290 billion over 10 years. As ness. This country was founded on a I realize these are technical terms the gentleman before me from my side battle about taxation without rep- and technical provisions, but a real at- of the aisle, the gentleman from Wash- resentation with the British Govern- tempt was made in this bill to close tax ington [Mr. MCDERMOTT] said repeat- ment. We have had rebellions in this loopholes. In return, we get an expan- edly, four times, the top 20 percent of country, Shay’s Rebellion, the Whiskey sion of individual retirement accounts. the income filers get four times the tax Rebellion, when people felt the tax- This bill basically makes for three benefit as the bottom 60 percent. So it ation was unfair. types of IRA’s. The first would be simi- locks this tax cut in. We rely in this country on taxpayers, lar to the current model, but it would Guess what else it locks in? It locks voluntarily collecting from people. We greatly expand the number of people in spending reductions, we are not have a basis in this country of fairness. who can be in an IRA, and particularly hearing about that, Mr. Speaker, This bill is unfair. It is unfair to give housewives or household members who spending reductions like a 23-percent somebody making $30,000 with two kids are not working outside the home will cut in the Social Security Administra- and trying to deal with all that is in- be included in this. tion. Guess what that means? Elderly volved in raising a family $1,000 for The second choice will be a new ac- citizens in my district who are trying their kid credit, while somebody mak- count called IRA Plus, whose contribu- to arbitrate to get their Social Secu- ing $109,000 gets an average of a $16,000 tions would not be tax deductible, but rity check, who are already waiting 3 tax break on their capital gains. withdrawals from the account would be months right now, are going to have to The lowering of the capital gains rate tax-free if the IRA is held for 5 years wait an additional year. benefits the wealthy in this country, and the holder is now over 59 years old. Why are they going to have to wait and it is clear that what will happen The third expansion of IRA’s would an additional year to get their measly when we get the rate down to 18 per- be an IRA that would allow you to roll $435 a month? Because we want to give cent, which is almost the lowest tax over savings from your current IRA a $16,000-a-year tax break to the rate on regular income, that this will into an account that would feature tax wealthiest 1 percent in this country. have thrown gasoline on the whole relief distributions. Does that sound fair to the Members? I class warfare issue. Mr. Speaker, we need to have more do not think it does. But do Members If I am making $500,000 or $600,000 or savings in our country. Savings will know what this rule does? It shoves $800,000 and I can get my pay given to generate capital investment. Capital this tax bill down the throats of the me in stock options, I will pay 18 per- investment will generate new jobs. We American people, because they do not cent. That is exactly what people mak- have as a nation one of the lowest sav- know what is in it. They do not know ing $30,000 in this country are paying. ings rates in the world. These tax pro- what is in it. We have brought the tax rate for the visions will encourage average-income If we had enough time to debate this richest in this country all the way citizens to take advantage of savings in issue, which our majority is not giving down to 18 percent. I do not see how the form of IRA’s, and at the same us, if we had enough time to debate anybody can call that fair. time we are closing some corporation this, I could make sure my constitu- When I look at it, I hear it being loopholes, tax loopholes, that we have ents in Rhode Island know what the made worse by the gentleman from needed to do. true facts are about the distribution New York [Mr. SOLOMON] and the Mr. Speaker, this is a good tax bill. I tables in this tax cut. But we are going Speaker, who are publicly saying they am in favor of this. I encourage all of to rush this thing through because we July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6629 have to get out on vacation. We have dollars, which means that when the el- sure that the level of productivity in- to wrap business up by tomorrow, be- derly people and others want informa- creases more than any country on the cause we have to get out of town. tion or want to get on Social Security, face of the Earth. Everyone loves this tax break, be- it will take them longer to do that. AMENDMENT OFFERED BY MR. DREIER cause in the words of my colleague, the Further, Congress voted a $13 billion Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I offer an gentlewoman from Ohio [Ms. DEBORAH cut in Medicaid over 5 years. That amendment. PRYCE], there is something in this for money goes to hospitals that are pri- The Clerk read as follows: everybody. Guess what, Mr. Speaker? marily serving low income people, ex- Amendment offered by Mr. DREIER: This is going to cost us. When future actly the hospitals that are having fi- After ‘‘debatable for’’ insert ‘‘two and one Congresses which have to pay for these nancial difficulties today. half hours’’ and ‘‘three hours’’. tax cuts want to cut Social Security, Congress voted to cut veterans bene- Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I ask want to cut veterans affairs, want to fits. Thank you, veterans, for putting unanimous consent that the amend- cut Medicare $115 billion, guess what, your life on the line. Voted to cut dis- ment to the resolution I have placed at they are not going to do it. Guess what cretionary health programs by 16 per- the desk be considered as adopted. is going to happen? We are going to end cent, voted to cut community and re- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. up borrowing again. gional development by 29 percent. The LAHOOD). Is there objection to the re- So the same crowd that told us that result of those cuts means that for sen- quest of the gentleman from Califor- they were all anxious about deficit ior citizens and for others, life will be nia? There was no objection. spending, guess what, not so. If we need harder. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The proof of it, read this tax bill. It is Ron- Were there positive programs passed amendment is agreed to. ald Reagan trickle-down economics all yesterday? Yes, there were. I support Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 over again. They give $500 to a middle- those positive programs. But today let minute to the gentleman from Ver- income family. Mr. Speaker, $500 for a us look at why we have to cut Medicare mont [Mr. SANDERS]. middle-class family, while they give and Medicaid and Social Security ad- Mr. SANDERS. Mr. Speaker, I thank $16,000 tax cuts to the richest 1 percent, ministration and the veterans. What the gentleman for yielding me the can Members answer that, is that fair? are we going to do? Why did we cut? time. Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I yield Well, it looks like today we are going Does my friend from California, and I myself such time as I may consume. It to be dealing with a tax package. What will have to ask him to use his own is obvious from the debate on the other is in that tax package? Well, under this time to answer the question, really feel side of the aisle that the Democrats tax package the wealthiest 5 percent of that it is appropriate that when last continue to be the tax-and-spend party. Americans will receive almost half of year the average American worker saw Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island. Mr. the tax cuts. The upper 20 percent will a 2.8 percent increase in his income, Speaker, will the gentleman yield? receive over 70 percent of the benefits. which means that millions of workers Mr. DREIER. I yield to my friend, What is going on in America today? in the so-called boom saw a decline in the gentleman from Rhode Island. Everybody in the world except the their real wages, do you really think Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island. Mr. leadership of Congress understands. there is something appropriate or right Speaker, I hate that label because you The rich are getting richer. The middle about our economic system when one know what, we are having to tax in 1993 class is being squeezed. Low income man saw a $24 billion increase in his in- to pay for all the deficit spending. people are working for lower wages come while millions of working people What the gentleman’s party is all than was the case 20 years ago. Last saw a decline in their real wages? This, about is borrow and spend. year our friend Bill Gates, having a I should tell my friends, is in the midst Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, reclaim- tough time, his income, his wealth of an economic boom. ing my time, if one looks at the pat- went from $18 billion to $42 billion, a Do we think it is appropriate that tern of the 1980’s, it is very, very clear, $24 billion increase for one man’s the United States continues to have by we doubled the flow of revenues. We wealth, $24 billion. far the most unfair distribution of saw an increase in social spending and, Bill Gates will do very well by this wealth and income in the industri- yes, we did increase the national de- tax bill. Good luck, Bill, maybe you alized world, with the richest 1 percent fense so that we could bring about an will make even more than 24 billion owning more wealth than the bottom end to the Soviet Union and the cold next year. But if you are a single work- 90 percent? Is this something we are war. ing person or you are a family that proud of? The fact that we have the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of does not have any kids, guess what? highest rate of childhood poverty while my time. You are not going to do very well by millionaires and billionaires in the Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 this tax bill. country proliferate and that this tax minutes to the gentleman from Ver- The fact of the matter is that the av- bill would only make that gap between the rich and the poor even wider? mont [Mr. SANDERS]. erage tax break for middle-income fam- Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. SANDERS. Mr. Speaker, yes, I ilies will be about $200. But, this is the myself such time as I may consume. also am opposed to this absurd bill. I Congress after all, we know where the I would say in response to the gen- think that millions of Americans will money comes from to elect people. If tleman that socialism is a failed eco- wonder why many leaders in the Demo- you are among the richest 1 percent, nomic system and one single individual cratic Party and the Republican Party you are not going to get a $200 tax has been on the cutting edge of ensur- have come together on such an unfair break, you are going to get a $16,000 tax ing that the level of productivity in the piece of legislation which primarily break. The wealthiest 1 percent will re- United States of America has enhanced benefits the very rich at the expense of ceive more in tax breaks than the bot- to the level that it is, increasing the millions and millions of other people. tom 80 percent. Vote ‘‘no.’’ take-home pay for many, many people. Let us take a hard look at the two Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I yield Computers have played a role in doing proposals that this Congress dealt with myself such time as I may consume. that. Chairman Greenspan has pointed yesterday and today. First, in order to It is fascinating to listen to the at- that out. I happen to believe that it is cut spending, the Congress yesterday tack by my friend from Vermont on great. I just want to see more people in voted to cut $115 billion from Medicare Bill Gates. I do not stand here as a de- a position where they can enjoy the over a 5-year period and $385 billion fender of any particular individual. But kind of success that Bill Gates has en- over 10 years. That means that elderly I would say that Alan Greenspan, joyed. people all over this country will see a chairman of the Federal Reserve Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of lower quality of health care at a time Board, has made it very clear, the rea- my time. when many of them cannot even afford son the United States of America is so Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- their prescription drugs. productive today and we have the high- self the balance of my time. Furthermore, Congress yesterday est standard of living is there are more Mr. Speaker, there are strong feel- voted to cut the administration of So- Americans with computers on their ings on this particular piece of legisla- cial Security by 23 percent, or a billion desks who are working hard to make tion. There are a number of Democrats H6630 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 who will support it. There are some Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Every shred of evidence that we have Democrats who will oppose it. Each of my time, and I move the previous throughout this century has proven group has its own valid reasons which question on the resolution, as amend- that, going all the way back to Andrew will be developed during the general ed. Mellon’s stint as Treasury Secretary debate. I would only point out to the The previous question was ordered. under President Warren G. Harding, to gentleman from California, and I in- The resolution, as amended, was the Kennedy tax cuts of the 1960’s and, tend to support this legislation, but I agreed to. yes, the much-maligned Reagan tax would only point out to the gentleman A motion to reconsider was laid on cuts of 1981, which I was telling the from California that his side chooses the table. gentleman from Texas [Mr. ARCHER] selectively to ignore the fact that the Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, pursuant earlier today, I am very proud that largest deficits in this country were to House Resolution 206, I call up the that is the one tax bill that I voted for, run up under Republican Presidents conference report on the bill (H.R. 2014) the Economic Recovery Tax Act of during the 1980’s and the early 1990’s. to provide for reconciliation pursuant Ronald Reagan back in 1981. It was the decisive action, decisive to subsections (b)(2) and (d) of section As we look at decreasing the capital action of the Democrats in this Con- 105 of the concurrent resolution on the gains tax rate, I am convinced that we gress in 1993 by passing a deficit reduc- budget for fiscal year 1998. will do more to help working class tion package that brought us to the The Clerk read the title of the bill. Americans than virtually anything else point today where we can entertain a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- we could do. There was a lot of talk tax cut and we can make a fair tax cut ant to House Resolution 206, the con- about family tax cuts, but the studies for the American public. ference report is considered as having we have conducted found that by re- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance been read. ducing that top rate on capital gains, of my time. (For conference report and state- we will, in fact, Mr. Speaker, increase Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I yield ment, see proceedings of the House of the take-home pay for the average myself the balance of my time. Wednesday, July 30, 1997, part II.) working American family by $1,500 per Mr. Speaker, my friend referred to The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- year. Republican reign over these deficits. I tleman from Texas [Mr. ARCHER] and Now, if we look at those facts, it is recommend that he look at the U.S. the gentleman from New York [Mr. going to improve the opportunity for Constitution. Article I, section 7 makes RANGEL] each will control 1 hour and 30 many. We also, Mr. Speaker, are going it very clear, the responsibility for all minutes. to be able to increase the flow of reve- taxing and spending lies right here in The Chair recognizes the gentleman nues to the Federal Treasury. When the House of Representatives. This is from Texas [Mr. ARCHER]. the Steiger capital gains tax cut went the first tax cut that we have had in 16 into place in 1978, we saw a revenue years. For 13 of those 16 years, this b 1145 flow of about $9 billion. During the place was controlled by the Democrats. GENERAL LEAVE next several years, before the 1986 Tax When President Clinton ran for office Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I ask Reform Act, we saw the flow of reve- in 1992, he promised a tax cut for mid- unanimous consent that all Members nues to the Treasury increase by 500 dle income Americans. The last Demo- may have 5 legislative days in which to percent, from $9 billion to $50 billion. cratic Congress worked with him to revise and extend their remarks and in- We had H.R. 14. I wanted it to go first bring about the largest tax increase in clude extraneous material on the con- to 14 percent then to zero. Democrats history. ference report on H.R. 2014. and Republicans joined me on that. We Many Members like to claim that The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. have ended up with a decent com- that tax increase is somehow respon- LAHOOD). Is there objection to the re- promise, and I am very proud to sup- sible for the economic growth we are quest of the gentleman from Texas? port it. enjoying today. Why is it then that There was no objection. Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 30 with the measure that we will be vot- Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield minutes to the gentleman from Califor- ing on within the next 3 hours we are nia [Mr. STARK] and I ask unanimous 21⁄2 minutes to the gentleman from repealing large parts of that tax in- consent that he be allowed to control California [Mr. DREIER], a respected crease? member of the Committee on Rules. that time. The best thing that ever happened to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there (Mr. DREIER asked and was given Bill Clinton was the election of a Re- objection to the request of the gen- permission to revise and extend his re- publican Congress. If Members look at tleman from New York? the fact that in 1993 and 1994 we saw an marks.) There was no objection. increase in interest rates, we saw a Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield stock market that was not taking off, the distinguished chairman of the Com- myself such time as I may consume, November 1994 saw the election of the mittee on Ways and Means, the author and I want to thank the gentleman first Republican Congress in 40 years of the Archer bill, which it is now very from California [Mr. DREIER] for ex- and in 1996, the reelection of the first appropriately called, for yielding me pressing the need for capital gains tax Republican Congress in 68 years; if we this time. cuts for the working people in Amer- look at election day 1994, we can draw I rise, Mr. Speaker, to simply talk ica, because I think his statement a line. about what I think is one of the single proves that even though this is a bipar- We have seen interest rates on a most important provisions in this tisan bill, there are basic differences downward slope since we began to focus measure, and that is the reduction of between Democrats and Republicans. on balancing the budget, reducing the the top rate on capital gains. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the size and scope of Government and cut- Back in 1993, several of our col- gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. TAN- ting the tax burden on working Ameri- leagues came together and worked on NER]. cans. In November 1994, the Dow Jones this issue of capital gains. We estab- (MR. TANNER asked and was given industrial average was at 3,900. Now it lished what we called the Zero Capital permission to revise and extend his re- is right around 8,000. The fact is, we as Gains Tax Caucus. We recognized that marks.) Republicans have helped to improve capital gains tax rates, in fact, are Mr. TANNER. Mr. Speaker, I want to this economy and it would not have some of the most confiscatory that we thank the gentleman from New York happened had we not been in the ma- have of all. Why? Because people al- [Mr. RANGEL] for yielding this time to jority. ready pay a tax on that income that me. I am very pleased that we are work- they are investing. This bill before us today is not what ing in a bipartisan way to address this So what is it that we need to look at? I would have written. It is not what the issue of the tax burden on working We need to look at what it is that the group I am associated with, called the Americans. I look forward to seeing capital gains tax rate reduction is Blue Dog Democrats, would have writ- this Archer bill pass today and to have going to do for this economy. Clearly, ten. There is one gaping hole in all of it signed by the President of the United we are going to stimulate a dramatic this discussion today, unfortunately, States. increase in economic growth. and that is entitlement reform. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6631

But, nonetheless, I think that democ- money to Washington so that politi- souri [Mr. GEPHARDT], the leader of the racy is an inconvenience sometimes for cians can spend those dollars. Now at Democrats in the House of Representa- those of us who serve in the legislative last we are starting to acknowledge tives. branch of government because there that it should be Washington who (Mr. GEPHARDT asked and was are people of good will who have intel- should sacrifice; cut down the size of given permission to revise and extend lectually honest differences of opinion government, find the best, most effi- his remarks.) as to what should be done for our great cient ways to spend less money so that Mr. GEPHARDT. Mr. Speaker, first I land. And so democracy is an inconven- the people who earn that money can rise today to congratulate all who were ience because none of us get our way keep it in their pockets and spend it or involved in this negotiation. I espe- all the time on every issue. save it as they decide. cially want to congratulate my Presi- As I look at this bill, I am reminded As a farmer, I am especially pleased dent and my party for standing for of what Winston Churchill said one that we have strengthened the chances very important principles in how this time when someone asked how his wife of the survival of the American agri- tax cut bill was put together. I am very was; and he said, compared to what? cultural industry by including several proud, Mr. Speaker, of what my party Well, we look at this today and say to provisions in this tax bill that helps us stands for and, because of it, this bill ourselves, would the country be better keep a strong, viable agricultural in- has been improved. off with the passage of this Balanced dustry; lets farm families keep and pre- The child credit will go to hard-work- Budget Act and this tax bill than it serve their farming operations. ing families who desperately need this would be if we defeated it? I have con- So my thanks to the chairman and help. The education credit and deduc- cluded, Mr. Speaker, that the country all those involved in moving us to this tions will go to help more young people will be better off with the passage of new beginning for America and Ameri- go to school. There will be in this bill this tax bill today, notwithstanding cans. help for children in health care. So I the fact that there is much work to be Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield am very, very proud of what my party stands for and what we have achieved. done. myself such time as I may consume to I believe that the bill that came out We will hear a lot of rhetoric, Mr. join with the Chair in congratulating of the House gave about 55 percent of Speaker, about whose fault it was that not only the staff of both sides for its benefits to families who earn over we got where we are, and I would sug- working together on this bill, but also $110,000 a year. I think that has been gest that it is probably like a lot of including an uncustomary third party brought down to about 44 percent. In other things: Both sides are about half that has made this bipartisan effort my view, it is not where it should be, work, and that is the President of the right and both sides are about half but it is clearly better. So this agree- United States. wrong. And those who claim that they ment is better because we stood on I think the President made it abun- have the truth and those who claim principle. that they are the only ones who have dantly clear, and both sides of the aisle I respect the motives of everyone the right answer, I would suggest, agreed, that the American people were who is here today to argue about this ought to grant to others who disagree fed up with the political fights. So we bill, Mr. Speaker. Everyone is voting the same degree of intellectual honesty join together in thanking the staffs of for what in their heart and mind is the they claim for themselves. both sides and the President of the best thing for their constituents and I think, on balance, this is a reason- United States for making certain that the best thing for the country. So it is able bill. It will balance the budget in we could get this bill passed. in that spirit of humility about my the year 2002 or before. I am convinced Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the own decisions and my own votes and of that, and that is why I am support- gentlewoman from Texas, Ms. EDDIE respect for the views of others that I ing, as I did yesterday, the spending BERNICE JOHNSON. say my decision today is to not vote Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of side, the tax bill today, and I would for this bill, because I think it could be Texas. Mr. Speaker, I want to stand urge our colleagues to do likewise. better and I think it should be better. Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield here and applaud the leadership, espe- Back in 1981, I remember sitting myself such time as I may consume. cially the gentleman from New York right here after we had lost our effort Mr. Speaker, I want to tell the House [Mr. RANGEL], for what we have been to pass what I thought was a better that this is truly a monumental bill. It able to achieve in this bill. Democratic tax bill and wondering has taken months to produce and it is Clearly, as it left the House origi- what I would do. I voted for the Repub- before us today not without an awful nally I would not have been able to lican bill. In retrospect, I believe it was lot of effort on the part of many, many support it because we had left the real one of the worst votes I have ever cast people. backbone of this economy out, the mid- because of what it did to the economy Before we get too far into the debate, dle income and lower income earners and what it did to the deficit. So my I express my thanks to the tax staffs of who did not get a break. But as we views today are tempered by that expe- the Committee on Ways and Means, the stand here today, there is indeed some rience. Joint Committee on Taxation, and es- equalization and fairness in this tax But let me spend the rest of my time, pecially, especially the office of the bill that I can truly support. Mr. Speaker, explaining to really my House Legislative Counsel, who worked It is clear that when people make friends in the Republican Party why I around the clock in drafting to put this less money, and they are employees feel this bill and this budget has a defi- bill together. These staffs have given of primarily, they pay a much more as- cit of fairness, a deficit of investment themselves and taken time away from sured leverage of taxes. When we can and a deficit of dollars. their families in order to make this make sure that they get a break, then b moment available to all of us, and they I know we have accomplished some- 1200 deserve our heartfelt thanks. thing. Let me explain to my colleagues why Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the I am not against the wealthy. They we Democrats feel so strongly about gentleman from Michigan [Mr. SMITH]. really do give a lot to this Nation. But where the lion’s share of this bill Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speak- all of us know that they have the should be focused. Last weekend I went er, this tax legislation is monumental, greatest advantage when it comes to door to door in my district. The me- and I thank the chairman very much paying taxes and they did not just de- dian household income in my district is for yielding me this time. serve a tax break unto themselves. All $34,000. When I talked to my constitu- What is exciting is that we are start- of America’s workers deserved a tax ents in South St. Louis city and coun- ing to let the American people keep a break. And in this bill, Mr. Speaker, ty, in Jefferson County, what person few more dollars of what they earn in they get it. after person said to me is, ‘‘I am strug- their own pockets instead of sending it I appreciate this leadership and the gling. I am just getting by. I am just to Washington. White House and I am willing to sup- surviving. I am up to my eyeballs in It seems that we have been under the port this bill today. credit card debt.’’ philosophy that the American people Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 This is the first tax cut that we have should sacrifice in order to send more minutes to the gentleman from Mis- been able to legislate in 16 years. Let H6632 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 us remember the context in which we the other side have said a tax cut next I also want to note that there are are talking today. Over those last 16 year and a tax cut the year after that three key components in this legisla- years, people at the top have seen their and the year after that. I welcome this tion that are initiatives that are incomes go up by 90 percent. Those debate. I welcome this debate. This is a strongly embraced by the people I rep- constituents that I talked to over the good debate for our country. They will resent in the south suburbs, part of a weekend have been stuck in place or stand for what they believe in. We will south suburban revitalization strategy, they are falling behind. They have seen stand for what we believe in. And the legislation designed to provide incen- no increase in their income, and they country will do better because of it. tives to revitalize and clean up envi- are working harder and longer to over- I respect my friends on the other side ronmental cleanup of old industrial come that problem, more hours, more and their views. I strongly disagree sites in old industrial communities, jobs. People said to me, ‘‘I am working with their views, with all of the best initiative to encourage the private sec- two and three jobs in order to pay my intentions. I think they are trying to tor to hire welfare recipients and give bills.’’ do what is right for the country and them a chance and give them a job, and So we in the Democratic Party feel the people. But let me say to them also initiative to strengthen the oppor- strongly that people in the middle, peo- that, in this debate which goes for- tunity for homeownership with home- ple stuck on the bottom are the people ward, Democrats are for cutting taxes ownership IRA’s. that we need to be dealing with, with for middle-income people and people The work opportunity tax credit the majority of this tax cut. trying to get in the middle class. works as a way of attracting the pri- Now, understand our friends on the I have heard the Christian Coalition vate sector to give welfare recipients other side say, ‘‘well, let us give the in parts of their party that are raising an opportunity to have a job. And I am tax cut to the people who pay taxes.’’ that issue within their party. They are proud this bipartisan initiative is in- That is what they always say. The right to do it. Let us go forward with cluded in this bill. truth is people in the middle and at the this debate. Let us make this Tax Code My colleagues of the House, I again bottom pay a lot of taxes. And we have fair. But, most important, let us invest commend the chairman. I again com- always had a progressive tax system. our money in the hard-working, mid- mend the bipartisan effort. I urge sup- That is, you pay proportionate to your dle-income families of this country and port of this important legislation that ability to pay taxes. help them succeed and help move this helps the middle class. This bill will make the Tax Code, un- country and lift all the boats of this Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 fortunately, less progressive. But let us country to higher and higher levels. minutes to the gentleman from Mary- talk about the economics of it for a Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 land [Mr. CARDIN], a member of the moment. And this is where we must minutes to the gentleman from Illinois Committee on Ways and Means. part. I am a Democrat. I am a supply- [Mr. WELLER], a member of the Com- Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, I want to sider, but I am as much a demand- mittee on Ways and Means. congratulate the gentleman from New sider. Why is it smart to have a pro- (Mr. WELLER asked and was given York [Mr. RANGEL] for his work on the gressive tax system? Why is it smart to permission to revise and extend his re- conference report. The bill that we are give the bulk of the tax relief to people marks.) going to vote on today is far different at the middle and stuck on the bottom? Mr. WELLER. Mr. Speaker, I want to than the partisan Republican bill that Because they need the help, it is fair, take just a brief moment at the begin- passed this House just a few months but because they need the money to ning of my remarks just to commend ago. Let me give my colleagues five spend in the economy. the gentleman from Texas [Mr. AR- changes, and there are many more, What do the economists always talk CHER], chairman of the House Commit- why this bill is a much better bill than about when they talk if we can keep tee on Ways and Means, for his leader- we had when it passed the House origi- the economy growing? It is because, ship in managing this very important nally. they say, if we can keep retail demand component of the Contract with Amer- First: In regard to the child credit, going. What do we think people in the ica and also very important component we have changed the child credit so middle and at the bottom do with the for bipartisan agreement to balance that now working families that make money they earn? They go to Wal- the budget for the first time in 28 $30,000 a year can benefit from the Mart. They go to K-Mart. They go to years. child credit. That was not the case Sears. They spend their money. And This is a great victory for the middle when the bill left this House. because they spend their money, if class. It is a great victory for those Reason No. 2: The estate tax provi- they have more money, all the boats who work hard and play by the rules sions are targeted to give most of the can rise. People at the top can rise in and pay taxes, because this legislation relief to families that have small busi- their income. People in the middle. we are voting on today is the first real nesses or farmers. That is a major im- People in the bottom. tax relief for the middle class in 16 provement that I congratulate my col- I am a Democrat. I believe in build- years. league on. ing this economy from the bottom up, For the people that I represent in the Third: the education relief. When the not the top down. I believe our work South Side of Chicago and south sub- bill left this House, it provided relief over the last years in making the Code urbs of Chicago and rural areas to the for the first and second year of a col- more progressive has helped produce an south and southwest if they have chil- lege education, but no more. We have economy where we are surging forward dren, for the average family with chil- now provided relief for college edu- and jobs are being created and unem- dren in the district that I represent, it cation beyond just the first 2 years and ployment is down. means an extra $1,000 in take-home have provided relief for interest costs Finally, let me say this: I am a tax pay. Over 110,000 children are eligible to those who had to borrow money to reformer. I believe we ought to get less for the child tax credit that is in this send their children to college. And we deductions and exemptions and special legislation. It is important to families, protected the tuition waiver program treatment. I think we need to get to and because we, as Republicans, believe so employers can provide education lower rates for everybody. This bill that if you work hard and play by the help to families. Major improvement today will add the greatest loophole. rules, you should be able to keep more from when this bill left the House. We will now take the rate for people of what you earn. Fourth reason: The initiatives for the that can figure out how to get their in- Because we believe, if you work hard brownfield that will help our cities, come in capital rather than in earn- and you keep what you earn, it is be- empowerment zone that the gentleman ings, or earned income salary, to half cause we believe that you should be from New York [Mr. RANGEL] was re- the rate of other people. We are moving able to spend those dollars better back sponsible initially to get through this in the opposite direction of what we home, meeting the needs of your fami- House have now been incorporated into tried to accomplish in 1986. We should lies better than we politicians can here the bill that we will vote on today. not be doing that. in Washington. This bill is a victory for Major improvement. Let me end with this: As I get it, this the working middle class, and I am Fifth reason: The gentleman has debate will go forward. Our friends on proud to support this legislation. modified the IRA proposals, got rid of July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6633 indexing of capital gains so that we do Mr. OBEY. Mr. Speaker, this is not a the claim that this budget is going to not have exploding deficits in the fu- fight about whether there should be a produce a balanced budget is built on a ture. tax cut. It is a fight about who gets it. false promise. We now have a bipartisan bill that, There is much in this bill I support. It In short, in terms of a fair distribu- with the bill that we passed yesterday, is a far better bill than the House origi- tion of tax benefits to our people, in will balance the budget and protect the nally passed. terms of an honest description of how priorities that are important for the I was an original sponsor of the child they are paid for, this bill I regret to future growth of our Nation. I con- tax credit, which is contained in this say fails both tests. We can do better. gratulate the gentleman from New bill. I support the education tax credits I urge a vote against this bill until we York [Mr. RANGEL] because we now and child health provisions. But I do. have a bipartisan bill that deserves the would remind my colleagues that the Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 support of this House. I intend to sup- fundamental test of any democracy is minutes to the gentleman from Ohio port it. to fund its activities through a tax sys- [Mr. BOEHNER], the chairman of the Re- Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 tem which is fair to each and every one publican Conference. minutes to the gentleman from Ari- of our citizens. Because this is, after Mr. BOEHNER. Mr. Speaker, it is zona [Mr. HAYWORTH], another member all, a volunteer compliance tax system. really happening: the first time in 30 of the Committee on Ways and Means. We fought a revolution over the prin- years we are actually going to balance Mr. HAYWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I the Federal budget. The first time in a thank my colleague from Georgia, Mr. ciple of fair taxes. This bill, I am sorry to say, fails that test. few years we are going to save Medi- COLLINS, for the time. The most well-off 5 percent of fami- care and extend the life of the trust Mr. Speaker, I know it is difficult for fund for 10 years. We took those votes professional politicians to do this, but lies in the country who make over $110,000 will get seven times as much yesterday. I would challenge Members on both Today we are going to provide tax re- relief as all of the 60 percent of Ameri- sides who are career office holders to lief for the American people, the first cans who make less than $37,000. That leave the spin cycle in the laundry tax cut from Washington in 16 years. is simply not fair. room. We all know that reducing taxes is In fact, the wealthiest 1 percent of The fact is it is time, Mr. Speaker, going to mean lower interest rates for for straight talk with the American our citizens, who make more than the American people, it is going to people. And the fact is that we have $250,000 a year, will get more in tax re- mean more jobs for the American peo- made an important first step with this lief than 80 percent of all Americans ple and, most importantly, it is going legislation. Is it perfect? No. Does ev- who make $60,000 or less. That is sim- to mean higher wages for American erybody get everything they want? Ab- ply not fair. We can do better. families. solutely not. But to try and keep Then if we take a look at the dollar These are the kind of values that we scores, as if this were the partisan relief in the bill, we see that the top 1 have been fighting for for years, trying baseball game the other night, I just percent, whose average income is to bring real relief to middle class think is something we should leave $650,000, will get a $16,000 tax break American families. When we talk about alone. under this bill. But if you are in the lower interest rates, more jobs, higher Because this is not a game; this is middle bracket, if you are in the mid- wages, sometimes people think these about living, breathing, working peo- dle bracket, you will get about $3 a are terms that economists use. Let us ple. Like the working couple from Casa week and you lose half of that because think for a moment about what these Grande, AZ, who sent me a letter via of what it costs you to get a tax pre- bills that we passed yesterday and fax, the Wilkins family, Barney and parer. today really mean. Margie. They are schoolteachers. Their If you are among the poorest 20 per- A balanced budget and tax cuts mean kids are B.J., Megan, and Molly. cent, you will lose $39. You will actu- that it is going to be easier for families Barney and Margie work hard at ally have a tax increase of $39. to go out and buy a home. It is going to teaching school. They are not rich al- be easier for families to send their kids though some people have estimates b 1215 on to college. A balanced budget and that say that their combined income Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, will the tax cuts mean that it is going to be would make them rich. In fact, they gentleman yield? have a third job. They supply auto easier for people to go out, who want to Mr. OBEY. I yield to the gentleman start a new business, to get that first parts for vintage cars and go to vintage from California. and classic car shows on the weekend. start. It is going to be easier for every Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I do not American to have a shot at the Amer- They write me and they say, ‘‘Con- have anybody in my district that gressman, thanks for this 19th wedding ican dream. makes $645,000 a year, but could the That is really what we are trying to anniversary gift.’’ I do not mean to gentleman tell me, do they work a lot pick at their sentiment here, but this do here today and over the last couple harder in the gentleman’s district than of years, is to renew the American is not really a gift to them or a gift to say that group of people down a couple the American people. Because the dream for our kids and theirs. Over who only make $70,000? Is that what these last 21⁄2 years, it is not what we money that the American people earn happens in Wisconsin to those folks in is their money. They ought to keep have done just yesterday and today, the gentleman’s district? more of it and send less of it to Wash- balancing the budget, cutting taxes, Mr. OBEY. Not in mine. ington. saving Medicare, it has been issues like The challenge is, and this is where we Mr. STARK. Does the gentleman sup- ending entitlements for farmers and al- differ in good faith is this notion, why pose they inherited most of their lowing the market to take place, allow- should families sacrifice to send more money, what they are getting, $645,000? ing farmers to decide what they are of their money to Washington? Why Mr. OBEY. I have no idea. All I know going to plant on their land. not let families keep more of their is that this distribution is not fair. We It is welfare reform, allowing the money and let Washington make the can do better. States to help those at the bottom of sacrifice? The P.S. is the most impor- Mr. Speaker, the other problem with the economic ladder to become produc- tant thing. ‘‘P.S., please continue to this proposal is that it is based upon tive members of our society. It is ille- cut taxes more so we do not have to promises that in the next 5 years we gal immigration reform. It has been work three jobs.’’ are going to cut the Social Security health care reform. It has been elimi- Mr. Speaker, we are making that Administration by 25 percent, that we nating 300 wasteful Washington pro- first step today to cut taxes, to reward are going to cut community develop- grams, saving $53 billion. And, Mr. Americans who work hard. That is the ment by 30 percent, that we are going Speaker, this is just a good start. key to this debate, and that is why I to cut veterans’ benefits by 20 percent Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 urge passage of this legislation. over the next 5 years. I do not believe minutes to the distinguished gentle- Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 that Members of either party will vote woman from Connecticut [Mrs. KEN- minutes to the gentleman from Wis- for those kind of reductions when those NELLY], a member of the Committee on consin [Mr. OBEY]. budgets come to the floor. That is why Ways and Means. H6634 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 Mrs. KENNELLY of Connecticut. I this package is similar to what the years. A strange path to fiscal respon- thank the gentleman from New York Committee on Ways and Means passed sibility. [Mr. RANGEL] for yielding this time and last month. It provides significant re- What underlays this whole thing? for his hard work. lief to working taxpayers and middle Tax cuts slanted toward the very Mr. Speaker, I rise as a proud mem- class taxpayers who are facing the wealthy, repeal of the corporate alter- ber of the Committee on Ways and highest tax burden in American his- native minimum tax; an embarrassing Means. As a long time member of that tory. time in the mid-1980’s when Ronald committee, I have taken some very Many of us who were elected in 1994 Reagan supported imposing a corporate tough votes. In fact, in 1990 I took two came to Congress pledged to reduce the alternative minimum tax, as the larg- tough votes for the 1990 budget. In 1993 tax burden on middle class taxpayers est corporations of this country were I really did not like a lot of things in and people who work for a living. getting refunds for taxes they did not that budget but I knew when the Presi- Today we stand on the brink finally of pay. We are going back to that. We will dent became the President, President fulfilling that pledge. This will be the all pay taxes so corporations can get Clinton, because there was a $290 bil- first tax cut for the middle class since refunds for taxes they do not pay. lion deficit, I had to vote for that bill 1981, and not a moment too soon. Capital gains. Look at the distribu- if we were going to reduce that deficit. This is not as large a tax cut as many tion right here. The largest amount of So it is a great pleasure to vote this of us on the Republican side had origi- money, 44 percent of the benefits, go to week to finish the job and balance the nally argued for, but the net tax cut of the top 5 percent, those earning over budget for the first time in this genera- $94 billion is more than the White $112,000. If you are in over $112,000, tion. House was originally willing to sub- cheer, right now, OK. If are in the bot- But I also want to thank the con- scribe to. That we have it here today is tom 60 percent, families making less ferees on both sides of the aisle for lis- a tribute to the persistence of a pro- than $36,000 a year, that is most of my tening to those of us who have worked growth, antitax majority in this House constituents, those are the people who on the Tax Code for a number of years. which I am proud to be associated most need tax relief, look at what that When the Ways and Means bill first ap- with. large number of people, 60 percent of peared, there were many of us who Our tax cut includes a child tax cred- the population are going to rake in: 7 were very, very concerned. We had it to provide tax relief to families with percent of the benefits. What a great worked for many, many years on the incomes as low as $18,000; tuition tax day for middle income America. Forty- earned income tax credit. We had relief which makes college more afford- four percent for those privileged few at worked for years working to get a de- able for a lot of middle class families; the top and 7 percent for the rest. pendent day care credit for men and an expanded IRA to encourage retire- Mr. Speaker, this point cannot be women who work and have families, ment savings; a capital gains tax cut to made too many times in this debate. and for the first time, all of a sudden stimulate growth and opportunity by This is being rushed through unneces- we were going to see some of that day providing more seed corn for the econ- sarily so people will not understand the care credit we had worked so hard for omy; and I think this is a tribute to facts. They will say that 75 percent of disappear if they took the child credit. the persistence of the gentleman from the benefits are going to people who We found out that we could convince California [Mr. DREIER] as well, small earn under $75,000 a year. That is sim- conferees that this would not be fair business tax relief and also tax incen- ply not true. We are engaged here in because most people go to work be- tives for home ownership. the big lie. cause they want that house or they Mr. Speaker, in summary, this tax The big lie is that this is going to want that education, and they need package for working families in places balance the budget. It will not. We that help, even if they have got two like Erie, PA means restoring the have statistics now that show it will salaries, in paying for good affordable American dream and making it a little double the deficit in the next 2 years. quality day care. more achievable. This is a big win for What they are saying is magically in Millions of families, as we well know the middle class. Today we are going to 2001 Congress will come here and decide because we had a battle royal for the hear from the left wing in Congress to cut $61 billion out of discretionary last month over the earned income tax that this bill is inadequate. They do programs. That means cut the entire credit, and I do want to commend the not want tax cuts. But watch your tax Department of Veterans Affairs, De- conferees for realizing that if they pay return. If you are a middle class tax- partment of Energy, Department of Federal payroll tax, it is paying to the payer, this tax cut is for you. Housing, Social Security Administra- Federal Government and it is just as Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 tion, and the Justice Department. good and just as hard as if they pay in- minutes to the gentleman from Oregon Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, will the come tax. I really feel good about that [Mr. DEFAZIO]. gentleman yield? piece. Mr. DEFAZIO. Are you confused? Mr. Mr. DEFAZIO. I yield to the gen- Unfortunately, we were not able to Speaker, I think a lot of people listen- tleman from California. fix the AMT child credit problem, and ing to this debate over the last 2 days Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, can the I just said to Ken Kies, ‘‘You’ve got a are. They should be. In fact this legis- gentleman tell me, are we still going to lifetime of work because you’re the lation is designed to confuse the proc- build the B–2 bomber and is defense only one that’s going to understand ex- ess, rushing this through before going to go up? actly what we did do.’’ In fact, we have Congress’s month-long vacation, is de- Mr. DEFAZIO. We cannot cut a penny added a lot of complexity to that bill, signed to obscure the truth. out of the Pentagon and we are going and we will all be back hopefully next The truth is yesterday Congress to build 20 B–2 bombers. fall trying to fix this bill. adopted very substantial cuts in Medi- Mr. STARK. We are still going to But we should celebrate what we care, cuts in reimbursements, cuts that take money out of people’s pockets and have right now where two groups came will drive up premiums for seniors, spend it here in Washington. together, capital gains yes, indexing cuts that will deprive seniors of home Mr. DEFAZIO. The gentleman is cor- no, earned income tax credit yes, and health oxygen benefits, and today they rect. yes for almost everybody. I vote for are using the proceeds of those cuts to Mr. STARK. Just not on things that this bill and hope a lot of other Mem- fund huge tax breaks, $275 billion in help people. bers will, and I know they will. tax breaks over the next 10 years, tax Mr. DEFAZIO. But in a way to enrich Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 breaks that will double the deficit by contractors, not to enrich those people minutes to the gentleman from Penn- the year 1999. Yes, that is right. The at the bottom. sylvania [Mr. ENGLISH], another distin- balanced budget agreement before us Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 guished member of the Committee on today will double the deficit over the minutes to the gentlewoman from Con- Ways and Means. next 2 years, and that is from the Re- necticut [Mrs. JOHNSON], another mem- Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Mr. publican-controlled Congressional ber of the Committee on Ways and Speaker, I rise in strong support of this Budget Office. It will probably more Means and a strong advocate for work- tax relief package. In most respects than double the deficit over the next 2 ing families. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6635 Mrs. JOHNSON of Connecticut. Mr. struggling to repay the high cost of going to So we Democrats worked with Presi- Speaker, I rise in strong support of the college. dent Clinton to target the child tax taxpayer relief act of 1997. This bill We have taken a giant step toward making credit to middle-income families, to provides much-needed tax relief for a post-high school education affordable for all, provide help for families with escalat- hardworking American families. young people straight out of high school, ing costs to educate their kids after After 28 years of chronic deficit mothers going back to school after being out high school and to provide the child spending, we are finally getting our fis- of the work force for a number of years and credit for hard-working families mak- cal house in order. The bill before us workers whose employers pay for their edu- ing $18 to $15,000 as well as those mak- today, coupled with yesterday’s enti- cations. Today's economy demands that ing $25 to $100,000. tlement reforms, proves that it is pos- young people learn well and working people In this strenuous effort on the tax sible to balance the budget, cut taxes, keep their skills and knowledge up-to-date. bill we have lost some battles, but we and meet critical needs of our people This bill goes a long way in helping each of us have also won some vital ones. As a re- like the needs of uninsured children for realize our greatest potentialÐand so, our sult, today I am voting for this tax bill. health insurance. dreams. Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield In this bill we are taking giant For families, this bill offers a $500 tax credit myself 2 minutes. strides to help families afford college for children 16 and under, health care for kids Mr. Speaker, I was sent to Congress educations through education savings whose parents work for small businesses un- in 1993 by the people of the Third Dis- accounts, HOPE scholarships, reduced able to provide health insurance to their em- trict of Georgia with a very specific taxes for families paying for tuition in ployees, educational opportunity, greater re- list of legislative goals. The budget advance, and a student loan interest tirement security for teachers and others who agreement negotiated between the Con- deduction for all those young people work for public employers. gress and the President includes many who are struggling to repay the high It also offers a shot in the arm to our econ- of those goals. With the passage of the cost of going to college. We have taken omy to build the base for continued, long-term Tax Relief Act, we will successfully a giant step forward toward making growthÐmaking machinery and equipment have achieved many reforms on behalf post-high school education affordable more affordable, encouraging the research of all Americans. for all: young people straight out of and development that can keep our compa- Mr. Speaker, today’s vote is the re- high school, mothers going back to nies product leaders in the market, relief for sult of months and months of diligent work after being out of the workforce small business, and hope for the family owned work in an effort to assemble a budget for a number of years, and workers business that they can survive Dad or Mom's that the American people deserve. It is whose employers pay for their edu- passing. For the first time, this bill recognizes the product of a grassroots campaign cation. Today’s economy demands that the special role of family farms and busi- where input, ideas, and priorities have young people learn well and that work- nesses by creating separate, higher exemption been gathered not only from Georgia, ing people keep their skills and knowl- for those estates. This will enable more family but from people all across the country. edge up to date. This bill goes a long farms and businesses to be passed down to This measure will put in law their way in helping each of us realize our the next generation successfully. priorities, which include balancing the greatest potential, and so our dreams. This is a good bill for people, for families, Federal budget, providing tax relief to For families this bill offers a $500 tax and for our economy. It's good tax policy and working families, and creating incen- credit for each child 16 and under, I urge a ``yes'' vote. tives for people to invest. It returns health care for kids whose parents Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 physical responsibility to Government work for small businesses unable to minutes to the gentleman from Michi- by balancing the Federal budget just as provide health insurance to their em- gan [Mr. LEVIN], a member of the com- families must balance their budget. ployees, educational opportunity, mittee. Most important, this bill will leave $94 greater retirement security for our (Mr. LEVIN asked and was given per- billion in the private sector, where teachers and others who work for pub- mission to revise and extend his re- working people will be able to keep lic employers. It also offers a shot in marks.) more of their hard-earned dollars and the arm to our economy, to build the Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, the Demo- small business owners will have the base for continued long-term growth, cratic Party has stood for economic chance to invest and create jobs. making machinery and equipment growth with equity. The 1993 Deficit Today success is not a victory that more affordable, encouraging the re- Reduction Act worked in both respects, can be solely claimed by the Congress search and development that can keep promoting the dramatic deficit reduc- or the President. It is instead a victory our companies product leaders in the tion that has been a major source of for the people of this country who sent market, relief for small businesses, and our sustained economic growth and their representatives to Congress to hope for family-owned businesses that providing a tax cut for low- and mid- cut taxes, reduce the size of the bu- they can survive mom and dad’s pass- dle-income families through expansion reaucracy, and return fiscal respon- ing. of the ITC, and the predictions of eco- sibility to the Federal Government. nomic doom from those who opposed The $500 per child tax credit, capital b 1230 the 1993 act came from many of the gains tax relief, reduction of the estate This is a good bill for people, a good same people who voted for the 1981 leg- tax, tax incentives that reduce the cost bill for the economy, and I urge my islation that led to the deep deficits of of education, preservation of the Medi- colleagues’ support. the 1980’s. Time has proved them as care commitments we made to our sen- Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the wrong as to 1993 as it did for 1981. iors and relief from the alternative Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, providing much- The tax bill now before us shows that minimum tax all are reform ideas that needed relief for hard-working American fami- today it does indeed take two to tango, clearly reflect the priorities of the citi- lies. but that does not mean the two part- zens all across this country. After 28 years of chronic deficit spending, ners have always been dancing in the Mr. Speaker, I am humbled by the we are finally getting our fiscal house in order. same direction. Democrats have fo- opportunity and proud to support this The bill before us today, coupled with yester- cused on responding to the pressures on Tax Relief Act and believe it is a vic- day's entitlement reforms, proves that it is middle- and low-income families whose tory for the hard-working people of possible to balance the budget and provide income stagnated amidst the general this country. tax cuts to America's families and meet critical boom of the last 5 years, while many of Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 needs of our people, like health care for unin- the majority have been dancing too minutes to the gentleman from South sured children. often to the tune of the very wealthy, Carolina [Mr. SPRATT], a great Amer- In this bill we are taking great strides for- and Democrats have been resisting pro- ican, someone that has been so helpful ward to help families to afford college edu- posals that would bust budget in later in making certain that we got here on cationsÐthrough education savings accounts, years while the majority has been the floor today, and the ranking Demo- HOPE scholarships, reduced taxes for families pushing some of the same approaches crat on the Committee on the Budget. paying for tuition advance, and student loan that engendered the deficits of the Mr. SPRATT. Mr. Speaker, I thank interest deduction for all these young people 1980’s. the gentleman for yielding this time to H6636 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 me and for his compliment, and, Mr. stop in midstream after the first 2 is waiting to claim a huge share of Speaker, I would like to note, as I did years in college as it did in the House their efforts. With this bill we deliver yesterday, the reason we are here near bill. Once again we prevailed. This bill real tax relief that will lead to the op- the passage of a major tax cut bill. has a credit that will apply to the third portunity for greater prosperity and a In 1993, we dealt with the deficit and year and fourth year and graduate edu- higher quality of life on the family dealt with it squarely on both sides of cation, a 20-percent tax credit of tui- farm and in the homes of all Ameri- the ledger, revenues and spending, and tion expenses. cans. today we reap the benefits of what we And the capital gains tax which the Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 sowed. Because of what we did in 1993 Republicans wanted is their piece of minutes to the distinguished gen- the deficit has come down 5 years in a the pie. It is in this bill too, but unlike tleman from Washington [Mr. row; it is down to at least less than $40 the House bill, this bill does not stack MCDERMOTT]. billion this year, and that is phenome- one preference on top of another. A (Mr. MCDERMOTT asked and was nal. It happened because we capped dis- lower capital gains rate is in, but in- given permission to revise and extend cretionary spending, we applied a pay- dexation is out, and by taking it out we his remarks.) as-you-go rule to entitlements and tax have taken out a time bomb that would Mr. MCDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, we cuts, and we restored the revenue base have caused revenue losses to explode are today dealing with a tax bill that I of the Federal Government. Corporate in the outyears, undercutting our think if people are watching this they tax revenues, for example, were up last whole objective, which was to balance would have trouble figuring out where year by $72 billion, more than 70 per- the budget in 2002. everybody is coming from. Some peo- cent over 1992. Mr. Speaker, frankly I would have ple, the majority, believe that this is The reason we were able to pull to- held off the tax cuts until we had our the best tax bill since sliced bread. gether yesterday’s spending bill and to- bird in hand, a balanced budget. But I Some of the Democrats say, well, we day’s tax bill is that on May 1 CBO fi- believe this tax bill is consistent with took a bad tax bill and made it a little nally agreed with OMB that the Gov- our objective of balancing the budget bit better. But there are some of us ernment’s revenue tax increases are by 2002, and I know this, it is much who think that this bill is so bad that not episodic, not 1-year phenomena, fairer than the tax bill that we passed it ought to go down because it is not they are permanent. These are perma- in the House just a few weeks ago. It is fair, it is not fair enough. nent phenomena, such that over the fairer for hard-working Americans who Mr. Speaker, I would like to associ- next 5 years CBO was willing to add need tax relief and deserve it, much ate myself with the remarks of both fairer than the first bill. That is why I $225 billion, all together, to its revenue the gentleman from Missouri [Mr. GEP- intend to vote for it. estimates. That made today possible HARDT], the minority leader, and the Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 and yesterday as well. gentleman from Wisconsin [Mr. OBEY], minutes to the gentleman from Michi- And having come this far, our goal is but I will give my colleagues a couple clear. We want to balance the budget gan [Mr. CAMP], a member of the Com- mittee on Ways and Means. specifics. Let us take a woman who has and finish what we have started. We Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I thank the two kids who makes $35,000 and teaches want to do tax cuts, sure we do, but we gentleman for yielding this time to me. school. want to do them in a way that we Today we celebrate an important Now she pays 15 percent of her in- achieve a balanced budget in 2002 and achievement by the Congress and the come in FICA taxes and then is taxed thereafter. That is why we decided in White House. But most importantly, at the 15 percent rate beyond that. the balanced budget agreement to keep we celebrate a victory for the Amer- Somewhere around $7,500 to $10,000 of our tax cuts within strict limits, $85 ican people. Yesterday in the spending her income goes in taxes out of a billion in net revenue losses over the bill we celebrated balancing the budget $35,000 income. next 5 years, $250 billion in net revenue for the first time in 30 years, saving Now let us take and contrast some- losses over the next 10. Medicare, which is so important for body who makes $200,000 in unearned When this bill left the House it was health care for our seniors. But today income; that is, they invest in the outside those limits, and in the out- we celebrate with the American people stock market and they make $200,000. years it threatened revenue losses that receiving tax relief for the first time in Under this bill they will be taxed at a would have undermined a balanced 16 years. Working families in mid- 20 percent rate; the schoolteacher at a budget for the long run. It was also Michigan and across America who are 30 percent rate; the unearned income at tilted to top bracket taxpayers. It raising children and saving for their a 20-percent rate because the person made room for a double-barrelled cap- education will receive not only a $500- earning their income in capital gains ital gains tax cut with both a low rate per-child credit, but also tax relief to pays no FICA tax, no FICA tax. and indexing, but it could not find help pay for the rising costs of tuition. Now in my view that is unfair. The room for a child tax credit for families I represent a primarily rural district person making $200,000, taxed at a 20- with 2 or 3 children making less than in the middle part of Michigan, and for percent rate under this bill will pay $30,000. millions of farmers across the country $40,000 in taxes. I voted against that bill, but I will and many farmers in my district this Now let us get to the tax breaks. vote for this one, and I do not agree tax relief bill means a better chance of Here is the woman. She has paid $10,000 with everything in it, but I think it continuing to do what they love to do, in taxes. She gets $1,000 back, $500 for comes from conference to us in far bet- and that is feed our Nation and the each one of her kids. The person mak- ter shape than it left the House, and let world. It also provides the opportunity ing $200,000 and paying 20 percent has me give my colleagues just three exam- to pass on the farm to the next genera- two kids, so he gets $1,000 back. ples. tion, and many farmers in my district Is that fair to a woman raising two First of all, the children’s tax credit are second and third generation farm- kids, making $35,000, paying 30 percent which we all supported now goes to ers. With this bill farmers will get tax of her income in taxes and getting families who need it the most, families relief from capital gains tax, and farm- $1,000 back and somebody who makes with 2 children or 3 children or more ing is heavily capital intensive, and $200,000 worth of unearned income, and who work hard but earn less than also relief from death taxes that often they get $1,000? $18,000 a year. It would have been un- force families to give up family farms b 1245 conscionable to pass something called in order to pay the IRS. We are provid- a child tax credit and leave those fami- ing family farmers with relief by pro- That is not fair. Mr. Speaker, the un- lies and 9.5 million children out. Demo- viding income averaging to try to level fairness of this I think is only one of crats fought to get them in, we pre- the peaks and valleys that often come the problems. As I listen to people vailed, and we should be proud of that. with unreliable weather and crop speak here, I continually believe that The tuition tax credit which the years, and that will help with their tax the Contract With America’s idea of President made the centerpiece of his bills. term limits is buried under all of this. tax cuts, which we as Democrats all of Mr. Speaker, family farmers in mid- An awful lot of people who are voting us heartily support, now it will not Michigan are tired of knowing the IRS for this today are voting politically July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6637 correct when they vote yes, but they and others to ensure that hard-working viduals into both job training and edu- are not thinking long term. They do Americans are going to get their first cation programs, increasing the num- not expect to be here in 2005 or 2006 tax break in 16 years. They deserve it. ber of new businesses in the region, and when the real impact of this bill comes What is truly remarkable about this, creating new jobs. to rest on the American people. of course, is we are doing it despite In order to reward communities for Today’s New York Times on the edi- what we might hear from the other these efforts, should these successful torial page, page 21, says ‘‘The deal’s side in the context of a balanced budg- enterprise communities be given prior- long-term effect has economists un- et. A lot of these tax relief provisions ity consideration for designation as easy.’’ When these capital gains cuts are going to help us get to that bal- empowerment zones? and these estate tax and all the other anced budget, because they will help Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, will the cuts come to full pressure on the econ- grow the economy. gentleman yield? omy, we will be facing the baby It is a sound package overall. I cer- Mr. SCOTT. I yield to the gentleman boomers going into their senior years tainly support it. What does concern from New York. with no capacity, because we have dug me about the package is that we did Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I say this a hole in the revenue side. We will not not do more in it to simplify the Tax to the gentleman from Virginia; I was the original sponsor of the initial en- be able to deal with their problems. Code for taxpayers and for the already Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, will the troubled Internal Revenue Service that terprise and empowerment zones, and gentleman yield? is supposed to administer all the things also the latest bill which expands them. While it was not included in the Mr. MCDERMOTT. I yield to the gen- we have passed here on the Hill. tleman from California. Let me be clear, there are some sim- Republican bill, it is in the bipartisan Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I would plification provisions in this bill. We bill. As the gentleman well knows, com- ask the gentleman, is it not true that need to talk about those. One is it that munities have to file and show their we are not really going to have the most people do not have to worry proposals before they are selected by budget balanced for 3 or 4 years, 3 or 4 about capital gains when they sell HUD. It makes a lot of sense that those years from now when it finally comes their homes. That is an enormous bene- enterprise communities who have done to balance, and if we had no bill yester- fit for taxpayers and a great simplifica- more than have a plan, but dem- day and did not do this tax bill today, tion. onstrated a success with those plans, We also get rid of some of the worst we would balance this year or next? should be given priority as we move Mr. MCDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, the aspects of the corporate alternative forward in the next round of selecting minimum tax. That is important for gentleman is absolutely correct. the new empowerment zones and the Mr. STARK. And then after that, tax simplification. AMT relief will help additional enterprise communities. under the Republican bill, do we not create jobs in this country. Mr. SCOTT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the have deficits that just zoom right down Finally, we take away a lot of unnec- gentleman for that comment, and look to below zero? essary and costly regulations in the forward to Norfolk being given that Mr. MCDERMOTT. There is no ques- State and local pension plans. That is consideration, because it has done such tion, Mr. Speaker, that ultimately the also in this bill. That is a good sim- a good job through Norfolk Works and deficit will go back up again because of plification measure. other programs such as that. these tax breaks. If we had let the situ- To be fair, there are a number of Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- ation alone, the situation that was cre- things here that add to the complexity; self such time as I may consume. ated in 1993 by the tax bill which we last-minute revisions in the child tax Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to passed, and incidentally, people stand credit, for instance that makes it re- the bill before us today. Mr. Speaker, out here and say we are making all fundable and in various ways adds H.R. 2014 cuts taxes by over $100 billion these great tax cuts. They have not enormous complexity. We would have in 5 years and almost $300 billion over changed in this bill one single provi- to face up to it, too, that some of the 10 years. Those are massive cuts, and if sion from 1993. The bill that set us on IRA proposals cannot be deemed sim- this Congress had the gumption to leg- the path that has gotten us in the good plification. But again, I support reduc- islate with long-term interests in situation we are in today so we can ing the tax burden. mind, we might have scrapped these talk about tax breaks, not a single pro- This is a good package. I commend cuts entirely and used the so-called vision of that has been repealed. particularly the chairman for standing savings to balance the Medicare trust Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, do not firm and making sure we got real re- fund, which we have not done. We could higher deficits that the Republicans lief. But I do think we missed an oppor- have made Medicare solvent well past are giving us with these bills lead to tunity. We missed an opportunity to 2020 had we not entertained this amaz- higher interest rates? simplify the Tax Code. Now I think the ing tax bill. Mr. MCDERMOTT. That is what Mr. next step should be as a Congress to Who gets the cuts? Half the cuts go Greenspan says. make this code fairer, flatter, and sim- the richest 5 percent of Americans, Mr. STARK. So if this family around pler. That is the next thing we need to those with over $150,000 in income. The $30,000, $40,000, savings $200, and a fam- do for America, for all of the tax- richest 20 percent gets 75 percent of the ily at $150,000 to $600,000 saves $10,000 or payers, for the Internal Revenue Serv- benefit, the top 35 percent get huge $15,000, that $200 is going to be eaten up ice, and for the tax system generally. benefits, the bottom 60 percent get 7 in higher interest rates, and the people Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield percent of the benefits. with capital gains in the stock market such time as he may consume to the Compare that with the richest 1 per- are going to have all the profit out of gentleman from Virginia [Mr. SCOTT]. cent with average incomes of $645,000. this bill? Mr. SCOTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to ad- They are getting $16,000 every year in Mr. MCDERMOTT. There is no ques- dress a colloquy with my colleague, the benefits out of this. The lowest 20 per- tion, their credit card debt is going to gentleman from New York [Mr. RAN- cent of the people in the low-income go up. GEL], ranking member of the Commit- class are going to pay $39 a year more Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker I yield 2 tee on Ways and Means. taxes. Those are the very people that minutes to the gentleman from Ohio It is my understanding that the num- the Republicans and the President and [Mr. PORTMAN], a member of the Com- ber of empowerment zones will be ex- his welfare bill have cut off the rolls. mittee on Ways and Means. panded through the passage of this leg- Those are the people they are dumping Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank islation. As we know, HUD has found 2 on. That is not Christianity, that is my friend, the gentleman from Geor- empowerment zones and 11 enterprise greed. That is awful, to take the poor- gia, for yielding time to me. communities, including Norfolk, VA in est Americans, deny them the assist- I want to start by commending the my district, to be the most successful ance we have all tried to give them, gentleman from Texas, Mr. BILL AR- in meeting the performance mile- and then increase their taxes, on top of CHER, because he held firm and worked stones. Those milestones include initi- it. in a bipartisan way with the gentleman ating and implementing job training There is no magic in projecting who from New York, Mr. CHARLIE RANGEL, programs, recruiting unemployed indi- benefits from this bill. When we target H6638 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 $35 billion of estate tax relief, we end Mr. HERGER. Mr. Speaker, I thank that education is the key to a brighter up helping those 2 percent or 3 percent the gentleman for yielding time to me. future for all Americans. For middle- of Americans who have huge estates Mr. Speaker, this tax bill is why I class families and for those families and obviously incompetent children came to Congress. I have been in the struggling to make it into the middle who cannot afford the business, and to House of Representatives since 1987, class, education is the pathway to the pay it off with the generous terms we and ever since I have been fighting to American dream. This bipartisan budg- already give them. When we cut capital help the American people keep more of et agreement represents the most sig- gains from a maximum of 28 to 20 per- their own hard-earned money. This nificant investment in education in a cent or even 18 percent, we help the country has not had large-scale tax re- generation. most affluent Americans. lief like the kind we are voting on We have more to do, Mr. Speaker. We We should not be reluctant to ques- today since 1981, 16 long years. Of must raise education standards. We tion whether it is fair to give massive course, under a different Congress, must rebuild our crumbling schools. tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans they have been dealt their share of tax We must help put more police on the while those at the bottom pay an in- increases, including the largest tax street and make our communities crease in excise taxes. The rich make hike in American history just 4 short safer. We have more work to do, but out better than everyone else. years ago. this is a day to celebrate for the Amer- Special interests are also making out What a difference 4 years can make, ican people. On behalf of the North and what a difference a Republican like the Beltway bandits who represent Carolina farmers, small business people Congress can make. Today, instead of them. According to the Joint Commit- and families struggling to provide a de- voting to push Uncle Sam’s hands deep- tee, this bill contains 80 items which cent education for our children and er into the American people’s wallets, are highlighted as required by the line- who want to achieve the American we will be voting to tighten Uncle item veto law because they give tax dream, I urge my colleagues to support benefits to 100 taxpayers or less, and Sam’s belt. Today we will be providing a $500-per-child tax credit to America’s this bill. create a special transition relief for 10 Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 families. We will be providing signifi- taxpayers or less in any particular minutes to the gentleman from Ver- year. This ought to be embarrassing, to cant tax incentives for education. We will be expanding IRAs to help Ameri- mont [Mr. SANDERS]. have this list appear in a bill that is Mr. SANDERS. Mr. Speaker, I thank cans save for their own retirements. rushed to the floor so quickly. the gentleman for yielding me this Members of Congress have not had We will be making major cuts in cap- ital gains taxes to help keep our econ- time. time to examine those items. I am not Let me give my colleagues several saying that all these provisions are omy growing, and we will be providing a major relief from the death tax, so reasons why we should defeat this tax bad. I am saying that this list should proposal, bring it back to the drawing have been a red light for this Congress our Nation’s family farms and small businesses can be passed on from gen- board and come up with something to delay the bill until our reservations new. No. 1, if we are interested in a bal- could be addressed. eration to generation. Mr. Speaker, today finally we are anced budget as quickly as possible, For instance, it gives Amtrak a $2.3 vote ‘‘no.’’ Without this tax proposal, billion tax break, which no other com- giving the American people the tax re- economists tell us that in 1 year or 2 pany enjoys. I support Amtrak, but I lief they deserve. Sixteen years is long years, we will move toward a balanced am troubled that we tucked away a enough. I salute the chairman, the gen- budget. With this proposal, the deficit provision to give a $2.3 billion relief to tleman from Texas [Mr. BILL ARCHER] will go up in the next several years and Amtrak without having discussed it in on this historic achievement, and I it will take us 5 years to move toward Appropriations. urge all my colleagues on both sides of Another provision gives Amway a the aisle to vote for this historic con- a balanced budget. So vote no if you break for two of their Asian affiliates. ference report. want to get toward a balanced budget According to yesterday’s Wall Street Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield as quickly as possible. 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman from Journal, Richard DeVos, Amway’s The second issue, and that is what North Carolina [Mr. ETHERIDGE], and I founder, donated $500,000 to the Repub- this chart deals with, is that, if you are would point out the great support that lican Party. Now, in July, his company interested in helping middle income his task force on education has given gets a tax break thrown into the con- and working families rather than the to improve the quality of the bill we ference report that neither the House rich and the superrich, you should also will be voting for. nor Senate approved. This is the tax oppose this legislation. Last year Bill Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I Gates had a good year, a very good fairy who appeared in the middle of the thank the ranking member for this night, giving Amway this huge benefit year. His personal wealth went from time, and also for his hard work. $18 billion to $42 billion, an increase in after they contributed $500,000 in con- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this tributions to the Republican Party. wealth of $24 billion in 1 year. Putting middle-class tax relief bill. I sought that into perspective, if you are an av- That is payoff, big time. That is giving this office to fight for North Carolina away Americans’ tax dollars in ex- erage American worker and you saw a values, to look out for our farmers, and 3-percent increase in your compensa- change for contributions solicited by to help our families and provide qual- the Republican Party from their rich tion, that would mean that you earned ity education for all of our children. $1,000 more last year. That means that benefactors. This bill makes significant strides in There is a special benefit in here for 24 million American middle-class work- each of these goals. ers saw an increase in 1 year equal to Simmons Enterprises, a rifle shot in The first bill I introduced as a Mem- what Bill Gates saw an increase in his the estate tax area, and another favor ber of this people’s House provides es- income last year; 24 million workers, from the tax fairies for Harold Sim- tate tax relief for our family farmers middle-class workers, not low wage mons, a Dallas investor and baron of and small businesses. I am very pleased workers, end up seeing an increase col- the sugar beet businesses. that this bill contains immediate relief Mr. Speaker, I do not like what I for our family farmers and small busi- lectively compared to one man. The issue we are debating is who do know about this bill. It is unfair. It dis- nesses from the heavy burden of estate we want to help with this tax proposal. criminates against the average Amer- taxes. This bill is good news for North If you want to help Bill Gates and his ican. It gives only to the rich. But I Carolina farmers. like even less what I suspect is in this In addition to the $500-per-child tax friends, vote ‘‘yes’’. But if you want to bill, and it is unfair. It deserves to be credit, this bill will help families in help middle-income and working fami- defeated. I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote. North Carolina and throughout this lies, vote ‘‘no’’. It is wrong that the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of country to obtain educational opportu- upper 1 percent receive more in tax my time. nities for their children. breaks than do the bottom 80 percent. Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 Vote no. minutes to the gentleman from Califor- b 1300 Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 nia [Mr. HERGER], another member of As a former two-term superintendent minutes and 30 seconds to the distin- the Committee on Ways and Means. of my State’s public schools, I know guished gentleman from Florida [Mr. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6639

SHAW], chairman of the Subcommittee tleman and I have a whole lot of learn- Mr. MCCRERY. Mr. Speaker, I had on Human Resources of the Committee ing to do. I think he will agree that the the good fortune a little while ago to on Ways and Means, a gentleman who Republicans wanted a tax cut bill and hear the minority leader address the has had a lot to do with legislation the President did. The question was House, and I want to compliment him dealing with families. who wanted one the most. on the tenor of his remarks. He ad- Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I thank the When the priorities came, they dressed the House and the Members of gentleman for yielding me this time. sought to make capital gains tax cuts my side of the aisle with respect and Mr. Speaker, we have heard a number the priority. They sought to make es- engaged in an honest debate about tax of Members come to the House floor tate tax relief a priority. They sought policy in this country and what it and come in with some figures as to to make the individual retirement ought to get us. who is getting the basic advantage of funds a priority. These were the things that people in higher incomes enjoyed. The minority leader spoke about the this tax cut. We know that well over 70 consumption side of the ledger and how percent, well over 70, I think it is 76 That is why so many Democrats are disturbed. We sought to stay with tax cuts ought to go into the pockets percent goes to middle income and of Americans so that they can below of the tax cut that we are look- those for college educations, for those kids that come from working families. consume, because after all, he said, ing at. So let us quit playing this consumption is what drives economic game. This is a well-balanced bill. We did not call it welfare. We said, if you work hard and you pay taxes, you growth. And while that is technically I think that when we are determining true, an economist would say that, I who is getting the advantage, I think it should get help. So there is still a major difference between the gentle- think an economist would also say if is also important that when we define you do not have production in society, somebody’s income that we come to man’s side and ours. We join together in saying, the Presi- you are not going to have too many the floor and be really forthright with dent and the people of the United people consuming much, because it is how we come up with the percentages States want a bill. But it does not the production side of the economy that we do as to the amount of income mean that we swallow their principles. that creates the good paying jobs with that somebody has. As we know, the But it does mean, when we supported good benefits that allows people to Treasury came out with some of these our President, we said we are with you, consume. figures by actually imputing the rental Mr. President, but there has to be some We have tried in this tax bill to bal- value of somebody’s home that they basic Democratic principles there. So own and putting that on top of their in- ance those concerns. Yes, we want to the priorities were there. put more money in the pockets of peo- come as well as other things, which Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the ple so that they might consume more, they did not actually enjoy in the form gentleman from Georgia [Mr. LEWIS], maybe even they will save a little bit of cash coming in or any type of rec- our distinguished deputy leader. ognizable income. Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, for their children’s education or their The imputed income is a very unfair this bill is a good bill. It is a good bill own retirement. But we also wanted to way of defining somebody’s income so because President Clinton and Demo- increase the incentives in the Tax Code that we skew the figures. crats stood up for working Americans for production. We want to help keep I think when we are talking about and demanded tax relief for working good paying jobs here in the United who is getting what, that it is very im- families. States. We want to encourage people to portant that we be very factual and In 1993, Democrats made hard budget save their money, invest their money that we be very out front with the peo- choices, hard choices that have in productive investments; thus, the ple. brought millions of jobs and economic capital gains tax relief and the alter- If some of the speakers that have prosperity to our Nation. Because of native minimum tax relief. That will come to the floor are suggesting that those hard choices, we are close to bal- help keep good paying jobs here in the we in the Congress or that they in the ancing our budget. Because of those United States and even help create Congress want to tax the imputed hard choices, we can give tax cuts to more good paying jobs. We think that value of somebody’s home, I would sug- the American people. is important. gest that that is a very foolish thing Today again, Democrats have suc- This is a well-balanced tax bill that and a very foolish position for some- ceeded. President Clinton and Demo- deserves the support of Democrats and body to have; but I think they should crats in Congress have turned a Repub- Republicans alike. make that point and go forth with it lican tax bill targeted to Wall Street into a tax cut benefiting Main Street. Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 without trying to come up with some minute to the gentleman from Indiana phony baloney type of figures here in Because of Democrats, families earn- [Mr. ROEMER]. order to make a point that they want ing between $20,000 and $30,000 a year to make that simply is not true and is will get a $500 per child tax cut. Be- Mr. ROEMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in not acceptable by the vast majority of cause of Democrats, there is a HOPE strong support of this bill for what it scholarship to make college more af- the American people. provides for the average family for a I think it is important that we get fordable to our children. Because of lifetime of education benefits. Let us back on course and we look at the tax Democrats, there are tax cuts for peo- say you are an average family from ple inheriting farms and small busi- breaks and that we look at exactly South Bend, IN, and you have three nesses. Tax relief for working families, what we are doing. We are giving the children. We now have an education tax relief for education, tax relief for child tax credit, which is a direct cash IRA that if you struggle and save $500 owners of farms and small businesses, payment off, directly off the income a year, that $500 a year is tax deduct- these are Democratic values. These are ible and the money you make on that tax to middle- and lower-income peo- the ideas President Clinton and the ple. The capital gains is something IRA years later for college, you can Democrats fought for and won. withdraw tax free. that is enjoyed by people whether they Mr. Speaker, thanks to President have $30,000 income and a mutual fund Clinton and the Democrats, we have a Let us say that you then send your or whether they, their income is over growing, vibrant economy, a shrinking children to Indiana University at $100,000 and they make stock trans- deficit and now a tax cut for working South Bend. They may be eligible for a actions or investing in companies families. $1,500 HOPE scholarship. Finally, after which produce jobs. The American peo- Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- graduating with your associate’s de- ple win with this bill. I would urge all leagues to support this tax cut bill. gree from Indiana University and you of my colleagues to support it. Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 work for Ameritech, Ameritech then Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield minutes to the gentleman from Louisi- pays to finish your undergraduate de- myself such time as I may consume. I ana [Mr. MCCRERY], another member of gree. They get your bachelor’s degree would like to respond to the gentleman the Committee on Ways and Means. for you. That is then tax deductible for from Florida in saying that we are (Mr. MCCRERY asked and was given you. You would not pay any taxes on going through a period of trying to permission to revise and extend his re- Ameritech paying for your education. learn to be bipartisan, and the gen- marks.) That is fair to the average midwestern H6640 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 family. That is a good bill for edu- farmers and small business owners. In deals to pay back big contributors? cation. That is a strong bill for Amer- my district on the central coast of That is what we ought to find out that ica. I hope my colleagues will support California farm and ranch families face is going on in this bill. it. the triple threat of high estate taxes, I have a page here that lists all of the Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield rising land values and suburban devel- rifle shots. My goodness, here, ‘‘relat- such time as he may consume to gen- opment. This combination threatens a ing to transition rule for instruments tleman from Texas [Mr. EDWARDS]. special way of life and a matchless en- described in a ruling request submitted (Mr. EDWARDS asked and was given vironment. Our action today will help to the Internal Revenue Service on or permission to revise and extend his re- us keep family farms and businesses before June 8, 1997.’’ Does not tell us marks.) where they belong, in the family and the name, does not tell us the money, Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in not on the auction block. but I will bet it is somebody’s buddy support of this legislation. I also support the education tax cred- who kicked in big to the Republicans. Mr. Speaker, I will support the bipartisan its in this bill and commend the Presi- Here it is, section 1005(b). We will budget agreement because it will do four pri- dent in particular for his leadership on make this part of the RECORD, Mr. mary things: balance the budget, reduce taxes this issue. As a teacher, I know first- Speaker. Here is ‘‘relating to transi- for working families, extend the solvency of hand the priceless value of education. tion rule for instruments described on the Medicare Trust Fund and make a college The HOPE scholarships will open the or before June 8, 1997, in a public an- education more affordable for all Americans. door of education to families on the nouncement or in a filing.’’ The tax and spending reduction legislation central coast where we have the great I want to tell my colleagues, those translates into the first balanced budget in a universities and excellent 2-year col- are provisions, page after page, for in- generation and much needed tax relief for leges. dividuals who are getting special slush working families, students, and small busi- It is no secret that education benefits out of this tax bill while lower income nesses. the entire economy, but it also uplifts Americans are going to pay $40 more a In addition, the package will help provide the spirit and creates a more civil soci- year. health insurance for millions of uninsured chil- ety, and I urge my colleagues to sup- Mr. Speaker, the material I quoted dren whose parents are working but cannot af- port this legislation. from above is submitted herewith: ford the premiums. Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- MEMORANDUM I am pleased to see the estate tax, also self such time as I may consume. To: Honorable Bill Archer, Honorable John known as the death tax, reformed and the ex- I just wanted to repeat for a few of Kasich, Honorable Philip M. Crane, Hon- emption for family owned farms and busi- my colleagues who were not here be- orable William M. Thomas, Honorable nesses increased to $1.3 million. Protecting fore that, in addition to the patent un- Richard K. Armey, Honorable Tom DeLay, Honorable Charles B. Rangel, family owned farms and small businesses is fairness of this bill, which is obvious from the charts, that the top 5 percent Honorable Jim McDermott, Honorable an issue that I have fought for and supported. Fortney Pete Stark, Senator William V. The estate tax has ended the lives of many are getting 44 percent of the breaks. Roth, Jr., Senator Pete V. Domenici, family owned farms and businesses. Increas- And when my colleagues on the other Senator Trent Lott, Senator Charles E. ing the exemption will help keep the farm or side suggest that the middle class is Grassley, Senator Kent Conrad, Senator business in the family. getting most of the breaks, they are Don Nickles, Senator Daniel Patrick I am also proud of the effort by Democrats just taking the first 5 years, they are Moynihan, Senator Frank R. Lauten- to improve this bill. If it wasn't for Democrats not looking at the whole 10 years. berg, Honorable Robert T. Matsui. From: Kenneth J. Kies. demanding fairness, many families making The fact is that the poorest people in this country are getting nothing out of Subject: Provisions in H.R. 2014 which are under $30,000 a year would not have been el- subject to the line item veto. igible for the child tax credit. We also would this and the richest are getting an av- The Line Item Veto Act (Pub. Law 104–130) not see child health care, higher education erage of $16,000. But then there are the (the ‘‘Act’’), amended the Congressional scholarships, and tuition tax credits included in owners of Amway Corporation, and I Budget and Impoundment Act of 1974 to this legislation if Democrats had not fought for was wrong, I misspoke, they gave two grant the President the limited authority to them. $500,000 checks to the Republican cancel specific dollar amounts of discre- This tax relief bill will not explode the deficit Party, and there is a tax break in here tionary budget authority, certain new direct spending, and limited tax benefits. The Act in future years as the original House Repub- totaling $280 million for their Asian subsidiaries. provides that the Joint Committee on Tax- lican bill would have. ation (the ‘‘Joint Committee’’) is required to This is not a perfect legislative package and So if one invests a million bucks in examine any revenue or reconciliation bill or it does not solve all of our long-term fiscal is- the Republicans, they can get $280 mil- joint resolution that amends the Internal sues. It will reduce the deficit by $700 billion lion back in special hidden tax breaks. Revenue Code of 1986 prior to its filing by a over 10 years and bring the Federal budget In this bill Sammon Enterprises in conference committee in order to determine into balance by 2002. Texas, at the last hour, in the Speak- whether or not the bill or joint resolution It is the product of genuine bipartisan ef- er’s office, $23 million to one company contains any limited tax benefits. The Act in Texas. Twenty-three million bucks. also requires the Joint Committee to provide forts. The Congress and President did what a statement to the conference committee the American people have been demadningÐ That is more than all the people in my district make in a year, Mr. Speaker. that either (1) identifies each limited tax put aside politics and balance the budget in a benefit contained in the bill or resolution, or fair and responsible manner. Ten times more going to one Texan. I (2) declares that the bill or resolution con- My hope is that Congress will followup this wonder how much money old man tains no limited tax benefits. The Act pro- successful effort by passing a balanced budg- Sammon kicked into the Republican vides that the statement provided to the et amendment to the Constitution to ensure Party. It will be interesting to find conferees must be made available to any that we will have a balanced budget not just out. Member of Congress by the Joint Committee on Taxation immediately upon request. for 1 year but for all future generations. The beet king in Texas, Simmons, I did not realize what he got. He is get- The Act provides that the conferees deter- Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 mine whether or not to include the Joint minute to the gentleman from Califor- ting $104 million, a gift from the Re- Committee’s statement in the conference re- nia [Mr. CAPPS]. publicans in this tax bill, which is hid- port. If the conference report includes the in- den here in the documents which never b 1315 formation from the Joint Committee on Tax- were explained to any of us. ation identifying provisions that are limited Mr. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in This borders on the criminal. And tax benefits, then the President may cancel strong support of this legislation. This when we talk about investigations as one or more of those, but only those, provi- bill will cut taxes for millions of Amer- to whether the Vice President was in sions that have been identified. If a con- icans while balancing the budget and some Ashram someplace and got ference report contains a statement from the protecting our critical investments in money, what went on in the Speaker’s Joint Committee that none of the provisions in the conference report are limited tax ben- education and health care. office when the chairman of the Com- efits, then the President has no authority to In particular, I am in strong support mittee on Ways and Means and the cancel any of the specific tax provisions, be- of the immediate increase in the ex- Speaker and the high-knockers in the cause there are no tax provisions that are el- emption from estate taxes for family Republican leadership were cutting igible for cancellation under the Act. If the July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6641 conference report does not include a state- (23) Sec. 907(a) (relating to rate of tax on (44) Sec. 1013(d)(2)(C) (relating to transition ment from the Joint Committee regarding liquefied natural gas determined on basis of rule for distributions or acquisitions after limited tax benefits, then the President de- BTU equivalency with gasoline) June 8, 1997, described in a public announce- termines which provisions are subject to (24) Sec. 907(b) (relating to rate of tax on ment or filing with the Securities and Ex- cancellation under the Act. methanol from natural gas determined on change Commission on or before June 8, 1997) Pursuant to section 1027(a) of the Congres- basis of BTU equivalency with gasoline) as it relates to a public announcement sional Budget and Impoundment Act of 1974 (25) Sec. 908 (relating to modification of (45) Sec. 1013(d)(2)(C) (relating to transition (as amended by the Line Item Veto Act), at- tax treatment of hard cider) rule for distributions or acquisitions after tached is the statement of the Joint Com- (26) Sec. 914 (relating to mortgage financ- June 8, 1997, described in a public announce- mittee on Taxation regarding limited tax ing for residences located in disaster areas) ment or filing with the Securities and Ex- benefits contained in the conference agree- (27) Sec. 952 (relating to assignment of change Commission on or before June 8, 1997) ment on H.R. 2014. workmen’s compensation liability eligible as it relates to a filing with the Securities for exclusion relating to personal injury li- SEC.—. IDENTIFICATION OF LIMITED TAX and Exchange Commission ability assignments) (46) Sec. 1014(f)(2)(B) (relating to transition BENEFITS SUBJECT TO LINE ITEM VETO (28) Sec. 953 (relating to tax-exempt status rule for any transaction after June 8, 1997, if Section 1021(a)(3) of the Congressional for certain State worker’s compensation act such transaction is described in a ruling re- Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 companies) quest submitted to the Internal Revenue shall only apply to: (29) Sec. 957 (relating to additional advance Service on or before June 8, 1997) (1) Sec. 101(b) (relating to high risk pools refunding of certain Virgin Island bonds) (47) Sec. 1014(f)(2)(C) (relating to transition permitted to cover dependents of high risk (30) Sec. 958 (relating to nonrecognition of rule for any transaction after June 8, 1997, if individuals) gain on sale of stock to certain farmers’ co- such transaction is described in a public an- (2) Sec. 222 (relating to limitation on quali- operatives) nouncement or filing with the Securities and fied 501(c)(3) bonds other than hospital (31) Sec. 961 (relating to exemption of the Exchange Commission on or before June 8, bonds) incremental cost of a clean fuel vehicle from 1997) as it relates to a public announcement (3) Sec. 224 (relating to contributions of the limits on depreciation for vehicles) (48) Sec. 1014(f)(2)(C) (relating to transition computer technology and equipment for ele- (32) Sec. 964 (relating to clarification of rule for any transaction after June 8, 1997, if mentary or secondary school purposes) treatment of certain receivables purchased such transaction is described in a public an- (4) Sec. (relating to treatment of remain- by cooperative hospital service organiza- nouncement or filing with the Securities and der interests for purposes of provision relat- tions) Exchange Commission on or before June 8, ing to gain from sale of principal residence) (33) Sec. 966 (relating to deduction in com- 1997) as it relates to a filing with the Securi- (5) Sec. 501(b) (relating to indexing of alter- puting adjusted gross income for expenses in ties and Exchange Commission native valuation of certain farm, etc., real connection with service performed by cer- (49) Sec. 1044(b) (relating to special rules property) tain officials) with respect to taxable years for provision terminating certain exceptions (6) Sec. 503 (relating to modifications to beginning before 1991 from rules relating to exempt organizations rate of interest on portion of estate tax ex- (34) Sec. 968 (relating to elective carryback which provide commercial-type insurance) tended under section 6166) of existing carryovers of National Railroad (50) Sec. 1091(a) (relating to termination of (7) Sec. 504 (relating to extension of treat- Passenger Corporation) suspense accounts for family corporations ment of certain rents under section 2032A to (35) Sec. 1005(b)(2)(B) (relating to transi- required to use accrual accounting) as it re- lineal descendants) tion rule for instruments described in a rul- lates to the repeal of Internal Revenue Code (8) Sec. 508 (relating to treatment of land ing request submitted to the Internal Reve- section 447(i)(3) subject to qualified conservation easement) nue Service on or before June 8, 1997) (51) Sec. 1089(b)(3)(B) (relating to special (9) Sec. 511 (relating to expansion of excep- (36) Sec. 1005(b)(2)(C) (relating to transition rule for decedents dying before January 1, tion from generation-skipping transfer tax rule for instruments described on or before 1999) for transfers to individuals with deceased June 8, 1997, in a public announcement or in (52) Sec. 1089(b)(3)(C) (relating to reforma- parents) a filing with the Securities and Exchange tions) (10) Sec. 601 (relating to the research tax Commission) as it relates to a public an- (53) Sec. 1171 (relating to treatment of credit) nouncement computer software as FSC export property) (11) Sec. 602 (relating to contributions of (37) Sec. 1005(b)(2)(C) (relating to transition (54) Sec. 1175 (relating to exemption for ac- stock to private foundations) rule for instruments described on or before tive financing income) (12) Sec. 603 (relating to the work oppor- June 8, 1997, in a public announcement or in (55) Sec. 1204 (relating to travel expenses of tunity tax credit) filing with the Securities and Exchange Federal employees doing criminal investiga- (13) Sec. 604 (relating to orphan drug tax Commission) as it relates to a filing with the tions) credit) Securities and Exchange Commission (56) Sec. 1236 (relating to extension of time (14) Sec. 701 (relating to incentives for revi- (38) Sec. 1011(d)(2)(B) (relating to transi- for filing a request for administrative adjust- talization of the District of Columbia) to the tion rule for distributions made pursuant to ment) extent it amends the Internal Revenue Code the terms of a tender offer outstanding on (57) Sec. 1243 (relating to special rules for of 1986 to create sections 1400 and 1400A (re- May 3, 1995) administrative adjustment request with re- lating to tax-exempt economic development (39) Sec. 1011(d)(3) (relating to transition spect to bad debts or worthless securities) (58) Sec. 1251 (relating to clarification on bonds) rule for distributions made pursuant to the limitation on maximum number of share- (15) Sec. 701 (relating to incentives for revi- terms of a tender offer outstanding on Sep- holders) talization of the District of Columbia) to the tember 13, 1995) (59) Sec. 1253 (relating to attribution rules extent it amends the Internal Revenue Code (40) Sec. 1012(d)(3)(B) (relating to transi- applicable to tenant ownership) of 1986 to create section 1400C (relating to tion rule for distributions pursuant to an ac- (60) Sec. 1256 (relating to modification of first-time homebuyer credit for District of quisition described in section 355(e)(2)(A)(ii) earnings and profits rules for determining Columbia) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 de- whether REIT has earnings and profits from (16) Sec. 801 (relating to incentives for em- scribed in a ruling request submitted to the non-REIT years) ploying long-term family assistance recipi- Internal Revenue Service on or before April (61) Sec. 1257 (relating to treatment of fore- ents) 16, 1997) closure property) (17) Sec. 904(b) (relating to uniform rate of (41) Sec. 1012(d)(3)(C) (relating to transition (62) Sec. 1261 (relating to shared apprecia- tax on vaccines) as it relates to any vaccine rule for distributions pursuant to an acquisi- tion mortgages) containing pertussis bacteria, extracted or tion described in section 355(e)(2)(A)(ii) of (63) Sec. 1302 (relating to clarification of partial cell bacteria, or specific pertussis the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 described waiver of certain rights of recovery) antigens in a public announcement or filing with the (64) Sec. 1303 (relating to transitional rule (18) Sec. 904(b) (relating to uniform rate of Securities and Exchange Commission) as it under section 2056A) tax on vaccines) as it relates to any vaccine relates to a public announcement (65) Sec. 1304 (relating to treatment for es- against measles (42) Sec. 1012(d)(3)(C) (relating to transition tate tax purposes of short-term obligations (19) Sec. 904(b) (relating to uniform rate of rule for distributions pursuant to an acquisi- held by nonresident alien) tax on vaccines) as it relates to any vaccine tion described in section 355(e)(2)(A)(ii) of (66) Sec. 1311 (relating to clarification of against mumps the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 described treatment of survivor annuities under quali- (20) Sec. 904(b) (relating to uniform rate of in a public announcement or filing with the fied terminable interest rules) tax on vaccines) as it relates to any vaccine Securities and Exchange Commission) as it (67) Sec. 1312 (relating to treatment of against rubella relates to a filing with the Securities and qualified domestic trust rules of forms of (21) Sec. 905 (relating to operators of mul- Exchange Commission ownership which are not trusts) tiple retail gasoline outlets treated as whole- (43) Sec. 1013(d)(2)(B) (relating to transi- (68) Sec. 1313 (relating to opportunity to sale distributors for refund purposes) tion rule for distributions or acquisitions correct failures under section 2032A) (22) Sec. 906 (relating to exemption of elec- after June 8, 1997, described in a ruling re- (69) Sec. 1414 (relating to fermented mate- tric and other clean-fuel motor vehicles from quest submitted to the Internal Revenue rial from any brewery may be received at a luxury automobile classification) Service submitted on or before June 8, 1997) distilled spirits plant) H6642 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 (70) Sec. 1417 (relating to use of additional part of the 1986, but swept away, is now The State I come from, the State of ameliorating material in certain wines) restored. South Dakota, there are so many (71) Sec. 1418 (relating to domestically pro- This means our farmers, who experi- things in here that will help rural duced beer may be withdrawn free of tax for ence a drought in 1 year and have mini- use of foreign embassies, legations, etc.) areas of this country. Look at agri- (72) Sec. 1421 (relating to transfer to brew- mal profits can balance that loss culture, estate taxes, capital gains, the ery of beer imported in bulk without pay- against a bumper crop that might hap- family tax credit, income averaging, ment of tax) pen the next year. This was an excel- and deductibility of health insurance (73) Sec. 1422 (relating to transfer to bond- lent feature on which our farmers re- premiums. These are all things that ed wine cellars of wine imported in bulk lied prior to 1986. Now we can be happy will benefit rural areas of this country. without payment of tax) to report that it has been restored in So it is a project that I give credit to (74) Sec. 1506 (relating to clarification of the current tax bill. the gentleman from Texas [Mr. AR- certain rules relating to employee stock Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 ownership plans of S corporations) CHER] and the members of the House (75) Sec. 1507 (relating to modification of 10 minute to the gentleman from Maine Committee on Ways and Means for percent tax for nondeductible contributions) [Mr. BALDACCI]. something that was very difficult, and (76) Sec. 1523 (relating to repeal of applica- (Mr. BALDACCI asked and was given that is trying to drive a Mack truck tion of unrelated business income tax to permission to revise and extend his re- through a car wash; to get a lot of tax ESOPs) marks.) relief out of a little bit of revenue. I (77) Sec. (relating to gratuitous transfer Mr. BALDACCI. Mr. Speaker, first of think they have done a wonderful job, for the benefit of employees) all, before the time begins, I would like and I hope my colleagues will support (78) Sec. 1532 (relating to special rules re- to thank the ranking member, the gen- lating to church plans) this bill today. tleman from New York [Mr. RANGEL], (79) Sec. 1604(c)(2) (relating to amendment Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 for his leadership, and the gentleman related to Omnibus Budget Reconciliation minutes to the gentleman from Califor- Act of 1993) from South Carolina [Mr. SPRATT]. Mr. Speaker, in 1993 a major piece of nia [Mr. FAZIO], the Chair of the Demo- SPENDING BILL PROVISION legislation was passed, and at that cratic Caucus. Mr. FAZIO of California. Mr. Speak- (1) Sec. (FUTA exemption for prisoners) time it was being criticized roundly in Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 er, those of us who are fighting tooth both Chambers of this Congress. In minute to the gentleman from Florida fact, one senior Member, in leadership and nail for working families are fortu- [Mr. WELDON]. now in the other body, had referred to nate that with the strong backing of Mr. WELDON of Florida. Mr. Speak- the fact that if he was wrong about Democrats in this House, who stood up er, I thank the gentleman for yielding what was going to happen, that he and opposed the Archer bill, President me this time, and I congratulate the would be the first one to take the ham- Clinton, as PHIL GRAMM has said, chairman of the committee for the mer and chisel and put President Clin- cleaned the clock of Republicans in good work he did in this tax cut. ton’s face on Mt. Rushmore. these negotiations. I would like to talk a little bit about Since 1993, Mr. Speaker, we have had The President and House Democrats reality, who is going to benefit from 5 years in a row of deficit reductions. fought for and won for families like this tax cut. This is a family in my dis- With reinventing and streamlining the that of Debbie and John Ellis, who live trict, the Auger family. We have here Federal Government, we are at the in my district in Woodland, CA. Debbie Jim and Donna. He is a plumber, she lowest number of Federal employees will make $29,000 this year as an office cuts hair. Here are their three kids: since the 1960’s. Because of the hard manager for the California Highway Christopher, the oldest, Anthony, and work done by President Clinton and Patrol. She is the mother of two boys. Danae, the young girl. They are going Vice President GORE and the Demo- Her 21-year-old is working this summer to get $1,500 of reduction in their taxes crats in Congress, we are at a point to save enough money to attend Sac- for the $500-per-child tax credit times where we are going to be able to build ramento City College this fall. Her 10- three. a bridge to the 21st century, where we year-old, Joshua, is a fourth-grader at When this young man is in college in are going to focus on children’s health, the Woodland Christian School. about 3 years, they will get $1,500 of tax on working families and we will reward The Ellises will receive the college reduction. They will still get the $500 ‘‘work’’ and not ‘‘not work’’. We are tax credit so their son can get his de- per child tax credit for these two. This going to make sure that families, fam- gree, and they will be eligible for the is flesh and blood. These are real mid- ily businesses, and farms have the new child tax credit, which they say dle class families. breaks that they deserve. will be used to help them get their car Do not believe the lies that this is a All the hard work that has gone on to repaired. tax cut for the rich. This is a tax cut get to this particular point is a credit The Republicans would have denied for the middle class. It is a Republican to those that have served and passed this family and millions of others just tax cut. It would have never happened that legislation. like them tax relief this year. In fact, if it were not for the election in 1994 Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 providing tax relief for these hard and the persistence of the gentleman minute to the gentleman from South working families was called, and I from Georgia, Mr. NEWT GINGRICH, and Dakota [Mr. THUNE]. quote, welfare. What an insult. the gentleman from Texas Mr. BILL Mr. THUNE. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the ARCHER. I encourage all my colleagues the gentleman from Georgia [Mr. COL- gentleman from New York, Mr. CHAR- on both sides of the aisle to vote for it. LINS] for yielding me this time. LIE RANGEL, and President Clinton for Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 I want to point out today that I be- hanging tough in these budget negotia- minute to the gentleman from Penn- lieve what we are hearing on the floor tions and for fighting for working fami- sylvania [Mr. GEKAS]. today is liberalism’s last gasp. It is no lies. Because of this debate, the Amer- (Mr. GEKAS asked and was given wonder we are seeing some of our ican people know who is on their side, permission to revise and extend his re- friends on the other side of the aisle and I think they will remember that. marks.) having a hard time containing their Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 Mr. GEKAS. Mr. Speaker, I thank disappointment, because liberals al- minute to the gentlewoman from the gentleman for yielding me this ways look at things in terms of win- Texas, [Ms. GRANGER]. time. ners and losers. But we have a bill here Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, as In 1986 many of us voted against the where the American people are the President, one of Ronald Reagan’s fa- then tax reform bill because it swept winners. vorite things to do everyday was to away, with one bill, capital gains and The people of this country, Demo- read the mail. Sometimes he would some other attractive features of that crats and Republicans, who have come write out personal responses, but usu- code. together to do something that is very ally he just liked to read what the One of them has been restored in this much in the best interest for the future American people were saying. bill, and it makes my farmers and of this country, because it gives people One Friday afternoon, as Mr. Reagan other colleagues’ farmers rejoice. more control over their economic fu- was leaving for Camp David, his direc- Earned income averaging, which was a ture, that is really what this is about. tor of correspondence, Anne Higgins, July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6643 gave him a stack of letters to read. In- Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 lies, their family residence, they do not cluded in the stack was a very angry minute to the gentleman from Virginia get taxed by Uncle Sam, they will get letter from an extremely upset Demo- [Mr. BLILEY]. the relief of up to $500,000, that is good. crat in New Jersey. (Mr. BLILEY asked and was given To provide for job-creating capital Next Monday morning, when Anne permission to revise and extend his re- gains relief and small business exemp- returned to her office, she noticed Mr. marks.) tions, up to 100-percent exemption for Reagan had returned this particular Mr. BLILEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank small businesses paying health care letter to her desk. Attached was a note the gentleman from Georgia [Mr. COL- premiums, protection from estate taxes from the President which read, ‘‘Dear LINS] for yielding me the time. of $1.3 million, for family farms and for Anne, don’t worry about writing this Mr. Speaker, I am proud today to rise small businesses, this is the right thing lady back. I called her on the phone. in support of the Taxpayer Relief Act. to do. We are friends now.’’ Just a few years ago, the concept of Some $600 billion the Democrat Con- Mr. Speaker, is it not amazing what balancing the budget while cutting gress took away from the American can happen when honest people engage taxes was thought to be impossible. people in the early 1990’s. To give $94 in an honest discussion on the issues? The truth was, though, that this con- billion back is not only the right thing, Fear gives way to faith and fiction is cept was nothing more than a myth it is long overdue. I commend my col- replaced with the facts. propagated by the extreme left, who leagues for their hard work. In the past few days, the Congress had more faith in the decisions of Gov- Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 and the White House have been able to ernment bureaucrats than in the Amer- minutes to the gentleman from Ken- look for common ground and listen to ican people. Today I rise in support of tucky [Mr. BUNNING], the distinguished common sense, and the American peo- the first comprehensive tax cut in member of the Committee on Ways and ple are going to be very pleased with more than 15 years. Means and chairman of the Sub- the results. I want to touch on two important committee on Social Security. The facts are this tax bill opens doors provisions in this tax bill which are (Mr. BUNNING asked and was given of opportunity by closing loopholes and very important to my constituents, permission to revise and extend his re- exemptions. The facts are this tax bill death tax relief and capital gains re- marks.) raises hope everywhere by lowering lief. Did my colleagues know that the Mr. BUNNING. Mr. Speaker, I rise in taxes for everyone. And the facts are IRS considers the death taxes a tax on strong support of H.R. 2014, the Tax- our tax bill is not designed to help the privilege of leaving the fruits of payer Relief Act. What a difference a folks with a corner on the market, it is their labors to their children? Some- few years makes. Just 4 years ago, designed to help folks with a market thing is wrong in America when a tax without a single vote, the Democrat on the corner, a market not on Wall collecting agency thinks that giving Congress passed a $260-billion tax in- Street, New York, but on main streets our children the family farm is a privi- crease as part of the 1993 Clinton tax across America. lege. Let me be the first to tell the IRS bill, the largest tax increase in dollars Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 that in America giving our children in our history. minute to the gentleman from Mary- what we earn should be a right, not a Today we vote to cut taxes by about land [Mr. WYNN]. privilege. $275 billion over a 10-year period. I think it is fantastic that we have been b 1300 While I support doing away with death taxes entirely, this bill makes an able to turn around the thinking that Mr. WYNN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the important first step. goes on in Washington, DC. We abso- gentleman from New York [Mr. RAN- Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I think lutely believe that there is going to be GEL] for yielding and for his leadership that, if the time is correct, my col- an awful lot of people on both sides of during this process, as well as I would leagues have double the time that we the aisle that will support this bill. Be- like to take this opportunity to thank have. It might be better if we tried cause it is good for America, it is good the gentleman from South Carolina two-to-one at this time. for the ordinary taxpaying person, it is [Mr. SPRATT], our ranking member on The SPEAKER pro tempore [Mr. good for kids, it has got so many the Committee on the Budget. They did LAHOOD]. The gentleman from Georgia things that we have worked so hard on a good job. [Mr. COLLINS] has 58 minutes remain- that I think America prospers because This is a good bill, and I intend to ing. The gentleman from New York of this bill. support it. It is not a perfect bill. [Mr. RANGEL] has 341⁄2 minutes remain- Let us just talk about people that There are legitimate criticisms. The ing. The gentleman from California have gone to schools, gone to college rich still get richer. But the fact of the [Mr. STARK] has 21⁄2 minutes remaining. and are paying off their student loans. matter is, we cannot let the perfect be So the gentleman from New York For those, this bill allows those who the enemy of the good, and this is a [Mr. RANGEL] is correct. are paying off student loans to deduct good bill. It provides tax relief that my Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 up to $2500 annually in interest ex- constituents in Maryland can use. minute to the gentleman from New penses. I do not think anybody has They can use a child tax credit because York [Mr. FORBES]. talked about that before. they are trying to put young people (Mr. FORBES asked and was given This provision is estimated to pro- through college so they can get better permission to revise and extend his re- vide $2.4 billion in tax relief over the jobs. They can certainly use a child tax marks.) next 10 years. A second provision of the credit so that they can buy necessities, Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, only in bill that makes it easier for students to perhaps fix a car, perhaps buy clothes political Washington would a mom and enroll in Kentucky’s prepaid college for a child, perhaps simply buy grocer- dad, or both, working and earning tuition program, to pay for room and ies. about $40,000 in their family, be consid- board, as well as tuition. Over 2600 This is not going to solve all the ered wealthy. Kentucky students have already set up problems of the world, but it is an im- I want to congratulate the Repub- savings accounts and accrue about portant movement in the right direc- lican chairman of the Committee on $500,000 to help pay for college. This tion. We can remain here and bicker Ways and Means and all the members bill allows them to use that for tuition and try to make this a better bill, or of the Committee on Ways and Means and room and board. we could pass this bill and begin send- for helping to put together a respon- I am a little disappointed that the ing child tax relief to needy families, sible bill. For the first time in 15 years, final bill does not provide as much tax sending education tax credits to people we are going to enjoy some tax relief. relief for withdrawal from these plans who want to get higher education, and For the American people saying as proposed. But we do not get every- also giving a break to those people who ‘‘What is the big deal? You should have thing in every tax bill. This tax bill has invest in our people through a capital- been here years ago?’’ but to give $500 all kinds of relief for the average gains break. It is a balanced bill. It is per child tax relief, to provide edu- American taxpayer, the taxpayer be- a good bill. I hope my colleagues will cational incentives, to make sure that tween $20,000 and $75,000. Those are the support it. the largest investment to most fami- people that want relief. The tax credit H6644 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 for children, the estate tax, or death What a wonderful victory for the educational expenses like tuition, fees, tax, whatever you want to call it, we American people, the working Amer- tutoring, books, supplies, home com- give relief there. For anybody who has ican family, people who have children, puters, and any other qualified ex- a family farm or a small business, we people who have to try to move around pense. have an extra special tax relief, up to this country and find the best job and The idea behind it, of course, is to $1.3 million. But the $500 tax credit is the best way they can provide for their allow parents to set aside money for the key to this bill. families. They get to take a $400 tax their children’s education at any Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 credit next year. They begin to take school, any school, public, private, pa- minute to the gentleman from North the deductions next January on that rochial, or home, from kindergarten Carolina [Mr. PRICE]. tax credit per child. through college. (Mr. PRICE of North Carolina asked My colleagues, they also can start to But what does the President say in and was given permission to revise and say, ‘‘If I have to move and I have to his veto threat? He says that ‘‘I would extend his remarks.) sell my house, I do not have to cal- veto any tax package that would un- Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. culate not to carry forward until I am dermine public education by providing Speaker, the bill before us has many 55 years of age, but I can take that cap- tax benefits for private and parochial positive features for working and mid- ital gains now.’’ What a wonderful op- school expenses.’’ dle-class families. But I am personally portunity for people to find the best It is a sad day to see the President proudest of the inclusion of the main job, the best venue to raise their chil- side with the opponents of real edu- provisions of the Education Afford- dren. cational reform and the defenders of ability Act, introduced by the gen- What this really means is that Amer- the status quo. School choice, col- tleman from North Carolina [Mr. ican families can start to make the de- leagues, parental choice in education, ETHERIDGE] and myself and cospon- cisions how they can spend extra dol- is working. We are getting testimony. I sored by a bipartisan group of 56 col- lars in their pocket. That $500 tax cred- chair the education subcommittee in leagues. These provisions will restore it per child is in their pocket now. the House. We are hearing from people income tax deductibility of interest on They will decide how to spend that in- who want, we are hearing from parents student loans and permit penalty-free stead of some Federal bureaucrat. who want the ability, the choice to withdrawals of IRA savings for edu- What does that mean? Well, when we send their children to the school that cational expenses—common sense ideas spend our own money, we get to grow is best for their child. Here is an article from the Washing- to make higher education more acces- the economy, we do not have to decide ton Times from this week, July 28. sible for American families. on some Federal executive or Federal Black support. Support in the African- Today is the culmination of an effort bureaucrat on how they are going to American community. Risers for former Representative Martin Lan- grow government, bigger government, school vouchers. Here is Paul Peterson caster and I began some 10 years ago, bigger cost, bigger spending. This is a up at Harvard, one of the first people soon after we first came to the Con- double win for the American family. to study parental choice in public edu- gress. We said then that if you can de- Is this bill perfect? Oh, I do not think cation today, looking at the low-in- duct the interest on your home mort- it is perfect. But is it good? Yes, it is a come school choice demonstration gage or even on a second home at the good bill. And does it mean that we are projects in Milwaukee and Cleveland not going to be back here next year beach, you surely ought to be able to and concluding that the results, and I with another bill and try to improve deduct interest on something as basic quote now, ‘‘indicate that Congress the climate, the economic climate for as a student loan. That is still true should approve legislation initiating our American families and American today, and I am proud to see it recog- additional experiments in other cities, nized in this tax bill. workers? I think we can do that. including Washington, to determine But my colleagues, I have to com- There is more good news in this bill for whether this school reform, parental mend the chairman of the Committee Americans seeking to get the training the choice in public education, should be on Ways and Means, I have to com- modern workplace requires, especially the introduced nationally.’’ Hope Scholarship which will provide a $1,500 mend the people who worked in the So my colleagues, I am real dis- tax credit for the first 2 years past high school leadership in this body, and the Presi- appointed to see this provision stripped and a 20-percent credit for succeeding years. dent. This is a wonderful first step. out in the face of the President’s veto I am also pleased that this con- Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield threat. Parents should have the right 1 ference agreement removes the notori- 2 ⁄2 minutes to the gentleman from to send their children to the school of ous tax on the tuition waivers earned California [Mr. RIGGS]. their choice, the school that is best for Mr. RIGGS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the by graduate students that was included their children. After all, it is their gentleman from Georgia [Mr. COLLINS] in the House-passed bill. Students in money, it is their children, and it is for yielding, and I want to congratu- my district and across the country their future. raised their voices in justified protest, late him and the other members of the and this bill shows that their voices Committee on Ways and Means and the b 1345 have been heard. budget negotiators for crafting a much Mr. RANGEL. The gentleman should Mr. Speaker, this bill will expand opportunity needed, long overdue bipartisan bill to be reminded that it was the Repub- for America's young people and workers up- provide tax relief to hard-pressed licans that agreed to drop that provi- grading their skills. It will help give our country American families and businesses. sion. the trained workforce the global economy de- However, I do take exception to one Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the mands. aspect of these negotiations, and that gentlewoman from Florida [Mrs. Through supporting this conference is the last-minute decision by the THURMAN] a member of the Committee report, we are putting our fiscal house President to threaten to veto the bill if on Ways and Means. in order, we are investing in our peo- education individual retirement ac- Mrs. THURMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ple, and we are affording tax relief for counts stayed in the bill. The President thank the gentleman from New York hard-pressed working families. That is issued a last-minute veto threat unless [Mr. RANGEL] for yielding me this time. a winning formula for our country, and these provisions were stripped out of I rise today in strong support of this I urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘aye.’’ the bill we will be voting on later conference agreement. I would like to Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 today. point out that many of its best provi- minutes to the gentleman from Illinois This is good, sound policy put for- sions were conceived, I believe, in 1996 [Mr. HASTERT]. ward by the other body, a provision as part of the Democratic families first (MR. HASTERT asked and was given that would allow parents to set up edu- agenda. Democrats said we had to fin- permission to revise and extend his re- cation retirement accounts, or edu- ish what we began in 1993 with the larg- marks.) cation IRAs, which could be contrib- est deficit reduction package ever en- Mr. HASTERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank uted to with the contributions earning acted and the only one that has the gentleman from Georgia [Mr. COL- interest tax-free as long as the deduc- worked. This bill will balance the LINS] for yielding me the time. tions from the account were used for budget once and for all. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6645 We committed ourselves to expand- education and is put in place within have worked with the gentleman from ing health care for children; 5 million the context of balancing the budget by New York also on many occasions in children will get health insurance be- 2002 if conservative economic growth the past, and it is always great to be cause of this bill. principles are assumed, and perhaps working in a bipartisan spirit to help We said hard-working families must sooner if the economy continues to all of our people. I thank the gen- get help with the cost of college edu- grow at or near its current rate. tleman from Texas [Mr. ARCHER] and cation. Millions of families will be able Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield the gentleman from New York [Mr. to afford college because of this HOPE such time as he may consume to the RANGEL] and ask that the total text of scholarship and other initiatives in gentleman from Oklahoma [Mr. WAT- my statement be added for the RECORD. this bill. KINS]. Mr. Speaker, the chairman of the House In Florida’s Fifth District, the aver- Mr. WATKINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise Ways and Means Committee and his staff age median household income is about for two reasons, one to express my sup- have worked closely with me on a provision in $21,000 a year. The capital gains provi- port and how great a day I think this is this bill to clarify the application of section sion in this bill will help thousands of for the American people, to realize that 168(j) of the Internal Revenue Code to Indian seniors in my district who have their we finally have worked to where we are lands in Oklahoma. nesteggs invested in mutual funds. all in agreement in a bipartisan way to Section 168(j) was enacted in 1993 to pro- The farming families and small busi- have a balanced budget for the first vide accelerated depreciation for property ness owners will be able to hold onto time in nearly 30 years and also to placed in service on Indian reservations, in- their farms and businesses after the have tax cuts for the first time in 16 cluding former Indian reservations in Okla- death of a loved one because of the es- years. I am excited about it because I homa. The House of Representatives included tate tax relief contained in this bill. am very much a pro-growth economic a provision in this tax bill that provides that And families of public safety officers development type of person. I know we lands in Oklahoma within the jurisdictional slain in the line of duty will receive have got a lot to do in order to prepare area of an Oklahoma Indian tribe and eligible their survivor benefits tax free for the an economy for the 21st century, the for trust-land status would qualify for section first time. global competitive economy that our 168(j). This is a family bill. Hardworking children and grandchildren will have to As the chairman knows, the Senate receded middle class families will enjoy the compete. I want to make sure that no to the House provision in conference. How- benefit of the child tax credit and the one is left behind. ever, since the House leaves the interpretation largest education initiative in a gen- Mr. Speaker, in the bill, as the chair- of the provision to the U.S. Department of the eration. But most of all, we all will man of the committee well knows, the Interior, I believe it is essential we clarify con- enjoy the benefit of a balanced budget Senate receded to the House provision gressional intent. by the year 2002. in conference dealing with Native After my meetings with you, Mr. Chairman, Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 Americans in Oklahoma. However, I be- and meetings with Senator NICKLES, Ways and minutes to the distinguished gen- lieve it is essential we clarify the con- Means and Finance Committee staff, Joint Tax tleman from Iowa [Mr. LEACH]. gressional intent. After meeting with Committee, Senate Indian Affairs Committee, Mr. LEACH. Mr. Speaker, I would the gentleman from Texas, along with Department of the Interior, and the Bureau of like to offer a perspective from my Senator NICKLES and the staff of the Indian Affairs on this issue, it was concluded State of Iowa on the important work of Committee on Ways and Means and the necessary to create a bright-line test for deter- the House today. Senate Committee on Finance and the mining which Oklahoma lands qualify for sec- It is my belief that few tax changes Joint Committee on Taxation and the tion 168(j). This bright-line test is needed to ever contemplated by Congress fit the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, avoid costly litigation and clearly define the rural economy as well as this one. Of the Department of Interior, the Bureau language ``lands in Oklahoma within the juris- particular import is the $500-per-child of Indian Affairs and many others, it dictional area of an Oklahoma Indian tribe'' to tax credit; the Archer capital gains was concluded it was necessary to cre- mean for the purposes of this legislation cut, 20-year deferred payment con- ate kind of a ‘‘bright-line’’ test for de- ``lands within boundaries of the last treaties tracts for family farms and small busi- termining which Oklahoma lands qual- with the Oklahoma tribes.'' This definition nar- nesses for estates; 100 percent deduct- ify for section 168(j) to avoid first cost- rows the land area compared with current law ibility for self-employed individuals for ly litigation, and also to clearly define by eliminating the unassigned lands. health care cost; 3-year income averag- the language that is in the House bill Because I believe it is important that we ing for farmers; and an increase in the which says the ‘‘lands in Oklahoma clarify this matter, does the chairman of the inheritance exemption from $600,000 to within the judicial area of an Okla- House Ways and Means Committee concur $1 million and to $1.3 million for close- homa Indian tribe,’’ to make sure it with my explanation? ly-held businesses and family farms, means for purposes of this legislation Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 which is a potential total inheritance ‘‘lands within boundaries of the last minutes to the gentleman from Texas deduction of $2.6 million if both treaties with the Oklahoma tribes.’’ [Mr. STENHOLM] who has been so help- spouses are able to participate. The ef- This definition narrows the land area ful in bringing this all together. fect of all of this is that for the first compared with the current law by (Mr. STENHOLM asked and was time in the last half century, many eliminating the unassigned lands. given permission to revise and extend Iowa farmers will be allowed to trans- Because I believe it is important that his remarks.) fer their farms to their children vir- we clarify this matter, I would ask if Mr. STENHOLM. Mr. Speaker, I want tually inheritance tax free. the chairman of the Committee on to first begin by commending the gen- On the education front, with the ex- Ways and Means concurs with this ex- tleman from Texas [Mr. ARCHER], the ception of the revocation of tax-exempt planation. chairman, the gentleman from New status for TIAA-CREF, this legislation Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, will the York [Mr. RANGEL], the ranking mem- is a strong step forward for the edu- gentleman yield? ber, and the President of the United cation community. For the first time Mr. WATKINS. I yield to the gen- States for their work in putting to- in over 10 years, students will be able tleman from Texas. gether this conference report which I to deduct a major part of interest accu- Mr. ARCHER. The gentleman from urge everyone to support today. As so mulated on their student loans. In ad- Oklahoma is correct. The Oklahoma often happens in the legislative proc- dition, the tax exemption for em- Indian lands clarification in this bill ess, it is not a perfect document but ployer-provided undergraduate edu- does narrow the scope of section 168(j) certainly when we compare this bill cation assistance is extended for 3 in Oklahoma compared to current law with that which originally passed the years, and a HOPE tax credit is created by eliminating the unassigned lands. I House of Representatives, there are to assist students and their families thank the gentleman for his coopera- many significant improvements, one of with out-of-pocket expenses associated tion on this issue. which is in the area of the child tax with college attendance. Mr. WATKINS. I appreciate the co- credit, a debate that occurred that was This economic package is beneficial operation of the chairman and also the truly amazing to many, that those who for the rural economy, good for higher cooperation of the ranking member. I were earning $25,000 a year and also H6646 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 working were not to be entitled to a tleman and I and Chairman ARCHER cut initially passed the House in June. I voted tax credit; amazing that the debate oc- taxes, we stimulated the economy, and against that measure for a number of reasons: curred, but it has been resolved in a we had a roaring economy for 8 years It denied the full benefits of the child deduction very favorable way which pleases 50 that created 17 million new jobs. to hard-working, low-income taxpayers who percent of the constituents of the 17th That is how important this bill is avail themselves of the earned income tax District of Texas who find themselves today. When we think about people credit; it opened up enormous loopholes that in that income category. today and the very fact that two-thirds would have fully or partially excluded millions In the area of the capital gains tax of the American people today filing in- of American workers from the protection of cut, one thing that was recognized that come taxes take some capital gains labor laws and fundamental benefits like So- I think will prove to be hopefully a and of those two-thirds, 50 percent are cial Security and worker compensation; and it goal for the future is to recognize older Americans living on fixed in- short changed low and middle-income tax- longer held investments should be enti- comes, with incomes of less than payers, denying them a fair share of its tax tled to capital gains reductions, not $40,000. In other words, $25,000, $35,000. cuts. necessarily the short term that pro- That is how important this is. Because The bill before us today remedies those de- vides for speculation and quarterly re- that is bread and butter on the table of ficiencies in whole or large measure. port syndrome. those people who have worked all their The estate tax relief, something that lives but finally now have to dip into Yesterday, the House passed the spending we advocated, the Blue Dogs and oth- their savings in order to make it, in bill that sets our Nation on a path to have a ers, glad to see now a $1.3 million es- order to maintain a decent standard of balanced budget by 2002. The bill we are vot- tate tax relief for family held busi- living. That is how important this bill ing on today provides tax relief for our citi- nesses, as my colleague from Iowa a is today. zensÐtax relief that is paid for. moment ago so eloquently put. I just cannot tell Members how We have arrived at this point because of the Also when we look at the thrilled I am and how proud I am to be courageous vote taken in 1993. The 1993 backloading, something that was very a Republican, to be here today, to budget agreement was a 5-year deficit reduc- concerning to those of us who are carry on that Ronald Reagan legacy tion package. It was a fiscally sound decision. called deficit hawks, the concern of the that we are going to establish here As a result of the deficit reduction package our original House bill with indexation of today, reestablish and carry on for the Nation has a healthy economy. capital gains, with backend loading of next 10 years. I thank the chairman Unfortunately, my constituents in Hawaii IRA’s, has been satisfactorily dealt and the Speaker pro tempore for all have not benefited from the economic upswing with in a compromise way, so much of they have done in bringing this bill to to the same extent as the rest of the Nation. our concerns there have been elimi- the floor. Hawaii needs an economic stimulus. The bal- nated. Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 anced budget tax relief agreement we are vot- Some other very positive features. minute to the gentleman from Hawaii ing on today will help us. It is not a silver bul- Moving to 100 percent deduction of [Mr. ABERCROMBIE]. let, but it will benefit a great many hard- health insurance for self-employed, (Mr. ABERCROMBIE asked and was pressed people and small businesses in Ha- something that will be of tremendous given permission to revise and extend waii. importance in our continued quest for his remarks.) a fair health system for this country. Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I am voting for this bill not because it is per- Income averaging for farmers. Glad to today I will support H.R. 2014, the Tax- fect, but because on the balance it helps see that is in because that is something payer Relief Act. working families and the middle class. It helps so important. And also the Hulshof- Yet I cannot rise without sharing my the people of Hawaii. Stenholm bill providing preferential greatest concern with the tax bill, the The bill helps Hawaii families. It provides a tax treatment for farmer cooperatives airline ticket tax. The changes pro- child tax credit of $400 a child in 1998 and in- that purchase processing facilities, posed in the airline ticket tax will creases to $500 a child thereafter for children something that is a very good sign for have an adverse effect on Hawaii’s peo- age 16 and under. The credit phases out for the future of agriculture. ple and on our economy. The segment couples with adjusted gross incomes of Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 portion of the domestic ticket tax is $110,000 and individuals with incomes of minutes to the gentleman from New unfair. It is particularly unfair to Ha- $75,000. York [Mr. SOLOMON] the highly re- waii where Aloha, Hawaiian, and The bill helps Hawaii college students. It garded, highly influential chairman of Mahalo, our local inter-island carriers, provides a tax credit of up to $1,500 a year for the Committee on Rules. provide short-haul trips between the is- the first 2 years of college and a tax credit of Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I am lands. Our unique geography as an is- up to $1,000 for later years. Eligibility phases embarrassed after that introduction by land chain makes air travel a neces- out for couples with incomes between $80,000 the gentleman from Texas [Mr. AR- sity. Unlike other areas of the country, and $100,000 and individuals with incomes of CHER], but I am not embarrassed to we do not have a choice. If individuals between $50,000 and $60,000. stand up here and hand out accolades want to travel from island to island, we to the gentleman from Texas [Mr. AR- have to fly. In order to make it eco- The bill helps Hawaii homeowners. Married CHER], the chairman. When the Speaker nomical for our people, Aloha, Hawai- couples may exclude up to $500,000Ðsingle pro tempore and I were here way back ian, and Mahalo island hop. The domes- individuals may exclude up to $250,000Ðof in the late 1970’s, or I was and then he tic airline ticket tax shifts the burden capital gains from the sale of a primary resi- came in 1980 with Ronald Reagan and to low-cost, short-haul carriers. These dence. In Hawaii, this provision will be particu- the gentleman from Texas [Mr. AR- are our local carriers and this will hurt larly helpful to residents whose principal in- CHER] was still here, this country was Hawaii. vestment is their home. on hard times. I was a businessman The ticket tax increase on inter- The bill provides Hawaii with broad based just before that, back home, a small national flights from $6 to $24 is an- capital gains reduction. Capital gains come businessman. I recall having to make a other concern. Tourism is Hawaii’s from the owning of assets such as stock, corporate loan for my company in largest industry. It is a large industry bonds, homes, real estate, and businesses. which we paid 2 percent above the for many States of the Union. Inter- The top capital gains tax rate drops from 28 prime rate and that was 23.5 percent, to national visitors are a vital part of our percent to 20 percent. This rate will drop fur- borrow money to expand our business. tourism industry. ther to 18 percent, effective in 2001, for indi- 23.5 percent. That was almost impos- Mr. Speaker, I will not dwell any fur- viduals who hold assets for 5 years or longer. sible. Inflation was running at 13.5 per- ther on the ticket tax except to say For married couples with incomes less than cent. It was really hard for people who that I will work with all my energy to $41,200 the capital gains tax rate drops from were living on fixed incomes. They just repeal these provisions in the future as 15 percent to 10 percent. The rate will drop could not make it. we proceed to a tax bill next year. further to 8 percent, effective in 2001, for mar- Then along came Ronald Reagan and Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. ried couples who currently earn less than he did what John F. Kennedy did many 2014. The conference report we are voting on $41,200 and who hold assets for 5 years or years before that in 1962, and the gen- today is an improvement over the version that longer. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6647 The bill provides Hawaii with estate tax re- friend, the gentleman from New York Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 lief. The estate tax will increase from the cur- [Mr. RANGEL], the ranking member. minute to the gentleman from New rent $600,000 to $1 million. It will be phased As my colleagues know, we are going Jersey [Mr. MENENDEZ], the deputy mi- in over a 10-year period. to pass today and I am going to vote nority whip. The bill provides Hawaii with expanded for a tax cut bill which is on balance a (Mr. MENENDEZ asked and was IRAÐIndividual Retirement AccountÐopportu- very good bill, and it is a much better given permission to revise and extend nities. It creates new IRA Plus accounts. Con- bill than it was when it left this House his remarks.) tributions are not deductible, but interest, divi- of Representatives earlier because it Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, what dends, and capital gains accumulate tax free. had many provisions in it at that point will morning in America look like Allows penalty free withdrawals for first time in time which caused many of us, in- after we pass this bill? What will be the home purchases. Further, withdrawals are tax cluding myself, to vote against it. But American vision of the future? We de- free if the account is held for at least 5 years the conference has chosen to take livered the balanced budget based on tough choices and sacrifices made by and the account holder is at least 591¤2. In- those provisions out, and that makes come limits on traditional IRA's are raised. me very happy. Democrats in 1993, but the Democratic The bill helps Hawaii small business. Self- However, there is one very obscure vision for America did not stop with a employed small business people will be able provision which is very onerous which tax cut for corporations and the to deduct 100 percent of their health and in- I want to tell my colleagues about, and wealthy. Democrats fought for and de- surance costsÐthe current deduction is 40 that is a tax exemption repeal for a livered a far greater vision for all percent, reinstates the home office business Teachers Insurance Annuity Associa- Americans and a more inclusive tax deduction, and provides an immediate jump in tion—College Retirement Equity Fund, cut. Tomorrow morning in America, be- the estate tax threshold to $1.3 millionÐ$2.6 better known as TIAA–CREF. TIAA– cause of Democrats, 24 million more million for couplesÐfor small family farms and CREF was created in 1918 by Carnegie children will wake up with health care, businesses. This provision is important, be- Foundation to provide a portable pen- millions more than under the Repub- cause it enables continued family ownership of sion fund for university employees. It lican plan. Tomorrow morning in small farms and businesses from one genera- has had tax exempt status for 79 years, and, my colleagues, we are going to re- America, because of Democrats, every tion to the next. student with a talent and ambition will Yet, I cannot rise without sharing my great- peal that tax exempt status in this awaken to the opportunity to attend a est concern with the tax bill: the airline ticket piece of legislation that we are going to pass today, and that is wrong. 4-year college and get a degree, mil- tax. The changes proposed in the airline ticket I would ask my colleagues to work lions more than under the Republican tax will have an adverse affect on Hawaii's with me because the repealing of this plan. Tomorrow morning in America a people and our economy. The segment por- tax exempt status will mean that there hard-working farmer or small business tion of the domestic ticket tax is unfair. It is will be a 5-percent reduction on aver- person will be able to keep the family particularly unfair to Hawaii where Aloha, Ha- age of the average university employee business in the family. Families will waiian, and Mahalo, our local interisland car- retiree over the next few years, and I more easily sell and buy better homes. riers, provide short-haul trips between the is- would ask that Members will work Hundreds of neighborhoods will awaken lands. Our unique geography as an island with me to repeal this provision in the knowing that the local scourge of a chain makes air travel a necessity. Unlike future. nearby polluted brownfield will be other areas of the country we do not have a Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 cleaned up. Tomorrow morning in choice. If individuals want to travel from Island minute to the gentleman from New America twice the families in my own to island we have to fly. In order to make it ec- Jersey [Mr. ROTHMAN]. home State of New Jersey will receive onomical for our people Aloha, Hawaiian, and (Mr. ROTHMAN asked and was given a tax credit for their children because Mahalo island hop. The domestic airline ticket permission to revise and extend his re- Democrats fought for a better vision of tax shifts the burden to low-cost short haul marks.) the future. carriers. These are our local carriers. This will Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I be- Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 hurt Hawaii. lieve that promises made should be minute to the gentleman from Min- The ticket tax increase on international promises kept, and that is why I am nesota [Mr. VENTO]. flights from $6 to $24 is another concern. proud to support this historic biparti- Mr. VENTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in Tourism is Hawaii's largest industry. Inter- san balanced budget agreement. support of this Clinton tax package. It national visitors are a vital part of our tourism Among the most important provi- is build on the hard work of the 1993 industry. The change in the ticket tax on inter- sions in this bill, the basic concepts of vote. Quite frankly, voting for tax national flights puts a greater tax burden on my Lifetime Learning Affordability breaks is one of the more pleasant international visitors. International tourism is a Act are very much prominent. For the tasks or the easier tasks that Members major foreign exchange earner for the United first time we will be giving American of Congress have to perform. Everyone States. It is one of the bright spots in our bal- families up to $2,000 in tax relief for likes to vote for a tax break, many of ance of payments picture. It generates millions their children’s college tuition and al- our constituents want them and are of American jobs. Why do we create a dis- lowing them to save in IRA-like sav- most often pleased with the tax breaks. incentive to travel to the United States. ings accounts for their own lifetime of But the fact is there would be no tax Mr. Speaker, I will not dwell on the airline learning. It also increases the Pell break legislation today available, with- ticket tax any further, except to say that I will grants to a historic high and restores out a bigger deficit but for the actions work with all my energy to repeal these provi- the tax deduction on the interest on the 10 past years. Congress is not going sions in the future. student loans. to do what was done in the riverboat This is an important day for the people of Seven months ago, when I took of- gamble of 1981. Congress is not going to Hawaii and our Nation. H.R. 2014 provides the fice, I promised the people of the Ninth do that. Today we are pursuing a much people of Hawaii and our Nation with tax re- Congressional District of New Jersey different policy path. The Federal Gov- lief. I urge my colleagues to support this that I would fight for a balanced budg- ernment fiscal policy actions have measure. et. I promised to help bring about a earned this tax break by making tough smarter, more effective, more cost-effi- votes such as the vote on the 1993 budg- b 1400 cient government that invested in our et. Today this mostly positive tax Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 people, that kept our Nation’s historic breaks. Eighty-four percent of this bill minute to the gentleman from Florida commitment to seniors, our children the next 5 years goes for a child credit [Mr. BOYD]. and the environment. and education credit. Investing in peo- (Mr. BOYD asked and was given per- This balanced budget agreement de- ple; that is the type of tax breaks the mission to revise and extend his re- livers for the hard-working men and American families need. There is some marks.) women of Bergen and Hudson Counties, other provisions in here, but that is re- Mr. BOYD. Mr. Speaker, I first want NJ, and that is why I am proud to sup- flection of political symmetry of the to congratulate the gentleman from port this historic balanced budget Federal Government. Texas [Mr. ARCHER] for his work over agreement. Promises that were made This action is no Ronald Reagan riv- the many, many years and also my have now been promises kept. erboat gamble, rather it is a good bill H6648 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 and not savaging the basic programs lege. The cost of higher education is the deficits of the last decade and deserve a that we came here and pledged to sup- overwhelming these days. I just fin- return on their investment. port, not the policy path of 2 years ago ished paying for two children to go to This historic investment in education in- when, in fact, programs, like Social Se- college, and truly believe me, I know cludes the HOPE Scholarship Program that curity and others were the sacrifice for how expensive it can be. truly will give hope for a college education to lavish budget busting tax breaks, this Women are provided additional op- working-class American families. tax policy is a policy earned by solid tions to save for their retirement It includes the largest Pell grant increase in fiscal discipline. We may be a little bit through expanded IRA’s. The fact is two decades. As a former Pell grant recipient, ahead of the curve in hoping to reduce that we women live longer than men. I know how much we need this funding. the deficit and being certain that the Yes, we generally have less savings set This agreement provides the first tax cut for deficit is under control but the fact is aside. I do not believe our society Americans in 16 years. This budget gives a this is a sound tax break, a result of wants to force a woman into buying $500 per child tax credit to every family in deliberate policy it eliminates the in- shoes for her 8-year-old child as op- America. It also allows parents to save for dexing, it eliminates the automatic posed to saving for her retirement, and their child's higher education with the edu- pilot type of provisions that were in expanded IRA’s will help provide the cation IRA. the initial bills. It is a measure that savings that will work toward those We have finally recognized what our parents will get a big vote today, but it is worrisome retirement years. and community leaders already knew, that when we cut taxes to families, when we pro- built, as I said, on hard work of 1990. I And now let us talk about the work- vide children's health care, and when we in- might say the budget of President Bush place. Women are starting businesses vest in educationÐwhen we balance the Na- and Congress, and the 1993 budget of today at twice the rate of men. A lower tion's budgetÐour cities, our States, and our Clinton and Congress. Congress has not capital gains tax leaves more critical capital in hands of women business Nation will prosper. since the early 1980’s been able to vote Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 people, women investors, and women for additional substantial tax breaks or minute to the gentleman from Illinois entrepreneurs. Why is this so impor- cuts, because the policy path of exces- [Mr. DAVIS]. sive tax giveaways and uncontrolled tant to women? Because the 1995 sur- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I Pentagon spending dug the deficit hold vey of women-owned businesses tells us want to first of all commend and con- so deep that the emphasis has been on that 84 percent of women use personal gratulate all of those who have worked correcting and rehabilitation of the savings to start their businesses. to reach this accord. But when I viewed consequence of the Reagan riverboat Mr. Speaker, the American dream for the balanced budget agreement I asked gamble tax policies. everyone, including women, is to make two fundamental questions: Finally, today in a measured manner life better for our children and for our Is it fair and does it go far enough to and on a reasonable basis maintaining loved ones. Yet the current death tax is lift the boats of all Americans, includ- the programs that the American fami- such an onerous burden that when the ing the poorest among the poor? lies need to care for themselves and owner of a family farm or business And while I agree that there has been one another, we can return and focus dies, the children often must sell their serious movement toward the inclusion on tax breaks which help families and inheritance just to pay the taxes. That of more families and more children, I invest in people. is what this bill is about, providing still must ask the question, is it good Certainly the price of this has been women with options and time to bal- for all of America? some tax breaks for special groups that ance the demands of today’s world. No This agreement provides tax relief are not needed nor justified, but the longer should women feel they are for the richest of Americans to the Democrats led by President Clinton being pulled in 10,000 different direc- tune of over 70 percent. Is that fair? turned the GOP Congress product of 2 tions, often sacrificing themselves and Under the current agreement corporate years ago and turned it inside out to their children’s interest just to pay welfare continues to be protected, and principally help families and balance Uncle Sam. so I agree that it is movement, but I do the budget without blowing up the Mr. Speaker, helping American fami- not believe that it goes far enough to budget for the future. A positive bill lies and especially America’s women is really touch the poorest of the poor. for which I can vote and urge others to all part of the Republican agenda. The I believe that we can do better. We support. truth is this tax relief never would provide serious breaks for the rich, a Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 have happened if it had not been for few breaks for the middle class, prac- minutes to the gentlewoman from our majority, and we are proud of our tically no breaks and little hope for the Washington [Ms. DUNN], a highly re- work on behalf of American families, poor. spected member of the Committee on and we look forward to making Gov- Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 Ways and Means. ernment more and more efficient while minute to the gentleman from Ten- Ms. DUNN. Mr. Speaker, because of keeping that safety net out there for nessee [Mr. CLEMENT]. the Republican majority in Congress, those Americans who truly need it. Mr. CLEMENT. Mr. Speaker, several for the first time in 16 years women Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield days ago I had the opportunity to par- across America are getting a tax cut. such time as she may consume to the ticipate in a news conference at the The truth is the Republican tax relief gentlewoman from California [Ms. White House, and it was a true love-in, bill helps women throughout their lives SANCHEZ]. it was a true commitment that we are both at home and the job market. The (Ms. SANCHEZ asked and was given going to balance the budget, and it is only people who think this tax relief permission to revise and extend her re- historic. We are on track toward a first bill is not good for women are those marks.) balanced budget since 1996. We are on who do not believe we women can man- Ms. SANCHEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in pace toward our first tax cut that we age our own money, and that, Mr. support of the balanced budget agreement. have really had since 1981. A couple of Speaker, is passe. Today we will have the opportunity to provide years ago, how many of us in this So let us talk first about tax relief at hard working Americans with the first balanced Chamber could have predicted such far- home. With our bill the mothers of 41 budget in a generation. reaching and much needed reform? million American children will be able We have accomplished an amazing feat As a former college president, I am to keep more of their own money. The today. The President and Congress have proud of the commitment that we have $500 per child tax credit that will begin come together for a truly bipartisan budget made on education, a $1,500 tax credit in 1998 is money mothers surely can agreement. for college, $2,500 tax deductions for in- use to make ends meet, money that A budget that is balanced, that provides fair terest paid on college loans and $500 can be used to pay for school clothes or tax relief, that provides coverage for children's tax free contributions into education for groceries or for all the unexpected health care, and that truly expands education IRA’s. expenses that come with raising a opportunity. And it is a pro-family reform as well, child. Congressional leaders and the President $500 per child credit, approximately Women and their families will also have worked to draft a bill that helps middle doubling the tax exemption on real es- receive help in sending children to col- class parents. These Americans have funded tate for both individuals and couples. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6649

Let us keep the budget process mov- fornia [Ms. WATERS] and say that every This is real tax relief. People in every ing, let us cast a ‘‘yes’’ vote, and let us Member has had an opportunity to stage of life will receive something, balance the budget once and for all for know every detail on this bill because families with children to pay for all Americans. every detail has been on the Internet schooling, for home ownership, for Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 beginning at 7 o’clock last night. home-based businesses, or to save and minutes to the gentlewoman from Cali- I know Members diligently have invest for retirement. From the family farm to the small business, everyone fornia [Ms. WATERS], the chairperson of wanted to peruse this bill and to learn benefits. Families deserve the freedom the Congressional Black Caucus. the details. I am sure that last night our tax relief plan will bring. Ms. WATERS. Mr. Speaker, I would they have stayed with their staff and The $500-per-child tax credit will give like to thank the gentleman from New have had the opportunity to learn all parents more freedom in raising their York [Mr. RANGEL] and the gentleman of the details that are in this bill. children to be healthy, well-educated, from Texas [Mr. ARCHER], the chair of Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the productive adults. I want to commend the Committee on Appropriations, for gentleman from Texas [Mr. DELAY], the Republican leadership and Chair- their work, and I know how hard he my neighbor and my friend. man ARCHER for an excellent job and a struggled. However, this Congress is Mr. DELAY. Mr. Speaker, I want to tremendous first step. about to pass the most profound and commend the chairman of the Commit- Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 drastic tax cut this Nation will experi- tee on Ways and Means for all the hard minutes to the respected member of ence in many years to come. This is a work he has done to bring this to the the Committee on Ways and Means, the floor. I have to tell the Members, I rise gentleman from Minnesota [Mr. true redistribution of the wealth, and RAMSTAD]. let me tell my colleagues why. in support of the Archer tax cut. I urge The top 1 percent in our Nation will my colleagues on both sides of the aisle Mr. RAMSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I thank get a tax cut of about $16,000. That is to support it. my distinguished chairman for yielding people who make over $645,000. The Mr. Speaker, sometimes history is time to me, and for his outstanding next 4 percent, people who make about made by bold strokes and sometimes leadership. I daresay, without the gen- $150,000 will get a tax cut of $1,492. But history is made with small steps. tleman from Texas [Mr. BILL ARCHER], let us take a look at the lowest 20 per- Today we are taking a small step to- we would not be here with this tax re- cent, the lowest 20 percent in our Na- ward a smaller and a smarter Govern- lief bill, the most substantial tax relief tion, people who make $6,500 will have ment. This tax cut legislation rep- for the American people since 1981. resents only the beginning of our agen- to pay $39 more. The next 20 percent, Mr. Speaker, in addition to the more people who make $15,000, will only get da that will give the American tax- publicized provisions of this bill, the about $114, and the next 20 percent, payer real relief from an oppresive Tax child tax credit, the higher education people who make $27,000, will get about Code. A Government that takes over 50 relief, the capital gains cuts, and the $194 in tax cuts. percent of the average family’s income Well, let me just show my colleagues threatens liberty and needs serious re- death tax relief, I would like to point this. In capital gains, this means the form. out several provisions that I have CEO’s of major corporations like Don- But in our system of government, re- worked on for many months with sev- ald Trump and over at Nike, they will form is best achieved through bite- eral of my colleagues to help victims of sized bits that are easily digested, I be- be able to take their pay in stock op- the recent flooding in the Red River lieve, by the voters and easily under- tions and the stock options will only be Valley of Minnesota and the Dakotas. I stood by popular opinion. This is the taxed at 18 percent which means they want to thank Chairman ARCHER for first bite of a seven-course tax-cut will be paying about half of what the his help as well in getting these provi- meal. Some of my colleagues will say sions in this bill. average working person will be paying that this tax cut is not enough to tide in taxes. them over. I agree. But I promise the We include special mortgage revenue So who is getting the short end of Members that this first tax cut in 16 bond rules for those people to rebuild this deal? Not only are the poor in years will not be the last tax cut in 16 their homes in the flood areas. We ex- inner cities, where the economy is not years. tend the IRS deadlines in the flood performing, still no jobs, low paying This bill is a good start. It contains areas. We provide interest abatement jobs, jobs that have been exported to necessary relief for families with chil- for delayed filings, and special IRS Third World countries for labor, let me dren. It will spur economic growth by rules for the forced sales of livestock tell my colleagues about districts like lowering taxes on investments, sav- that were caused by the horrible, hor- the district of the gentlewoman from ings, and job creation. It starts the rible floods. Idaho [Mrs. CHENOWETH], in her State’s process of phasing out that punitive I am also gratified that several other panhandle with the median income of death tax. less than $25,000 per year and a per cap- To those liberals who complain that reforms I have worked on are included. ita income of $11,530. this tax cut goes too far, let me just We changed the rules governing em- ployee stock ownership plans [ESOP’s] b 1415 simply say that in my view we can never go too far in allowing the Amer- to make it easier for small businesses These are working and poor people in to give ownership to employees of the districts like that of the gentleman ican family to hold on to more of its hard-earned money. I urge my col- company. We prevent the taxation of from Florida [Mr. CHARLES CANADY], leagues to start the process to cut survivors benefits. We stop, no more Poke County, FL, with a median taxes for all Americans and vote for taxation for survivors benefits for po- household income of $25,315 per capita this sensible bill. lice officers or firefighters killed in the and personal income of about $12,277. line of duty. I want to tell the Members, this is Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman from New not the right way to go. It is going to We make the administration of Jersey [Mr. PAPPAS]. church pension and benefit plans much pass. Republicans are going to take Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, today is a credit, Democrats are going to take great step forward, a new beginning more workable. We include language to credit. Nobody knows what is in the de- down the path of ending the era of big clarify the tax-exempt status of State tails. But I want to tell the Members, government. For the first time in 16 health insurance risk pools that pro- the American people will find out. years, the American people are getting vide coverage for high-risk people and They will know in the final analysis. real, permanent tax relief, the Archer their children and spouses. tax cut of 1997. Every American is a This is no deal for the average Ameri- Mr. Speaker, this bill will provide cans. Rich people will make out again. winner today. We have sent a message that Washington has to make do with important relief to real people right They will be partying on Wall Street less, so people can keep more of what now. I urge my colleagues to support tonight. they earn. I think too often in Wash- this important legislation. Mr. ARCHER. I yield myself such ington bureaucrats forget it is not time as I may consume, Mr. Speaker. their money to waste. People of Amer- Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 Mr. Speaker, I would just briefly re- ica work hard for the money and it is minute to the gentleman from Califor- spond to the gentlewoman from Cali- theirs. nia [Mr. CALVERT]. H6650 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I stand Republicans, on the other hand, tives for savings. That is a positive. in favor of this bill. I also want to com- fought very hard to get IRA’s, individ- England is No. 3 in this world on assets mend the chairman of the Committee ual retirement accounts, that will now because their people save. Yes, I do not on Ways and Means for an excellent go to those who can put up to about like total airline taxation system, but job. $2,000. If they happen to have incomes we have made it better, and we are It certainly is an historic week. For up to about $160,000, now they will not going to stay on it and make it much the first time in a generation, we will have to pay taxes on those particular better. To my airline constituents balance the budget and provide tax re- IRAs. They benefit. those on short domestic routes and lief to working families across the Na- Democrats made sure that the edu- those on international routes, I will tion. This Congress will leave the leg- cation package would give someone continue to monitor the impact on this acy of a smaller, less invasive govern- who is going to community college and bill. ment to our children. At the same pays $2,000 a year at least $1,200 of tax To the Members, there is something time, we will ensure that middle-class breaks. The Republicans wanted to else we can work on. We can work on Americans keep more of their money. give $750. We won on that. The Repub- tax simplification, so all of us can un- Today we will refund to the Amer- licans were able to get more breaks for derstand how to file our taxes, because we are a nation that believes in carry- ican people one-third of President Clin- the 11⁄2 percent of people who die and ton’s tax increase, the largest in his- have to pay an estate tax. ing its weight. Further, in the out- tory. Back in my congressional dis- We all win and we all lose. Ulti- years, if this deficit explodes, I am trict, the per-child tax credit will mean mately we try to compromise. I think committing to be diligent in making families with children can save $47 mil- we can all say that whether one lives sure this Congress fixes this bill so we lion next year. California has had some on Main Street or Wall Street, we all do not have the deficit that we had be- tough years, as the Speaker knows. We won. fore, which hurts the economic health are looking forward to having better Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 of this Nation. years. This is going to help, Mr. Speak- minutes to the gentlewoman from There are some stumbling blocks here, but to that I quote Shakespeare’s er. Texas [Ms. JACKSON-LEE]. Some said this day would never hap- (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked words ‘‘that unto each of us is given a pen. Thanks to the Republican Con- and was given permission to revise and book of rules and a bag of tools, and gress, it has. But the real winners this extend her remarks.) each must make, ere life is flown, a week are my constituents and the rest Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. stepping stone or stumbling block. of the American people. We look for- Speaker, allow me to say to the gen- Stumbling blocks are in this bill, but there are enough stepping stones that ward to future days like this. tleman from Texas [Mr. ARCHER], a Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 friend and someone who I know has we should vote for this bill. This is a minutes to the gentleman from Califor- worked so very hard on this bill, I bill for America. I am proud to vote for nia [Mr. BECERRA], a member of the thank him very much. I rise today to this tax bill, because people like me Committee on Ways and Means. and people I represent will be able to Mr. BECERRA. Mr. Speaker, I thank support this legislation and this effort. However, I would say to the gen- count a few more dollars in their pock- the gentleman from New York, espe- ets and get real tax relief. At the same tleman from Texas, BILL, if I might cially for all the work he has done on call you that, if we acknowledge the time America’s business is freer to re- this particular balanced budget agree- invest in America’s economy and cre- ment. sincere distinctions that we have in this House, let me now commend my ate jobs! jobs! jobs! Mr. Speaker, if 535 Members of both Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join my Demo- good friend and the ranking member of the House and Senate got together to cratic colleagues in raising the flag for the the Ways and Means Committee, the try to draft a bill, we would have 535 Americans who truly need the tax cuts in this gentleman from New York, Mr. CHAR- different versions of a balanced budget bill. Let's not kid ourselves here, this will mean LIE RANGEL. CHARLIE RANGEL is a Ko- agreement. That is why in a democracy an increase in the paychecks for working peo- rean war veteran who went to school and in politics compromise is what ple that Democrats represent. This bill may on the GI bill. must rule. If we do have that type of mean a decrease of Republicans on lines 13 It so happens that his history may compromise, we have leadership and we and 14 of their Schedule D's after they confer track a little more where I came from, will have progress. with their lawyers and accountants, But, today where the earned income tax credit We have to accept some bad with the Democrats can raise the flag for working might have helped my parents who did good. Democrats, I know for example, Americans who bring home a paycheck that not have a college education; who fought for about 5 million children to will see an increase as a result of work on this be included within the child tax credit struggled every day, and may not have side of the aisle. because they happen to fall within fam- known sometimes how the bills would Let's make no mistake about it, Mr. Speak- ilies that earn between $18,000 and be paid. er, the economic engine that is driving our ex- $30,000. Republicans were able to I represent a district that looks like panding economy is being oiled and main- achieve victory for families earning that of the gentleman from New York, tained by Americans who carry lunch boxes to $75,000 to about $160,000, and including Mr. CHARLIE RANGEL, and with poor work and really do something or make some- them within the child tax credit as people and working people, and great thing for the paychecks they receive. They well. ethnic diversity, so I also stand in the don't clip coupons, they work for a living. They Democrats fought hard to get an- well of this House acknowledging that don't have lobbyists up here on Capitol Hill other $8 billion more for child health there are some stumbling blocks in making campaign pledges to us. They are the care, to try to help cover some 5 mil- this tax bill. Nevertheless, I cannot ones who really deserve the break today that lion of the 10 million uninsured chil- thank CHARLIE enough for staying in this bill is delivering. dren in this Nation. Republicans fought there in the fight, never forgetting Democrats fought Republicans and won the very hard and succeeded in getting the where he came from. $500 child tax credit for families who need it, corporate tax rate dropped on capital So we now have in place for those families making under $30,000 a year and gains tax rates. people making $30,000 a year tax relief. may have depended on the earned income tax Democrats fought very hard to make The HOPE scholarship has been made credit in the past, the American wage earners sure that empowerment zones and better. In fact, now you do not have to that the Republican leader characterized as brownfields were included in the legis- worry about whether you are going to getting welfare if they got the child tax credit. lation, which would allow for economi- Yale or Harvard to get tax relief, you Mr. Speaker, Democrats fought for and won cally depressed areas, those areas that can go to your local community col- this credit for 15 million taxpaying, working had contamination in the soil, to be lege and you can get $1,500 a year free families that the Members on the other side of reached by new entrepreneurs who are and clear and you can go and get an the aisle argued vehemently were less deserv- willing to take a little bit of a risk, education. ing than families making over $100,000 a and they will get some incentives and I do not like that most Americans do year. Republicans failed the fairness test even tax breaks if they establish a business not save a lot. This may change be- though they originally promised in their Con- in these areas. cause of this tax bill. It gives incen- tract With Americans back in 1994 that those July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6651 15 million would be included in their targeted to be a difficult compromise, but I sponsible than the legislation approved by the tax breaks. Thanks to our work, the work of think the Nation is better off. House on June 26. This conference agree- Democrats, those working class Americans I am not going to talk about the de- ment improves upon the original legislation in are included today. tails for the next few seconds. The im- several significant ways: it provides more tax Mr. Speaker, the American public knows portant thing to me is that we are relief to low and moderate-income taxpayers who stood up for the families who send their taxed from the time we get up in the most in need of this assistance; it provides children to our community colleges, to our morning and drink our first cup of cof- more extensive tuition tax credits to help fami- great land grant universities, our venerable fee to the time we go to bed and watch lies afford a college education; it better targets State colleges and universities and our Histori- a show on television and pay cable capital gains tax relief to reward economically cally Black Colleges and Universities. Ameri- taxes. We are taxed from the time we productive long-term investments; and it elimi- cans know that they will be able to contribute are born until the time we die. Today nates or limits provisions that would have tax-free to State run prepaid tuition plans be- we get just a little bit of our money caused the cost of this legislation to explode cause of the work of Democrats. They know back, and a little money and power over time, resulting in new deficits. that the HOPE Scholarships that give students flows out of Washington today. We do The child tax credit in this conference report a tax credit for the first 2 years of college not need to worry about the details. is much more fair than in the original House worth 100 percent of the first $1,000 of their b 1430 bill. This legislation extends the child tax credit tuition and 50 percent of their second $1,000 to working parents making as little as $18,000 The most important thing that you annually who would have been denied this as- of tuition has a Democratic stamp on it. They need to understand about today is that, know that in the third and fourth years of their sistance under the earlier bill. My Republican when President Clinton moved to the colleagues claimed giving a child tax credit to college education they will get a tax credit middle and agreed that money and worth 20 percent of $5,000 of tuition expenses families earning less than $30,000 per year power need to come home in a fair way was the same as welfare. Mr. Speaker, this is for each year because of the Democrats on and said giving money and power back not welfare. These are working, taxpaying, Capitol Hill. to families, businesses, and local gov- wage-earning families who would have been Mr. Speaker, there can be no doubt about ernment is a good thing, the public has denied tax relief simply because they do not which Members of Congress expanded the rewarded him, and they should, and the earn enough to pay income taxes, although welfare-to-work tax credit in order to help Democratic Party. But let it be said, as they still have to pay substantial and regres- those Americans and their employers who are a member of the Contract with Amer- sive payroll taxes. These are people working making the transition from welfare to work. ica class, that our legacy to this coun- harder than ever to stay off welfare. Because This bill gives employers who hire those who try is that new people came to Con- of strong Democratic support led by President may have been less fortunate than others and gress and sang a different song, and Clinton and Ways and Means Ranking Mem- have been on welfare for an extended period that tune has been picked up by people of time a tax credit equal to 35 percent of the who have never sung it before and it is ber CHARLES RANGEL, we now have a bill that first $10,000 in wages in the first year of em- music to the American public’s ears. helps these families too. As a result, 5.5 mil- ployment and 50 percent of the first $10,000 Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 lion more children from these working families in the second year. I offered this very same minute to the gentleman from Texas will benefit from this tax credit. This is the right amendment in the 104th Congress, I am glad [Mr. BENTSEN]. thing to do to strengthen our families and re- today it passed. The targeted urban commu- (Mr. BENTSEN asked and was given ward their hard work. nities that this part of the bill will help includes permission to revise and extend his re- This legislation also improves substantially the city of Houston and the people there and marks.) on the tuition tax credit. The original House bill in other urban areas who are making the effort Mr. BENTSEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank would have cut the value of the proposed to turn their lives around. These are the peo- my colleague from New York for yield- $1,500 tax credit in half and provide only 50 ple for whom government can truly make a dif- ing me this time. I am going to vote for percent of tuition expenses for millions of stu- ference. These are the people who may not this tax bill for a couple of reasons. dents attending community colleges. This have anybody in their lives to give them First of all, I want to thank the gen- agreement provides the full tax credit for the boosts and incentives to help them make a tleman from New York [Mr. RANGEL] first $1,000 of tuition costs and a 50-percent better life for themselves. and the President for making the child credit for the second $1,000 of tuition for each Mr. Speaker, I am also mindful of the con- tax credit refundable. Somebody mak- of the first 2 years of college. And it provides sumers who fly on our airlines like Southwest ing down to $18,000 a year is not on wel- a tax credit worth 20 percent of $5,000 of tui- and Continental. America's airlines, both big fare. They should share in this tax cut. tion expenses for the third and fourth years. In and small, as well as their passengers are Second of all, the education invest- addition, it allows an income tax deduction of winners under this bill, although we can do ment is probably the most important up to $2,500 a year for interest paid on stu- better. The financial reform that begins with investment vehicle that we have in this dent loans, which I have long supported, and this bill will insure airline safety in the future, tax bill to move the economy forward. creates a new individual retirement account and airline industry prosperity. With respect to the capital gains pro- specifically for education expenses. These are Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be a Democrat posal, the final proposal actually, I the right investments to make because higher and vote for this bill. It is good for our country think, is far better than we started be- levels of education are necessary than ever to and Democrats have helped those who really cause it addresses holding periods. I succeed in today's global, high technology need our help. think that is much more efficient eco- economy. Just last week, we heard testimony Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield nomically. It allows us to not reward from Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Green- 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman from churning of accounts but to reward span and numerous respected economists South Carolina [Mr. GRAHAM]. long-term investments that are more that, in order to ensure American workers' Mr. GRAHAM. Mr. Speaker, I do not productive. With respect to some issues earning power, we must increase their level of think I can pick up with the passion we in it, I am pleased that you dropped the education. This bill provides for that need. just saw, but that is good news. This is difficult minimum provisions that have I am also pleased that this legislation re- an amazing day. been requested by the administration. wards long-term investment by reducing the Mr. Speaker, the firmness and fair- That is very important to State and maximum capital gains rate to 20 percent for ness of the gentleman from Texas [Mr. local governments. investments held for at least 18 months and ARCHER] brought this deal about. I I regret that we still have the $3 head 18 percent for those assets purchased after hope the American people understand tax in it that will affect short haul car- 2000 and held for more than 5 years. The that. Our Republican leadership team riers such as Southwest Airlines in my capital gains rate would be reduced to 8 per- has done a good job, but the best deci- State. I think that belies the fact that cent for such long-term investments for tax- sion they ever made was to let the gen- these carriers pay the same capital payers in the 15-percent tax bracket. This pro- tleman negotiate for us. It has really cost as long haul carriers through vision moves in the direction of legislation I helped a lot. State and local landing right agree- have introduced to reduce the capital gains The gentleman from New York [Mr. ments. Overall it is a good bill. Let us tax on a sliding scale based on how long an RANGEL] is going to vote for this bill, I just hope that it works. asset is held, which I believe is both economi- understand. I know this is difficult. I Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this legisla- cally productive and fiscally responsible. In congratulate him for making what has tion, which is much more fair and fiscally re- this way, we will reward patient capital that is H6652 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 so vital to starting and expanding businesses Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 house or securities. However, this was not to and creating jobs. minutes to the gentleman from Wis- be since my committee amendment to in- I regret that the bill continues to impose a consin [Mr. KLECZKA], a member of the crease the personal exemption for all tax- per segment head tax of $3.00 under the air- committee. payers was defeated. line ticket tax. This is unfair to short haul, low Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, let me Mr. Speaker, this legislation may not be per- cost air carriers such as Southwest Airlines start out by indicating not only my fect, but it is much improved over the version based in Texas. It belies the fact that both strong support for the legislation, but that came before us in the House 1 month short and long haul carriers pay an equal also my pleasure in working with the ago. The changes made in conference have amount of the majority of capital costs of the gentleman from Texas [Mr. ARCHER]. earned my support for this measure. Nation's airports through landing and gate Not only is the gentleman from Texas The House bill contained a provision that agreements at the local level. [Mr. ARCHER] very knowledgeable could have had a devastating impact on work- Finally, I believe this legislation is more fis- about the Tax Code, but in his dealings ers and their benefits. The measure, inno- cally responsible than the earlier bill approved not only with myself but other Mem- cently labeled as a safe harbor for independ- by the House. That bill included provisions, bers, he always was very, very fair. He ent contractors, would have permitted many such as capital gains indexing, that would uses a saying in the committee, it is employers to reclassify their workers as inde- have caused the size of the net tax cuts to called rifle shot. He does not want any pendent contractors and thus deny those grow rapidly after the first 5 years. The result rifle shots as it relates to tax policy. workers employee benefits and worker protec- would have been new and larger deficits and I cannot agree with the chairman tions. This was not only bad policy, it did not increased pressures to cut vital programs such more. I think if we are going to put in belong in this tax bill in the first place. Fortu- as Medicare, Medicaid, education, and envi- the tax bill relief or fairness or help to nately, the conferees wisely removed this lan- guage from the conference report before us ronmental protection. I remain concerned that a group, it should be a broad group, not one specific corporation, not one group today. this conference report still poses that risk. As Likewise, this conference report provides of individuals but it should be a broad I stated yesterday during the debate on the reasonable capital gains relief without trigger- spending cut bill, there are no guarantees that array of individuals. This bill, I be- ing massive outyear revenue losses. The origi- this plan will work. We must carefully track the lieve, reflects that. nal House bill contained not only the capital revenue stream and ensure that the next tax I also want to thank the ranking gains cuts, but also a measure which would cuts remain within the projected cost. And we member, the gentleman from New York have allowed indexing the value of assets for must be willing to make corrections if they do [Mr. RANGEL], who kept us all honest, inflation. The final bill leaves out the indexing not. especially the Republican majority not which could have led to large revenue losses But on balance I believe this is a good bill only in items as it dealt with the edu- 10, 15, or 20 years from now, but includes the that will provide tax relief to our families, help cation portion but also with the EITC rate cuts that will provide significant relief to more young Americans get the college edu- and other areas that are so important taxpayers today. cation they need, and reward long-term invest- to his constituents, my constituents, The bill contains relief for parents raising ment that creates businesses and jobs. I urge and all our constituents. children, small businesses being passed on to support for this legislation. The first time the bill came before family members, workers saving for their re- Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 this body, I could not vote for it. There tirement, and people saving to buy their first minutes to the gentleman from Texas, was a very onerous position included in home. Mr. SAM JOHNSON, a highly respected, it, the independent contractors section, In order to help parents make ends meet, great patriot member of the Commit- which would have the effect of reclassi- taxpayers with children 16 and under will re- tee on Ways and Means. fying hundreds of thousands of current ceive a $400 tax credit next year, and a full Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. employees who get benefits such as un- $500 tax credit in 1999 and thereafter. This Speaker, Republicans have done what employment compensation and work- credit will be available to single parents mak- some called impossible. We have bal- men’s compensation. They would be de- ing up to $75,000 and couples making up to anced the budget, provided the most nied these by reclassifying them. This $110,000. significant tax relief in 16 years. Not bill does not have that provision. It The bill also provides much-needed help to since Ronald Reagan gave us 7 years of was taken out in the conference com- families with students going on to college. The unprecedented economic growth have mittee. That is probably the major rea- HOPE scholarship will give students up to we given so much relief to the millions son why I stand here today in strong $1,500 a year for the first 2 years of college, of families, small business owners, support of the bill. and up to $1,000 a year for their third and farmers, and other hard-working Amer- Also, I think one of the criticisms we fourth years. icans who deserve to keep more of the have all had from time to time on the The agreement allows individuals to contrib- money they earn. existing Tax Code is that it does not ute tax-free to State-run prepaid tuition plans, This bill is going to free up dollars, promote savings. With the inclusion of like the one we have in our State of Wiscon- free up money, taxpayer dollars, I three new types of IRA’s, we are chang- sin. might add, which previously had been ing the course of this Nation wherein The legislation also creates education indi- vidual retirement accounts to which families used for wasteful government spending. we are going to reward savings and not can contribute up to $500 per year toward col- It returns this money to the rightful reward spending. I think that is an im- lege expenses. Single parents making up to owners, to the people of the United portant feature. $95,000 and couples making $150,000 can States of America, to those who create Another area which I think should be open and contribute to such education ac- jobs, economic growth, and wealth. It highlighted, which is of vast impor- counts. In addition, taxpayers will be allowed is going to provide more people with tance to millions of homeowners in the to withdraw up to 10 percent from a regular the opportunity to achieve the Amer- country, is the exclusion of sale of your retirement IRA to pay for the education ex- ican dream of owning their own home, primary residence. Right now you have penses of a child, grandchild, or spouse. seeing their children go to college, and to save a whole ton of receipts to prove Starting next year, taxpayers will be able to having enough money to retire and just you are not making any money on the deduct a portion of the interest on their stu- enjoy their grandchildren. sale. This bill eliminates that. dent loans. The allowed deduction will be Mr. Speaker, I wanted to thank the Last, since my tax legislative assist- $1,000 in 1998, gradually increased to $2,500 chairman of the Committee on Ways ant is leaving today to go on to school, in 2001 and thereafter. and Means, the gentleman from Texas let me thank Win Boerckel for years of The bill provides significant estate tax relief, [Mr. ARCHER], my good friend, a super service in helping me with my Ways increasing the amount of an estate exempt Texan and a great American for his and Means Committee duties. from tax from $600,000 to $1 million over the hard work and determination in mak- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the tax bill next 10 years. In addition, small business gets ing sure that Americans get what they before us today. The Taxpayer Relief Act more immediate relief beginning next year so richly deserve, a big tax cut. It is brings us to a balanced budget while also pro- when family-owned businesses and farms will long overdue. It is finally time that viding tax relief to many Americans. be eligible for a $1.3 million exemption. this Congress has done something good On balance, I would have liked to have Under this legislation, more and more Amer- for America. God really has blessed seen across-the-board tax relief for everyone, icans will be able to take advantage of individ- America. not just those with children, or those selling a ual retirement accounts [IRA's] to save for July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6653 their old age, purchase a home, or save for The family farm, 1,900 acres, ap- gan [Mr. BONIOR], a leader of our Demo- their children's education. praised at $5.5 million, estate taxes, cratic Party and our whip. Single taxpayers making up to $95,000 and $4.26 million. He says, why does the Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I am vot- couples making up to $150,000 will now be Government deserve to squander or ing for this tax bill because it helps able to contribute up to $2,000 a year to new blow dad’s hard work away? The Fed- working families. In the Republican back-loaded IRA's. The contributions will not eral Government taking 80 percent, 80 bill you almost had to be wealthy or be deductible from income, but the withdraw- percent of the family farm. It is uncon- work on Wall Street or own a big cor- als will be completely tax-free. Withdrawals scionable. poration to get a tax cut. We said no to can be made penalty-free not just for retire- But the good news is, we have passed that. Democrats said that tax relief ment, but also for the purchase of a first a bill. It will save him a little bit of should go to the teachers, the police of- home. money. But we have a long way to go ficers, the nurses, the family farmers, More taxpayers will be able to contribute to so America’s farmers can pass land on the construction workers. These are regular IRA's as well. Over the next several to their children without the Govern- the people who make America work. years, the income limits restricting use of reg- ment squandering it away. They put in a hard day’s work, day in ular IRA's will be gradually increased. Those Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 and day out, and they needed the relief. single individuals with incomes up to $50,000 minutes to the gentleman from New I will never forget the debate we had on this floor over the last 45 to 60 days. and those couples making up to $80,000 will York [Mr. PAXON]. eventually be able to make tax-deductible con- (Mr. PAXON asked and was given We talked about that police officer in tributions to regular IRA's. permission to revise and extend his re- Atlanta, GA making $23,000 a year, put- Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that objection- marks.) ting his life on the line every day, has able provisions have been removed so that I Mr. PAXON. Mr. Speaker, before I two children. And we said in our pro- can support this legislation bringing tax relief begin let me tip my hat to the gen- posal we wanted him and his wife to share with their children and that to many people across this country and in the tleman from Texas [Mr. ARCHER]. I child tax credit. Fourth Congressional District of Wisconsin. I know this is an amazingly important urge my colleagues to support the bill. day for him and his great team. They b 1445 Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 have worked so hard for so long and la- minute to the gentlewoman from Con- And they said it would be like giving bored in the minority. And today we welfare to that police officer. Well, necticut [Ms. DELAURO]. have this happen, and we just tip our Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise they were wrong. We fought them on it hats and say, thank you for your perse- today to support this tax cut proposal and we won. verance and your dedication. Under today’s tax bill, 27 million and to remind my Democratic col- Mr. Speaker, what a difference a Re- working families will get a child tax leagues that we can accomplish what publican Congress makes. Four years credit. Homeowners will be able to we can accomplish when we stand up ago this very month the other body, keep more of their gains when they sell and fight for what we believe in. I want to say thank you to President the other party was enacting another their home. Students from working Clinton and the gentleman from New celebrated budget. That budget in- families and people who have lost their jobs or want to upgrade their skills York [Mr. RANGEL] for standing firm creased taxes on Social Security, on will be able to get a $1,500 tax credit for Democratic priorities. Just last gasoline, on income, even Democrats from their community college, job re- week our Republican colleagues were called it the largest tax increase in the training, or a 4-year degree. That will on the floor of this House calling a tax history of the world. It gave us deficits as far as the eye all be supplemented in this bill. cut for hard working police officers and Now, these are the people that the kindergarten teachers welfare. They could see and did nothing to save Medi- care. Today we are prepared to pass an- Democrats fought for, and we won. But stood up and defended a tax bill that I must tell my colleagues this after- included only a fraction of the needed other kind of budget. There is a dif- ference. Today we are cutting taxes for noon and concede that we have paid a funds for children’s health care cov- price for all of this. This bill is indeed erage and they promoted a proposal children, for college, for farms and for homeowners. a compromise. In exchange for extend- which would have raised taxes on grad- ing the child credit for working fami- uate students and provided nothing at We eliminate the deficit and save the Medicare system which saved the lives lies, Republicans demanded huge tax all in the way of relief for college jun- breaks for the wealthiest 5 percent, and iors and seniors. of both of my parents. But you ain’t seen nothing yet. they got them. In exchange for edu- Democrats stood up. We fought for cation tax credits, Republicans de- middle class Americans, and we won. This Congress intends, under the leadership of the gentleman from manded huge tax breaks for America’s Democrats fought for tax relief for all largest and biggest corporations, and Americans who work for a living and Texas [Mr. ARCHER], to come back again next year and to work harder to they got them. pay taxes, even if they do not make a I am talking about tax breaks like cut even more taxes for the American lot of money. Democrats fought for the rolling back the corporate minimum full $24 billion to provide health insur- people. For example, next year I be- tax. So we are now going to go back to ance for uninsured children and Demo- lieve we could cut payroll taxes, elimi- the days when some of the biggest cor- crats fought to improve the education nate the marriage penalty, and give a porations in America will not pay any tax package to give every family in break to families who care for their el- taxes at all. It is an outrage; a $19 bil- this Nation the chance to send their derly parents or we could do as my lion outrage. kids to college. What they did not fight hero, Ronald Reagan, wanted to do, So we will be watching and we will be for were tax breaks for the wealthiest which is have even larger across-the- fighting. The gentleman from New Americans. board income tax cuts for all American York [Mr. PAXON] comes to the floor Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 taxpayers. and says there will be another tax bill minute to the gentleman from Illinois Of course, our ultimate goal is noth- next year. We will fight with every [Mr. MANZULLO]. ing short of eliminating the entire Tax ounce that we have against this $19 bil- Mr. MANZULLO. Mr. Speaker, I re- Code and replacing it with either a flat lion giveaway to the biggest corpora- ceived a letter from Gary Hall, dated tax or a national sales tax, a debate tions. We will be fighting to make sure July 4, 1997. this country needs and is long overdue. that the tax breaks now going to the Dear Congressman, I am sitting here Mr. Speaker, this is not the final bat- wealthy do not come out of the pockets at my dad’s grave, missing him so tle in the war to cut America’s taxes. of working families in the future. much. He was not only my father, fi- This is but the opening shot. What a We will be fighting for fairness, be- nancial adviser, supervisor, the best difference, truly, a Republican Con- cause working families will not stand farm adviser I know. He was my best gress and leaders like the gentleman for it if our Tax Code turns into a pic- friend. Now the family attorney says from Texas [Mr. ARCHER] have made nic basket of corporate giveaways. time is getting short. You have to de- and are making for us every day. They will not stand for it if the For- cide what is being sold to pay all these Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 tune 500 companies reaping huge prof- taxes. minutes to the gentleman from Michi- its pay no taxes at all. They will not H6654 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 stand for it if the CEO’s, making 200 tobacco tax. That money was supposed to enact a plan, which will put additional pres- times the salary of the average worker, to go to cancer victims. The Repub- sure on the Federal budget, when we know squander their capital gains on cor- licans are stealing the money that is that the pressures on the budget from the porate jets and luxury limousines in- supposed to go to cancer victims from growth in Medicare and Social Security will stead of investing in jobs in our com- an unfinished tobacco settlement and greatly intensify over the same period of time. munities. And they will not stand for it using it to fund this turkey. We are in a time of very strong economic if stock market speculators run off My fellow colleagues, this is an un- growth. We should use this opportunity to get with all the benefits while the people necessary bill with a political purpose our fiscal house in order so that we can better who work with their hands pay all the and it is economic nonsense. It harms deal with the fiscal pressures we know are bills. the American public and only helps 1 coming. Today I am voting for that person. I or 2 percent of the very richest Ameri- TAX SIMPLIFICATION am voting for that mother who will be cans who make their money either This legislation will introduce a new and un- able to take that $500 credit and buy through inheritance, not a heavy-lift- welcome magnitude of complexity in the lives her daughter books and school sup- ing job, or through stock market ac- of ordinary Americans. This at a time when plies. I will be voting for that police of- tivities. the public confidence in the IRS is at an all ficer and his wife who will be able to There are secrets buried in this bill time low and budget cuts for taxpayer services get $1,000 for their children. I think of which are undetermined at this point are sure to come. In 1986, we enacted legisla- that fellow who wants to become a and were decided last night in the dead tion to greatly simplify the Code; achieving welder who can take a $1500 education of night. I urge my colleagues, in the lower rates and a simplified structure. This credit and sign up for a course and land sense of parity and economic justice to legislation regrettably moves us in the wrong a good job and a good wage. I will be vote ‘‘no’’ on this tax bill. direction and requires that we pay attention to voting for him. Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield the Tax Code before we made basic deci- So, no, this bill is not perfect, but my myself such time as I may consume to sions. In 1996, about half of all tax returns friend, the gentleman from New York very briefly refute the statements that filed were completed by paid preparers. The [Mr. RANGEL], and all those who my friend on the Committee on Ways child credit, education, and IRA provisions will worked on this bill to bring it to some and Means, the gentleman from Cali- result in tax relief but at a cost of increased sense of equity, we have a long ways to fornia [Mr. STARK], just put before the paperwork for those who will have to interpret go, but we brought it from where they Congress. and plan to benefit from these provisions. started at $245 billion with the Con- I do not know where his figures come A former Treasury official was quoted as tract With America, we brought it from, but the Joint Committee on Tax- saying, ``Who really wins from the tax bill? The home to where at least some of the ation, which distributes and scores this tax-return preparers and the manufacturers of benefits will go to working people in bill, has distributed the benefit of this tax-preparation computer software.'' These this country who need them so badly. bill so that 76 percent goes to people provisions could have been simplified had No, this bill is not perfect, Mr. under $75,000 of income. Now, with the there not been so much focus on blessing Speaker, but these people that we addition of the change in the child some behavior and striking political com- fought for cannot wait and I am voting credit and other things that were done, promises. The current Code is already very ‘‘yes’’ for their future. it is even more that goes to people who burdensome, this legislation will certainly in- Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- are under $75,000, and primarily be- crease that burden for many people. self such time as I may consume. tween $20,000 and $75,000 of income. TAX FAIRNESS I oppose this bill and suggest to my What has added more regressivity to We must have a fair tax system. Many at colleagues and the American people this bill is the fact that those who fa- the top of the income scale have benefited that it is unfair and unnecessary. The vored the cigarette tax have put in greatly over the last several years. That is Congress is lying to the American peo- place a tax that is the most regressive commendable but we should not enact poli- ple because this does not balance the tax in the bill. Irrespective of how one cies which will accelerate the divergence be- budget. It cannot balance the budget feels about cigarette taxes, when the tween those at the top and the bottom of our until 2002 unless we make more cuts, scoring is done on regressivity, that economy. This bill will do that at a time when and we are not going to make those pushes more of the burden onto the we can least afford it. A recent analysis of the cuts. We have not now and we will not very, very low-income people. bill shows that the average tax cut for middle- then. So I wish we would just get the facts income families and individuals will be less If we did nothing, the budget would before the Congress and before the peo- than $200 under this bill. Top income earners balance this year or next year by itself. ple. will pay over $16,000 less in taxes each year Government, again led by the Repub- Mr. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in under this bill. Families who are in the lowest licans in Congress, is mucking up the opposition to this tax package which moves us 20 percent of income are the only group which economy by bringing forward an unnec- away from the paramount goal of this Con- will face a tax hike under the bill. essary bill. gressÐbringing the budget into balance. This Mrs. MINK of Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, I must These unfair tax cuts, 75 percent of bill also moves us away from two other very register my objections to H.R. 2014's airline these tax cuts go to families with over important goalsÐtax simplification and tax fair- tax provisions which levy a $2 per stop fee $150,000 in income. Simmons, the beet ness. which will be borne mainly by our local short- king in Texas, gets $104 million individ- DEFICIT REDUCTION haul air carriers and their passengers. ually. Sammon Enterprises in Texas The historic budget agreement between the I represent the Second Congressional Dis- gets $23 million, negotiated in the dead President and the Congress called for net tax trict of Hawaii, which includes all of Hawaii's of night in the Republican leadership cuts of $85 billion over 5 years and $250 bil- eight major islands. Obviously, the only way to offices, where they probably got those lion over 10 years. If we did not pass these travel between the islands is by air. Pas- two $500,000 campaign checks from the tax cuts economists predict that we could sengers of Hawaii's inter-island air carriersÐ Amway Co., and they gave Amway $200 reach a balanced budget in 2 to 3 years. This Hawaiian Airlines, Aloha Airlines, and Mahalo million in tax deductions for their Re- agreement will push that goal out to the year AirlinesÐwill be adversely affected by the new publican contributions. 2002. $2 per stop charges under H.R. 2014. A typi- And in the secret of night it harms In addition, the bill before us includes an cal round trip ticket from Honolulu to Maui poor families who will have a $40 tax even bigger net tax cut of $95 billion over 5 costs under $100. Now there will be added a increase. And what my colleagues do years and $275 over 10 years. Over 5 years new $4 tax. That flight is less than 20 minutes! not know is that it eliminates abortion the tax cut exceeds the agreement by $10 bil- A 5,000 mile round trip flight from Washington for poor young women. That is buried lion and over 10 years it is $25 billion over the DC to San Francisco will also have a $4 stop in this bill. It hurts cancer victims. line. There is no reason to enact such a large fee. Unknown to any of us here, the tobacco tax cut package in excess of the budget These airline tax provisions are clearly un- settlement, which is not even agreed to agreement. In the 10 years beyond 2006, the fair to Hawaii's people. yet, $50 billion of the money that size of the tax cuts will continue to increase. I urge this House to quickly revise this mat- should come out of the tobacco settle- The cumulative cost by the year 2017 could ter and allow Hawaii's people to be treated eq- ment is being credited because of the go as high as $500 to $600 billion. It is folly uitably. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6655

Ms. MCCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I have I made that plea on this floor? And today They are treating it as if it belongs to the Gov- rise today in support of the Tax Payer Relief it is really going to happen. ernment. It doesn't. It belongs to the people Act of 1997 (H.R. 2014). This historic legisla- In terms of the future of this country, the tax who pay the taxes and if we think otherwise, tion provides for needed relief for working fam- incentives for higher education may be the it's time for us to be replaced. ilies. It achieves a goal of mine to balance the most important thing we do here today. As we Yesterday's accomplishment, passage of budget. reduce the deficit, and invest in our fu- continue to engage in the global marketplace, the Balanced Budget Act, will balance the ture. education is the factor that makes our workers Federal budget by 2002; save Medicare from This initiative invests in our children and our more productive and creative. Education is the bankruptcy, and shrink the size and scope of future hopes for them through greater access key to higher wages and a better standard of Government. It addresses the short-term fi- to health care and educational opportunities. living. Reducing the financial burden on fami- nancing problem of the Medicare trust fund, The education tax provisions will also benefit lies who want to provide that future for their and establishes a national commission to their parents who seek to improve and expand children is a step to insuring the viability of our study and make recommendations to ensure their own skills to meet new career challenges economy for years to come. A college tuition the long-term viability of the important pro- in our global economy. In my community, the tax credit, deductible interest on student loans, gram. metropolitan community colleges have ex- a credit for continuing education, extension of It gives seniors choices in the Medicare Pro- celled in connecting our employers with quali- employer provided education assistanceÐ gram rather than locking them into the one- fied employees through extensive business these incentives will be incredibly valuable in size-fits-all system. Seniors will have the op- and community partnership. The Vice Presi- assuring the educated work force we need for portunity to choose from the traditional Medi- dent visited the business and technology cen- the future. care Program, or from the alphabet soup of ter in my district last year to highlight their As important as the education incentives managed care, or take complete control over success as a model for our Nation. This initia- are, I don't want to downplay the $500/child their health and decide what type of medical tive will only enhance the potential of elevating tax credit. An extra $500, $1,000, or $1,500 or services best suits their individual needs our work force to the level of competitiveness even more in the pockets of families with chil- through a medical savings account. And most needed. dren up through the age of 16 will make the important, this reform attacks waste, fraud, One aspect of the legislation important to lives of those families so much richer. We and abuse in the Medicare Program. The anti- the people of the fifth district is the brownfield aren't giving these parents anything. We are fraud initiative includes a ``three strikes you're tax credit. Qualified companies would be al- just allowing them to keep that much more of out'' penalty for the worst abusers of the sys- lowed to deduct the costs associated with re- the money they work so hard to earn for their tem. mediation of contaminated sites in order to familiesÐfor clothes, for piano lessons, for Also, this historic reform increase health promote development in these areas. In my braces, for camp, or vacations. And as care coverage for children who are uninsured, district both the Westside Industrial Park con- pleased as I am that we are letting them keep and gives the States the flexibility to admin- version of an old train yard into a useable more, I am troubled by the fact that I even say ister a child health initiatives which work best property, as well as the rejuvenation of the those words. Who are we as the Federal Gov- at the State and local level. Union Station project are now closer to reality. ernment to say that people can keep their own The Balanced Budget Act of 1997 and Tax- In eastern Jackson County these tax credits money? How did we get to this place? We payer Relief Act are not victories of the Presi- will allow for completion of the Jackson Coun- must get back to having the people tell us how dent or the Congress, they are victories for the ty Expressway. The economic boom created much they are willing to give the Federal Gov- American people. with this new freeway will generate job growth ernment. Mr. CRANE. Mr. Speaker, as vice chairman and economic expansion. Mr. Speaker, at a time when we know we One of the major victories which was ac- are facing a looming crisis in payroll taxes and of the Ways and Means Committee and as complished with this legislation was the rightful funding Social Security payments, I am espe- one of the House conferees on the tax bill, it return of the dedicated 4.3 cents gasoline tax cially pleased that we're letting people keep is with great pleasure that I rise today on the to the Transportation Trust Fund. The previous more of their investments. If they are thrifty floor of the House of Representatives to speak diversion of these funds unfairly masked the and invest for the future, we are taking less of in strong support of legislation which will pro- true amount of the deficit. The availability of the earnings on those investments. We are vide substantial tax relief for the American these funds for projects in the metropolitan dropping the top capital gains tax from 28 per- people. Most importantly, it appears that this Kansas City area will afford the opportunity to cent to 20 percent and eventually there will be bill, the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, will be improve the safety and efficiency of the high- an 18-percent top rate for those investments signed into law and will become the first major way system and complete critical infrastructure held for 5 years or more. We are providing tax relief package the American taxpayer has projects such as the Chouteau Bridge, and the more ways, especially for middle income fami- seen enacted since 1981. Although it was in completion of the Bruce R. Watkins Freeway, lies, to save for those retirement years ahead 1994 that Republicans gained the majority in which has been 25 years in the making. through expanded IRA's. That will make a tre- the House of Representatives and started Reduction of the capital gains tax for middle mendous difference for our citizens who want pushing in earnest for a tax cut, it took us class Americans will keep our economy strong to provide for themselves after retirement. nearly 3 years to finally convince this Presi- by increasing the capital available to continue We are helping small business with this tax dent that the American people were in need of to grow our economy. Reduction in the inherit- bill. In addition to the capital gains tax relief, real tax relief. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the ance taxes will enable small businesses to we are exempting them from the alternative taxpayers of the Eighth Congressional District stay within families. minimum tax. We are phasing in full deduct- of Illinois, I'm glad the President finally got the We must be vigilant in Congress to ensure ibility for health insurance premiums for self- message. that the systems in place to guarantee the employed persons. And there is an immediate By now everyone should know the story of budget is balanced by the year 2002 remain. jump in the death tax threshold to $1.3 million the middle class taxpayer. Today, the typical Similarly, Congress will have to continue to re- for small family farms and businesses. family devotes more of their family budget to duce the deficit through setting smart spend- There are many, many other excellent provi- combined Federal, State, and local taxes than ing priorities. Balancing the budget and reduc- sions in this bill, but I won't take more time they do to food, clothing, and housing. Consid- ing the deficit will yield further rewards for our now to itemize what many of my colleagues ering this statement, it should come as no sur- country; deviating from those worthy goals will already have. I might also say there are a few prise that it is also a fact that Americans are threaten to erode value which this tax package of the loophole closing provisions that I don't being taxed today at record high levels. The provides for our constituents. Mr. Speaker, I likeÐprovisions that actually will create tax time to reverse these trends is long overdue, support this bill and urge its adoption. Thank burdens where none existed before. And there and the legislation before us today is, I hope, you. are some provisions that will greatly com- only the first significant step toward relieving Mr. KOLBE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong plicate the Tax Code and create still more family tax burdens. support of H.R. 2014, the Tax Payer Relief Act confusion in the IRS administration of the tax What is in the bill before us today? While of 1997. law. Such complications are bound to create time does not permit me to discuss every as- This is a proud moment for meÐto be able more dissatisfaction with an already controver- pect of this bill in detail, let me start by saying to tell the citizens of Arizona that the U.S. sial agency. that families with children will be the big win- Congress has heard their plea to reduce their But, I am pleased that we are taking less in ners. The $500 per child credit provided in this taxes and to balance the budget. In my 13 taxes from the American people. Some on this bill will begin to rebuild the foundation of take years here in the House, how many times floor have decried giving back this money. home pay for families with children which has H6656 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 been seriously eroded over the past few dec- Finally, as vice chairman of the Ways and middle-class incomes all their lives. They ades. Indeed, had the current dependent de- Means Committee, and as one of the House just happen to be in the peak earning years duction been indexed for inflation from its in- conferees on the tax bill, I can tell my col- of their lives—as many younger people cur- ception, the per child deduction would be over rently in the lower income brackets will be leagues that there is no one, not one person in later years. $8,000 rather than in the $2,500 range that we in either the House or the Senate, that has The wife of a prosperous doctor hit the nail find today. We needed to do something, worked harder or deserves more credit for on the head when she said she resented peo- whether it be to dramatically increase the de- making this day happen than my friend, and ple who complained about all the money that ductionÐas I have long advocatedÐor pro- Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, doctors make. She asked: ‘‘Where were they vide a creditÐas I introduced at the start of BILL ARCHER. My Chairman, BILL ARCHER, has when we had three children and $85 in the the 104th Congress. Relief is provided in this worked tirelessly in these past monthsÐlate bank?’’ Most Americans do not start off in a high bill. nights and weekendsÐwith one goal in What else can taxpayers look forward to? income bracket. They work up to it over the mindÐto deliver this tax relief package to the years and reach a peak somewhere in their The bill will expand opportunities for Individual American people. He never lost sight of the 50s or 60s. That is where most of the high in- Retirement Accounts [IRA's] and provide for goal and he delivered. come and wealth in the country is. Census penalty free withdrawals for education and first Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to help statistics for 1990 show families headed by time homebuyers, legislation I have cospon- make BILL ARCHER's hard work pay off and someone in the 45- to 64-year-old bracket sored for years. And the bill provides substan- deliver this tax bill to the American people with earning nearly double the income of families tial education tax incentives. an overwhelming majority of the vote. headed by someone in the 25- to 34-year-old bracket. In addition, the bill substantially provides re- [From the Chicago Sun-Times, July 26, 1997] lief from the death tax, raising the exempt When it comes to wealth, the disparity is LIBERALS ARE MIGHTY GENEROUS WITH even greater. Census data show the net amount from $600,000 to $1 million by 2007 DEFINITION OF ‘THE RICH’ worth of households headed by someone in and providing, in 1998, an exemption of $1.3 (By Thomas Sowell) the 55- to 64-year-old bracket to be several million for small businesses and family farms. times that of households headed by someone As I have said before, the death tax is an ex- Every year Forbes magazine devotes an issue to the rich—a listing of the million- under 35. Most of the people who are called rich tremely punitive tax as it penalizes those who aires and billionaires who have the most could more accurately be called middle-aged have saved, invested, and paid taxes through- money. Liberals in Congress also talk about or elderly. They are not a class. They are an out their lives in the hopes of leaving some- ‘‘the rich’’ whenever anyone wants to lower age bracket. When they were younger, they thing for their loved ones. I look forward to the taxes. Big taxers and big spenders always were usually in a lower income bracket. like to say that there are ‘‘tax cuts for the day when I will never again hear the story of The facts are fairly simple. It is the dema- rich.’’ the family farm being sold to pay the estate goguery that gets complicated. The problem is that these two kinds of rich tax, and that is why I will continue with my leg- Mr. BOEHLERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in islative efforts to eliminate the death tax en- people are almost entirely different. Most of the people whom politicians and the media strong support of the tax relief and balanced tirely. call rich don’t have even a tenth of what it budget legislation which we have long prom- While allowing the American taxpayer keep takes to make the Forbes list. ised and have finally achieved. Today we are more of their hard earned money will help Millions of Americans who never would going to follow through on our promises to bal- spur economic growth indirectly, there are dream of considering themselves rich are in- ance the Federal budget for the first time several provisions in this bill which will very di- cluded in the inflated statistics used by the since 1969 while providing the first major tax rectly encourage economic growth and job liberals who claim that tax cuts are for the cut since the early 1980's. creation. The Taxpayer Relief Act reduces the rich. I realize that the budget agreement is not According to a Heritage Foundation study, capital gains tax rate substantially. Encourag- perfect, but on balance its benefits enormously ing investment in capital will increase the pool there are more than 4 million mechanics, re- pairmen and construction workers who must outweigh any flaws. of capital which will in turn increase access meet the Clinton administration’s definition First and foremost, the budget accord goes and thus stimulate job growth. another little of rich. So do more than 8 million govern- a long way in helping working families make discussed provision of the bill will reduce the ment employees at federal, state or local lev- ends meet. Families with young children, burden placed on businesses by the alter- els. under 17, will be able to take advantage of a native minimum tax [AMT]. This legislation ex- How do people who are making modest $500 child tax credit. As these children get empts 95 percent of businesses from having middle-class incomes suddenly become rich? older and enter college, we are going to con- Let me count the ways. to pay the AMT and it is my hope that mem- tinue helping these families with a package of bers of this Congress are finally realizing that First of all, the statistics used include money that these people never receive. These college tax credits, deductions and other tax when they excessively tax businesses, they estimates assume that income is being incentives to help pay for tuition and pay back are simply increasing the price of products to underreported and add 20 percent to what- school loans. consumers, killing jobs and hurting the ability ever income is reported. The value of your Should this family own a small business or of our businesses to compete internationally. life insurance and pension fund also is count- family farm, we are going to help them pass As with death taxes, my goal is to eventually ed as income. along their livelihood to their children. Cur- eliminate capital gains taxes and the AMT al- Anybody can be rich if you add enough fic- rently, many children cannot afford to continue together; however, this bill is a good start in titious money to his actual income. As a re- their family business or farm because they that direction. sult, anybody in Congress can be a dema- gogue who says that most of the tax cuts are must sell all or part of their family business to Because of the provisions I have just men- for the rich. Let’s go back to square one. The pay the enormous Federal estate tax. To help tioned, this is a bill well worth passing, despite only people whose taxes can be cut are peo- individuals keep farms and small businesses any further improvements or changes that I ple who are paying them. Mostly, that is the in their families, we are raising the estate tax might personally wish to make. While we have middle class. When these middle-class people exemption on family-owned farms and busi- certainly heard such rhetoric in the weeks are renamed ‘‘the rich,’’ of course there will nesses immediately from $600,000 to $1.3 leading up to this day, I find it refreshing that be ‘‘tax cuts for the rich.’’ million. the class warfare rhetoric that once dominated The misrepresentation does not stop there. If this family plans on selling their home or floor debate on tax cuts has at least been The Clinton administration’s insistence that the tax cuts should also apply to ‘‘the work- some investments they have made we are toned down to some degree. I would hope that ing poor’’ is a classic piece of disinformation. going to help them as well. The tax provisions we can finally put behind us once and for all Most very low-income families are not slash capital gains taxes and creates a major the divisive class warfare rhetoric that has res- paying federal income taxes in the first exclusion for the sale of their principal resi- onated all too frequently in this House cham- place. Extending a ‘‘tax cut’’ to them would dence. ber. The politics of envy, the politics of divi- mean nothing if the words were being used Far too many Americans work their entire sion, is simply crass politics that does far honestly. Used politically, however, what lives and struggle to make ends meet as they more harm than good. Following my statement these words mean is that more federal retire. So, we are helping families save for money must be given to them anyway a I have included in the RECORD a copy of an their retirement, purchase a home or pay for handout renamed a tax cut. article by Thomas Sowell which further ex- None of this addresses the larger question college through expanded individual retirement poses the shortcomings of the arguments of whether people making middle-class in- accounts [IRA's]. used by those who engage in the class war- comes today have always made middle-class Millions of seniors depend upon Medicare fare debate. Again, the time has come to end incomes. Many of those who are called rich for their health care. However, medical infla- class warfare demagoguery once and for all. not only are not, they have not even had tion and a growing elderly population has July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6657 threatened the solvency of the Medicare trust middle-class American families. Likewise, it securities firms, insurance companies, insur- fund. With this threat hanging over us, the was Democratic insistence that eliminated un- ance brokers, and finance and credit entities. budget agreement takes immediate and deci- wise House provisions like the indexing of By amending the definition of ``foreign per- sive action to save Medicare while expanding capital gainsÐprovisions that would have in- sonal holding company income,'' section 1175 seniors health coverageÐboth noble and es- creased deficits dramatically in the years after helps each of those types of entities to com- sential actions. Seniors will benefit from new 2002. And Democratic insistence eliminated pete in international markets. services which will cover more preventative the antilabor provisions in the House bill. In Section 1175 is set to expire after 1 year. I screenings and diagnostic tests. Furthermore, short, President Clinton and the Democrats in note, however, that the sunset is a function of seniors will be able to choose from an array Congress made certain that this legislation revenue concerns, not doubts as to its sub- of plans including medical savings accounts contained provisions that will benefit middle- stantive merit. I look forward to working next and private unrationed fee for service plans. class Americans. year with the Chairman of the Ways and When all is said and done, the American The bill contains other important benefits for Means Committee and my committee col- people are the biggest winners today. We are American taxpayers as well. It allows tax- leagues to make this provision permanent. ensuring that they will continue to enjoy a payers to deduct the interest on their student Mr. DAVIS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise strong economy, that we will no longer burden loans. It allows parents to deduct their con- today in strong support of H.R. 2014, the Tax- future generations with our debt, and that in tributions to State-run prepaid college tuition payer Relief Act of 1997. This bill, combined doing so they are going to be able to keep programs like the one run by the Common- with the Balanced Budget Act which we more of their hard-earned income. Today is a wealth of Pennsylvania. It allows most home- passed yesterday, is a major step toward ful- great new beginning for America. owners to avoid paying capital gains on the filling our promise to the American people to Mr. COYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in sale of their homes. In order to help economi- put our Nation's fiscal house in order while support of H.R. 2014, the Taxpayer Relief Act cally distressed communities, the bill contains providing modest tax relief targeted toward the of 1997. It is a pleasure to be able to vote for tax incentives for private parties to clean up middle class. this legislation today. and redevelop brownfields sites, and it in- First, let me make clear that this bill is a First, let me point out that passage of this creases the number of empowerment zones vast improvement to the version of the bill the legislation today has only been made possible and enterprise communities. House passed last month. This conference by the deficit reduction packages of 1990 and No bill is perfect. Budget reconciliation bills agreement ensures that these tax cuts are tar- 1993±bills that together reduced deficits by typically contain scores of provisions, and it geted to hard-working middle-class Americans over $1 trillion. Those were the real budget would be unrealistic to expect anyone to be and will not explode in the outyears. balancing votesÐthey raised taxes and cut satisfied with each and every provision. I still My opposition to the original bill was based spending. It was not easy to pass those bills, have concerns about specific provisions of this partially on the fact that the child credit would but it was absolutely necessary to produce a bill. But I believe that, taken as a whole, this have been denied to millions of Americans healthy economy and promote economic legislation will benefit the Nation. Con- who earn under $30,000. These Americans growth. The upbeat economic conditions that sequently, I intend to vote in support of this are struggling to make ends meet and deserve we are enjoying today are due in no small part legislation, and I urge my colleagues to do so tax relief just like everyone else. Fortunately, to those bills, and the tax breaks provided in as well. after the insistence of both the Democratic this balanced budget package are the fruits of Mr. HOUGHTON. Mr. Speaker, I am very Caucus and the President, the conference the seeds that were sown in 1990 and 1993 pleased that the conference report on H.R. agreement provides these Americans with a by Democratic Congresses. 2014 includes a provision to add an exception child tax credit. As a result of the 1990 and 1993 bills, we to the definition of foreign personal holding Furthermore, I was extremely concerned can provide tax relief today to millions of work- company income which would apply to income that the original version would have exploded ing families in districts like mineÐhard-working derived in or incident to the active conduct by the deficit in the outyears, unraveling all of our families with incomes of $20,000 and $30,000, a controlled foreign corporation of ``a banking, hard work in balancing the budget. While I families that have been struggling with stag- financing, or similar business,'' provided the continue to have concerns over the lack of en- nant incomes to make ends meet and give CFC was predominately engaged in the active forcement included in this package, I believe their children the educational opportunities that conduct of such business. I am also pleased the bill we have before us today is more fis- will allow them to have a better life. This legis- to note that this provision, section 1175, is cally responsible and, if we are vigilant in our lation will help those families to live the Amer- based on H.R. 1783, ``The International Tax efforts to ensure that current estimates trans- ican dream. Simplification for American Competitiveness late into reality, will not only balance the budg- This bill is a substantial improvement over Act,'' of which I was the lead sponsor. et in the near term, but maintain that balance the bill that was passed by the House last The growing interdependence of world fi- for years to come. month. Many of the worst provisions in the nancial markets has highlighted the urgent Undoubtedly, the crowning achievement of House version of this bill have been eliminated need to rationalize U.S. tax rules that under- this tax package is the unprecedented commit- or moderated. This legislation will, for exam- mine the ability of our financial services indus- ment it makes to education. We all recognize ple, provide the full $500 per child family tax tryÐsuch as banks, insurance companies, in- that in order to compete for high-wage jobs in credit to millions of moderate-income house- surance brokers, and securities firmsÐto com- this era of increased global competition, our holds that would not have received it under pete in the international arena. Yet the ability students need more than just a high school di- the House version of this bill. Students attend- of our companies to compete is impeded by ploma. This bill takes a solid step toward ing low cost institutions would receive the full U.S. tax rules that subject financial services reaching the President's goal of making the $1,500 HOPE scholarship tax credit under the income derived from the active conduct of a first 2 years of college more accessible. conference reportÐunlike the House bill, business to antideferral rules that were origi- This bill includes nearly $40 billion of tax where many such students would not have re- nally enacted to reach, and would be more ap- credits for hard-working middle-income Ameri- ceived the full credit. The conference report propriately limited to, passive investment ac- cans to help offset the tremendous costs of also stripped out the antiworker provisions in tivities. Section 1175, like the provision of H.R. higher education. The bill establishes the the House bill that would have imposed bur- 1783 upon which it is based, will remove that HOPE scholarship for the first 2 years of col- densome new responsibilities on labor unions impediment. lege providing a 100-percent credit for the first and allowed companies to classify more em- I readily acknowledge that this battle is not $1,000 of costs for tuition, fees, and books ployees as independent contractors. mine alone, and I gratefully acknowledge the and an additional 50 percent for the next These improvements are the direct results support of many colleagues from both sides of $1,000. The bill also provides a tax credit of the unceasing efforts of President Clinton the aisle. Section 1175 is a result of the efforts worth 20 percent of $5,000 in tuition expenses and the Democrats in Congress to make this of many members of the Ways and Means for the third and fourth years of college. These a better bill. Democratic efforts made the fam- Committee. On May 14, 1997, 23 Ways and credits will expand access to higher education ily tax credit available to millions of moderate Means membersÐa clear majority of the com- for millions of Americans and provide relief for income families. As a result of Democratic mitteeÐwrote to Chairman ARCHER stating: American families struggling to equip their chil- persistence and perseverance, the education The inequitable treatment of the financial dren with the education necessary to compete tax provisions in the bill will help mainstream services industry under current law jeopard- in today's economy. Americans, not just the wealthiest families. In izes the international expansion and com- In addition to these tax credits for college, short, Democrats are responsible for shifting petitiveness of all U.S.-based financial serv- this bill recognizes that learning is a lifelong the benefits of this bill from the wealthy to ices companies, including commercial banks, endeavor and with the continuing changes in H6658 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 the job market, many Americans are going retained in the agreement for Medicare and Children will also benefit from the reduction back to school to enhance their chances for Medicaid, I consider this bill a significant im- in estate taxes included in the tax portion of achievement. This bill extends section 127 of provement. This agreement restructures and the reconciliation agreement. I support this the Tax Code, allowing workers to exclude preserves the Medicare program. It improves provision because it allows small business from their taxable income up to $5,250 of em- the original plan for Medicare and extends the owners and farmers $1.3 million in tax-free as- ployer-provided educational assistance. life of the part A trust fund for at least 10 sets to their heirs. This means family farms These tax provisions, combined with the in- years. The agreement provides $1.5 billion to and family businesses can be passed from crease for Pell grants and the protection of ease the impact of increased Medicare pre- generation to generation without heavy tax funding for Head Start we passed yesterday, miums on low-income seniors. Negotiators burdens. represent a massive reallocation of our limited also agreed to eliminate several controversial For families and retirees, the agreement resources to education, an investment that will provisions from the original bill, including in- lowers the top capital gains tax rate from 28 pay dividends for everyone in our country. creasing the eligibility age from 65 to 67 and percent to 20 percent, and lowers it further to Clearly, this bill, together with the Balanced a copay for home health care. 18 percent for assets held for 5 years after Budget Act, proves that we can both balance Medicare benefits are also expanded to in- 2000. This is important as more and more the budget and invest in our future. clude mammography coverage, prostate can- Americans from all income brackets invest Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to cer screening, bone density screening to iden- their retirement savings in 401(k) plans or support this package of tax cuts because it tify and prevent osteoporosis, and diabetes other stock market investment plans. represents a reasonable compromise on many management care. In addition, the conference In summary, I believe this spending and tax issues and provides relief to millions of hard- agreement expands the types of health plans plan will help American families prosper. As a working Americans. Including targeted estate under Medicare seniors may choose which en- supporter of a Balanced Budget Amendment, tax relief, an expanded exclusion on the sale sures that seniors have the same health care I also believe this agreement will put our Na- of a home, reinstatement of the home office choices that other Americans do. It protects tion firmly on the path to a fiscally sound fu- deduction, and an overall capital gains tax cut, Medicare's future by allowing the kind of ture. A balanced budget by the year 2002 will this package embodies the principles of basic choice and competition that has brought down enable us to focus on protecting and educat- fairness and will help continue the economic health care costs in the private sector. Such ing our children and ensuring the health and growth which is essential to balancing the modernization of Medicare will help ensure its retirement of our Nation's seniors and aging budget. long-term solvency. baby boomers. Sound national fiscal policy will Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to The agreement is also an improvement for also allow our Nation to continue to be com- bring attention to the fact that low-income fam- Medicaid. Under the original plan in the petitive in a growing international marketplace. ilies in search of tuition assistance benefit very House, hospitals in our distinct would have The initiatives included in this agreement will little from this bill. On the other hand, we have faced serious threats to their ability to operate help us reach these goals. provided substantial education tax cuts and efficiently. In fact, at least one rural hospital in Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, when I came to credits for middle-income and higher income the 12th District of Illinois indicated it may this House in January 1995, my single most families. One section of this bill provides a 3- have been forced to close its doors due to the important objective was to obtain real Federal tax relief for working families in Long Island, year extension of a tax exclusion for under- substantial cuts included in the reconciliation and across this great Nation. Today I will vote graduate students who are fortunate enough bill. Many of the hospitals in southern Illinois to reduce America's tax burden by $94 billion to have their employers provide them with are classified as disproportionate share hos- over the next 5 years. Mr. Speaker, $94 billion educational aid. This type of tax break posi- pitals [DSH] meaning they receive compensa- may seem like a large tax reduction, but it tively affects the students who are struggling tion because a majority of their patients are pales in comparison to the $600 billion in tax to get a postsecondary degree and working to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. The Medicare and Medicaid cuts included in the increases that Americans suffered during the pay the bills at the same time. The bill I intro- House version of the budget would have en- first 4 years of the 1990's. Mr. Speaker, the duced in May would have permanently ex- dangered these hospitals. However, the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 is simply a mod- tended this section and permitted both under- agreement provides that no State will lose est step in the right direction. graduate and graduate students to take ad- more than 3.5 percent of its DSH payments. In Three years ago, when I asked the people vantage of this tax exclusion. I still believe it subsequent years the reduction will be less of Brookhaven, Smithtown, Riverhead, is important to include graduate students in than 2 percent. Southold, Shelter Island, East Hampton, and this section because they are far more likely to The conference agreement continues Med- Southampton for the privilege of representing have employers pay for their education than icaid coverage as an entitlement for disabled them in the House of Representatives, I prom- undergraduates. It is also imperative to perma- children who are losing their Supplemental In- ised them I would work to cut taxes. Indeed, nently extend this exclusion because our Na- come benefits as a result of the stricter defini- many Members of this House were elected tion's students who have their tuition paid for tion of disability in the new welfare law. Unlike because of that promise. With this historic, bi- by their employers need the security that they the House bill which made coverage optional partisan agreement to cut taxes for America's will not ever be taxed on their education. It is for States, the conference agreement requires working parents, students, and senior citizens, indeed unfortunate we have not included more States to continue Medicaid coverage for we are keeping our promise to the American education tax breaks to low-income Americans these disabled children. people. in this bill who are in just as much, if not It is a tragedy that 10 million children in this This legislation provides tax relief for more more, need of a tax break as middle- and country are without health coverage. One in than 40 million middle-income taxpayers with upper-income Americans. three children in Illinois goes without any children; cuts capital gains taxes to promote Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, in June, I health insuranceÐthe majority of these chil- economic growth; and helps America's chil- voted against the Republican budget reconcili- dren are from two-income families. This bill dren realize their dreams by making education ation bill in the House because I had several creates a $24 billion program to expand health more affordable. These tax cuts for America's concerns about how the legislation would neg- insurance coverage for children. Under this ini- working families were made possible because atively impact many American citizens. I was tiative 5 million more children will have access the Balanced Budget Act restrains Federal especially concerned about the impact on chil- to health care. spending by about $1 trillion over the next 10 dren, seniors, the poor and hard-working The agreement also provides a $500-a-child years. This bipartisan tax cut package is a Americans who have difficulty making ends nonrefundable tax credit for each child under good start in that direction, reducing the tax meet each month or who worry about health age 17. Single parents with incomes up to burden on working families. care for their families. The House-passed bill $75,000 and couples with incomes up to Mr. Speaker, the parents of 102,096 chil- proposed to cut Medicare by $115 billion and $110,000 would be eligible for this tax credit. dren in my district in eastern Long Island will Medicaid by nearly $14 billion over 5 years. I Children and families will also have more save a total of $46,050,924 thanks to this leg- could not in good conscience support such educational opportunities under this agree- islation. Parents earning up to $110,000 will cuts knowing that the burden would fall dis- ment as students could receive a tax credit feel the benefit of this bill almost immediately. proportionately on those least able to afford it. worth 100 percent of the first $1,000 of their This agreement includes a child tax credit that However, I voted for the budget reconcili- college tuition costs, and a credit worth 50 will reduce their total tax bill by $400 for each ation conference report because I believe it percent of the second $1,000 of tuition. In the of their children under 17 in 1998, increasing represents a far more fair and rational plan to third and fourth years of college, the student to $500 per child in 1999. To make higher balance our Federal budget by the year 2002. would receive a tax credit worth 20 percent of education more affordable for America's fami- While I am not pleased with the level of cuts $5,000 of tuition expenses. lies, this legislation creates a $1,500 HOPE July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6659 Scholarship for all students who attend the vides major tax cuts to middle-income Ameri- tract had become law. Tax relief for families first 2 years of a college or other postsecond- cans, just as we have always said it would. It was the crown jewel of the Contract With ary institution. Also included is a 20-percent is a balanced, equitable measure that will give America. It didn't happen until this week. But tuition tax credit for college juniors, seniors, direct, immediate tax relief to low-middle and it was well worth the wait. graduate students, and all Americans who middle-income Americans. Mr. BALLENGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in take college classes to enhance their skills This Member is especially pleased that H.R. support of the conference report onthe Tax- and advance their careers. 2014 includes the capital gains provisions in a payer Relief Act which will reduce significantly With the newly created Education Savings balanced tax relief package that will benefit the Federal tax burden for the first time in 16 Accounts [ESA's], parents can save for their low-middle and middle-income American fami- years. Although the balanced budget agree- children's education by making $500 tax-free lies. Also, the $500-per-child tax credit, a vari- ment promised net tax relief of $85 billion, the annual contributions to an ESA; increasing to ety of education-related benefits, and signifi- final compromise bill provides for $94 billion in $1,000 in 2000. Interest on the ESA's will ac- cant increase in inheritance or ``death'' tax ex- net relief over 5 years and more than $260 bil- cumulate tax-free, and funds may be with- emptions mean that low- and middle-income lion over 10 years. I applaud Ways and Means drawn for any K±12, undergraduate, post-sec- families are direct beneficiaries of the legisla- Chairman BILL ARCHER and ranking member ondary vocational, or graduate education ex- tion before us. Furthermore, the tax relief CHARLIE RANGEL for their leadership and hard pense. Finally, there is a student loan interest package provides for expanded IRA's which work, and the heavy lifting of the entire com- deduction for up to $2,500 per year of interest remove some of the barriers imposed by the mittee's staff, I making the tax package a re- on higher education loans. Tax Code to private savings, thus encouraging ality. Capital gains tax relief is an important vic- financial planning for education and first-time It is important to remember that there vir- tory for many Long Island homeowners. The home purchases. tually has been no tax relief since 1981, when budget agreement provides married couples This Member would also like to thank his President Ronald Reagan lived up to his cam- with a $500,000 capital gains exemption when colleagues who assisted in ensuring that ef- paign promise and delivered a tax cut meas- they sell their homes, with single-filers eligible forts to repeal the ethanol tax exemption have ure that led us to one of the biggest economic for a $250,000 exemption. Many Long Island been defeated. We have stopped the assault expansions in our history. In contrast, just 4 homeowners have seen inflation increase the on ethanol, and we have kept our promise to years ago, President Clinton gave us the larg- value of their homes over the years. This farmers and ethanol producers. est tax increase ever, reversing the progress much-needed increase in the exemption for Finally, Mr. Chairman, this Member's only former President Reagan worked so hard to home sales will protect the value of the most regret is that the Taxpayer Relief Act does not deliver. After assuming control of the House important increase that most Long Islanders include prospective indexing of capital gains and Senate in 1995, the Republican-led Con- will ever make. The budget deal also provides for inflation. This provision would have allowed gress rolled up its sleeves and began the dif- help for Americans just starting out, by allow- middle-income Americans in the future to in- ficult work of bringing real tax relief to the ing them to make penalty-free withdrawals vest with confidence that inflation would not American people. I like to think of it as return- from their Individual Retirement Accounts devour the return on their investments. How- ing to the taxpayers their own hard-earned [IRA's] to purchase their first home. ever, prospective indexing of capital gains dollars. Mr. Chairman, as a former Regional Director could be accomplished in subsequent legisla- As has been reported widely, the major ben- of the Small Business Administration, I can tion and this Member will support such efforts. efits of this tax package will go to families with appreciate the benefits this legislation contains Mr. Speaker, this Member supports the Tax- children. Although it has been a number of for the more than 82,000 small businesses on payer Relief Act and urges his colleagues to years since my wife and I had children in our Long Island. An immediate $1.3 million estate join him in voting ``yes.'' home, I see through the experiences of my tax exclusion is provided for the heirs of fam- Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, we surely daughters the financial challengers of today's ily-owned small businesses and farms; and have come a long way. After 21¤2 years, the young families. I am pleased that the con- the general inheritance tax exclusion is gradu- Republican Congress and the Democratic ad- ference report on the Taxpayer Relief Act ally raised from $600,000 to $1 million over 10 ministration have finally agreed on a plan to gives parents a $500-per-child tax credit be- years. On top of the increased exclusion from balance the budget and provide for America's ginning in 1998. Under this provision, parents inheritance taxes and capital gains tax relief, future. But it was neither the Democrats nor with children under the age of 17 will be eligi- self-employed small business owners will be the Republicans who emerged the victors in ble for this benefit, providing help to 11 million able to deduct 100 percent of their health in- the budget battle. It was the American people. more children than what the President wanted surance costs, where they were able to deduct Hard-working, tax-paying citizens have finally since his tax package only provided this bene- only 40 percent in the past. We also expanded won a major victory. Tax relief has become a fit to parents with children 12 years old and the income tax deduction for home offices. reality because the American people have under. The second largest benefit to most According to the Congressional Budget Of- spoken loudly and we have listened. families will be the tax-free education savings fice, three-quarters of American families own Last year, both Republicans and the Presi- accounts which will help them with college or assets such as stocks, bonds, homes, real es- dent made campaign promises which included other post-secondary education for their chil- tate, and businesses that realize capital gains. tax relief for working Americans and a bal- dren. Last year, nearly two-thirds of all tax returns anced budget for America's future. After 21¤2 The conference report on the Taxpayer Re- that reported capital gains were filed by tax- years, we can be proud to say that together lief Act also reduces the capital gains tax rate payers with incomes less than $50,000 a year. we have fulfilled our promises to the people. from 18 percent to 20 percent for those with The agreement provides overall capital gains A balanced budget which includes significant incomes above $41,500 per year and from 15 tax relief by reducing the top rate from 28 per- tax relief is in hand. This is the first balanced percent to 10 percent for those earning below cent to 20 percent, with the rate dropping to budget in a generation and the first tax relief that amount. This measure would benefit 10 percent for couples with taxable incomes in 16 years. three-quarters of American families who own under $41,200. After the year 2000, investors Mr. Speaker, today, we can all rest easy homes, property, or other capital goods. who hold their assets for at least 5 years, will knowing that the President and the Congress Equally important, it would greatly benefit see their rate drop to 18 percent. were able to work together to provide a bright- those people who have worked hard and in- Mr. Speaker, I would prefer that these tax er future for all Americans. Partisan politics vested in retirement accounts because their cuts were all delivered to the people imme- were pushed aside; the people emerged as money now will be taxed at a lower rate. diately, rather than being phased in. We can the big winners. I also am pleased by the conference re- celebrate today, but tomorrow we cannot rest. The specifics of our budget agreement will port's many contributions to the owners and Mr. Speaker, I support this step in the right di- put more money in your pockets. Reductions employees of America's small businesses. As rection, but we still have alot of work ahead of in the capital gains tax, a child tax credit, edu- one who many years ago started a small busi- us. cational tax credits, and a decrease in the es- ness, I can attest to the hard work, sacrifice, Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, this Member tate tax rate will help all Americans live out the and risks involved in earning a living this way is extremely pleased with the recently-agreed- American dream. In fact, our plan will refund and creating jobs for others in the community. to historic budget agreement which provides to you one-third of the largest peacetime tax Today, small business men and women face the first Federal tax relief in 16 years in a bal- hike everÐthe President's 1993 tax increase. more regulatory challenges that I did when I anced and fair manner. The taxpayer Relief Mr. Speaker, by the end of the 104th Con- started out. As such, I believe it is all the more Act, which we are considering today, is part of gress, the scorecard on the Contract With important to minimize the negative effect of a very important budget agreement that pro- America was impressive: two-thirds of the con- the Tax Code on this engine of the economy H6660 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 of my district and the entire country. I wish to compromise by both sides. I am pleased that to donate computers and technology to K±12 acknowledge the work of Small Business my Republican colleagues recognized the education. I want to address why this is so im- Chairman JIM TALENT in promoting the impor- need to include some tax relief for middle- portant to our children and our future. tant small business tax relief which was advo- class Americans in the final version of the tax By the year 2000, some 60 percent of U.S. cated by the delegates to the most recent plan. However, I am deeply concerned that jobs will require technical skills, twice as many White House Conference on Small Business. this may still explode the deficit in the out as today. But, as the GAO has reported, our I joined in signing Chairman TALENT's letter to years. classrooms lack the technology our children the conferees in support of: the home office The $500-per-child tax credit will be avail- need to succeed. This measure will spur pri- deduction; accelerated phase-in to 100 per- able to low-income families and the education vate enterprise to get involved with local cent of the health insurance deduction for the tax breaks will be fully implemented. We, as schools, and to provide them a new source of self-employed; and estate, capital gains and Democrats, fought hard to ensure all families up-to-date computers and technology. It en- alternative minimum tax [AMT] relief for small will receive some benefit from this tax pack- sures that companies have an incentive to do- businesses. Many of my constituents also will age. Low-income American families deserve nate to schools, to private foundations in- welcome the additional delay in penalties for the $500-per-child tax credit just as much as volved in education, and to organizations that electronic filing under the electronic Federal a family whose earnings exceed $110,000. refurbish computers for schools so that they tax payment system. The HOPE scholarship and the student loan are ready for educational uses. Finally, I am especially grateful for the ways interest deduction will make higher education Just as computers and technology have in which this tax package clarifies certain of more affordable and accessible for all Ameri- transformed private enterprise, they can trans- the important pension reforms in last year's cans. form our schools and the education of our chil- Small Business Job Protection Act. In particu- I am still troubled by the distribution of the dren. With the click of a mouse, a child can go lar, I was supportive of provisions in the tax cuts. The capital gains reductions will anywhere in the world. With computer pro- House and Senate versions of this measure allow CEO's to cash in their stock options and ficiency, a young person can transform a wide which were needed to enable subchapter S pay less in taxes than a family earning variety of information into a multimedia pres- corporations to establish employee stock own- $30,000. It is the unfortunate nature of com- entation. With the technology available ership plans [ESOP's], giving the employees promise that we must cede these generous todayÐto say nothing of the technology avail- of these small businesses another retirement capital gains tax breaks to the Republicans to able tomorrowÐa student can compose option. As a long-time cheerleader for provide some relief for hard working low-in- music, write and illustrate a short story, study ESOP's, I am enthusiastic over these positive come Americans. images of distant worlds, and help dream big- steps to boost employee ownership which We should defer the self-congratulations ger dreams and build a better world for the have been taken by the 105th Congress. until such time as the budget is actually in bal- next generation of Americans. Clearly, the Taxpayer Relief Act for 1997 is ance. The conference agreement is imperfect I am optimistic that the 21st Century Class- not a ploy to give a tax break to the rich, as and there is a definite possibility that it will de- rooms Act can help transform American edu- some of my colleagues would have us believe. stroy the Democrats work on deficit reduction cation. It will help prepare our young people It is a long overdue effort to ease the ever which began with the 1993 budget agreement. for tomorrow. And when this House votes for growing tax burden that falls primarily on mid- Nevertheless, I will not stand in the way of the this tax relief today, it will help bring new op- dle class taxpayers, robbing these families of good to reach the perfect. Insomuch as hard portunity to the classrooms of America's their freedom. While I view this measure as a working lower-income American families stand young people. great start, I will continue to work with my col- to benefit through the $500-per-child tax credit We are indebted to the men and women leagues to deliver more tax relief and a leaner and the $31 billion in education tax cuts, this who assembled this package of tax relief for and more responsive Federal Government in tax package is good. the American people, including Speaker GING- the future. Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, we are RICH and the Republican House leadership, Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support today proudly returning to Americans more of Chairmen ARCHER and KASICH and their staffs. of the conference report to H.R. 2014, the their hard earned money. I am honored to But we are most indebted to the Americans Taxpayers Relief Act. This measure provides help provide the people of San Diego County who pay the way of this Government. For a tax reduction for our Nation's working fami- some long-overdue tax relief, through my en- them, we are providing a tax cut. lies, including a $500-per-child tax credit, thusiastic vote for H.R. 2014. Mr. DOYLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support $1,500 education tax credit, and a reduction in For families with children, we provide relief of the conference report on the Taxpayer Re- the capital gains tax. through a $400-per-child tax credit next year, lief Act, and I commend the conferees for I commend my friend and colleague the and $500 per child in the following years, and making substantial improvements to H.R. gentleman from Texas, the distinguished relief to save for college and education and a 2014, the original bill that was considered by chairman of our Ways and Means Committee, better future. the House. Mr. ARCHER as well as our leadership for pro- For homeowners, we exempt the sale of I was unable to support H.R. 2014 because ducing this bipartisan tax measure. couples' homes up to $500,000 from the cap- it did not provide ample benefits for the middle I would like to highlight a provision of the bill ital gains tax. This will help spur home sales, class and it would have exploded the deficit in which will benefit our Nation's police officers and simplify recordkeeping for thousands of the outyears. But this conference report is and firefighters. Title XV, section 1527 in- San Diego County homeowners. truly a fiscally and socially responsible tax cut cludes a measure, H.R. 1795, which I intro- And for families who save and invest, we plan. Its costs are controlled in the coming duced earlier this session to rescind the dollar have expanded the availability of IRA's and years because the capital gains indexing has limitation on police and firefighter benefit slashed the capital gains tax. Together, these been stripped, and the Individual Retirement plansÐallowing these employees to collect the initiatives spur more savings and more eco- Account benefits have been targeted to mid- money that they have rightfully earned by con- nomic growth. dle-class savers. It is more equitable than tributing to their pension fund. Together with the bill we passed yesterday, H.R. 2014, as it extends the child tax credit to Currently, under section 415 of the Tax saving Medicare and controlling Government more families earning under $30,000 a year, Code, police officers and firefighters are not spending, we are balancing the budget after protects the employment status of workers, eligible to collect the funds that they have years of debts and deficits. What a difference and provides more help to families working to earned and instead are required to retire with it has made for America to have a fiscally re- pay for their kids' education. benefits that force officers to work past their sponsible Republican Congress. Back in 1993, I am particularly pleased that this tax bill general retirement age in order to afford the President Clinton enacted the largest tax in- contains brownfields tax incentives and an ex- high cost of living on the East Coast and other crease in American history. This Republican pansion of the Empowerment Zone program. large metropolitan and suburban areas Congress has brought sense to the Federal In addition, I am grateful to the bipartisan throughout the country. budget by restoring respect for the budgets of group of over 60 Members of the House who I urge my colleagues to support this bill. the families and businesses that make Amer- joined me in urging the conferees to adopt Let's be fair to middle American working fami- ica strong and free. And America wins. these initiatives. Although these provisions lies, and to those, who day in and day out, As I did when this measure passed the were not in the House or Senate tax bill, I ap- place their lives on the line for our protection. House in June, I want to draw attention to one plaud the conferees and the administration for Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I intend to vote particular provision of this package: the 21st agreeing to include them. Both the brownfields in favor of H.R. 2014 albeit with some reserva- Century Classrooms Act. This provision pro- incentive and the Empowerment Zone expan- tions. This legislation is the product of great vides expanded tax incentives for companies sion will help to spur economic growth and July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6661 spark the redevelopment of distressed com- $500-per-child tax credit; give the economy a week. She explained how she desperately munities across the country. boost through capital gains tax reductions; needs the child tax credit to help pay for food, Washington has been home to partisan offer tax credits and other means to help clothing, and health insurance for her four sniping for decades, and in recent years it has Americans meet the costs of higher education kids. With a $400 child tax credit in the first been consumed in a political war of attrition. In for themselves and their children; expand year, she'll be able to write off $1,600 from the the winter of 1995/1996, when the Govern- home office deductions; increase contribution family tax bill. In the second year, the kid ment was shut down and it felt like animosity limits for Individual Retirement Accounts; and credit bumps up to $500 per child which and distrust were the only things that the polit- establish new IRA's that Americans can use to means her family can then write off a whop- ical parties had in common, it seemed unthink- save more for retirement, education costs, ping $2,000 from their tax bill. Now that's able that we could come up with a budget that medical expenses, or the purchase of a first much-needed and much-deserved tax relief as would be supported by the President and home. It also will provide long awaited death the conservative Congress continues to nearly three quarters of Congress. But this tax relief, which will help preserve family busi- change Washington. week we have. nesses and farms. Farmers and small businesses also will ben- No one will find this to be a perfect agree- Mr. Speaker, this bipartisan bill is the prod- efit from this balanced budget. By reducing the ment, and everyone will agree that there are uct of much work on the part of our leader- death tax and providing capital gains relief, various changes which we will need to work ship, the chairman and members of the House we'll end triple taxation, expand economic op- for later. For example, I would like to revisit Ways and Means Committee, their counter- portunities, and bring new jobs and stable some of the education provisions, notably the parts in the Senate, and the White House, prosperity to working folks around the country. tax increase on TIAA±CREFF pensioners and which came to this effort belatedly but in the Finally, I simply want to point out how far the failure to extend employer provided edu- end accepted that the needs of the American we've come in a few short years. Since Re- cation assistance to graduate students. people were paramount. First and foremost, publicans took the majority in 1994, we've Despite some flaws, I am proud of this however, I believe it springs from the renewed been able to cut Federal spending by $100 bil- budget reconciliation legislation. This is the commitment to fiscal responsibility and relief lion in 3 short years. We've also reformed the most significant accomplishment we have for the overburdened American taxpayer that Nation's welfare system by giving a handup as made since I came to Congress almost 3 the Republican majority has championed. I am opposed to a handout to our neediest citizens. years ago. In fact, it is the most significant ac- proud to be a part of the Congress that has We've also encouraged personal responsibility complishment that Congress has made since finally brought about this outcome, and urge on the able-bodied by placing time limitations most of the Members of this body have served my colleagues to support this historic legisla- and work requirements on any future benefits. Now, we take another giant leap for smarter here. However, it is crucial that we all recog- tion. nize that this is not the time for us to sit back Mr. HASTERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in government and conservative, common sense solutions. Instead of talking about balancing and congratulate ourselves. We have shown support of this landmark piece of legislation to the budget, saving Medicare, and providing what can be accomplished when we recognize reduce the taxes of hard-working Americans. tax relief, we've turned the discussion into how that our shared interests outweigh our political Just as yesterday, I was proud to vote for a to do it. This is a significant development and differences. Now we must push ahead with balanced budget and a program to save Medi- conservative achievement, but there's still a the momentum we have built with this budget care, today we continue to fulfill our promise long way to go. We must continue to ensure agreement. There are many great challenges to the American people. the long-term solvency of Medicare and Social ahead of us, and we are in a perfect position Congressional Republicans have kept their Security. We must ensure continued tax relief to work in a bipartisan manner to overcome word. For the first time in a generation, the for America's families and employers. We them. Congress has passed and will have signed must continue to ensure that the budget stays I urge everyone to look at this not as the into law a balanced Federal budget. More im- balanced and that we begin to pay off our end of the game, but as the beginning. I look portant, this historic agreement extends well enormous national debt. I look forward to con- forward to continuing to work with colleagues beyond the Washington beltway; it truly will tinuing my commitment to get the job done benefit our Nation's children, working families, on both sides of the aisle, and I invite all right as I was elected to do because this is the and senior citizens. It provides middle-class Members to make this only the first of many people's agenda and much work remains. bipartisan achievements. tax relief and saves Medicare while giving Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the Mr. SMITH of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the tax seniors choice. The American people are the majority leader of the House, the gen- bill before the House, the first in 16 years to real winners in this budget accord. tleman from Texas [Mr. ARMEY]. cut taxes, is one small step for America's fam- We've saved Medicare through the early Mr. ARMEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank ilies, one historic leap for freedom. part of the 21st Century. As one of the budget the gentleman for yielding me this It reverses the Nation's direction and points negotiators on Medicare, I'm particularly time. us down a path toward restoring individual re- pleased that we've been able to preserve the Let me begin by paying my com- sponsibility and accountability. health care system relied upon by nearly 40 pliments to all the Members of the Can there remain any doubt that individual million older Americans. We do so without House, particularly those on the Com- citizens and their families are far more capa- raising the retirement age or cutting benefits. mittee on Ways and Means that worked ble of making effective decisions for them- Instead, our plan increased services and ben- so long and hard on this bill. Let me selves than can a distant bureaucracy? efits so seniors can choose the best health appreciate what they have done. Freedom begins with us, with each individ- care plan to fit their own personal needs. No Mr. Speaker, this is a day when this ual citizen, each family. more one-size-fits-all Washington approach. Congress has an opportunity to stand On behalf of the people who have sent us And, this is just one of the positive changes in up and say, ‘‘Mr. and Mrs. America, we here, we today reclaim their right to decide, to this budget agreement. know who you are, we understand your control more of their lives, to direct more of We've following through on our commitment goodness and we respect your decency. their children's development and their own fu- of tax relief for hard-working Americans. Not And, Mr. and Mrs. America, we know tures. sine 1981 has the Congress passed and the who we are. We are not the ones who Today we celebrate another step on what President signed into law tax relief for working govern you but, instead, we are those remains a long, historic journey for mankind. families. And, why not? Families can decide who represent you. In short, Mr. and Mrs. FOWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong how to spend their money better than Uncle Mrs. America, we are you. It is our job support of the Taxpayer Relief Act. Sam. By standing up to the tax man, we're to know who you are, to understand When I first ran for Congress 41¤2 years ago, standing up for hard-working American fami- your hopes and dreams, to share with the goals of providing long overdue relief to lies. you your hopes for this great Nation, the American taxpayer and balancing the Fed- Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take a few moments and to care with you your hopes for eral budget were my paramount priorities. It to point out the particular features of this com- your children.’’ gives me great satisfaction to know that, with prehensive tax relief package which will help It is our job to appreciate all that the action this Congress is taking this week, all folks get ahead in their pursuit of the Amer- this great Nation does to not only we are accomplishing these goals. ican dream. build itself into a great Nation but to With passage of the bill before us today, for Families will benefit through the child tax support a great government that is de- the first time in 16 years the American people creditÐthe cornerstone of our tax relief pack- termined to act on behalf of these will be getting the tax relief that they deserve. age. This helps young folks like the working great people. And today we do that This legislation will provide families with a mother in Dixon who called my office this with this bill. H6662 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 We start off by saying to all the A call of the House was ordered. Ney Ros-Lehtinen Stenholm Northup Rothman Stokes working men and women of this coun- The call was taken by electronic de- Norwood Roukema Strickland try, ‘‘We understand it is your money. vice, and the following Members re- Nussle Roybal-Allard Stump You let us use your money on your be- sponded to their names: Oberstar Royce Stupak half. We hope that we do with your Obey Rush Sununu [Roll No. 349] Olver Ryun Talent money things that you understand Ortiz Sabo Tanner must need be done and should be done, Abercrombie Deutsch Jenkins Oxley Salmon Tauscher as a reflection of your compassion, Ackerman Diaz-Balart John Packard Sanchez Tauzin Aderholt Dickey Johnson (CT) your generosity, your sharing and your Pallone Sanders Taylor (MS) Allen Dicks Johnson (WI) Pappas Sandlin Taylor (NC) caring for your neighbors and for the Andrews Dingell Johnson, E. B. Parker Sanford Thomas greatness of your Nation.’’ Archer Dixon Jones Pascrell Sawyer Thompson And we have done these things. But Armey Doggett Kanjorski Pastor Saxton Thornberry Bachus Dooley Kaptur now we find ourselves at a time where Paul Scarborough Thune Baesler Doolittle Kasich Paxon Schaefer, Dan Thurman we can say it is time to let the Amer- Baker Doyle Kelly Payne Schaffer, Bob Tiahrt ican people keep more of their money Baldacci Dreier Kennedy (MA) Pease Schumer Torres Barcia Duncan Kennedy (RI) Pelosi Scott Towns and for us to take less of it. Barr Dunn Kennelly It is time for Mr. and Mrs. America, Peterson (MN) Sensenbrenner Traficant Barrett (NE) Edwards Kildee Peterson (PA) Serrano Turner as they struggle with the needs of their Barrett (WI) Ehlers Kilpatrick Petri Sessions Upton family which they desire and hope and Bartlett Ehrlich Kim Pickering Shadegg Velazquez must put first, that they would have a Barton Emerson Kind (WI) Pickett Shaw Vento Bass Engel King (NY) $500-per-child tax credit so that they Pitts Shays Visclosky Bateman English Kingston Pombo Sherman Walsh can do the things for their children Becerra Ensign Kleczka Porter Shimkus Wamp that they know must be done, whether Bentsen Eshoo Klink Portman Sisisky Waters it is buying the diapers; whether it is, Bereuter Etheridge Klug Poshard Skaggs Watkins Berry Evans Knollenberg Price (NC) Skeen Watt (NC) in fact, paying for some kindergarten, Bilbray Everett Kolbe Pryce (OH) Skelton Watts (OK) some preschooling; whether it is that Bilirakis Ewing Kucinich Quinn Slaughter Weldon (FL) day when they are 13 and the Depart- Bishop Farr LaFalce Radanovich Smith (MI) Weldon (PA) Blagojevich Fattah LaHood ment of Agriculture says the cost goes Rahall Smith (NJ) Weller Bliley Fazio Lampson Ramstad Smith (OR) Wexler up by $1,000; when they take them for Blumenauer Filner Lantos Rangel Smith (TX) Weygand their braces. Whatever they decide Blunt Flake Largent Redmond Smith, Adam White they must do with their money, they Boehlert Foley Latham Regula Smith, Linda Whitfield Boehner Forbes LaTourette should have $500 more back for them- Reyes Snowbarger Wicker Bonilla Ford Lazio Riley Snyder Wise selves and their children. Bonior Fowler Leach Rivers Solomon Wolf It is time that we recognize that they Bono Fox Levin Rodriguez Souder Woolsey truly do want to save for and provide Borski Franks (NJ) Lewis (CA) Roemer Spence Wynn Boswell Frelinghuysen Lewis (GA) for their own children’s education, and Rogan Spratt Yates Boucher Frost Lewis (KY) Rogers Stabenow Young (FL) they should be rewarded and encour- Boyd Furse Linder Rohrabacher Stearns aged in the effort that they make with Brady Gallegly Lipinski Brown (CA) Ganske Livingston b 1519 the expansion of IRAs. It is time that Brown (FL) Gejdenson LoBiondo we understand that their dream is in Brown (OH) Gephardt Lofgren The SPEAKER. On this rollcall, 414 fact to own their own house, and they Bryant Gibbons Lowey Members have recorded their presence should be facilitated in that with this Bunning Gilchrest Lucas by electronic device, a quorum. Burton Gillmor Luther tax law. Buyer Gilman Maloney (CT) Under the rule, further proceedings More importantly, their dream is the Callahan Goode Maloney (NY) under the call are dispensed with Calvert Goodlatte Manton day when their youngsters come home f and say, ‘‘Mom, Dad, I got the job, and Camp Goodling Manzullo Campbell Gordon Markey I am going to have my own house and Canady Goss Martinez CONFERENCE REPORT ON H.R. 2014, I will have my own life.’’ Cannon Graham Mascara TAXPAYER RELIEF ACT OF 1997 And it is time, then, that we realize Capps Granger Matsui Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield they need an economy with the vital- Cardin Green McCarthy (MO) Carson Greenwood McCarthy (NY) myself the balance of my time. ity, the generosity, the creativity and Castle Gutierrez McCollum Mr. Speaker, first let me thank you the energy to give their children a Chabot Gutknecht McCrery for interceding in the conference to chance to work out, in their own lives, Chambliss Hall (OH) McDade make certain that a provision was in- their hopes and dreams in accordance Chenoweth Hall (TX) McDermott Christensen Hamilton McGovern serted that allows kids who dream with the training, the education that Clay Hansen McHale about college to get there. The Presi- we have been so generously giving Clayton Harman McHugh them. Clement Hastings (FL) McInnis dent’s proposal finally was given to We pass today a tax bill that says to Clyburn Hastings (WA) McIntosh him in an approved way by the House Coble Hayworth McIntyre of Representatives. While all of us ap- the men and women of this country Coburn Hefley McKeon who work hard, who play by the rules, Collins Hefner McKinney preciate how important education is at ‘‘It is your money. You keep more of it, Combest Herger McNulty the higher level, some of us would not you know better what to do with it,’’ Condit Hill Meehan have been able to get to college if it Conyers Hilleary Meek was not that we had the GI bill to get and we honor and respect that. Cook Hilliard Menendez This is a bill that we must vote ‘‘yes’’ Cooksey Hinchey Metcalf to high school first, and because of the for. We must take pride in our willing- Costello Hinojosa Mica cooperation of the gentleman from Cox Hobson Millender- Texas [Mr. ARCHER] and the Speaker ness to do that. To vote any other vote Coyne Hoekstra McDonald than ‘‘yes’’ is to say to the men and Cramer Holden Miller (CA) and the President, we do have that women of this country, ‘‘We do not Crane Hooley Miller (FL) there. know you, we do not appreciate you, Crapo Horn Minge Let me say this, that being biparti- Cubin Hostettler Mink san in my opinion really does not mean we do not respect you.’’ And nobody Cummings Houghton Moakley given the privilege to represent the Cunningham Hoyer Molinari that we have given up the principles of good people of this Nation, in good con- Danner Hulshof Mollohan our party. It does mean that it was this Davis (FL) Hunter Moran (KS) President that decided that the Amer- science, can vote ‘‘no’’ and make that Davis (IL) Hutchinson Moran (VA) statement. Davis (VA) Hyde Morella ican people in the middle-income group f Deal Inglis Murtha was entitled to a tax cut. It means that DeFazio Istook Myrick this President thought the people of CALL OF THE HOUSE DeGette Jackson (IL) Nadler the United States of America should Delahunt Jackson-Lee Neal Mr. ARMEY. Mr. Speaker, I move a DeLauro (TX) Nethercutt keep up their education and their tech- call of the House. Dellums Jefferson Neumann nology in order to be a part of this July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6663 growing international trade which we good and we do not mind that at all, brantly against this bill, and it is their have been a leader in. It was this Presi- except you are not going to do it at the right because the rights of the minor- dent who thought that as we have cut expense of hard-working people that ity are always accorded in the United back in the budget, it was the working have got kids that pay taxes every day. States of America. But for those who people that he wanted to give some And there is one thing we are going to are in the mainstream majority, we type of credit for their children, that do, is that when people get up every can all revel at what we are about to the ever increasing cost of living was morning, take care of their kids, get do for the American people. there and it had not been reflected in out there and work, and just because I could cite the differences, the the tax cut. they are in lower income brackets and things that I wanted in the bill, the When we leave here, I know that just because we want to give everybody things that perphaps got in here that I some of you would say, well, the whole a hand in meeting their responsibility, thought were not good policy, but this idea started with Ronald Reagan and we are not going to call them any is not the day for that. This is a day for even though we voted against the 1993 longer welfare recipients because you coming together. budget, we are in this condition today are with us. On June 9, when I announced this tax that we are able to give it because the When we go back home, we are able plan to the public, I said that the economy is robust and Ronald did it. to say as a Congress that we did not de- American people wanted a Democrat Let me tell you, from the bottom of my termine employer-employee relation- President and a Republican Congress to heart, do and say what makes you feel ships the way employers would want it. work together on behalf of our Nation, good. We are not going to be the people that and today I say to the American peo- Because when you think about it, says that a boss can determine that his ple, ‘‘We heard you, we did it, and this some of us truly believe that we are payroll taxes are too high, that he does bill is a product of that effort.’’ here today because the President had a not want to pay Social Security, that It is an excellent agreement. It pro- vides tax relief to the American people veto and you want a bill to take home. he or she does not want to pay for throughout their lives from the child- We are here today because some of us health care, that they do not deter- hood years to the education years, really did not think that we should mine who is an independent contractor. from the savings years to the retire- have a tax cut at all. Some of us were We have a law on the books to deter- ment years; yes, and even provides tax thinking about rebuilding our cities. mine it. But to broaden it so that those relief at death. It is a victory for all Some of us were thinking about having people who do not want the burden of Americans, who believe that Washing- an educational system that would be being employers and taking care of the ton should change its ways so the superior to any country in the world. responsibility of their employees, no, American people will not have to Some of us were really thinking that independent contracts are out, and we we should have jobs so that anybody change theirs. It says Congress will no all feel better for it because it was a longer solve problems by raising taxes, who wants to work could participate in give-and-take on our principles. rebuilding America so that we never that instead we solve problems by re- b would be in the position we were in be- 1530 storing hope, power and opportunity to fore. But when our President speaks We know, we know that whenever we the people who earn and pay those and he calls for bipartisanship, maybe want someone to write a piece of hon- taxes. Over 40 million children will benefit we do not understand it, but the Amer- est literature, to give us a poll or to from the $500 child credit. Families ican people understood it, that they give us a graph, that the one who pays will be able to have more money to are sick and tired of listening to our for that poll and graph that they will spend or to save, as they see fit, at differences and they wanted economic get what they want. I just never their discretion. It is their money, they relief. thought the Republicans could be so And so our leadership decided, on creative with their distribution tables. made it, and they should be able to both sides, ‘‘Let’s go for our principles My God, when I looked at that, I said keep it. The education relief tells young peo- and make certain we come out with a ‘‘How could they even make it up?’’ ple that education is not only the right bill that everyone can live with.’’ It is But see, if we forget the last 5 years thing to do, but it is going to be more absolutely amazing to see the number and just deal with their first years, it affordable from here on. The capital of Democrats that find the final work- is amazing. gains and the individual retirement ac- Capital gains cuts makes money. But sheet something that they cannot live count are all incentives to send Ameri- with. Thank God most all of them are stop there because when we get into cans a message: in districts that are secure. But the the next 5 years, all of America are los- ‘‘Work hard, save, and you will be most important thing is that what ers. able to keep more of the fruits of your they are trying to say is that if we So what we have to do is this, is to be labor.’’ were in the majority, we would be more prepared to say to our constituents the Just because taxpayers invest money than happy than we are today. But we President of the United States has spo- wisely does not mean that Uncle Sam can count, and you are in the majority, ken. He has demanded, and the Amer- has a hunting license to take it away and we have to yield to some of your ican people have supported him in say- from them. priorities. But because there was prin- ing that they want a tax cut, they And finally the death tax, the cruel- ciple involved, we did not just say no want to end the fighting and they want est tax of all. No one should have to to you. We went to work and said, ‘‘If bipartisanship. visit the IRS and the undertaker on we’re going to do it, let’s do it in the We have agreed that we have done it. the same day. It is wrong for family way that people can go home with A lot of people swallowed hard on their farms and small businesses to be bro- pride and dignity’’ and say that we side; I regret that they were not given ken up just because widows and widow- reached an agreement that we would an opportunity to express it, but a lot ers and children cannot afford the take care of everybody that we think is of people on our side had problems, and money to pay the Federal taxes. The deserving. they were able to express it. death tax should be repealed, and this I do not know your districts as well Let us all say it is not a Republican is the beginning of that effort. as I know my own. But really people do victory, it is not a Democratic victory, But, Mr. Speaker, on this bill we do not run inside my clubhouse asking, but the people of the United States, much more. We make the Orphan Drug How did you do on indexing? And, for under the leadership of the President of Tax Credit permanent so that people God’s sake, did you reduce capital the United States, with all due respect with rare diseases that do not generate gains? I know that many of you have to to President Reagan, are the winners of enough volume in the development of deal with it and so you are stuck with this battle. drugs will be able to live when they your priorities. I know that when it Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield would not otherwise be able to live and comes to providing for child care, myself the balance of my time. be able to see their health improved where do you find the middle class? It Mr. Speaker, today truly is a day for when it would otherwise deteriorate. depends on where you come from. You the coming together of the people of And yes, yes, we cut the alternative can go up to $100,000, $200,000 and feel this Nation. Yes, some have spoken vi- minimum tax on businesses so that H6664 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 businesses will be able to invest in job our convictions, they are about Gekas Lucas Rogers Gibbons Luther Rohrabacher producing equipment and get a deduc- downsizing the power and the scope of Gilchrest Maloney (CT) Ros-Lehtinen tion for the depreciation that the law Washington and upsizing the power and Gillmor Maloney (NY) Rothman allows to them instead of making them the opportunity of people. Gilman Manton Roukema pay tax at the end of the year on the That is why we are going to fight for Gingrich Manzullo Roybal-Allard Goode Martinez Royce depreciation that the law said is taken more tax relief next year, because we Goodlatte Mascara Ryun to buy the equipment to create jobs. need to keep the budget in balance Goodling McCarthy (MO) Sabo And what does that do? Yes, Charlie, while putting big government on a Gordon McCarthy (NY) Salmon a lot of us have been thinking about Goss McCollum Sanchez diet. We need to look the IRS in the Graham McCrery Sandlin how do we create more jobs for Ameri- eye and say ‘‘It’s not your money, it is Granger McDade Sanford cans. That means greater work oppor- the people’s money.’’ The politicians Green McGovern Sawyer tunity for greater jobs for working and the IRS must stop reaching into Greenwood McHale Saxton Gutknecht McHugh Scarborough Americans in a competitive world mar- the pockets of people and taking what Hall (OH) McInnis Schaefer, Dan ketplace. is their money because they need it for Hall (TX) McIntosh Schaffer, Bob And last but not least, more than 1 themselves, and that, my colleagues, is Hamilton McIntyre Schumer dozen tax loopholes are closed because Hansen McKeon Sensenbrenner what today is all about. It is about a Harman McKinney Sessions no one, no matter who they are, should new beginning for a limited govern- Hastert Meehan Shadegg receive special tax treatment simply ment, but it is also a return to Amer- Hastings (WA) Meek Shaw because they are politically powerful. ica that knows no limits. Hayworth Menendez Shays This plan and a balanced budget are Hefley Metcalf Sherman That is my dream. What a great new Hefner Mica Shimkus what the American people sent us here beginning it is, what a great unlimited Herger Millender- Shuster to do, and we have delivered, and I am future the people of this country face. Hill McDonald Sisisky proud that this agreement continues a Hilleary Miller (CA) Skaggs We have pulled America together, Hinchey Miller (FL) Skeen remarkably productive record for the Democrats, Independents, Republicans, Hinojosa Minge Skelton Congress. Yesterday we saved Medicare and what a difference a Republican Hobson Mink Slaughter from bankruptcy. Last year we fixed Congress has made. Hoekstra Moakley Smith (MI) the failed welfare state so that the Holden Molinari Smith (NJ) Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Hooley Mollohan Smith (OR) poor and the needy will receive a help- of my time, and I move the previous Horn Moran (KS) Smith (TX) ing hand instead of a handout, a right question on the conference report. Hostettler Moran (VA) Smith, Adam Houghton Morella Smith, Linda to be independent instead of dependent. The previous question was ordered. We protected people who were sick by Hoyer Murtha Snowbarger The SPEAKER. The question is the Hulshof Myrick Snyder letting them change jobs without los- conference report. Hunter Nadler Solomon ing their health insurance. We modern- Hutchinson Neal Souder The question was taken; and the ized telecommunications, creating mil- Hyde Nethercutt Spence Speaker announced that the ayes ap- Inglis Neumann Spratt lions of new jobs for this country, high peared to have it. Istook Ney Stabenow paying jobs, and we cut the cost of op- Jackson-Lee Northup Stearns Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, on that I erating this very body, the Congress of (TX) Norwood Stenholm demand the yeas and nays. Jefferson Nussle Strickland the United States, by $200 million a The yeas and nays were ordered. Jenkins Olver Stump year. John Ortiz Stupak We reduced the deficit from $203 bil- The vote was taken by electronic de- Johnson (CT) Owens Sununu lion in November of 1994 to $50 billion vice, and there were— yeas 389, nays 43, Johnson (WI) Oxley Talent not voting 3, as follows: Johnson, E. B. Packard Tanner or less today, and now, with this bill Johnson, Sam Pallone Tauscher this year, it will be eliminated. And [Roll No. 350] Jones Pappas Tauzin with the legislative results of this YEAS—389 Kanjorski Parker Taylor (MS) Kasich Pascrell Taylor (NC) week that deficit will be completely Abercrombie Bryant Deutsch Kelly Pastor Thomas eliminated. Ackerman Bunning Diaz-Balart Kennelly Paul Thompson Many have heard me talk about my Aderholt Burr Dickey Kildee Paxon Thornberry grandson who was born last year, the Allen Burton Dicks Kim Pease Thune Andrews Buyer Dingell Kind (WI) Pelosi Thurman twelfth grandchild, and how I looked Archer Callahan Dixon King (NY) Peterson (MN) Tiahrt down upon him in the incubator in the Armey Calvert Doggett Kingston Peterson (PA) Tierney preemie ward and I thought when he Bachus Camp Dooley Kleczka Petri Torres Baesler Canady Doolittle grows up, and he will grow up, thanks Klink Pickering Traficant Baker Cannon Doyle Klug Pickett Turner to the technology of modern medicine Baldacci Capps Dreier Knollenberg Pitts Upton beyond anything anywhere in the Ballenger Cardin Duncan Kolbe Pombo Vento world, his pro rata responsibility of in- Barcia Carson Dunn LaFalce Pomeroy Walsh Barr Castle Edwards LaHood Porter Wamp terest on the national debt during his Barrett (NE) Chabot Ehlers Lampson Portman Watkins lifetime will be $189,000 if he is an aver- Barrett (WI) Chambliss Ehrlich Lantos Poshard Watts (OK) age wage earner. That is unconscion- Bartlett Chenoweth Emerson Largent Price (NC) Weldon (FL) Barton Christensen Engel able for us to leave to our children and Latham Pryce (OH) Weldon (PA) Bass Clayton English LaTourette Quinn Weller to their grandchildren, and this week Bateman Clement Ensign Lazio Radanovich Wexler we said no, we will not do that. Becerra Clyburn Eshoo Leach Ramstad Weygand Mr. Speaker, 6.4 million new jobs Bentsen Coble Etheridge Levin Rangel White Bereuter Coburn Evans Lewis (CA) Redmond Whitfield have been created since 1994, interest Berman Collins Everett Lewis (GA) Regula Wicker rates have dropped from 8 percent to 6 Berry Combest Ewing Lewis (KY) Reyes Wise percent, helping people pay their bills Bilbray Condit Farr Linder Riggs Wolf Bilirakis Cook Fattah and buy their homes, and the stock Lipinski Riley Woolsey Bishop Cooksey Fawell Livingston Rivers Wynn market has advanced from 3900 on the Blagojevich Costello Fazio LoBiondo Rodriguez Young (FL) Dow Jones to 8200 just since the elec- Bliley Cox Flake Lofgren Roemer Blunt Coyne Foglietta Lowey Rogan tions in 1994. Boehlert Cramer Foley Mark my words. Mark my words. We Boehner Crane Forbes NAYS—43 are just warming up. There are more Bonilla Crapo Ford Blumenauer Dellums Kennedy (MA) taxes to be cut, there are more taxes to Bonior Cubin Fowler Borski Filner Kennedy (RI) Bono Cunningham Fox Campbell Frank (MA) Kilpatrick be cut, and there is more unnecessary Boswell Danner Franks (NJ) wasteful spending to be cut. Clay Gephardt Kucinich Boucher Davis (FL) Frelinghuysen Conyers Gutierrez Markey But remember above all, balancing Boyd Davis (VA) Frost Cummings Hastings (FL) Matsui the budget and cutting taxes are not Brady Deal Furse Davis (IL) Hilliard McDermott Brown (CA) DeGette Gallegly merely matters of accounting. They DeFazio Jackson (IL) McNulty Brown (FL) DeLauro Ganske Delahunt Kaptur Oberstar are about our values, they are about Brown (OH) DeLay Gejdenson July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6665

Obey Serrano Waters piece of personal history this floor and will be diminished by SUE’S departure, Payne Stark Watt (NC) Rahall Stokes Waxman this body has been in our lives. but we know it is the right decision for Rush Towns Yates SUSAN and I met literally in these SUE, for BILL, and most especially for Sanders Velazquez Chambers, got to know each other Susan Ruby. Scott Visclosky here, through the encouragement of a We wish you the best, Mama SUE. NOT VOTING—3 lot of you, and I think of Ray McGrath, f Gonzalez Schiff Young (AK) who performed wedding ceremonies be- fore we were even dating. He said, you A TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE b 1602 guys have got to get married. Our SUSAN MOLINARI Mr. RUSH changed his vote from friends got us together, they lived with (Mrs. LOWEY asked and was given ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ us through that dating period, and up permission to address the House for 1 So the conference report was agreed in that corner one day when we got en- minute and to revise and extend her re- to. gaged, and then, of course, thanks to marks.) The result of the vote was announced the gentleman from Pennsylvania, Mr. Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, I am de- as above recorded. JIM GREENWOOD, we found a priest in a lighted to join with my colleagues; and A motion to reconsider was laid on church in Pennsylvania that would not really delighted, I would say to the the table. marry us on neutral ground. gentlewoman from New York, Ms. f Then, of course, the Members have SUSAN MOLINARI, but we want to wish the gentlewoman lots of good luck and FAREWELL AND GOOD LUCK TO lived with us through our married life, success. I am not sure who I am going THE HONORABLE SUSAN MOL- and are now helping us raise our to miss more, SUSAN MOLINARI or INARI daughter. We need help all the time. This is the kind of family that we can Susan Ruby, because she clearly cheers (Mr. QUINN asked and was given per- never replace. Members have witnessed up all our days. From one mother to mission to address the House for 1 our lives together and helped us in so another mother, I can tell you we are minute and to revise and extend his re- many ways on this floor. My colleagues going to miss you both. marks.) are losing a colleague today, and I am SUSAN and I have been fighting to- Mr. QUINN. Mr. Speaker, after a mo- losing my legislative partner. Every gether on so many issues for the years mentous moment like today, when we single day we come to this floor and we I have been here, whether it is fighting have had an opportunity to vote in a share our lives. We are going to miss to keep those planes in New Jersey bipartisan way for very important leg- that. We think we are going to have a away from New York, and I am going islation for the people across this coun- little more interesting dinner con- to have to call you, SUSAN, for some re- try, we are reminded that we can only versation, having two different jobs to inforcement. We just keep sending act as a body with the same fairness, bring to the dinner table. these planes back and forth, but we are conviction, and determination that we But while I am losing my pal on a going to make sure that they are not exhibit as individual Members of the day-to-day basis on the floor, I want to flying over Staten Island while you are body. Today probably, as we know, one say this to you, SUSAN; every day that away. We are going to make sure we of our Members will leave the body. I come to this floor I am going to think continue to fight to make sure that our Her last day of service here in the of you, every moment, you and our transportation in New York serves all House will be today, and it might very beautiful daughter. While you are out the people of all of our districts. well be her last vote that we all just in that other job, I wish you the best. The gentlewoman has been right cast with each other. I really thought I would never get to there on the front line. Whether it is I would like to ask the Members on the point in my life where I would say fighting together on Ellis Island, one both sides of the aisle to join me in this, that I love a Member of the press. thing after another, SUSAN is there to saying farewell and good luck to one of I love you, SUSAN. fight for New York. I know we are ours as she leaves the House of Rep- Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, going to work very hard, SUSAN, to resentatives today. We wish good luck will the gentleman yield? make sure that the battles continue in to the gentlewoman from New York, Mr. QUINN. I yield to the gentle- support of all the issues that we care Ms. SUSAN MOLINARI. woman from Florida. about. Mr. GINGRICH. Mr. Speaker, will the Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Thank you, you So we wish you good luck, with lots gentleman yield? hunk. of love and admiration and support. Mr. QUINN. I yield to the Speaker, Mr. Speaker, Emerson said: What is You have always stood up for the right the gentleman from Georgia. civilization? things, and I have been honored to be Mr. GINGRICH. Mr. Speaker, let me I answer: The power of a good there with you. just say on behalf of the entire House woman. f that as a historian, there are few peo- I agree with this American philoso- ple who can claim that they met their pher. That is why the departure of our BEST OF LUCK AND GODSPEED TO husband here, that their dad used to friend, the gentlewoman from New THE HONORABLE SUSAN MOL- bring them here, and that they left York, Ms. SUE MOLINARI from Congress INARI here for even greater fame and even saddens us all. (Mr. SCHUMER asked and was given greater achievement. SUE always brightened up any com- permission to address the House for 1 I just want to say that, SUSAN, I be- mittee room when she walked in be- minute and to revise and extend his re- lieve for all of us, we will miss you. We cause she was prepared, because she marks.) will not promise to watch every Satur- was witty, and ready for battle for her Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. Speaker, I just day, but we will all watch carefully, constituents and for our country. She want to add my wishes of good luck to and we cherish your friendship forever. never took these fierce battles person- SUSAN. I know she does not need them. You are a part of this family. ally if you disagreed with her, and she She is one of the most talented people Mr. PAXON. Mr. Speaker, will the built strong bonds of friendship with that I have come up against. We de- gentleman yield? many of us here in Congress. bated each other every week on chan- Mr. QUINN. I yield to the gentleman All of us, especially the women Mem- nel 2 in New York, and let me tell the from New York. bers of Congress, felt as if we were part Members, Mr. Speaker, she is one Mr. PAXON. Mr. Speaker, this is a of SUE’s life as we rejoiced in her union tough adversary, but underneath it all very momentous day for us all. We with BILL and the arrival of Susan she is a very decent and honorable per- have once again made legislative his- Ruby. SUSAN will excel at CBS in the son. tory. I could not help, in listening to same way that she has climbed to the I know this has been her wish for the Speaker’s words and the words of leadership ranks in the House, through many, many years, to go where she is my good friend, the gentleman from her intelligence, through her hard going to; and with a wonderful family, New York, Mr. JACK QUINN, I could not work, perseverance, and a terrific per- a great child, and a great new career help but think what a great, important sonality. The civilization of this House ahead of her, I think I speak for all of H6666 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 us when I say we wish her the best of want to remind you, SUSAN and BILL, To all of you and to those of you in luck and Godspeed. that when you announced that you the press gallery, let me admit it and f were getting married, I said the Bible let me get it out there, I will have a says be fruitful and multiply and that bias in my reporting career. But it is FAREWELL TO A TOUGH DEBATER I wished you a number of children. this, when I report, it will be with the (Mr. RANGEL asked and was given I just want to remind everybody that full knowledge and understanding in permission to address the House for 1 I said my wish for BILL and SUSAN was my heart and soul that the men and minute and to revise and extend his re- that they would have many, many chil- women on both sides of the aisle that marks.) dren and that their children would all serve in this Institution are some of Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, let me grow up to be good Democrats. the most honorable Members that have say on behalf of the New York congres- f ever served this Nation. I thank them sional delegation that we probably for that. have less problems after we leave this GOODBYE TO THE HONORABLE floor than any other delegation, be- SUSAN MOLINARI f cause we have learned to work with (Ms. PRYCE of Ohio asked and was PROVIDING FOR ADJOURNMENT each other, to respect each other, and given permission to address the House OF THE HOUSE FROM AUGUST 1, to understand each other. for 1 minute.) OR AUGUST 2, 1997, TO SEPTEM- The gentlewoman from New York, Mr. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, at BER 3, 1997, AND ADJOURNMENT Ms. SUE MOLINARI, is one of the cham- the risk of losing it on C–SPAN, at the OR RECESS OF THE SENATE pions on the Republican side, and yet risk of having Members miss their FROM JULY 31, AUGUST 1, OR we do not see it in the elevators, we do planes, I would just like to close this AUGUST 2, 1997, TO SEPTEMBER by saying how much this body will not see it when we have our meetings, 2, 1997 we do not see it when we get back to miss you, SUSAN, and how much I will New York, we are just people fighting miss you, too. Your wit and your Mr. GOSS. Mr. Speaker, I offer a for our great city and our great State. charm and your grace and your grit privileged concurrent resolution (H. Unlike the gentleman from New York and everything that I tried to learn Con. Res. 136) and I ask for its imme- [Mr. SCHUMER], she was one of the peo- from you, I hope we can sustain even in diate consideration. ple that I least liked debating with, not your absence. The Clerk read the concurrent reso- because she was always that tough, but You were the first Member that I met lution, as follows: she was always smiling, always charm- outside of Ohio. You taught me so H. CON. RES. 136 ing. It is difficult to fire your best shot much. I hope that you will still be Resolved by the House of Representatives (the when somebody is looking at you lov- around to keep us going. So do not be Senate concurring), That, in consonance with ingly. a stranger. Godspeed, SUSAN MOLINARI. section 132(a) of the Legislative Reorganiza- So I will not miss her on the tele- f tion Act of 1946, when the House adjourns on vision debates, and I am so glad that the legislative day of Friday, August 1, 1997 CLOSING REMARKS OF THE or Saturday, August 2, 1997, pursuant to a she will be moderating, rather than ex- HONORABLE SUSAN MOLINARI motion made by the majority leader or his plaining those rough Republican views designee, it stand adjourned until noon on in such a soft, tender, loving way. (Ms. MOLINARI asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 Wednesday, September 3, 1997, or until noon f on the second day after members are notified minute.) to reassemble pursuant to section 2 of this MOON OVER KOSOVO Ms. MOLINARI. Mr. Speaker, I will concurrent resolution, whichever occurs (MR. ENGEL asked and was given be very brief, at the risk of losing it. first; and that when the Senate recesses or permission to address the House for 1 To all my colleagues, it is a little dif- adjourns at the close of business on Thurs- minute and to revise and extend his re- ficult to put into words the feeling that day, July 31, 1997, Friday, August 1, 1997, or marks.) I felt growing up on this floor. It has Saturday, August 2, 1997, pursuant to a mo- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I want to been 17 years since my dad took his tion made by the majority leader or his des- ignee in accordance with this concurrent res- add my voice to say good-bye, not real- oath of office and worked hard during that time to gain and sustain the trust olution, it stand recessed or adjourned until ly good-bye, but of course good-bye noon on Tuesday, September 2, 1997, or until from Washington, to someone that I of the men and women of the 14th and such time on that day as may be specified by have worked very, very closely with. now the 13th Congressional District. the majority leader or his designee in the The gentlewoman from New York, Ms. In my family, as in many of your motion to recess or adjourn, or until noon on families, this is a place of honor. It is SUSAN MOLINARI and I cochaired the the second day after Members are notified to Albanian Issues Caucus. We worked a place where we are reminded every reassemble pursuant to section 2 of this con- very closely together on a number of day that people trust us to make some current resolution, whichever occurs first. SEC. 2. The Speaker of the House and the things. The gentleman from New York, of the most important decisions in their lives. It is an honor to walk in majority leader of the Senate, acting jointly Mr. BILL PAXON and I came to Congress and out those doors every day and after consultation with the minority leader together after serving in the New York of the House and the minority leader of the State Assembly together. In fact, I every night. Senate, shall notify the Members of the I do not leave here easily, because I served in the Assembly with Guy Mol- House and Senate, respectively, to reassem- believe very much in our cause. I be- inari as well. ble whenever, in their opinion, the public in- We know Susan is a very, very spe- lieve very much in this Institution. I terest shall warrant it. cial person. When we went to Kosovo believe very much in the men and The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. together that first time, it was the women who have gone before us on LAHOOD). Pursuant to section 132 of the both sides of the aisle. I cherish the gentlemen from New York, Mr. BILL Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946, model that my dad has been for me in PAXON, and Mr. PETER KING, the gen- as amended, the yeas and nays are or- public service. As has been said, I met tlewoman from New York, Ms. SUSAN dered. my husband, the love of my life, my MOLINARI, and myself. The yeas and nays were ordered. When SUE and BILL said they were best friend in this Institution, because The vote was taken by electronic de- getting married, I wondered if it was when the cameras are off, oftentimes, vice, and there were—yeas 403, nays 16, the Moon over Kosovo that brought between Members, between the aisle, not voting 15, as follows: good feelings and understanding and them together, or the time we were in [Roll No. 351] friendships do grow. that hotel and there was no heat or hot YEAS—403 water, we figured that might have had And so to all my colleagues let me Abercrombie Baesler Barrett (WI) something to do with bringing the two just say, to my girlfriends in particu- lar, I love you all. I have developed Aderholt Baker Bartlett of them together. Allen Baldacci Barton some of the best friends I have ever Andrews Ballenger Bass b 1615 made in my life and will continue to Archer Barcia Bateman We are going to miss you, but we see them as friends for the rest of my Armey Barr Becerra Bachus Barrett (NE) Bereuter know we are still going to see you. I life. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6667 Berman Flake Livingston Rush Smith, Linda Towns Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, re- Berry Foglietta LoBiondo Ryun Snowbarger Traficant Bilbray Foley Lowey Sabo Snyder Turner serving the right to object, I would like Bilirakis Forbes Lucas Salmon Solomon Upton to yield to the manager for a discus- Bishop Ford Luther Sandlin Souder Velazquez sion. Blagojevich Fowler Maloney (NY) Sanford Spence Vento Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, the Bliley Fox Manton Sawyer Spratt Visclosky Blumenauer Frank (MA) Manzullo Saxton Stabenow Walsh rule is self-explanatory. For Members Blunt Franks (NJ) Markey Scarborough Stark Wamp who may not be aware, sections 106 and Boehlert Frelinghuysen Martinez Schaefer, Dan Stearns Waters 107 of title 1 of the United States Code Boehner Frost Mascara Schumer Stenholm Watkins require that enrolled bills, measures Bonilla Furse Matsui Scott Stokes Watt (NC) Bonior Gallegly McCarthy (MO) Sensenbrenner Strickland Watts (OK) that have been passed by the House and Bono Ganske McCarthy (NY) Serrano Stump Waxman the Senate in the same form and re- Borski Gejdenson McCollum Sessions Stupak Weldon (FL) quire the President’s signature to be- Shadegg Sununu Weldon (PA) Boswell Gekas McCrery come law, that they be sent to the Boucher Gephardt McDermott Shaw Talent Weller Boyd Gibbons McGovern Shays Tanner Wexler President on parchment. Brady Gilchrest McHale Shimkus Tauscher Weygand So the joint resolution that I am Brown (CA) Gillmor McHugh Shuster Tauzin White seeking unanimous consent for, Mr. Brown (FL) Gilman McInnis Sisisky Taylor (NC) Whitfield Brown (OH) Goodlatte McIntosh Skaggs Thomas Wicker Speaker, waives that requirement. Bryant Goodling McIntyre Skeen Thompson Wise Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I Bunning Gordon McKeon Skelton Thornberry Wolf withdraw my reservation of objection. Slaughter Thune Woolsey Burr Goss McKinney The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Burton Graham McNulty Smith (MI) Thurman Wynn Buyer Granger Meek Smith (NJ) Tiahrt Yates objection to the request of the gen- Callahan Greenwood Menendez Smith (OR) Tierney Young (FL) tleman from Florida? Calvert Gutierrez Metcalf Smith (TX) Torres There was no objection. Camp Hall (OH) Mica NAYS—16 The Clerk read the joint resolution Campbell Hall (TX) Millender- Canady Hamilton McDonald Cunningham Jackson-Lee Olver as follows: DeFazio (TX) Sanchez Cannon Hansen Miller (FL) H.J. RES. 90 Goode Kucinich Schaffer, Bob Capps Harman Mink Resolved by the Senate and House of Rep- Cardin Hastert Moakley Green Lofgren Sherman Carson Hayworth Molinari Hastings (FL) Minge Taylor (MS) resentatives of the United States of America in Castle Hefley Mollohan Hooley Obey Congress assembled, That the provisions of Chabot Hefner Moran (KS) NOT VOTING—15 sections 106 and 107 of title 1, United States Chambliss Herger Moran (VA) Code, are waived with respect to the printing Chenoweth Hill Morella Ackerman Gutknecht Miller (CA) (on parchment or otherwise) of the enroll- Christensen Hilleary Murtha Bentsen Hastings (WA) Sanders Cubin Maloney (CT) Schiff ment of H.R. 2014 and of H.R. 2015 of the One Clay Hilliard Myrick Hundred Fifth Congress. The enrollment of Nadler Edwards McDade Smith, Adam Clayton Hinchey each of those bills shall be in such form as Clement Hinojosa Neal Gonzalez Meehan Young (AK) the Committee on House Oversight of the Clyburn Hobson Nethercutt b 1639 Coble Hoekstra Neumann House of Representatives certifies to be a Coburn Holden Ney Mrs. NORTHUP changed her vote true enrollment. Collins Horn Northup from ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ The joint resolution was ordered to Combest Hostettler Norwood So the concurrent resolution was Condit Houghton Nussle be engrossed and read a third time, was Conyers Hoyer Oberstar agreed to. read the third time, and passed, and a Cook Hulshof Ortiz The result of the vote was announced motion to reconsider was laid on the Cooksey Hunter Owens as above recorded. table. Costello Hutchinson Oxley A motion to reconsider was laid on Cox Hyde Packard Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I Coyne Inglis Pallone the table. ask unanimous consent to lay House Cramer Istook Pappas f Resolution 203 on the table. Crane Jackson (IL) Parker Crapo Jefferson Pascrell REMOVAL OF NAMES OF MEM- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Cummings Jenkins Pastor BERS AS COSPONSORS OF H.R. objection to the request of the gen- Danner John Paul 303 tleman from Florida? Davis (FL) Johnson (CT) Paxon There was no objection. Davis (IL) Johnson (WI) Payne Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I ask Davis (VA) Johnson, E. B. Pease f Deal Johnson, Sam Pelosi unanimous consent to remove the DeGette Jones Peterson (MN) names of the gentleman from Florida REQUEST FOR ORDER OF CONSID- Delahunt Kanjorski Peterson (PA) [Mr. CANADY], the gentleman from ERATION OF H.R. 2264, DEPART- DeLauro Kaptur Petri Massachusetts [Mr. OLVER] and the DeLay Kasich Pickering MENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH AND Dellums Kelly Pickett gentleman from Oklahoma [Mr. HUMAN SERVICES, AND EDU- Deutsch Kennedy (MA) Pitts WATTS] as cosponsors of my bill, H.R. CATION, AND RELATED AGEN- Diaz-Balart Kennedy (RI) Pombo 303. CIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 1998 Dickey Kennelly Pomeroy The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Dicks Kildee Porter Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I ask Dingell Kilpatrick Portman LAHOOD). Is there objection to the re- Dixon Kim Poshard quest of the gentleman from Florida? unanimous consent that consideration Doggett Kind (WI) Price (NC) There was no objection. of the bill (H.R. 2264) making appro- Dooley King (NY) Pryce (OH) priations for the Departments of Doolittle Kingston Quinn f Doyle Kleczka Radanovich Labor, Health and Human Services, Dreier Klink Rahall WAIVING ENROLLMENT REQUIRE- and Education, and related agencies for Duncan Klug Ramstad MENTS WITH RESPECT TO TWO the fiscal year ending September 30, Dunn Knollenberg Rangel BILLS OF THE 105TH CONGRESS 1998, and for other purposes, may pro- Ehlers Kolbe Redmond Ehrlich LaFalce Regula Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I ceed according to the order that I have Emerson LaHood Reyes offer a joint resolution (H.J. Res. 90) placed at the desk. Engel Lampson Riggs waiving certain enrollment require- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The English Lantos Riley Ensign Largent Rivers ments with respect to two specified Clerk will report the order. Eshoo Latham Rodriguez bills of the 105th Congress, and I ask The Clerk read as follows: Etheridge LaTourette Roemer unanimous consent for its immediate Mr. Solomon asks unanimous consent that Evans Lazio Rogan consideration of H.R. 2264 proceed according Everett Leach Rogers consideration. The Clerk read the title of the joint to the following order: Ewing Levin Rohrabacher (1) The Speaker may at any time, as Farr Lewis (CA) Ros-Lehtinen resolution. though pursuant to clause 1(b) of rule XXIII, Fattah Lewis (GA) Rothman The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Fawell Lewis (KY) Roukema declare the House resolved into the Commit- Fazio Linder Roybal-Allard objection to the request of the gen- tee of the Whole House on the state of the Filner Lipinski Royce tleman from Florida? Union for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2264) H6668 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 making appropriations for the Departments SEC. 508. (a) None of the funds appropriated floor under regular rules of order, regu- of Labor, Health and Human Services, and under this Act shall be expended for any lar rules of the House so that any Education, and related agencies, for the fis- abortion. amendment, any cutting amendment, (b) None of the funds appropriated under cal year ending September 30, 1998, and for any offsetting amendment, or any limi- other purposes. this Act shall be expended for health benefits (2) The first reading of the bill shall be dis- coverage that includes coverage of abortion. tation amendment ordinarily allowed pensed with. All points of order against con- (c) The term ‘‘health benefits coverage’’ under normal rules of the House should sideration of the bill are waived. General de- means the package of services covered by a the bill have come directly to the floor bate shall be confined to the bill and shall managed care provider or organization pur- instead of through the Committee on not exceed one hour equally divided and con- suant to a contract or other arrangement Rules, those amendments would be trolled by the chairman and ranking minor- SEC. 509. (a) The limitations established in made in order. the preceding section shall not apply to an ity member of the Committee on Appropria- Mr. MCINTOSH. Mr. Speaker, I ob- abortion— tions. After general debate the bill shall be ject to this unanimous consent. considered for amendment under the five- (1) if the pregnancy is the result of an act minute rule. of rape or incest; or The SPEAKER pro tempore. Objec- (3) Points of order against provisions in the (2) in the case where a woman suffers from tion is heard. bill for failure to comply with clause 2 or 6 a physical disorder, physical injury, or phys- f of rule XXI are waived except as follows: be- ical illness, including a life-endangering ginning with ‘‘: Provided’’ on page 41, line 26, physical condition caused by or arising from HONORING THE LIFE OF BETTY through ‘‘$2,245,000,000’’ on page 42, line 3. the pregnancy itself, that would, as certified SHABAZZ Where points of order are waived against by a physician, place the woman in danger of Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I ask part of a paragraph, points of order against a death unless an abortion is performed. unanimous consent that the Commit- provision in another part of such paragraph (b) Nothing in the preceding section shall be construed as prohibiting the expenditure tee on Government Reform and Over- may be made only against such provision sight be discharged from further con- and not against the entire paragraph. by a State locality, entity, or private person (4) The amendments printed in House Re- of State, local, or private funds (other than sideration of the resolution (H. Res. port 105–214 may be offered only by a Member a State’s or locality’s contribution of Medic- 183) honoring the life of Betty Shabazz, designated in the report and only at the ap- aid matching funds) for abortion services or and ask for its immediate consider- propriate point in the reading of the bill, coverage of abortion by contract or other ar- ation in the House. shall be considered as read, shall not be sub- rangement. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- (c) Nothing in the preceding section shall ject to amendment except pro forma amend- tion. ments offered for the purpose of debate, and be construed as restricting the ability of any managed care provider or organization from The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there shall not be subject to a demand for division objection to the request of the gen- of the question in the House or in the Com- offering abortion coverage or the ability of a mittee of the Whole. All points of order state or locality to contract separately with tleman from New York? against the amendments printed in the re- such a provider for such coverage with state Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, re- port are waived. funds (other that a State’s or locality’s con- serving the right to object, I yield to (5) During consideration of the bill for tribution of Medicaid matching funds). the gentleman from New York [Mr. amendment, the Chairman of the Committee Mr. SOLOMON (during the reading). RANGEL]. of the Whole may accord priority in recogni- Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank tion on the basis of whether the Member of- that the amendment be considered as the gentleman from California so much fering an amendment has caused it to be read and printed in the RECORD. for giving me the opportunity to ex- printed in the portion of the Congressional The SPEAKER pro tempore [Mr. Record designated for that purpose in clause plain that seldom in the United States 6 of rule XXIII. Amendments so printed shall LAHOOD]. Is there objection to the re- do we get a chance to pay tribute to be considered as read. quest of the gentleman from New the life of those people who live an or- (6) The Chairman of the Committee of the York? dinary life and yet have done extraor- Whole may: (1) postpone until a time during Mr. OBEY. Mr. Speaker, reserving dinary things. further consideration in the Committee of the right to object, I think it would be When the late Betty Shabazz died, the Whole a request for a recorded vote on helpful if the resolution was read. having known her husband and her for any amendment; and (2) reduce to five min- Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I with- so many years, I almost thought that utes the minimum time for electronic voting draw the unanimous consent that the on any postponed question that follows an- she belonged to Harlem and she be- other electronic vote without intervening amendment be considered as read and longed to African-Americans, and I was business, provided that the minimum time leave the original unanimous consent so pleasantly surprised when she for electronic voting on the first in any se- standing. passed away, as a result of a sad and ries of questions shall be 15 minutes. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The cruel act of her grandson, that so many (7) During consideration of the bill, points Clerk will re-report paragraph 8. Republicans and Democrats came over of order against amendments for failure to The Clerk read as follows: and offered sympathy to me because we comply with clause 2(e) of rule XXI are (8) At the conclusion of consideration of had lost in this country a great Amer- waived. the bill for amendment the Committee shall ican. (8) At the conclusion of consideration of rise and report the bill to the House with the bill for amendment the Committee shall And so, in August, there will be com- such amendments as may have been adopted. munities all over the country attempt- rise and report the bill to the House with The previous question shall be considered as such amendments as may have been adopted. ordered on the bill and amendments thereto ing to say, thank you, Betty Shabazz, The bill and amendments thereto to final to final passage without intervening motion for the life that you led, that you lost passage without intervening motion except except one motion to recommit with or with- your husband, he was assassinated, but one motion to recommit with or without in- out instructions. instead of just weeping and crying, structions. which she did do, was pick your life up, (9) Notwithstanding any other provision of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there this order, it shall be in order to consider in objection to the request of the gen- go to school, educate 6 children, and lieu of amendments numbered 1 and 2 in tleman from New York? become a role model for Americans, House Report 105–214 the amendment I have Mr. MCINTOSH. Mr. Speaker, reserv- whether they are white or black or placed at the desk. That amendment shall ing the right to object, if I may ask of Jewish or Christian. otherwise be considered as though printed as the chairman, does this rule provide for And so, as we leave and America pays the amendment numbered 1 in House Report a chairman’s amendment that could be tribute to this great woman, I would 105–214. brought to the floor when the bill like to have the Congress join in in just (10) House Resolution 199 is laid on the honoring a great life who serves as a table. comes for debate? Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, will the model for all Americans and people b 1645 gentleman yield? throughout the world. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. MCINTOSH. I yield to the gen- Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, will the Clerk will report the amendment. tleman from New York. gentleman yield? The Clerk read as follows: Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, no, it Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, fur- Page 94, strike lines 16 through 21 and in- does not. ther reserving the right to object, I sert the following (and redesignate the suc- This rule that we would adopt by yield to the gentlewoman from New ceeding sections accordingly): unanimous consent would bring to the York. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6669 Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, I strongly loss of someone, but this is the loss of SEC. 508(a) None of the funds appropriated support this resolution and my good jobs, the loss of livelihood. under this Act shall be expended for any friend, the gentleman from New York There was an agreement made under abortion. (b) None of the funds appropriated under [Mr. RANGEL] in honor of an outstand- these UC’s, and evidently the agree- this Act shall be expended for health benefits ing constituent from Yonkers, New ment has been broken. I would still be coverage that includes coverage of abortion. York, Betty Shabazz. willing to work this out in a matter of (c) The term ‘‘health benefits coverage’’ We have worked on so many issues, a few minutes. If this is not the case means the package of services covered by a fighting for families, fighting for and this is worked out, if the gen- managed care provider or organization pur- women, fighting for children. Just re- tleman from New York [Mr. RANGEL] suant to a contract or other arrangement. cently, I served on a panel with Betty would bring up the same UC a few mo- SEC. 509(a) The limitations established in Shabazz, could not have been more ments later and we can work this out the preceding section shall not apply to an than probably a couple months ago. So abortion— among us, I think I would support the (1) if the pregnancy is the result of an act I thank my good friend from New York, gentleman. of rape or incest; or [Mr. RANGEL] for introducing this reso- Mr. RANGEL. I would just hope that, (2) in the case where a woman suffers from lution which I support. with all the good work that my col- a physical disorder, physical injury, or phys- Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Further reserv- league has done for this country ical illness, including a life-endangering ing the right to object, Mr. Speaker, throughout his life, that he would not physical condition caused by or arising from there were some other reservations for want to be recorded in the CONGRES- the pregnancy itself, that would, as certified by a physician, place the woman in danger of other bills that were made under all of SIONAL RECORD as having been the per- these unanimous consent requests. And death unless an abortion is performed. son that, for whatever reason, has (b) Nothing in the preceding section shall although I support the initiative of the caused this Congress not to commemo- be construed as prohibiting the expenditure gentleman from New York [Mr. RAN- rate the life of this great American. by a State, locality, entity, or private person GEL] and his bill, I would have to object Mr. CUNNINGHAM. I would say to of State, local, or private funds (other than until these reservations can be worked my friend that I will support the gen- a State’s or locality’s contribution of Medic- out by the leadership. tleman in commemorating it in a few aid matching funds) for abortion services or We were told these UC’s were worked minutes if this can be worked out. coverage of abortion by contract or other ar- out and, at the last moment someone After the agreement is made, I will be rangement. (c) Nothing in the preceding section shall from his side of the aisle was going to very happy and I will not object. But object to one of these UC’s. If that is be construed as restricting the ability of any until that is made, the lives and liveli- managed care provider or organization from the case, I will object until that can be hood of many of my constituents are at offering abortion coverage or the ability of a worked out. stake. state or locality to contract separately with Mr. RANGEL. If the gentleman will And I would say to the same gen- such a provider for such coverage with state yield further, I understand the concern tleman, someone on his side of the funds (other that a State’s or locality’s con- of the gentleman. But I would just like aisle was just about ready to make tribution of Medicaid matching funds). to share with him that I knew about that decision, which would affect ad- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there this problem before I dealt with the Re- versely and in which a vote in the Sen- objection to the request of the gen- publican leadership; and because so ate was 99-to-0, and because there is an tleman from New York? many Members of Congress felt that objection to the UC, would affect nega- There was no objection. strongly about it, what we did was tively many of the lives. And until that f went to the leadership and asked our point, I am going to be forced to object. side not to go through these extraor- ELECTION OF CHIEF The SPEAKER pro tempore. Objec- ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER dinary parliamentary procedures that tion is heard. they could have gone through in order f Mr. BOEHNER. Mr. Speaker, I offer a to show their deep concern about it. privileged resolution (H. Res. 207) and When you think about it, yes, there PROVIDING FOR ORDER OF CON- ask for its immediate consideration. has to be ways that our concerns are SIDERATION OF H.R. 2264, DE- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The res- met and we have to be able to use the PARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH olution constitutes a question of parliamentary procedure to do it. But I AND HUMAN SERVICES, AND priviledge. ask my friend to really consider what EDUCATION, AND RELATED The Clerk will report the resolution. we are doing when communities AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS The Clerk read as follows: throughout this country are going to ACT, 1998 H. RES. 207 commemorate a life anyway, with or Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I again Resolved, That James M. Eagen, III, of the without this resolution. ask unanimous consent that the con- Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, be, and he It would seem to me that, even when sideration of the bill (H.R. 2264) mak- is hereby, chosen Chief Administrative Offi- we have to use the parliamentary cause ing appropriations for the Departments cer of the House of Representatives. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- to emphasize how deep we feel about an of Labor, Health and Human Services, tleman from Ohio [Mr. BOEHNER] and issue, that we are sensitive to the com- and Education, and related agencies for the gentleman from Maryland [Mr. munities that are affected, we are sen- the fiscal year ending September 30, HOYER] each will control 30 minutes. sitive to the daughters that we pay 1998, and for other purposes, may pro- The Chair recognizes the gentleman tribute to, and that we just do not use ceed according to the order that I have from Ohio [Mr. BOEHNER]. the parliamentary procedures when we placed at the desk and that the expla- Mr. BOEHNER. Mr. Speaker, I yield have just lost a great American. nation be considered as read, but that I would ask the gentleman to recon- myself such time as I may consume. the Clerk be directed to read the sider using the life of Betty Shabazz I have known and worked with Jay amendment. and the memories that are held by so since I came to Congress in 1990 and many Americans and the memories b 1700 have grown to admire and respect his held by her children and family as they (For text of the unanimous-consent professionalism and his work product. I go through life. request, see prior proceedings of the am honored today to be able to stand Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Further reserv- House of today.) on the floor and introduce this resolu- ing the right to object, I would say to The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. tion to make him the chief administra- my friend, and I would reiterate that I LAHOOD). The Clerk will report the tive officer of the House of Representa- fully support the words that he just amendment. tives. spoke and would associate, but unfor- The Clerk read as follows: Jay has worked on the Hill since 1982. tunately, we have the same kind of He started out in Congressman Steve The amendment to be offered by Rep- concerns on another UC request that resentative HYDE of Illinois or a designee: Gunderson’s office and moved over to affects the lives of many of the people Page 94, strike lines 16 through 21 and in- work for the gentleman from Penn- on the West Coast, thousands of people, sert the following (and redesignate the suc- sylvania [Mr. GOODLING] in 1985. He as a matter of fact. And it is not the ceeding sections accordingly): then went to work for the Committee H6670 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 on Education and the Workforce in 1991 tleman from South Carolina [Mr. Democratic leadership was severely as the Republican chief of staff and is CLYBURN], the gentleman from Ohio criticized in the 102d and the 103d Con- currently in that same position. [Mr. NEY], and myself. gress for the administration of the I know Jay to be an excellent leader, I believe that we obviously got the House of Representatives. In fact, in a meticulous organizer, a fabulous ad- pick of the lot, and the professional or- Congresses before that. ministrator and a well-respected man- ganization that did the searching The fact of the matter is in the 102d ager. I also know Jay on a personal brought us a number of people who had Congress, there was a discussion about level and know of his deep commit- been in public administration positions reform. The present Secretary of Agri- ment to his work and to this institu- and, as a matter of fact, in the private culture made a very strong rec- tion. He will be a wonderful chief ad- sector across a broad region of the ommendation that we adopt a position ministrative officer to this House and I United States. It is not in my opinion of administrative officer for the House cannot think of anyone else I would accidental that we have found what we of Representatives. He made that rec- rather recommend for this job than believe to be the highest caliber person ommendation to Speaker Foley. In bi- Jay Egan. laboring here in the House. It was im- partisan meetings between the Repub- Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield portant, I think, to look outside to lican leadership and the Democratic such time as he may consume to the give a comfort level for us in making leadership, there was a discussion of gentleman from California [Mr. FAZIO], the decision that we made. It was an how that would be formatted. Sequent the former ranking member of the open, fair competition. And Jay won. those discussions in the next Congress, Committee on House Oversight and the He won by unanimous vote of the we did establish in fact a position of chairman of the Democratic Caucus. panel. That tells you a lot about the administrative officer for the ministe- Mr. FAZIO of California. Mr. Speak- qualities that he is going to bring to rial duties, that is, the nonpolicy- er, I thank the gentleman for yielding this job. making, nonlegislative duties of the me this time. But I also want to say that I enjoy House. That was the appropriate and Mr. Speaker, I just want to indicate very much the working relationship correct step in my opinion to take. that I was privileged to serve on a with the gentleman from California. At the urging of the Republican mi- small panel headed by the gentleman This could have been a process which nority in the 103rd Congress, and in the from California [Mr. THOMAS] to select could have deteriorated fairly rapidly 102d, the selection of that administra- the individual who would be the chief if in attempting to hold confidences, tive officer was established in a bipar- administrative officer. Not having discussions that were had in private tisan fashion, so much so that the mi- known Jay earlier, I came to conclude were leaked to the press or announced nority leader in effect had a veto over that he was in the finest tradition of prematurely. I do want to say, the gen- the selection of the administrative offi- the development of our staff, people tleman from California over the two cer. The committee selecting that ad- who stay with this process and learn it Congresses that I have enjoyed work- ministrative officer was made up of the and broaden their skills, developing ad- ing with him in a distinctively reversed Speaker, the majority leader and the ministrative strength as well as sub- role from previous Congresses, has been minority leader and it had to be a stantive knowledge. I want to say to absolutely honorable in all of the com- unanimous choice, thereby giving the my friend, the chairman of the Repub- mitments that he has made as we made minority leader essentially a veto. lican Conference, that people like the some very, very difficult decisions. That was done to assure that we would This was not a difficult decision. The gentleman from Michigan [Mr. KIL- have a bipartisan agreement on an ad- process whereby we arrived at the re- DEE], our colleague here, and other ministrator for the business of this quirement to make this decision was at members of the Committee on Edu- House. cation and the Workforce felt very times very difficult. But the decision All of us love this House and want it good about this appointment on the to pick Jay Egan as the chief adminis- to be respected by the American public. trative officer of the House was a pleas- premise that he was fair-minded and I think all of us want to have this ure. objective and treated the minority House run in as effective, businesslike Mr. BOEHNER. Mr. Speaker, I yield with the kind of respect that it is due. such time as he may consume to the fashion as we can accomplish. That As a consequence, I am pleased to en- gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. benefits everybody in this House and it dorse this selection and indicate that I benefits all of America. Our differences GOODLING], the chairman of the Com- think it is in keeping with what I hope mittee on Education and the Workforce should not be on how we efficiently op- will be a trend toward the management and the current employer of our soon- erate the House, it should be on the of the institution in a manner which to-be chief administrative officer. policies that we adopt, that we contend will be most acceptable to all Mem- Mr. GOODLING. I thank the gen- for both in elections and on this floor. bers. Hopefully quite a contrast with tleman for yielding me this time. In the 104th Congress, that policy the experience that we had during the Mr. Speaker, today I am losing my that was adopted was changed and the first 2 years of the new majority’s ten- left arm, I am losing my right arm, but administrative officer was created as a ure here. I can afford to lose both for the benefit partisan officer. I frankly did not nec- I want to thank the gentleman from of an institution I love, the House of essarily disagree with that, as I said in California [Mr. THOMAS] for the process Representatives. Where I am totally committee, as the gentleman from he put in place and indicate that I look unorganized, your new administrator is Ohio will recall. Because effectively forward to working with Mr. Egan, as I totally organized. Where I do not pay what the new majority said was that am sure others do, in a way that will much attention to deadline, your new the Speaker was responsible for the ad- hopefully make this institution proud administrator pays specific attention ministration of the House. I think that of the way in which it is managed. to deadline. Where I do not think much is basically correct. Frankly, on our Mr. BOEHNER. Mr. Speaker, I yield about planning for the future, your ad- side I had argued that proposition in such time as he may consume to the ministrator constantly thinks about the 102d and 103d Congress but I had gentleman from California [Mr. THOM- the next move. So I in losing after 14 lost and we had created the bipartisan AS], chairman of the Committee on years someone who has served our com- mechanism for selecting the adminis- House Oversight. mittee very well, has served my con- trator. Mr. THOMAS. Mr. Speaker, I thank stituents very well, and I can guaran- In the 104th Congress, though, the the gentleman for yielding this time. I tee you he will serve this institution change resulted in a committee being want to thank my colleague from Cali- very, very well. established with the gentleman from fornia for his comments. Obviously Jay Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Iowa [Mr. NUSSLE], I believe, as the Egan was the choice of a professional self such time as I may consume. I do transition officer, I suppose. And an ad- search team, an extensive review by not rise to oppose this nomination. I do ministrative officer was selected, in staff and then a review by a panel of want to make, however, some observa- my opinion not in a bipartisan fashion, Members consisting of two Democrats tions. not with input from the minority, and and two Republicans: the gentleman This process has been ongoing for a in my opinion frankly without much from California [Mr. FAZIO], the gen- long period of time. Frankly, the discussion perhaps in the majority July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6671 party as well. We have a report pending in as the new CAO, for the House to The Clerk read the title of the bill. on that, on the performance of the ad- recognize the extraordinary service of The Clerk read the Senate amend- ministrative officer in the last Con- someone who was asked to help and ment, as follows: gress and for the first few months of who has never said no, and for, as I Senate amendment: this Congress. We will be discussing said, a longer period than anticipated Strike out all after the enacting clause that at some time in the future. has helped and helped willingly in and insert: The selection of this administrative making sure that the transition to the SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; REFERENCES. officer, I think, was done in a proper new CAO is as smooth as it has been, (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as fashion to the extent that it was done and I want the House to recognize the the ‘‘International Dolphin Conservation Pro- in a bipartisan fashion with input from contribution made by Jeff Trandahl. gram Act’’. (b) REFERENCES TO MARINE MAMMAL PROTEC- the chairman of the Democratic Cau- Mr. FAZIO of California. Mr. Speak- TION ACT.—Except as otherwise expressly pro- cus, who has been at the administra- er, will the gentleman yield? vided, whenever in this Act an amendment or tion of the House for many, many Mr. BOEHNER. I yield such time as repeal is expressed in terms of an amendment to, years because he has been in the lead- he may consume to the gentleman or repeal of, a section or other provision, the ership for over a decade. I have had the from California [Mr. FAZIO], my col- reference shall be considered to be made to a pleasure of serving with him in the league and the chairman of the Demo- section or other provision of the Marine Mam- leadership for over a decade. crat Caucus and former ranking mem- mal Protection Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.). b 1715 ber on the Committee on House Over- sight. SEC. 2. PURPOSES AND FINDINGS. I do not know Mr. Eagen. The gen- (a) PURPOSES.—The purposes of this Act are— Mr. FAZIO of California. Mr. Speak- (1) to give effect to the Declaration of Pan- tleman from California [Mr. FAZIO] has er, I also wanted to indicate to Jeff ama, signed October 4, 1995, by the Governments indicated that he is a man of ability Trandahl the support that he has gen- of Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and integrity, and the gentleman from erated on the minority side. Because of France, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Spain, the Michigan [Mr. KILDEE], for whom I the way he has conducted himself, he United States of America, Vanuatu, and Ven- have great respect indicates a man of has been a tribute not only to his em- ezuela, including the establishment of the Inter- fairness. That is the kind of adminis- ployer, the Clerk, Robin Carle, but also national Dolphin Conservation Program, relat- trative officer this House needs. to his former employer, one of the ing to the protection of dolphins and other spe- cies, and the conservation and management of So, as I said, I have no intention of more delightful Members to ever have opposing the selection of this adminis- tuna in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean; served in the House, the Senator from (2) to recognize that nations fishing for tuna trative officer. Suffice it to say, how- Kansas, Mr. ROBERTS. He set the right in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean have ever, that the gentleman from Califor- tone in the job that he has performed achieved significant reductions in dolphin mor- nia [Mr. THOMAS] has indicated that over the last 6 months and I think has tality associated with that fishery; and there was a national search for an offi- shown the way in which the job can be (3) to eliminate the ban on imports of tuna cer. I think that was appropriate be- performed to those who succeed in it, from those nations that are in compliance with the International Dolphin Conservation Pro- cause what this House needs in a bipar- and I want to congratulate him on the tisan and effectively nonpartisan way, gram. performance and indicate that those on (b) FINDINGS.—The Congress finds that— to assure ourselves and the American this side of the aisle wish him well in (1) the nations that fish for tuna in the east- public that the business of the House, his future, short term and long term. ern tropical Pacific Ocean have achieved sig- the paying of our bills, the managing of Mr. BOEHNER. Reclaiming my time, nificant reductions in dolphin mortality associ- our information system, all of that Mr. Speaker, let me close this discus- ated with the purse seine fishery from hundreds which has nothing to do with the for- sion by also congratulating the Acting of thousands annually to fewer than 5,000 an- mulation of policy but everything to do nually; CAO, Jeff Trandahl. Jeff is a valued (2) the provisions of the Marine Mammal Pro- with the effective management of the employee of the House, and he worked tection Act of 1972 that impose a ban on imports people’s House is being done in a proper for PAT ROBERTS for many years, and from nations that fish for tuna in the eastern fashion. I would hope and expect that he worked for the Committee on Agri- tropical Pacific Ocean have served as an incen- that will be the result from this ap- culture and then worked in the Clerk’s tive to reduce dolphin mortalities; pointment. office over the last 2 years before tak- (3) tuna canners and processors of the United With those few words, Mr. Speaker, ing over this temporary assignment. States have led the canning and processing in- unless there is anybody who wants ad- dustry in promoting a dolphin-safe tuna market; And I think the best tribute to Jeff and ditional time, I yield back the balance over the last 6 months, 7 months or so, (4) 12 signatory nations to the Declaration of of my time. is that we have not heard one word Panama, including the United States, agreed Mr. BOEHNER. Mr. Speaker, I yield about the Acting CAO for this period of under that Declaration to require that the total such time as he may consume once time that he has been there, and he has annual dolphin mortality in the purse seine again to my colleague from California, done, I think, a marvelous job running fishery for yellowfin tuna in the eastern tropical Mr. THOMAS, the chairman of the Com- the organization, and with that I look Pacific Ocean not exceed 5,000 animals, with the mittee on House Oversight. objective of progressively reducing dolphin mor- forward to the dawning of our new tality to a level approaching zero through the Mr. THOMAS. Mr. Speaker, I thank CAO, Jay Eagen. the gentleman for yielding this time to setting of annual limits and with the goal of Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance eliminating dolphin mortality. me. of my time, and I move the previous SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS. I do not wish to revisit the distant question on the resolution. Section 3 (16 U.S.C. 1362) is amended by add- past, a time when there were no inde- The previous question was ordered. ing at the end the following new paragraphs: pendent audits, and the first ever chief The resolution was agreed to. ‘‘(28) The term ‘International Dolphin Con- financial officer on the first decision he A motion to reconsider was laid on servation Program’ means the international pro- made was not backed up and, therefore, the table. gram established by the agreement signed in LaJolla, California, in June, 1992, as formalized, resigned because he could not be inde- f pendent. I wish to revisit the recent modified, and enhanced in accordance with the Declaration of Panama. past, the past between the resignation INTERNATIONAL DOLPHIN CONSERVATION PROGRAM ACT ‘‘(29) The term ‘Declaration of Panama’ of the first CAO and today because means the declaration signed in Panama City, frankly someone who has not yet been Mr. SAXTON. Mr. Speaker, I ask Republic of Panama, on October 4, 1995.’’. recognized has performed yeoman serv- unanimous consent to take from the SEC. 4. AMENDMENTS TO TITLE I. ice for the House. Jeff Trandahl, who Speaker’s table the bill (H.R. 408] to (a) EXCEPTIONS TO MORATORIUM.—Section has been the acting CAO for a period amend the Marine Mammal Protection 101(a)(2) (16 U.S.C. 1371(a)(2)) is amended— longer than he had anticipated, I be- Act of 1972 to support the International (1) by inserting after the first sentence ‘‘Such lieve now has a high comfort level as Dolphin Conservation Program in the authorizations may be granted under title III with respect to purse seine fishing for yellowfin he leaves this temporary office and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, and for tuna in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, sub- moves back to the Clerk’s office where other purposes, with a Senate amend- ject to regulations prescribed under that title by he is the Clerk’s right arm. I just think ment thereto and concur in the Senate the Secretary without regard to section 103.’’; it is appropriate, as Jay Eagen comes amendment. and H6672 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997

(2) by striking the semicolon in the second ‘‘(e) ACT NOT TO APPLY TO INCIDENTAL tuna in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean), un- sentence and all that follows through ‘‘prac- TAKINGS BY UNITED STATES CITIZENS EMPLOYED less such product is accompanied by a written ticable’’. ON FOREIGN VESSELS OUTSIDE THE UNITED statement, executed by the captain of the vessel (b) DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED.—Section STATES EEZ.—The provisions of this Act shall and an observer participating in a national or 101(a)(2) (16 U.S.C. 1371(a)(2)) is further amend- not apply to a citizen of the United States who international program acceptable to the Sec- ed— incidentally takes any marine mammal during retary, certifying that no purse seine net was (1) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting fishing operations outside the United States ex- intentionally deployed on or used to encircle the following: clusive economic zone (as defined in section 3 of dolphins during the particular voyage on which ‘‘(B) in the case of yellowfin tuna harvested the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation the tuna were caught and no dolphins were with purse seine nets in the eastern tropical Pa- and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1802)) when em- killed or seriously injured in the sets in which cific Ocean, and products therefrom, to be ex- ployed on a foreign fishing vessel of a harvest- the tuna were caught; or ported to the United States, shall require that ing nation which is in compliance with the ‘‘(ii) in any other fishery (other than a fishery the government of the exporting nation provide International Dolphin Conservation Program.’’. described in subparagraph (D)) unless the prod- documentary evidence that— (d) PERMITS.—Section 104(h) (16 U.S.C. uct is accompanied by a written statement exe- ‘‘(i)(I) the tuna or products therefrom were 1374(h)) is amended to read as follows: cuted by the captain of the vessel certifying that not banned from importation under this para- ‘‘(h) GENERAL PERMITS.— no purse seine net was intentionally deployed graph before the effective date of section 4 of the ‘‘(1) Consistent with the regulations pre- on or used to encircle dolphins during the par- International Dolphin Conservation Program scribed pursuant to section 103 of this title and ticular voyage on which the tuna was har- Act; or to the requirements of section 101 of this title, vested; ‘‘(II) the tuna or products therefrom were har- the Secretary may issue an annual permit to a ‘‘(C) in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean by vested after the effective date of section 4 of the United States purse seine fishing vessel for the a vessel using a purse seine net unless the tuna International Dolphin Conservation Program taking of such marine mammals, and shall issue meet the requirements for being considered dol- Act by vessels of a nation which participates in regulations to cover the use of any such annual phin safe under paragraph (2); or the International Dolphin Conservation Pro- permits. ‘‘(D) by a vessel in a fishery other than one gram, and such harvesting nation is either a ‘‘(2) Such annual permits for the incidental described in subparagraph (A), (B), or (C) that member of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna taking of marine mammals in the course of com- is identified by the Secretary as having a regu- Commission or has initiated (and within 6 mercial purse seine fishing for yellowfin tuna in lar and significant mortality or serious injury of months thereafter completed) all steps required the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean shall be gov- dolphins, unless such product is accompanied by of applicant nations, in accordance with article erned by section 306 of this Act, subject to the a written statement executed by the captain of V, paragraph 3 of the Convention establishing regulations issued pursuant to section 303 of the vessel and an observer participating in a na- the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission, this Act.’’. tional or international program acceptable to to become a member of that organization; (e) INTERNATIONAL NEGOTIATIONS.—Section the Secretary that no dolphins were killed or se- ‘‘(ii) such nation is meeting the obligations of 108(a)(2) (16 U.S.C. 1378(a)(2)) is amended— riously injured in the sets or other gear deploy- the International Dolphin Conservation Pro- (1) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of subpara- ments in which the tuna were caught, provided gram and the obligations of membership in the graph (A); that the Secretary determines that such an ob- Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission, in- (2) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the server statement is necessary. cluding all financial obligations; and following: ‘‘(2) For purposes of paragraph (1)(C), a tuna ‘‘(iii) the total dolphin mortality limits, and ‘‘(C) negotiations to revise the Convention for product that contains tuna harvested in the per-stock per-year dolphin mortality limits per- the Establishment of an Inter-American Tropi- eastern tropical Pacific Ocean by a vessel using mitted for that nation’s vessels under the Inter- cal Tuna Commission (1 U.S.T. 230; TIAS 2044) purse seine nets is dolphin safe if— national Dolphin Conservation Program do not which will incorporate— ‘‘(A) the vessel is of a type and size that the exceed the limits determined for 1997, or for any ‘‘(i) the conservation and management provi- Secretary has determined, consistent with the year thereafter, consistent with the objective of sions agreed to by the nations which have International Dolphin Conservation Program, is progressively reducing dolphin mortality to a signed the Declaration of Panama and in the not capable of deploying its purse seine nets on level approaching zero through the setting of Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory or to encircle dolphins; or annual limits and the goal of eliminating dol- Fish Stocks Agreement, as opened for signature ‘‘(B)(i) the product is accompanied by a writ- phin mortality, and requirements of the Inter- on December 4, 1995; and ten statement executed by the captain providing national Dolphin Conservation Program;’’; ‘‘(ii) a revised schedule of annual contribu- the certification required under subsection (h); (2) by redesignating subparagraphs (C), (D), tions to the expenses of the Inter-American ‘‘(ii) the product is accompanied by a written and (E) as subparagraphs (D), (E), and (F), re- Tropical Tuna Commission that is equitable to statement executed by— spectively; participating nations; and ‘‘(I) the Secretary or the Secretary’s designee; (3) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the ‘‘(D) discussions with those countries partici- ‘‘(II) a representative of the Inter-American following: pating, or likely to participate, in the Inter- Tropical Tuna Commission; or ‘‘(C) shall not accept such documentary evi- national Dolphin Conservation Program, for the ‘‘(III) an authorized representative of a par- dence if— purpose of identifying sources of funds needed ticipating nation whose national program meets ‘‘(i) the government of the harvesting nation for research and other measures promoting ef- the requirements of the International Dolphin does not provide directly or authorize the Inter- fective protection of dolphins, other marine spe- Conservation Program, American Tropical Tuna Commission to release cies, and the marine ecosystem;’’. which states that there was an observer ap- complete and accurate information to the Sec- (f) RESEARCH GRANTS.—Section 110(a) (16 proved by the International Dolphin Conserva- retary in a timely manner— U.S.C. 1380(a)) is amended— tion Program on board the vessel during the en- ‘‘(I) to allow determination of compliance (1) by striking ‘‘(1)’’ in paragraph (1); and tire trip and that such observer provided the with the International Dolphin Conservation (2) by striking paragraph (2). certification required under subsection (h); and Program; and SEC. 5. AMENDMENTS TO DOLPHIN PROTECTION ‘‘(iii) the statements referred to in clauses (i) ‘‘(II) for the purposes of tracking and verify- CONSUMER INFORMATION ACT. and (ii) are endorsed in writing by each ex- ing compliance with the minimum requirements (a) LABELING STANDARD.— Subsection (d) of porter, importer, and processor of the product; established by the Secretary in regulations pro- the Dolphin Protection Consumer Information and mulgated under subsection (f) of the Dolphin Act (16 U.S.C. 1385(d)) is amended to read as ‘‘(C) the written statements and endorsements Protection Consumer Information Act (16 U.S.C. follows: referred to in subparagraph (B) comply with 1385(f)); or ‘‘(d) LABELING STANDARD.— regulations promulgated by the Secretary which ‘‘(ii) after taking into consideration such in- ‘‘(1) It is a violation of section 5 of the Federal provide for the verification of tuna products as formation, findings of the Inter-American Tropi- Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 45) for any dolphin safe. cal Tuna Commission, and any other relevant producer, importer, exporter, distributor, or sell- ‘‘(3)(A) The Secretary of Commerce shall de- information, including information that a na- er of any tuna product that is exported from or velop an official mark that may be used to label tion is consistently failing to take enforcement offered for sale in the United States to include tuna products as dolphin safe in accordance actions on violations which diminish the effec- on the label of that product the term ‘dolphin with this Act. tiveness of the International Dolphin Conserva- safe’ or any other term or symbol that falsely ‘‘(B) A tuna product that bears the dolphin tion Program, the Secretary, in consultation claims or suggests that the tuna contained in safe mark developed under subparagraph (A) with the Secretary of State, finds that the har- the product were harvested using a method of shall not bear any other label or mark that re- vesting nation is not in compliance with the fishing that is not harmful to dolphins if the fers to dolphins, porpoises, or marine mammals. International Dolphin Conservation Program.’’; product contains tuna harvested— ‘‘(C) It is a violation of section 5 of the Fed- and ‘‘(A) on the high seas by a vessel engaged in eral Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 45) to (4) by striking ‘‘subparagraph (E)’’ in the driftnet fishing; label a tuna product with any label or mark matter after subparagraph (F), as redesignated ‘‘(B) outside the eastern tropical Pacific that refers to dolphins, porpoises, or marine by paragraph (2) of this subsection, and insert- Ocean by a vessel using purse seine nets— mammals other than the mark developed under ing ‘‘subparagraph (F)’’. ‘‘(i) in a fishery in which the Secretary has subparagraph (A) unless— (c) CERTAIN INCIDENTAL TAKINGS.—Section 101 determined that a regular and significant asso- ‘‘(i) no dolphins were killed or seriously in- (16 U.S.C. 1371) is further amended by adding at ciation occurs between dolphins and tuna (simi- jured in the sets or other gear deployments in the end the following new subsection: lar to the association between dolphins and which the tuna were caught; July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6673 ‘‘(ii) the label is supported by a tracking and retary shall, on the basis of the research con- ‘‘(2) support the International Dolphin Con- verification program which is comparable in ef- ducted before March 1, 1999, under section servation Program and efforts within the Pro- fectiveness to the program established under 304(a) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of gram to reduce, with the goal of eliminating, the subsection (f); and 1972, information obtained under the Inter- mortality referred to in paragraph (1); ‘‘(iii) the label complies with all applicable la- national Dolphin Conservation Program, and ‘‘(3) ensure that the market of the United beling, marketing, and advertising laws and reg- any other relevant information, make an initial States does not act as an incentive to the har- ulations of the Federal Trade Commission, in- finding regarding whether the intentional de- vest of tuna caught with driftnets or caught by cluding any guidelines for environmental label- ployment on or encirclement of dolphins with purse seine vessels in the eastern tropical Pa- ing. purse seine nets is having a significant adverse cific Ocean not operating in compliance with ‘‘(D) If the Secretary determines that the use impact on any depleted dolphin stock in the the International Dolphin Conservation Pro- of a label referred to in subparagraph (C) is sub- eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. The initial find- gram;’’. stantially undermining the conservation goals of ing shall be published immediately in the Fed- (c) Title III (16 U.S.C. 1411 et seq.) is amended the International Dolphin Conservation Pro- eral Register and shall become effective upon a by striking sections 302 through 306 (16 U.S.C. gram, the Secretary shall report that determina- subsequent date determined by the Secretary. 1412 through 1416) and inserting the following: tion to the United States Senate Committee on ‘‘(2) Between July 1, 2001, and December 31, ‘‘SEC. 302. INTERNATIONAL DOLPHIN CONSERVA- Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the 2002, the Secretary shall, on the basis of the TION PROGRAM. United States House of Representatives Commit- completed study conducted under section 304(a) ‘‘The Secretary of State, in consultation with tees on Resources and on Commerce, along with of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, the Secretary, shall seek to secure a binding recommendations to correct such problems. information obtained under the International international agreement to establish an Inter- ‘‘(E) It is a violation of section 5 of the Fed- Dolphin Conservation Program, and any other national Dolphin Conservation Program that re- eral Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 45) will- relevant information, make a finding regarding quires— ingly and knowingly to use a label referred to in whether the intentional deployment on or encir- ‘‘(1) that the total annual dolphin mortality subparagraph (C) in a campaign or effort to clement of dolphins with purse seine nets is hav- in the purse seine fishery for yellowfin tuna in mislead or deceive consumers about the level of ing a significant adverse impact on any depleted the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean shall not ex- protection afforded dolphins under the Inter- dolphin stock in the eastern tropical Pacific ceed 5,000 animals with a commitment and ob- national Dolphin Conservation Program.’’. Ocean. The finding shall be published imme- jective to progressively reduce dolphin mortality (b) TRACKING REGULATIONS.—Subsection (f) of diately in the Federal Register and shall become to a level approaching zero through the setting the Dolphin Protection Consumer Information effective upon a subsequent date determined by of annual limits; Act (16 U.S.C. 1385(f)) is amended to read as fol- the Secretary. ‘‘(2) the establishment of a per-stock per-year lows: ‘‘(h) CERTIFICATION BY CAPTAIN AND OB- dolphin mortality limit, to be in effect through ‘‘(f) REGULATIONS.—The Secretary, in con- SERVER.— calendar year 2000, at a level between 0.2 per- sultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, ‘‘(1) Unless otherwise required by paragraph cent and 0.1 percent of the minimum population shall issue regulations to implement this Act, in- (2), the certification by the captain under sub- estimate, as calculated, revised, or approved by cluding regulations to establish a domestic section (d)(2)(B)(i) and the certification pro- the Secretary; tracking and verification program that provides vided by the observer as specified in subsection ‘‘(3) the establishment of a per-stock per-year for the effective tracking of tuna labeled under (d)(2)(B)(ii) shall be that no dolphins were dolphin mortality limit, beginning with the cal- subsection (d). In the development of these regu- killed or seriously injured during the sets in endar year 2001, at a level less than or equal to lations, the Secretary shall establish appropriate which the tuna were caught. 0.1 percent of the minimum population estimate procedures for ensuring the confidentiality of ‘‘(2) The certification by the captain under as calculated, revised, or approved by the Sec- proprietary information the submission of which subsection (d)(2)(B)(i) and the certification pro- retary; is voluntary or mandatory. The regulations vided by the observer as specified under sub- ‘‘(4) that if a dolphin mortality limit is ex- shall address each of the following items: section (d)(2)(B)(ii) shall be that no tuna were ceeded under— ‘‘(1) The use of weight calculation for pur- caught on the trip in which such tuna were har- ‘‘(A) paragraph (1), all sets on dolphins shall poses of tracking tuna caught, landed, proc- vested using a purse seine net intentionally de- cease for the applicable fishing year; and essed, and exported. ployed on or to encircle dolphins, and that no ‘‘(B) paragraph (2) or (3), all sets on the ‘‘(2) Additional measures to enhance current dolphins were killed or seriously injured during stocks covered under paragraph (2) or (3) and observer coverage, including the establishment the sets in which the tuna were caught, if the any mixed schools that contain any of those of criteria for training, and for improving mon- tuna were caught on a trip commencing— stocks shall cease for the applicable fishing itoring and reporting capabilities and proce- ‘‘(A) before the effective date of the initial year; dures. finding by the Secretary under subsection (g)(1); ‘‘(5) a scientific review and assessment to be ‘‘(3) The designation of well location, proce- ‘‘(B) after the effective date of such initial conducted in calendar year 1998 to— dures for sealing holds, procedures for monitor- finding and before the effective date of the find- ‘‘(A) assess progress in meeting the objectives ing and certifying both above and below deck, ing of the Secretary under subsection (g)(2), set for calendar year 2000 under paragraph (2); or through equally effective methods, the track- where the initial finding is that the intentional and ing and verification of tuna labeled under sub- deployment on or encirclement of dolphins is ‘‘(B) as appropriate, consider recommenda- section (d). having a significant adverse impact on any de- tions for meeting these objectives; ‘‘(4) The reporting, receipt, and database stor- pleted dolphin stock; or ‘‘(6) a scientific review and assessment to be age of radio and facsimile transmittals from ‘‘(C) after the effective date of the finding conducted in calendar year 2000— fishing vessels containing information related to under subsection (g)(2), where such finding is ‘‘(A) to review the stocks covered under para- the tracking and verification of tuna, and the that the intentional deployment on or encircle- graph (3); and definition of set. ment of dolphins is having a significant adverse ‘‘(B) as appropriate to consider recommenda- ‘‘(5) The shore-based verification and tracking impact on any such depleted stock.’’. tions to further the objectives set under that throughout the fishing, transshipment, and can- paragraph; ning process by means of Inter-American Tropi- SEC. 6. AMENDMENTS TO TITLE III. ‘‘(7) the establishment of a per vessel maxi- cal Tuna Commission trip records or otherwise. (a) CHANGE OF TITLE HEADING.—The heading mum annual dolphin mortality limit consistent ‘‘(6) The use of periodic audits and spot of title III is amended to read as follows: with the established per-year mortality limits, as checks for caught, landed, and processed tuna ‘‘TITLE III—INTERNATIONAL DOLPHIN determined under paragraphs (1) through (3); products labeled in accordance with subsection CONSERVATION PROGRAM’’. and (d). (b) ADDITIONAL FINDINGS.—Section 301 (16 ‘‘(8) the provision of a system of incentives to ‘‘(7) The provision of timely access to data re- U.S.C. 1411) is amended— vessel captains to continue to reduce dolphin quired under this subsection by the Secretary (1) by striking paragraph (4) of subsection (a) mortality, with the goal of eliminating dolphin from harvesting nations to undertake the ac- and inserting the following: mortality. tions required in paragraph (6) of this para- ‘‘(4) Nations harvesting yellowfin tuna in the ‘‘SEC. 303. REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF THE SEC- graph. eastern tropical Pacific Ocean have dem- RETARY. The Secretary may make such adjustments as onstrated their willingness to participate in ap- ‘‘(a) REGULATIONS.— may be appropriate to the regulations promul- propriate multilateral agreements to reduce dol- ‘‘(1) The Secretary shall issue regulations, gated under this subsection to implement an phin mortality progressively to a level approach- and revise those regulations as may be appro- international tracking and verification program ing zero through the setting of annual limits, priate, to implement the International Dolphin that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements with the goal of eliminating dolphin mortality Conservation Program. established by the Secretary under this sub- in that fishery. Recognition of the International ‘‘(2)(A) The Secretary shall issue regulations section.’’. Dolphin Conservation Program will assure that to authorize and govern the taking of marine (c) FINDINGS CONCERNING IMPACT ON DE- the existing trend of reduced dolphin mortality mammals in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, PLETED STOCKS.—The Dolphin Protection continues; that individual stocks of dolphins are including any species of marine mammal des- Consumer Information Act (16 U.S.C. 1385) is adequately protected; and that the goal of elimi- ignated as depleted under this Act but not listed amended by striking subsections (g), (h), and (i) nating all dolphin mortality continues to be a as endangered or threatened under the Endan- and inserting the following: priority.’’; and gered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), by ves- ‘‘(g) SECRETARIAL FINDINGS.—(1) Between (2) by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) of sub- sels of the United States participating in the March 1, 1999, and March 31, 1999, the Sec- section (b) and inserting the following: International Dolphin Conservation Program. H6674 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 ‘‘(B) Regulations issued under this section with recommendations to the Commission as to phins and dolphin stocks referred to in para- shall include provisions— actions necessary to reduce incidental mortality graph (1); and ‘‘(i) requiring observers on each vessel; and serious injury and mitigate such adverse ‘‘(C) an experiment involving the repeated ‘‘(ii) requiring use of the backdown procedure impact; and chasing and capturing of dolphins by means of or other procedures equally or more effective in ‘‘(B) prescribe emergency regulations to re- intentional encirclement. avoiding mortality of, or serious injury to, ma- duce incidental mortality and serious injury and ‘‘(4) REPORT.—No later than 90 days after rine mammals in fishing operations; mitigate such adverse impact. publishing the finding under subsection (g)(2) of ‘‘(iii) prohibiting intentional sets on stocks ‘‘(2) Before taking action under subparagraph the Dolphin Protection Consumer Information and schools in accordance with the Inter- (A) or (B) of paragraph (1), the Secretary shall Act, the Secretary shall complete and submit a national Dolphin Conservation Program; consult with the Secretary of State, the Marine report containing the results of the research de- ‘‘(iv) requiring the use of special equipment, Mammal Commission, and the United States scribed in this subsection to the United States including dolphin safety panels in nets, mon- Commissioners to the Inter-American Tropical Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and itoring devices as identified by the International Tuna Commission. Transportation and the United States House of Dolphin Conservation Program to detect unsafe ‘‘(3) Emergency regulations prescribed under Representatives Committees on Resources and fishing conditions that may cause high inciden- this subsection— on Commerce, and to the Inter-American Tropi- tal dolphin mortality before nets are deployed ‘‘(A) shall be published in the Federal Reg- cal Tuna Commission. by a tuna vessel, operable rafts, speedboats with ister, together with an explanation thereof; ‘‘(b) OTHER RESEARCH.— towing bridles, floodlights in operable condition, ‘‘(B) shall remain in effect for the duration of ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In addition to conducting and diving masks and snorkels; the applicable fishing year; and the research described in subsection (a), the Sec- ‘‘(v) ensuring that the backdown procedure ‘‘(C) may be terminated by the Secretary at an retary shall, in consultation with the Marine during sets of purse seine net on marine mam- earlier date by publication in the Federal Reg- Mammal Commission and in cooperation with mals is completed and rolling of the net to sack ister of a notice of termination if the Secretary the nations participating in the International up has begun no later than 30 minutes before determines that the reasons for the emergency Dolphin Conservation Program and the Inter- sundown; ‘‘(vi) banning the use of explosive devices in action no longer exist. American Tropical Tuna Commission, undertake all purse seine operations; ‘‘(4) If the Secretary finds that the incidental or support appropriate scientific research to fur- ‘‘(vii) establishing per vessel maximum annual mortality and serious injury of marine mammals ther the goals of the International Dolphin Con- dolphin mortality limits, total dolphin mortality in the yellowfin tuna fishery in the eastern servation Program. limits and per-stock per-year mortality limits in tropical Pacific Ocean is continuing to have a ‘‘(2) SPECIFIC AREAS OF RESEARCH.—Research accordance with the International Dolphin Con- significant adverse impact on a stock or species, carried out under paragraph (1) may include— servation Program; the Secretary may extend the emergency regula- ‘‘(A) projects to devise cost-effective fishing ‘‘(viii) preventing the making of intentional tions for such additional periods as may be nec- methods and gear so as to reduce, with the goal sets on dolphins after reaching either the vessel essary. of eliminating, the incidental mortality and seri- maximum annual dolphin mortality limits, total ‘‘(5) Within 120 days after the Secretary noti- ous injury of marine mammals in connection dolphin mortality limits, or per-stock per-year fies the United States Commissioners to the with commercial purse seine fishing in the east- mortality limits; Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission of ern tropical Pacific Ocean; ‘‘(ix) preventing the fishing on dolphins by a the Secretary’s determination under paragraph ‘‘(B) projects to develop cost-effective methods vessel without an assigned vessel dolphin mor- (1)(A), the United States Commissioners shall of fishing for mature yellowfin tuna without tality limit; call for a special meeting of the Commission to setting nets on dolphins or other marine mam- ‘‘(x) allowing for the authorization and con- address the actions necessary to reduce inciden- mals; duct of experimental fishing operations, under tal mortality and serious injury and mitigate the ‘‘(C) projects to carry out stock assessments such terms and conditions as the Secretary may adverse impact which resulted in the determina- for those marine mammal species and marine prescribe, for the purpose of testing proposed im- tion. The Commissioners shall report the results mammal stocks taken in the purse seine fishery provements in fishing techniques and equipment of the special meeting in writing to the Sec- for yellowfin tuna in the eastern tropical Pacific that may reduce or eliminate dolphin mortality retary and to the Secretary of State. In their re- Ocean, including species or stocks not within or serious injury do not require the encirclement port, the Commissioners shall— waters under the jurisdiction of the United of dolphins in the course of commercial yellow- ‘‘(A) include a description of the actions States; and fin tuna fishing; taken by the harvesting nations or under the ‘‘(D) projects to determine the extent to which ‘‘(xi) authorizing fishing within the area cov- International Dolphin Conservation Program to the incidental take of nontarget species, includ- ered by the International Dolphin Conservation reduce the incidental mortality and serious in- ing juvenile tuna, occurs in the course of purse Program by vessels of the United States without jury and measures to mitigate the adverse im- seine fishing for yellowfin tuna in the eastern the use of special equipment or nets if the vessel pact on the marine mammal species or stock; tropical Pacific Ocean, the geographic location takes an observer and does not intentionally de- ‘‘(B) indicate whether, in their judgment, the of the incidental take, and the impact of that ploy nets on, or encircle, dolphins, under such actions taken address the problem adequately; incidental take on tuna stocks and nontarget terms and conditions as the Secretary may pre- and species. scribe; and ‘‘(C) if they indicate that the actions taken do ‘‘(c) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— ‘‘(xii) containing such other restrictions and not address the problem adequately, include rec- ‘‘(1) There are authorized to be appropriated requirements as the Secretary determines are ommendations of such additional action to be to the Secretary the following amounts, to be necessary to implement the International Dol- taken as may be necessary. used by the Secretary to carry out the research phin Conservation Program with respect to ves- ‘‘SEC. 304. RESEARCH. described in subsection (a): sels of the United States. ‘‘(a) REQUIRED RESEARCH.— ‘‘(A) $4,000,000 for fiscal year 1998. ‘‘(C) ADJUSTMENTS TO REQUIREMENTS.—The ‘‘(B) $3,000,000 for fiscal year 1999. Secretary may make such adjustments as may be ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall, in con- sultation with the Marine Mammal Commission ‘‘(C) $4,000,000 for fiscal year 2000. appropriate to requirements of subparagraph ‘‘(D) $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2001. (B) that pertain to fishing gear, vessel equip- and the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commis- sion, conduct a study of the effect of intentional ‘‘(2) In addition to the amount authorized to ment, and fishing practices to the extent the ad- be appropriated under paragraph (1), there are justments are consistent with the International encirclement (including chase) on dolphins and dolphin stocks incidentally taken in the course authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary Dolphin Conservation Program. for carrying out this section $3,000,000 for each ‘‘(b) CONSULTATION.—In developing any regu- of purse seine fishing for yellowfin tuna in the of the fiscal years 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001. lation under this section, the Secretary shall eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. The study, consult with the Secretary of State, the Marine which shall commence on October 1, 1997, shall ‘‘SEC. 305. REPORTS BY THE SECRETARY. Mammal Commission, and the United States consist of abundance surveys as described in ‘‘Notwithstanding section 103(f), the Secretary Commissioners to the Inter-American Tropical paragraph (2) and stress studies as described in shall submit annual reports to the Congress Tuna Commission appointed under section 3 of paragraph (3), and shall address the question of which include— the Tuna Conventions Act of 1950 (16 U.S.C. whether such encirclement is having a signifi- ‘‘(1) results of research conducted pursuant to 952). cant adverse impact on any depleted dolphin section 304; ‘‘(c) EMERGENCY REGULATIONS.— stock in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. ‘‘(2) a description of the status and trends of ‘‘(1) If the Secretary determines, on the basis ‘‘(2) POPULATION ABUNDANCE SURVEYS.—The stocks of tuna; of the best scientific information available (in- abundance surveys under this subsection shall ‘‘(3) a description of the efforts to assess, cluding research conducted under section 304 survey the abundance of such depleted stocks avoid, reduce, and minimize the bycatch of juve- and information obtained under the Inter- and shall be conducted during each of the cal- nile yellowfin tuna and bycatch of nontarget national Dolphin Conservation Program) that endar years 1998, 1999, and 2000. species; the incidental mortality and serious injury of ‘‘(3) STRESS STUDIES.—The stress studies ‘‘(4) a description of the activities of the Inter- marine mammals authorized under this title is under this subsection shall include— national Dolphin Conservation Program and of having, or is likely to have, a significant ad- ‘‘(A) a review of relevant stress-related re- the efforts of the United States in support of the verse impact on a marine mammal stock or spe- search and a 3-year series of necropsy samples Program’s goals and objectives, including the cies, the Secretary shall— from dolphins obtained by commercial vessels; protection of dolphin stocks in the eastern tropi- ‘‘(A) notify the Inter-American Tropical Tuna ‘‘(B) a 1-year review of relevant historical de- cal Pacific Ocean, and an assessment of the ef- Commission of his or her determination, along mographic and biological data related to dol- fectiveness of the Program; July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6675 ‘‘(5) actions taken by the Secretary under sec- ‘‘(4) In the case of any permit that is sus- ‘‘(3) establish procedures to provide for appro- tion 101(a)(2)(B) and section 101(d); pended for the failure to pay a civil penalty or priate public participation and public meetings ‘‘(6) copies of any relevant resolutions and de- criminal fine, the Secretary shall reinstate the and to provide for the confidentiality of con- cisions of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna permit upon payment of the penalty or fine and fidential business data; and Commission, and any regulations promulgated interest thereon at the prevailing rate. ‘‘(4) fix the terms of office of the members of by the Secretary under this title; and ‘‘(5) No sanctions shall be imposed under this the General Advisory Committee and Scientific ‘‘(7) any other information deemed relevant by section unless there has been a prior oppor- Advisory Subcommittee, who shall receive no the Secretary. tunity for a hearing on the facts underlying the compensation for their services as such members. ‘‘SEC. 306. PERMITS. violation for which the sanction is imposed, ei- ‘‘(b) FUNCTIONS.— ‘‘(1) GENERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE.—The ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.— ther in conjunction with a civil penalty proceed- ‘‘(1) Consistent with the regulations issued ing under this title or otherwise.’’. General Advisory Committee shall be invited to pursuant to section 303, the Secretary shall (d) Section 307 (16 U.S.C. 1417) is amended— have representatives attend all nonexecutive issue a permit to a vessel of the United States (1) by striking paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of meetings of the United States sections and shall authorizing participation in the International subsection (a) and inserting the following: be given full opportunity to examine and to be Dolphin Conservation Program and may require ‘‘(1) for any person to sell, purchase, offer for heard on all proposed programs of investiga- a permit for the person actually in charge of sale, transport, or ship, in the United States, tions, reports, recommendations, and regula- and controlling the fishing operation of the ves- any tuna or tuna product unless the tuna or tions of the Commission. The General Advisory sel. The Secretary shall prescribe such proce- tuna product is either dolphin safe or has been Committee may attend all meetings of the inter- dures as are necessary to carry out this sub- harvested in compliance with the International national commissions to which they are invited section, including requiring the submission of— Dolphin Conservation Program by a country by such commissions. ‘‘(A) the name and official number or other that is a member of the Inter-American Tropical ‘‘(2) SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY SUBCOMMITTEE.— ‘‘(A) ADVICE.—The Scientific Advisory Sub- identification of each fishing vessel for which a Tuna Commission or has initiated and within 6 committee shall advise the General Advisory permit is sought, together with the name and months thereafter completed all steps required of Committee and the Commissioners on matters in- address of the owner thereof; and applicant nations in accordance with Article V, cluding— ‘‘(B) the tonnage, hold capacity, speed, proc- paragraph 3 of the Convention establishing the ‘‘(i) the conservation of ecosystems; essing equipment, and type and quantity of Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission, to ‘‘(ii) the sustainable uses of living marine re- gear, including an inventory of special equip- become a member of that organization; sources related to the tuna fishery in the east- ment required under section 303, with respect to ‘‘(2) except as provided for in subsection ern Pacific Ocean; and each vessel. 101(d), for any person or vessel subject to the ju- ‘‘(iii) the long-term conservation and manage- ‘‘(2) The Secretary is authorized to charge a risdiction of the United States intentionally to ment of stocks of living marine resources in the fee for granting an authorization and issuing a set a purse seine net on or to encircle any ma- eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. permit under this section. The level of fees rine mammal in the course of tuna fishing oper- ‘‘(B) OTHER FUNCTIONS AND ASSISTANCE.—The charged under this paragraph may not exceed ations in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean ex- Scientific Advisory Subcommittee shall, as re- the administrative cost incurred in granting an cept in accordance with this title and regula- quested by the General Advisory Committee, the authorization and issuing a permit. Fees col- tions issued pursuant to this title; and United States Commissioners, or the Secretary, lected under this paragraph shall be available to ‘‘(3) for any person to import any yellowfin perform functions and provide assistance re- the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans tuna or yellowfin tuna product or any other quired by formal agreements entered into by the and Atmosphere for expenses incurred in grant- fish or fish product in violation of a ban on im- United States for this fishery, including the ing authorizations and issuing permits under portation imposed under section 101(a)(2);’’; International Dolphin Conservation Program. this section. (2) by inserting ‘‘(a)(5) or’’ before ‘‘(a)(6)’’ in These functions may include— ‘‘(3) After the effective date of the Inter- subsection (b)(2); and ‘‘(i) the review of data from the Program, in- national Dolphin Conservation Program Act, no (3) by striking subsection (d). cluding data received from the Inter-American vessel of the United States shall operate in the (e) Section 308 (16 U.S.C. 1418) is repealed. Tropical Tuna Commission; yellowfin tuna fishery in the eastern tropical (f) CLERICAL AMENDMENTS.—The table of con- ‘‘(ii) recommendations on research needs, in- Pacific Ocean without a valid permit issued tents in the first section of the Marine Mammal cluding ecosystems, fishing practices, and gear under this section. Protection Act of 1972 is amended by striking technology research, including the development ‘‘(b) PERMIT SANCTIONS.— the items relating to title III and inserting in and use of selective, environmentally safe and ‘‘(1) In any case in which— lieu thereof the following: cost-effective fishing gear, and on the coordina- ‘‘(A) a vessel for which a permit has been is- ‘‘TITLE III—INTERNATIONAL DOLPHIN tion and facilitation of such research; sued under this section has been used in the ‘‘(iii) recommendations concerning scientific CONSERVATION PROGRAM commission of an act prohibited under section reviews and assessments required under the Pro- 307; ‘‘Sec. 301. Findings and policy. gram and engaging, as appropriate, in such re- ‘‘(B) the owner or operator of any such vessel ‘‘Sec. 302. International Dolphin Conservation views and assessments; or any other person who has applied for or been Program. ‘‘(iv) consulting with other experts as needed; issued a permit under this section has acted in ‘‘Sec. 303. Regulatory authority of the Sec- and violation of section 307; or retary. ‘‘(v) recommending measures to assure the ‘‘(C) any civil penalty or criminal fine im- ‘‘Sec. 304. Research. regular and timely full exchange of data among posed on a vessel, owner or operator of a vessel, ‘‘Sec. 305. Reports by the Secretary. the parties to the Program and each nation’s or other person who has applied for or been is- ‘‘Sec. 306. Permits. National Scientific Advisory Committee (or its sued a permit under this section has not been ‘‘Sec. 307. Prohibitions.’’. equivalent). paid or is overdue, SEC. 7. AMENDMENTS TO THE TUNA CONVEN- ‘‘(3) ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS.—The Sci- the Secretary may— TIONS ACT. entific Advisory Subcommittee shall be invited to ‘‘(i) revoke any permit with respect to such (a) Section 3(c) of the Tuna Conventions Act have representatives attend all nonexecutive vessel, with or without prejudice to the issuance (16 U.S.C. 952(c)) is amended to read as follows: meetings of the United States sections and the of subsequent permits; ‘‘(c) at least one shall be either the Adminis- General Advisory Subcommittee and shall be ‘‘(ii) suspend such permit for a period of time trator, or an appropriate officer, of the National given full opportunity to examine and to be considered by the Secretary to be appropriate; Marine Fisheries Service; and’’. heard on all proposed programs of scientific in- ‘‘(iii) deny such permit; or (b) Section 4 of the Tuna Conventions Act (16 vestigation, scientific reports, and scientific rec- ‘‘(iv) impose additional conditions or restric- U.S.C. 953) is amended to read as follows: ommendations of the commission. Representa- tions on any permit issued to, or applied for by, ‘‘SEC. 4. GENERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND tives of the Scientific Advisory Subcommittee any such vessel or person under this section. SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY SUBCOMMIT- may attend meetings of the Inter-American ‘‘(2) In imposing a sanction under this sub- TEE. Tropical Tuna Commission in accordance with section, the Secretary shall take into account— ‘‘(a) APPOINTMENTS; PUBLIC PARTICIPATION; the rules of such Commission.’’. ‘‘(A) the nature, circumstances, extent, and COMPENSATION.—The Secretary, in consultation (c) BYCATCH REDUCTION.—The Tuna Conven- gravity of the prohibited acts for which the with the United States Commissioners, shall— tions Act (16 U.S.C. 951 et seq.) is amended by sanction is imposed; and ‘‘(1) appoint a General Advisory Committee adding at the end thereof the following: ‘‘(B) with respect to the violator, the degree of which shall be composed of not less than 5 nor ‘‘SEC. 15. REDUCTION OF BYCATCH IN THE EAST- culpability, any history of prior offenses, and more than 15 persons with balanced representa- ERN TROPICAL PACIFIC OCEAN. other such matters as justice requires. tion from the various groups participating in the ‘‘The Secretary of State, in consultation with ‘‘(3) Transfer of ownership of a vessel, by sale fisheries included under the conventions, and the Secretary of Commerce and acting through or otherwise, shall not extinguish any permit from nongovernmental conservation organiza- the United States Commissioners, shall seek, in sanction that is in effect or is pending at the tions; cooperation with other nations whose vessel fish time of transfer of ownership. Before executing ‘‘(2) appoint a Scientific Advisory Subcommit- for tuna in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, the transfer of ownership of a vessel, by sale or tee which shall be composed of not less than 5 to establish standards and measures for a otherwise, the owner shall disclose in writing to nor more than 15 qualified scientists with bal- bycatch reduction program for vessels fishing the prospective transferee the existence of any anced representation from the public and pri- for yellowfin tuna in the eastern tropical Pacific permit sanction that will be in effect or pending vate sectors, including nongovernmental con- Ocean. The bycatch reduction program shall in- with respect to the vessel at the time of transfer. servation organizations; clude measures— H6676 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 ‘‘(1) to require, to the maximum extent prac- not perfect, I believe it is a good bill out on the Senate side to pursue a very ticable, that sea turtles and other threatened and a bill that should be supported by scientific study of what the dolphins go species and endangered species are released everyone in the Chamber this after- through under this new regime. alive; noon. Now if the scientific study shows ‘‘(2) to reduce, to the maximum extent prac- ticable, the harvest of nontarget species; Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Further reserv- that there is no stress as a result of en- ‘‘(3) to reduce, to the maximum extent prac- ing the right to object, Mr. Speaker, circlement and other problems with ticable, the mortality of nontarget species; and might I ask? I noticed that the gen- the dolphins do not arise and one can ‘‘(4) to reduce, to the maximum extent prac- tleman from California [Mr. catch tuna fish by encircling them and ticable, the mortality of juveniles of the target CUNNINGHAM], who has been associated releasing the dolphins, if everything species.’’. with this bill from the beginning is on scientifically proves out within this 18- SEC. 8. EFFECTIVE DATES. the floor and at the podium, and I month period, then the label will re- (a) AMENDMENTS TO TAKE EFFECT WHEN would like to yield to him for remarks flect that dolphins can be released IDCP IN FORCE.—Sections 3 through 7 of this he might make while I consider this without harm in the process of encir- Act (except for section 304 of the Marine Mam- mal Protection Act of 1972 as added by section reservation. cling tuna fish and then the label will 6 of this Act) shall become effective upon— Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, reflect that. (1) certification by the Secretary of Commerce will the gentleman yield? Mr. ABERCROMBIE. So we will re- that— Mr. ABERCROMBIE. I yield to the visit the issue in 18 months at the con- (A) sufficient funding is available to complete gentleman from California. clusion of the circumstances the gen- the first year of the study required under sec- Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, I tleman from Maryland just outlined? tion 304(a) of the Marine Mammal Protection thank my friend from Hawaii, and we Mr. GILCHREST. Mr. Speaker, I can Act of 1972, as so added; and have been friends for a long time, and assure the gentleman from Hawaii that (B) the study has commenced; and (2) certification by the Secretary of State to what I would say is under the same cir- we will not only revisit this in 18 Congress that a binding resolution of the Inter- cumstances I probably would have ob- months, but that the gentleman from American Tropical Tuna Commission or other jected also, just receiving the informa- California (Mr. Cunningham) and my- legally binding instrument establishing the tion, not knowing what the bill was. self will visit this issue on a very regu- International Dolphin Conservation Program The gentleman from Maryland [Mr. lar basis during the course of this has been adopted and is in force. GILCHREST] and myself have been fol- study. (b) SPECIAL EFFECTIVE DATE.—Notwithstand- lowing this thing day by day, working Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I ing subsection (a), the Secretary of Commerce with the senators from my State on thank the gentleman from Maryland may issue regulations under— (1) subsection (f)(2) of the Dolphin Protection the bill who had objection to it origi- very much. Consumer Information Act (16 U.S.C. 1385(f)(2)), nally. There were some agreements Considering the answers, Mr. Speak- as added by section 5(b) of this Act; made on the Senate side that I would er, I want to thank the gentleman from (2) section 303(a) of the Marine Mammal Pro- have not wanted in the bill, but were California [Mr. CUNNINGHAM] and the tection Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1413(a)), as added placed there. I, like the gentleman gentleman from Maryland [Mr. by section 6(c) of this Act, from New Jersey [Mr. SAXTON] and my GILCHREST] and the gentleman from at any time after the date of enactment of this colleague from Maryland, agree that in New Jersey [Mr. SAXTON] for the enu- Act. the best interests of the country and of meration of the conditions and cir- The SPEAKER pro tempore (during the safety of the tuna dolphin that it cumstances of the bill. the reading). Without objection, the would be good to pass and push on this Mr. Speaker, as a result of the infor- Senate amendment will be considered bill. mation I have received, I am going to as read and printed in the RECORD. After all, it was supported last Con- withdraw my reservation of objection. There was no objection. gress. It did not make it to the Senate, Mr. GILCHREST. Mr. Speaker, will The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there it has gone through here, it has gone the gentleman yield just for a second? objection to the request of the gen- through the Senate, and I believe the Mr. ABERCROMBIE. I yield to the tleman from New Jersey? President has lobbied strongly for this gentleman from Maryland. Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, bill and will sign it, that we go forth Mr. GILCHREST. Mr. Speaker, I reserving the right to object, I will ask and do that. And I thank my friend for would like to say that I have enjoyed the gentleman from New Jersey to ex- not only his patience, but for his con- working this bill with the gentleman plain his request. sideration. from New Jersey [Mr. SAXTON], the Mr. SAXTON. Mr. Speaker, will the Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, in gentleman from California [Mr. gentleman yield? order for me to be able to completely CUNNINGHAM], certainly the Members of Mr. ABERCROMBIE. I yield to the understand the situation and to have it the Senate, but I hold the gentleman gentleman from New Jersey. on the record, may I ask the gentleman from Hawaii in high esteem for his se- Mr. SAXTON. Mr. Speaker, I appre- from Maryland, under the bill as it is riousness in legislation that comes out ciate the gentleman’s reservation in before us, the conference bill as before of this body. order that we may discuss the history us, does the dolphin-safe label change Mr. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, the and the provisions of this bill. Both the now? bill we are considering todayÐH.R. 408, the gentleman from Maryland [Mr. Mr. GILCHREST. Mr. Speaker, will International Dolphin Conservation Program GILCHREST] and the gentleman from the gentleman yield? Act, as amended by S. 39Ðis a compromise. California [Mr. CUNNINGHAM] have Mr. ABERCROMBIE. I yield to the Normally, we would consider compromise to worked exceedingly hard both in the gentleman from Maryland. be the backbone of the way the congressional House and in the Senate. That effort Mr. GILCHREST. Mr. Speaker, the process works: Members with various view- culminated just a few days ago with a dolphin-safe label does not change now points, representing very different constitu- 99 to 0 vote in favor of this bill in the from the way it is. encies from Maine to California, working to Senate. It simply implements most of Mr. ABERCROMBIE. And what would find the common ground that is necessary to the provisions which we provided be the earliest date that the label could national legislation. through the Subcommittee on Fish- change? Would that be March of 1999? Unfortunately, this compromise represents eries Conservation, Wildlife and Mr. GILCHREST. It will be 18 something very different. We are brought to Oceans. months after October 1997, whatever this point by pressure from a foreign govern- Subsequently, the Committee on Re- that might be, March of 1999. ment, and that is not the way this institution sources in this House in passage on the Mr. ABERCROMBIE. 18 months? should function. floor here, it also implements the Pan- Mr. GILCHREST. Yes. This is not a bill to which I can lend enthu- ama Declaration to protect dolphins Mr. ABERCROMBIE. And could the siastic support, although I will vote for it. I be- and sea life. It is a conservation meas- gentleman explain the rationale for lieve that, overall, this compromise represents ure which is extremely important to those two answers? a far better deal for dolphins than they would fishermen on the west coast. It is a Mr. GILCHREST. Mr. Speaker, the have received under the bill originally passed compromise that was reached with op- reason the label does not change until by the House, and that is due primarily to the ponents of the bill, and although it is March of 1999 is a compromise worked untiring efforts and the commitment of Senator July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6677

BARBARA BOXER of California, who wrote the dolphins, and I know there are many outside not object, I would like to say to my original dolphin protection law in 1990 and Congress who will be watching this study, too. friend from New York, sometimes at who has stood up to those on both sides of I expect that those who will engage in the 700 knots you have to make a split sec- the Rio Grande who have sought to weaken study will utilize scrupulous scientific stand- ond decision, and in this case, I think that law. ards, and that the recommendations that result it has worked out for the best. We vigorously opposed an immediate from the study will be scientifically sound rath- As I was standing before, I learned of change in the Dolphin-safe label, as was er than motivated by political or trade consid- a problem that existed and made a de- sought by Mexico and by the Administration, erations. cision. As a matter of fact, I had rose because there is a great deal of concern with- Lastly, let me say that those of us who will at the other time with the reservation in the scientific community that the kind of be called upon to cast votes in the near future to allow the gentleman and the gentle- fishing sanctioned by this bill will cause seri- on fast track trade authority or on the expan- woman from New York to make their ous harm to dolphins. We insisted that an im- sion of NAFTA and other trade agreements talk in support of the issue. The issue partial scientific study be conducted to deter- would do well to study the history of this legis- at hand had nothing to do with Betty mine whether, as asserted, it is now possible lation. If there ever was a question that envi- Shabazz, and I rise in full and strong to fish with purse seine nets and not harm dol- ronmental and labor standards should be in- support of the gentleman from New phins. cluded as integral components of such agree- York and the gentlewoman from New I am therefore pleased to see that on this ments, not as side agreement afterthoughts, York and for what they are trying to key point, we have been successful by requir- this legislation provides a clear example of do in this. ing a three-year study on the impacts of chas- why such provisions should be incorporated. Mr. Speaker, under my reservation, I ing and netting on dolphin populations. Neither This legislation is the result of foreign gov- yield to the gentleman from New York I nor the scientists I have consulted are com- ernments telling American consumers and the [Mr. RANGEL]. fortable with an automatic change in the U.S. Congress that weÐand only weÐmust Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank meaning of ``dolphin safe'' after only 1 year of weaken our domestic product labeling laws the gentleman from California [Mr. study unless the Secretary determines that because of this international agreementÐan CUNNINGHAM] for allowing his name to chasing and netting dolphins has a significant agreement, I might add, that not one person in be included among the Members of adverse impact on the animals. this Congress had any role in drafting or ap- Congress that take this time before we The scientists tell us that these dolphin pop- proving. Trade and foreign demands are the adjourn to pay great tribute to a great ulations should be growing at 4±6 percent an- engines of this legislation; sound science, American. I recognize that the gentle- nually, and that anything else should be con- mammal protection, consumer information all man’s objections had nothing to do sidered a significant adverse impact. I assume are being sacrificed on the almighty altar of with the life of this great woman, and the Secretary will base his decision on objec- free trade. I appreciate the fact that the gen- tive, independent scientific advice and not suc- This goes far beyond the issue of tuna and tleman is removing that objection. cumb to political pressure. dolphins. It goes to the issue of who makes Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, I However, this bill now contains new lan- the laws and the rules that govern this country withdraw my reservation of objection. guageÐnot previously reviewed by the House and our constituents. Do we make decisions The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there and not subject to any hearings in either based on fact and science, or on the demands objection to the request of the gen- House or SenateÐwhich, in my view, sets a of foreign economic competitors? tleman from New York? dangerous precedent for the future of eco-la- The best reason to vote for this legislation There was no objection. beling. is that, should this shaky compromise fail, a The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- The language of this bill appears to exempt far worse version is waiting in the wings and lows: the government-defined ``dolphin safe'' label undoubtedly will pass. In fact, there is some H. RES. 183 from FTC standards on truth in labeling. This indication that the Mexican Government is al- Whereas the Nation honors Betty Shabazz language prohibits American citizens from ready looking to weaken even this com- as a wife, mother, educator, and advocate for suing the federal government over the accu- promise. civil and human rights, women, and the racy and truthfulness of the label that purports So, I thank Senator BOXER and Senators poor; Whereas Betty Shabazz, through her life to signify ``dolphin safe'' tuna. BIDEN and SMITH for their efforts to make this The bill technically allows the use of labels and deeds, has been an inspiration to people bill less onerous, and I pledge to work with around the world; other than the government label, which I sup- them in the coming year and a half to monitor port, but then contains a plethora of provisions Whereas Betty Shabazz was a woman of the study that will determine how the label is strength, resilience, perseverance, and grace and restrictions designed to ensure that com- to be written in the future. who overcame the greatest of challenges; peting labels will be all but impossible to use. Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I Whereas Betty Shabazz was born Betty This bill requires the Secretary to make a withdraw my reservation of objection. Sanders in Detroit, Michigan, on May 28, determination on whether the use of other la- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there 1936; bels is ``substantially undermining the con- objection to the request of the gen- Whereas Betty Shabazz met and married servation goals of the International Dolphin tleman from New Jersey. the controversial activist and leader El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz (Malcolm X) in New York Conservation Program,'' and to then rec- There was no objection. ommend to the Congress how to ``correct such in 1958; A motion to reconsider was laid on Whereas on February 21, 1965, while preg- problems''. It also contains a provisionÐadded the table. nant with twins, Betty Shabazz and their to the last minute at the insistence of tuna f four daughters witnessed Malcolm X’s assas- companiesÐmaking it a violation of the Fed- sination; eral Trade Commission Act to ``use a label in HONORING THE LIFE OF BETTY Whereas Betty Shabazz exhibited her resil- a campaign or effort to mislead or deceive SHABAZZ iency and determination as a single mother, consumers about the level of protection af- Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I ask raising and educating her six daughters, forded to dolphins under the International Dol- unanimous consent that the Commit- Attallah, Qubilah, Ilyasah, Gamilah, and phin Conservation Program Act.'' twins Malikah and Malaak; tee on Government Reform and Over- Whereas Betty Shabazz found the time to To my knowledge, no other provision of law sight be discharged from further con- become certified as a registered nurse, and to contains such extensive limitations on the right sideration of the resolution (H.Res. 183) later earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees of the American consumer to know the im- honoring the life of Betty Shabazz, and and, finally, a doctorate in education admin- pacts of their purchases on the environment or ask for its immediate consideration. istration from the University of Massachu- anything else, and I am extremely uncomfort- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- setts; able about setting this precedent at a time tion. Whereas Betty Shabazz joined the adminis- trative staff of Medgar Evers College in when eco-labeling or other labeling efforts are The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there under tremendous fire from global big busi- Brooklyn, New York, rising to high posi- objection to the request of the gen- tions; ness, without hearings or time to determine tleman from New York? Whereas, while preserving the public mem- the exact extent of these limitations. b 1730 ory of her late husband, Betty Shabazz I intend to remain very engaged over the earned a reputation of her own, as an educa- next 18 months as we undertake the study to Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, re- tor, public speaker, and advocate for women, determine the safety of purse seine nets on serving the right to object, and I will education, and civil and human rights; H6678 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 Whereas on June 23, 1997, Betty Shabazz the following standing committees of the Texas benefitted from her love of edu- succumbed to injuries suffered in a tragic House of Representatives: cation and children as well as her great fire; To the Committee on Banking and Finan- work at the Medgar Evers College and Whereas Betty Shabazz personified the cial Services: Robert Weygand of Rhode Is- her great work with Coretta Scott roles of wife, mother, and professional land. King and Merlie Evers, of course wid- woman; and To the Committee on National Security: Whereas Betty Shabazz will be forever re- Cynthia McKinney of Georgia. ows who lost their husbands to trag- membered for her love of family, her com- edy, but as well to the cause of civil The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there mitment to humankind, and for the joy and rights, like her husband, Malcolm X. objection to the request of the gen- laughter she brought to all those who knew So I just wanted to join my colleague her: Now, therefore, be it tleman from California? Resolved, That the House of Representa- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, reserving from New York [Mr. ENGEL], and on be- tives honors the life of Betty Shabazz. the right to object, and I will not ob- half of my constituents. We acknowl- The resolution was agreed to. ject, but I was here on the floor before edge her as a national treasure, and I A motion to reconsider was laid on and wanted to add just a couple of am very proud to be able to stand here the table. words to the tribute to Betty Shabazz. and salute the Honorable Dr. Betty Shabazz through her death. She has f Betty Shabazz was my constituent helped to consolidate those of us who for many years in Mount Vernon, NY, would support children and be able to RESIGNATION AS MEMBER OF and was truly a friend and a great lady, continue her fight for equality and jus- COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS and I stood up before, but I was not tice. The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- seen, and so I wanted to just very brief- fore the House the following resigna- ly say a few words on her behalf and Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, will the tion as a member of the Committee on ask that my words be put into the gentleman yield? Small Business: RECORD behind Mr. RANGEL’s remarks. Mr. ENGEL. Further reserving the U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I last saw Betty Shabazz in my dis- right to object, I yield to the gen- Washington, DC, July 30, 1997. trict at a church in a celebration, a tleman from New York. Hon. NEWT GINGRICH, ceremony, dealing with United States Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I want to Speaker of the House of Representatives, Washington, DC. and African relations and investment join the gentlewoman from Texas [Ms. DEAR MR. SPEAKER: As of today’s date, I in Africa. I have known Betty for many JACKSON-LEE] and the gentleman from will be taking a leave of absence from the years, am familiar with her work and New York [Mr. ENGEL] for their work Small Business Committee so that I can con- education and caring about young peo- on behalf of Betty Shabazz, who has be- tinue serving on the Budget Committee. ple and caring about the future of this come a mother figure for our entire Sincerely, country. land, the tragedies she suffered in the BOB WEYGAND, loss of her husband, the tragedy in her Member of Congress. I want to say that Betty Shabazz was truly a woman of valor, truly a woman own life, and yet was able to go The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without who was color-blind and cared about all through so many wonderful things in objection, the resignation is accepted. Americans, regardless of race, creed, her life. She will long be missed, and There was no objection. color, or religious origin. Her life per- she has left her mark on our society. f sonified, I think, what makes this Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I withdraw RESIGNATION AS MEMBER OF country great, how someone can take my reservation of objection. COMMITTEE ON BANKING AND adversity in their own personal lives The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there FINANCIAL SERVICES and just move themselves forward, objection to the request of the gen- going to school and getting her doctor- tleman from California? The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- ate and sharing what she knew with There was no objection. fore the House the following resigna- the community. tion as a member of the Committee on I remember sitting next to her last The resolution was agreed to. Banking and Financial Services: year at the Democratic National Con- A motion to reconsider was laid on CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES, vention, and we chatted about all the the table. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Washington, DC, July 30, 1997. things that she cared about, and I just f Hon. NEWT GINGRICH, wanted to add my voice to say that we Speaker of the House of Representatives, Wash- truly miss her already. She was a great ington, DC. woman, but her legacy will live on. She LIMITING AMENDMENTS DURING DEAR MR. SPEAKER: I would like to inform cared not only about the people in my you that I am resigning from my assignment FURTHER CONSIDERATION OF district again, but about all people, and H.R. 2159, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, on the House Committee of Banking and Fi- I represent the communities of Mount nancial Services. EXPORT FINANCING, AND RE- Thank you very much. Vernon, NY and Yonkers, NY in which LATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIA- Sincerely, she lived, and she really made us all TIONS ACT, 1998 CYNTHIA MCKINNEY, proud. Member of Congress. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Mr. CALLAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Speaker, will the gentleman yield? unanimous consent that during further objection, the resignation is accepted. Mr. ENGEL. Further reserving the consideration of the bill (H.R. 2159) There was no objection. right to object, I yield to the gentle- making appropriations for foreign op- erations, export financing, and related f woman from Texas. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. programs for the fiscal year ending ELECTION OF MEMBERS TO CER- Speaker, if I might just ask the indul- September 30, 1998, and for other pur- TAIN STANDING COMMITTEES OF gence of the Speaker on behalf of the poses, pursuant to the order of the THE HOUSE constituents of the 18th Congressional House of July 24, 1997, no other amend- Mr. FAZIO of California. Mr. Speak- District of Texas, we admire the fact ment shall be in order (except pro er, I offer a resolution (H. Res. 208), and that New York claimed Dr. Betty forma amendments offered for the pur- I ask unanimous consent for its imme- Shabazz, but she is truly a national pose of debate) unless printed before diate consideration in the House. treasure, and for those of us in Texas, August 1, 1997 in the portion of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The we acknowledge that Betty Shabazz CONGRESSIONAL RECORD designated for Clerk will report the resolution. was a symbol of motherhood in the fact that purpose in clause 6 of rule XXIII. The Clerk read as follows: that she rose as a single mother to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there HOUSE RESOLUTION 208 raise six daughters and steadfastly con- objection to the request of the gen- Resolved, That the following named Mem- tinued her work on behalf of all chil- tleman from Alabama? bers be, and that they are hereby, elected to dren in this Nation. So those of us in There was no objection. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6679 PERMISSION FOR COMMITTEE ON and I look forward to being able to call our relationship has proven mutually APPROPRIATIONS TO HAVE to the attention of the House the fact beneficial. UNTIL MIDNIGHT, TUESDAY, AU- that this resolution was fully agreed to It is this Member’s understanding GUST 5, 1997 TO FILE PRIVI- in the House in such a timely manner. that the distinguished gentleman from LEGED REPORT ON TREASURY, We congratulate both India and Paki- New York [Mr. GILMAN], the chairman POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL stan on their 50th anniversaries of of the Committee on International Re- GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS their independence, and I thank the lations, will be leading a delegation to ACT, 1998 gentleman from Nebraska [Mr. BEREU- India and Pakistan in the coming Mr. CALLAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask TER] for bringing this matter before us month, in part to celebrate this mo- unanimous consent that the Commit- at this time. mentous occasion. Such a delegation is tee on Appropriations may have until Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I appropriate and timely, and this Mem- midnight Tuesday, August 5, 1997 to thank the chairman. ber certainly congratulates the chair- Under my reservation, I yield to the file a privileged report on a bill making man on his decision to lead such an im- gentlewoman from Texas [Ms. JACK- appropriations for the Treasury De- portant delegation. SON-LEE]. partment, the United States Postal The resolution itself calls for an offi- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Service, the Executive Office of the cial appointed House delegation to Speaker, I thank the gentleman from President, and certain independent visit the two countries within the next Nebraska as well. I thank him for his agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- anniversary year. kindness. Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 157 is tember 30, 1998, and for other purposes. Mr. Speaker, sometimes we tend to a bipartisan effort sponsored by this The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there give credit to the youth, to what is Member, the distinguished ranking objection to the request of the gen- young. I think it is so very important Democrat on the Subcommittee on tleman from Alabama? to acknowledge Pakistan and India for Asia and the Pacific, the gentleman There was no objection. 50 years of democracy. I know the gen- from California, Mr. BERMAN, the dis- The SPEAKER pro tempore. All tleman from New York Chairman GIL- tinguished chairman of the committee points of order are reserved on the bill. MAN has been a strong stalwart around on International Relations, Mr. GIL- f this Nation in advocating the under- MAN, and the ranking Democrat of the standing of world affairs and applaud- CONGRATULATING INDIA AND Committee on International Relations, ing our neighbors for them upholding PAKISTAN ON 50TH ANNIVER- Mr. HAMILTON, as well as distinguished democracy. SARY OF INDEPENDENCE members from the House leadership, Here we have two very fine nations the gentleman from Georgia, Mr. GING- Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask that will celebrate 50 years. I want my RICH, House Speaker; and the gen- unanimous consent that the Commit- colleagues to know that I may not be tleman from Michigan, Mr. BONIOR, the tee on International Relations be dis- in India or Pakistan, I am not sure, but Democratic whip. charged from further consideration of I will be celebrating with those citizens I would urge and expect to have sup- the resolution (H. Res. 157) congratu- of that origin here in this Nation if I port for this resolution. lating the people of India and Pakistan am not, and I will be gratified to be Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, if the on the occasion of the 50th anniversary with them, because they set a very fine gentleman will continue to yield under of their nations’ independence, and ask example for what can be, no matter his reservation, I just want to thank for its immediate consideration in the how large a country you might be, that the gentleman from Nebraska [Mr. BE- House. every individual is valued and democ- REUTER] for his supporting remarks and The Clerk read the title of the resolu- racy is valued. for sponsoring this measure. I also tion. I am proud to be of this Nation, that thank the gentlewoman from Texas The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there for the longest period of time has [Ms. JACKSON-LEE] for her support of objection to the request of the gen- claimed itself as a free and democratic this measure and for her kind remarks. tleman from New York? Nation, and I am very happy today to Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I with- Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, re- be able to extend my hand of friend- draw my reservation of objection. serving the right to object, and I do not ship, applause, to both of these gentle- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there intend to object, but under my reserva- men for raising up this honor of these objection to the request of the gen- tion I yield to the gentleman from New two very fine nations. They have been tleman from New York? York to explain the resolution. democratic, they continue to work for There was no objection. Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank democracy, and they continue to work The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- the gentleman from Nebraska for to have a free society for their people. lows: yielding. Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I H. RES. 157 Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from Ne- thank the gentlewoman for her com- Whereas in August 1947 the people of Paki- braska [Mr. BEREUTER], the distin- ments. Under my reservation, I would stan and India gained their independence guished chairman of the Subcommittee like to continue very briefly. from the British; on Asia and the Pacific, has sponsored America’s relations with India are Whereas the people of India, Pakistan, and this timely resolution, and I welcome strong and are improving, and has in the United States have a common interest in the promotion and preservation of demo- his support at this very timely mo- recent years experienced extraor- cratic systems of government; ment. dinarily successful elections. The so- Whereas since independence in 1947 the It is indeed a matter to celebrate cial and economic progress it has people of India have maintained the world’s when two of the largest democracies in achieved in the last five decades is largest democracy, one that serves as an in- the world, both India and Pakistan, truly remarkable, and it has laid a spiration for people throughout the world; reach their 50th anniversary of inde- foundation, a strong one, for India’s fu- Whereas in recent years the people of Paki- pendence. In particular, India has had a ture. The United States and India have stan have reasserted their own strong com- continuous 50-year tradition of democ- mitment to building and sustaining a demo- developed into important trading part- cratic system of government; racy and rule of law and great respect ners. Indian-Americans are making Whereas, in addition to democracy, the for religious freedom. We very much enormous contributions to both coun- people of Pakistan, India, and the United agree that we look forward to broaden- tries. States have had many shared values and in- ing and deepening the United States Similarly, Pakistan is an extremely terests over the past fifty years, including cooperation and friendship with both important friend to the United States. the desire to promote the peaceful develop- nations in the years to come. Pakistan’s commitment to democracy ment of the South Asian region; Finally, one of the clauses of this res- was most recently evidenced in the Whereas Indian and Pakistani citizens, who have visited or lived in the United olution notes that the House plans to February 1997 elections, which brought States, and United States citizens, who have send a delegation to attend the inde- about a change of government. Paki- visited or lived in India and Pakistan, have pendence celebrations. It is going to be stani-Americans have also made major done much to improve mutual understanding my honor to lead such a delegation, contributions to American society, and and build friendship over the past fifty years; H6680 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 Whereas United States citizens of Paki- ‘‘(i) the amendment made to section 4261(c) The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. stani or Indian origin have contributed of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 shall LAHOOD). Is there objection to the ini- greatly to the advancement of knowledge, apply to amounts paid more than 7 days tial request of the gentleman from the development of the United States econ- after the date of the enactment of this Act Texas? omy, and the enrichment of cultural life in for transportation beginning on or after Oc- the United States; tober 1, 1997, and There was no objection. Whereas the ties of trade and investment ‘‘(ii) the amendment made to section The Clerk read the concurrent reso- among the United States, India, and Paki- 4263(c) of such Code shall apply to the extent lution, as follows: stan have grown over fifty years to the great related to taxes imposed under the amend- H. CON. RES. 138 ment made to such section 4261(c) on the benefit of the people of all three countries; Resolved by the House of Representatives (the amounts described in clause (i).’’. and Senate concurring), That, in the enrollment of Whereas the fiftieth anniversary of the Mr. ARCHER (during the reading). the bill (H.R. 2014), to provide for reconcili- independence of Pakistan and India offers an Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent ation pursuant to subsections (b)(2) and (d) opportunity for India, Pakistan, and the that the concurrent resolution be con- of section 105 of the concurrent resolution on United States to renew their commitment to the budget for fiscal year 1998, the Clerk of international cooperation on issues of mu- sidered as read and printed in the RECORD. the House of Representatives shall make the tual interest and concern: Now, therefore, be following corrections: it The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gen- (1) In the amendment proposed to be added Resolved, That the House of Representa- by section 1085(c), strike ‘‘section 407(d)’’ and tives— tleman from Texas? insert ‘‘paragraph (4) or (7) of section 407(d)’’. (1) congratulates the people of India and There was no objection. (2) Strike subparagraph (B) of section Pakistan on the occasion of the fiftieth anni- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- 1031(e)(2) and insert the following: versary of their nations’ independence; tleman from Texas [Mr. ARCHER] is rec- ‘‘(B) TREATMENT OF AMOUNTS PAID FOR (2) looks forward to broadening and deep- ognized for 1 hour. TICKETS PURCHASED BEFORE OCTOBER 1, 1997.— ening United States cooperation and friend- Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I yield The amendments made by subsection (c) ship with Pakistan and India in the years myself such time as I may consume. shall not apply to amounts paid before Octo- ahead for the benefit of the people of all This enrolling resolution would make ber 1, 1997; except that— three countries; and two corrections in the tax bill which ‘‘(i) the amendment made to section 4261(c) (3) intends to send a delegation to India of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 shall and Pakistan during this 50th anniversary just passed the House of Representa- tives, and that is H.R. 2014. The first apply to amounts paid more than 7 days year of independence to further enhance the after the date of the enactment of this Act mutual understanding among the United correction would revise section 1085(c) for transportation beginning on or after Oc- States, Pakistan, and India and among the to cover work experience and commu- tober 1, 1997, and United States Congress and the parliaments nity service employment, but not sub- ‘‘(ii) the amendment made to section of those countries. sidize private sector jobs. 4263(c) of such Code shall apply to the extent The resolution was agreed to. Let me explain why this correction is related to taxes imposed under the amend- A motion to reconsider was laid on necessary. The conference agreement ment made to such section 4261(c) on the the table. intended to prohibit the payment of amounts described in clause (i).’’. f the earned income tax credit to TANF The concurrent resolution was agreed recipients who were participating in to. GENERAL LEAVE workfare or community service jobs. A motion to reconsider was laid on Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask that However, the bill language denies the the table. all Members may have 5 legislative EITC to individuals in subsidized pri- f days within which to revise and extend vate employment or on-the-job train- their remarks on House Resolution 157. ing where the employer receives wage EXPRESSING THE SENSE OF CON- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there subsidy funds from the State that are GRESS REGARDING MEXICO’S objection to the request of the gen- financed by the TAIF funds, as well as ANTIDUMPING DUTIES tleman from New York? to individuals in welfare or community Mr. CRANE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- There was no objection. service jobs. This problem appears to imous consent that the Committee on f have stemmed from the fact that the Ways and Means be discharged from drafters did not find a definition of the CORRECTING ERRORS IN ENROLL- further consideration of the Senate term ‘‘workfare,’’ in title IV–A. So concurrent resolution (S. Con. Res. 43) MENT OF H.R. 2014, TAXPAYER they swept in a wide array of work ac- RELIEF ACT OF 1997 urging the United States Trade Rep- tivities, including subsidized private resentative immediately to take all ap- Mr. ARCHER. Mr. Speaker, I offer a sector employment, and this concur- propriate action with regards to Mexi- concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 138) rent resolution would put in place the co’s imposition of antidumping duties to correct technical errors in the en- intent of what Congress was acting to on United States high fructose corn rollment of the bill H.R. 2014, and I ask do. syrup, and ask for its immediate con- unanimous consent for its immediate b 1745 sideration. consideration. The second correction would revise The Clerk read the title of the Senate The SPEAKER pro tempore. The concurrent resolution. Clerk will report the concurrent reso- section 1031 of H.R. 2014 to delay the ef- fective date of certain advance ticket The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there lution. objection to the request of the gen- The Clerk read as follows: purchases for air transportation begin- ning after September 30, 1997. The cor- tleman from Illinois? H. CON. RES. 138 rection is needed to allow the airlines Mr. EWING. Reserving the right to Resolved by the House of Representatives (the enough time to reprogram their com- object, Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gen- Senate concurring), That, in the enrollment of tleman from Illinois [Mr. CRANE]. the bill (H.R. 2014), to provide for reconcili- puters for the new ticket pricing sys- tem as contained in H.R. 2014. Mr. CRANE. Mr. Speaker, Senate ation pursuant to subsections (b)(2) and (d) Concurrent Resolution 43 expresses the of section 105 of the concurrent resolution on Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, will the the budget for fiscal year 1998, the Clerk of gentleman yield? sense of Congress that the government the House of Representatives shall make the Mr. ARCHER. I yield to the gen- of Mexico should review carefully following corrections: tleman from Michigan. whether it initiated an anti-dumping (1) In the amendment proposed to be added Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I would investigation against United States ex- by section 1085(c), strike ‘‘section 407(d)’’ and ask the gentleman, I assume these cor- ports of high fructose corn syrup in insert ‘‘paragraph (4) or (7) of section 407(d)’’. rections have been cleared with the conformity with WTO standards. It (2) Strike subparagraph (B) of section ranking member of the Committee on urges the United States Trade Rep- 1031(e)(2) and insert the following: Ways and Means? resentative to take all appropriate ‘‘(B) TREATMENT OF AMOUNTS PAID FOR TICKETS PURCHASED BEFORE OCTOBER 1, 1997.— Mr. ARCHER. I understand that they measures with regard to the imposition The amendments made by subsection (c) have. The gentleman from New York of preliminary anti-dumping duties on shall not apply to amounts paid before Octo- [Mr. RANGEL] has approved these cor- U.S. exports of high fructose corn ber 1, 1997; except that— rections. syrup. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6681 These duties, which range from 61 the Mexican sugar are like products Mexico’s decision to impose anti- percent to 102 percent, were imposed on under the internationally accepted dumping duties on U.S. exports of high June 25 as the result of a petition filed anti-dumping code. Beyond both the fructose corn syrup, if left unchal- by the Mexican sugar industry. There technical and the procedural flaws lenged, represents in my judgment a is a question as to whether the Mexi- raised in the case, which should require breach of faith with Illinois corn farm- can Government adequately inves- its immediate dismissal, this action ers, who were assured of their right to tigated if domestic producers of HFCS raises serious political and economic pursue markets around the world. in Mexico are supportive of the peti- problems. My district is home to several large tion. In light of the fact that United Mr. Speaker, I represent one of the corn refining plants which provide di- States corn growers and refiners, in- four largest corn-producing districts in rect employment for over 2,000 of my cluding many in my State of Illinois, the U.S. Corn refining adds another constituents. It is estimated that corn are suffering the serious disruption of $100 million to the value of the corn refining adds over $70 million to the potentially prohibitive tariffs on their crop in my district, and I cannot stand value of the corn crop in my district. sales in Mexico, I urge my colleagues idly by and allow others with whom we Last year, consumption of high fruc- to support this resolution. are trading to deny us access to their tose corn syrup represented a market I also want to pay tribute to my dis- important markets. I hope that the for about 500 million bushels of U.S. tinguished colleague from down state, Members will join me in supporting our corn. he is more corn country than I am, be- corn farmers and processors, and send a Mr. Speaker, I cannot allow competi- cause of his active involvement in get- strong message to the Mexican Govern- tive U.S. products to be shut out of this ting Senate Concurrent Resolution 43 ment that we intend to defend the critical market. I hope my colleagues reported over to the House. trading rights we have negotiated. I will join me and the other gentlemen Mr. EWING. Mr. Speaker, I am not would ask for the adoption of this from Illinois, Mr. CRANE, and Mr. going to object, of course, to this reso- amendment. EWING, in supporting our corn farmers lution being brought, but I want to Mr. EWING. I withdraw my reserva- and processors, and send a strong mes- thank the distinguished gentleman tion of objection, Mr. Speaker. sage to the Mexican Government that The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there from Illinois [Mr. CRANE], the chair- we intend to defend the trading rights man of the Subcommittee on Trade of objection to the request of the gen- that we have negotiated. the Committee on Ways and Means. tleman from Illinois? Most importantly, I hope all Mem- Mr. POSHARD. Mr. Speaker, reserv- Our colleague, the gentleman from bers will join us in sending a message ing the right to object, I rise today in Illinois, GLEN POSHARD, and myself to our farmers that we have not forgot- strong support of this concurrent reso- have been most interested in seeing ten the promises of the 1996 farm bill lution, which criticizes Mexico’s recent this resolution brought to the floor. I and that the U.S. Congress will defend decision to impose antidumping duties would just rise in strong support of the their right to export. against U.S. exports of high fructose concurrent resolution, which talks Mr. Speaker, I withdraw my reserva- corn syrup. about Mexico’s recent decision to im- tion of objection. Prior to NAFTA, duties on high fruc- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there pose anti-dumping duties. tose corn syrup were 15 percent and objection to the request of the gen- Prior to our adoption of the NAFTA were to be phased out over 10 years. tleman from Illinois? treaty, duties on high fructose corn Duties now in effect as a result of the There was no objection. syrup were 15 percent. This year, under Mexican Government’s recent decision The Clerk read the Senate concur- a negotiated agreement, they should are four to five times the pre-Nafta lev- rent resolution, as follows: have dropped to 9.5 percent. Duties now els. Whereas the North American Free Trade in effect because of this decision are as Mexico would like us to believe that Agreement (in this resolution, referred to as much as four to five times greater and their small sugar mills are being over- ‘‘the NAFTA’’) was intended to reduce trade above the pre-NAFTA level. run by large U.S. corporations. In re- barriers between Canada, Mexico and the United States; Mr. Speaker, this case involves both ality, however, a small number of indi- important matters of international Whereas the NAFTA represented an oppor- viduals own a very large share of the tunity for corn farmers and refiners to in- trade policy and vital trade interests of Mexican sugar mills. It is interesting crease exports of highly competitive United the U.S. agricultural producers. to note that these same individuals States corn and corn products; I would just like do elaborate for a rely heavily upon U.S. financial mar- Whereas corn is the number one United moment. First, the preliminary find- kets to fund their goals in expanding States cash crop with a value of ings of the Mexican Government were $25,000,000,000; markets. I would suggest to my col- Whereas United States corn refiners are reached in what I believe is in viola- leagues that perhaps it is time for Con- tion of the World Trade Organization highly efficient, provide over 10,000 nonfarm gress to review whether or not we want jobs, and add over $2,000,000 of value to the code on dumping investigation. The our financial markets open to those United States corn crop; code requires that the government who refuse to compete against U.S. Whereas the Government of Mexico has fully investigate allegations brought products. initiated an antidumping investigation into by private parties before opening gov- Mr. Speaker, Mexico’s action against imports of high fructose corn syrup from the ernment investigations. fructose violates the standards of the United States which may violate the anti- In this case, it is my opinion that the World Trade Agreement, of which Mex- dumping standards of the World Trade Orga- nization; Mexican sugar industry presented an ico and the United States are Members. Whereas on June 25, 1997, the Government inaccurate allegation and that there Important issues of standing and in- of Mexico published a Preliminary Deter- was no production of high fructose corn jury have been ignored and the Mexi- mination imposing very high antidumping syrup in Mexico. I believe this to be can Government has failed to inves- duties on imports of United States high fruc- wrong, and that the Mexican authori- tigate allegations known to be false. tose corn syrup; ties should have known, if they did not, On procedural grounds alone, this Whereas there has been concern that Mexi- that it was wrong, and ignored their case should be dismissed. However, in co’s initiation of the antidumping investiga- evidence that might have been avail- addition to its procedural and tech- tion was motivated by political pressure from the Mexican sugar industry rather than able to them. nical flaws, Mexico’s action raises seri- the merits of Mexico’s antidumping law: By itself this is grounds for dismissal ous economic concerns for this Nation Now, therefore, be it of the case. Simply put, the Mexican and for my southeastern Illinois dis- Resolved by the Senate (the House of Rep- sugar industry does not have standing trict. The 1996 farm bill eliminated tra- resentatives concurring), That it is the sense under the WTO code to file this case, ditional price supports available to of Congress that— and the Government of Mexico chose to U.S. corn farmers and replaced them (1) the Government of Mexico should re- with a phased-down market transition view carefully whether it properly initiated ignore that fact, for whatever reasons this antidumping investigation in conform- may have been expedient to them. payment. Farmers were told that they ity with the standards set forth in the World There is a second flaw. The Mexican must generate their income from the Trade Organization Agreement on Anti- authorities have failed to demonstrate market, particularly the growing inter- dumping, and should terminate this inves- that the high fructose corn syrup and national market. tigation immediately; H6682 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 (2) if the United States Trade Representa- Commerce. However, through time and the To the Congress of the United States: tive considers that Mexico initiated this changes in the Committees, the Office has Section 202(d) of the National Emer- antidumping investigation in violation of been able to establish good working relation- gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides World Trade Organization standards, and if ships with all the Committees. Without a for the automatic termination of a na- the Government of Mexico does not termi- doubt, your actions and those taken by your tional emergency unless, prior to the nate the antidumping investigation, then the leadership have facilitated the Office in pro- United States Trade Representative should viding services to the Committees and the anniversary date of its declaration, the immediately undertake appropriate meas- Leadership. I think it can be said that the President publishes in the Federal Reg- ures, including actions pursuant to the dis- House does not act on significant legislation ister and transmits to the Congress a pute settlement provisions of the World which has not been a responsibility of an at- notice stating that the emergency is to Trade Organization. torney in the Office. continue in effect beyond the anniver- The Senate concurrent resolution The morale in the Office is quite high be- sary date. In accordance with this pro- was concurred in. cause of the action you took on the pay com- vision, I have sent the enclosed notice, parability with the Senate and also on ac- stating that the Iraqi emergency is to A motion to reconsider was laid on count of the Committee responsibilities. the table. The tutorial process the Office follows with continue in effect beyond August 2, f new attorneys allows the new attorney to 1997, to the Federal Register for publi- begin Committee work with a fellow attor- cation. APPOINTMENT AS CHIEF ADMINIS- ney in about a year. When the new attorney The crisis between the United States TRATIVE OFFICER OF THE graduates to Committee work they feel they and Iraq that led to the declaration on HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES have been given a special responsibility. August 2, 1990, of a national emergency The SPEAKER. The Chair requests Now an attorney doing Committee work has not been resolved. The Government can readily feel that he or she is making a of Iraq continues to engage in activi- that Mr. Egan come forward and take significant contribution to a public measure. the oath of office as Chief Administra- I am encouraged about continuing in the ties inimical to the stability in the tive Officer. Office. The Office undertook an extensive Middle East and hostile to United Mr. Egan appeared at the bar of the audit of its work and the problems presented States interests in the region. Such House and took the oath of office, as to it in carrying out its work. As a result of Iraqi actions pose a continuing unusual follows: the audit some very interesting work has and extraordinary threat to the na- Do you solemnly swear that you will been developed in communicating our serv- tional security and vital foreign policy support and defend the Constitution of ices to the Members. The Office has a web interests of the United States. For site which provides information about the these reasons, I have determined that the United States against all enemies, Office and the services it provides. In addi- foreign and domestic; that you will tion, we will soon have the capacity to fax it is necessary to maintain in force the bear true faith and allegiance to the material directly from our personal comput- broad authorities necessary to apply same; that you take this obligation ers. That will relieve us of the time needed economic pressure on the Government freely, without any mental reservation to make copies and deliver the work. In addi- of Iraq. or purpose of evasion, and that you will tion, the Office has developed a team to me- WILLIAM J. CLINTON. well and faithfully discharge the duties diate differences in the Office. Finally, work THE WHITE HOUSE, July 31, 1997. of the office on which you are about to has been done in improving the working con- f ditions of the clerical/administrative staff. enter. So help you God. Consequently, I think we are doing well and DEVELOPMENTS CONCERNING NA- The SPEAKER. Congratulations. You we know what our difficulties are and we are TIONAL EMERGENCY WITH RE- are now the Chief Administrative Offi- prepared to deal with them. SPECT TO IRAQ—MESSAGE FROM cer of the House of Representatives. I have particularly enjoyed serving as the THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED f Legislative Counsel under your Speakership. STATES (H. DOC. NO. 105–114) Sincerely yours, RESIGNATION AS LEGISLATIVE DAVID E. MEADE, The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- COUNSEL AND APPOINTMENT AS Legislative Counsel. fore the House the following message LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL OF THE The SPEAKER. Pursuant to the pro- from the President of the United HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES visions of section 521 of the Legislative States; which was read and, together The Speaker laid before the House Reorganization Act of 1970 (2 U.S.C. with the accompanying papers, without the following resignation as Legisla- 282), the Chair appoints Mr. M. Pope objection, referred to the Committee tive Counsel of the House of Represent- Barrow as Legislative Counsel of the on International Relations and ordered atives: United States House of Representa- to be printed: U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, tives, effective August 1, 1997. To the Congress of the United States: OFFICE OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL, The Chair would also like to thank I hereby report to the Congress on Washington, DC, July 8, 1997. Mr. Meade for his service to the House, the developments since my last report Hon. NEWT GINGRICH, and to remind all Members that the of February 10, 1997, concerning the na- Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. work done by the legislative counsels tional emergency with respect to Iraq Capitol, Washington, DC. is absolutely essential to the job we do, that was declared in Executive Order DEAR MR. SPEAKER: I would like to resign and without the dedication and hard 12722 of August 2, 1990. This report is from my position as the Legislative Counsel submitted pursuant to section 401(c) of of the House of Representatives effective work and long hours of the legislative July 31, 1997. I would like to continue my counsels, it would be literally impos- the National Emergencies Act, 50 service in the Office of the Legislative Coun- sible to have the legislative process U.S.C. 1641(c), and section 204(c) of the sel as a Senior Counsel. that we now engage in. International Emergency Economic I will leave my position knowing that my Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c). f Office is finally fully enabled to provide This report discusses only matters needed services to the House. b 1800 concerning the national emergency As you know the primary function of the with respect to Iraq that was declared Office is to draft legislation (including CONTINUATION OF NATIONAL in Executive Order 12722 and matters amendments and conference reports) which EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO relating to Executive Orders 12724 and will carry out the policy of the Members in- IRAQ—MESSAGE FROM THE 12817 (the ‘‘Executive Orders’’). The re- volved. Ideally, there would be time for con- PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED ferences to develop the policy and the per- port covers events from February 2 sons responsible for the policy would be STATES (H. DOC. NO. 105–113) through August 1, 1997. available. If that can be done it is very satis- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Executive Order 12722 ordered the im- factory work to participate in the process. I LAHOOD) laid before the House the fol- mediate blocking of all property and have taken a real interest in seeing that the lowing message from the President of interests in property of the Govern- Office is able to effectively do its work. ment of Iraq (including the Central the United States; which was read and, When I joined the Office in 1962 it had 11 Bank of Iraq) then or thereafter lo- attorneys and did not provide services to all together with the accompanying pa- cated in the United States or within the Committees. A good working relation- pers, without objection, referred to the the possession or control of a United ship had been established with only the Ways Committee on International Relations States person. That order also prohib- and Means Committee and the Committee on and ordered to be printed: ited the importation into the United July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6683 States of goods and services of Iraqi or- petroleum products that have been ex- the protection of preexistent intellec- igin, as well as the exportation of ported from Iraq with the United Na- tual property rights in Iraq. Since my goods, services, and technology from tions and United States Government last report, 47 specific licenses have the United States to Iraq. The order approval. been issued. prohibited travel-related transactions All executory contracts must contain 5. The expense incurred by the Fed- to or from Iraq and the performance of terms requiring that all proceeds of the eral Government in the 6-month period any contracting support of any indus- oil purchases from the Government of from February 2 through August 1, trial, commercial, or governmental Iraq, including the State Oil Marketing 1997, that are directly attributable to project in Iraq. United States persons Organization, must be placed in the the exercise of powers and authorities were also prohibited from granting or U.N. escrow account at Banque Na- extending credit or loans to the Gov- tional de Paris, New York (the ‘‘986 es- conferred by the declaration of a na- ernment of Iraq. crow account’’), and all Iraqi payments tional emergency with respect to Iraq The foregoing prohibitions (as well as for authorized sales of pipeline parts are reported to be about $1.2 million, the blocking of Government of Iraq and equipment, humanitarian goods, most of which represents wage and sal- property) were continued and aug- and incidental transaction costs borne ary costs for Federal personnel. Per- mented on August 9, 1990, by Executive by Iraq will, upon arrival by the 661 sonnel costs were largely centered in Order 12724, which was issued in order Committee, be paid or payable out of the Department of the Treasury (par- to align the sanctions imposed by the the 986 escrow account. ticularly in the Office of Foreign As- United States with United Nations Se- 3. Investigations of possible viola- sets Control, the U.S. Customs Service, curity Council Resolution (UNSCR) 661 tions of the Iraqi sanctions continue to the Office of the Under Secretary for of August 6, 1990. be pursued and appropriate enforce- Enforcement, and the Office of the 1. In April 1995, the U.N. Security ment actions taken. Several cases from General Counsel), the Department of Council adopted UNSCR 986 authoriz- prior reporting periods are continuing State (particularly the Bureau of Eco- ing Iraq to export up to $1 billion in pe- and recent additional allegations have nomic and Business Affairs, the Bureau troleum and petroleum products every been referred by the Office of Foreign of Near Eastern Affairs, the Bureau of 90 days for a total of 180 days under Assets Control (OFAC) to the U.S. Cus- International Organization Affairs, the U.N. supervision in order to finance the toms Service for investigation. Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, purchase of food, medicine, and other On July 10, 1995, an indictment was the Bureau of Intelligence and Re- humanitarian supplies. UNSCR 986 in- brought against three U.S. citizens in cludes arrangements to ensure equi- search, the U.S. Mission to the United the Eastern District of New York for Nations, and the Office of the Legal table distribution of humanitarian conspiracy in a case involving the at- goods purchased with UNSCR 986 oil tempted exportation and trans- Advisor), and the Department of Trans- revenues to all the people of Iraq. The shipment to Iraq of zirconium ingots in portation (particularly the U.S. Coast resolution also provides for the pay- violation of the IEEPA and the ISR. Guard). ment of compensation to victims of The intended use of the merchandise 6. The United States imposed eco- Iraqi aggression and for the funding of was the manufacture of cladding for ra- nomic sanctions on Iraq in response to other U.N. activities with respect to dioactive materials to be used in nu- Iraq’s illegal invasion and occupation Iraq. On May 20, 1996, a memorandum clear reactors. The case was the cul- of Kuwait, a clear act of brutal aggres- of understanding was concluded be- mination of a successful undercover op- sion. The United States, together with tween the Secretariat of the United eration conducted by agents of the U.S. the international community, is main- Nations and the Government of Iraq Customs Service in New York in co- taining economic sanctions against agreeing on terms for implementing operation with OFAC and the U.S. At- Iraq because the Iraqi regime has failed UNSCR 986. On August 8, 1996, the torney’s Office for the Eastern District to comply fully with relevant United UNSC committee established pursuant of New York. On February 6, 1997, one to UNSCR 661 (‘‘the 661 Committee’’) Nations Security Council resolutions. of the defendants plead guilty to a 10- Security Council resolutions on Iraq adopted procedures to be employed by count criminal indictment including the 661 Committee in implementation conspiracy to violate the Iraqi Sanc- call for the elimination of Iraqi weap- of UNSCR 986. On December 9, 1996, the tions and the IEEPA. The trial of the ons of mass destruction, Iraqi recogni- Secretary General released the report remaining defendants is ongoing. tion of Kuwait and the inviolability of requested by paragraph 13 of UNSCR Investigation also continues into the the Iraq-Kuwait boundary, the release 986, making UNSCR 986 effective as of roles played by various individuals and of Kuwaiti and other third-country na- 12:01 a.m. December 10. firms outside Iraq in the Iraqi govern- tionals, compensation for victims of On June 4, 1997, the U.N. Security ment procurement network. These in- Iraqi aggression, long-term monitoring Council adopted UNSCR 1111, renewing vestigations may lead to additions to of weapons of mass destruction capa- for another 180 days the authorization OFAC’s listing of individuals and orga- bilities, the return of Kuwaiti assets for Iraqi petroleum sales contained in nizations determined to be Specially stolen during Iraq’s illegal occupation UNSCR 986 of April 14, 1995. The Reso- Designated Nationals (SDNs) of the of Kuwait, renunciation of terrorism, lution became effective on June 8, 1997. Government of Iraq. an end to internal Iraqi repression of During the reporting period, imports Since my last report, OFAC collected its own civilian population, and the fa- into the United States under this pro- four civil monetary penalties totaling cilitation of access of international re- gram totaled approximately 9.5 million more than $470,000 for violations of lief organizations to all those in need barrels. IEEPA and the ISR. The violations in- in all parts of Iraq. Seven years after 2. There have been no amendments to volved brokerage firms’ failure to the invasion, a pattern of defiance per- the Iraqi Sanctions Regulations, 31 block assets of an Iraqi SDN and sists: a refusal to account for missing C.F.R. Part 575 (the ‘‘ISR’’ or the ‘‘Reg- effecting certain securities trades with Kuwaiti detainees; failure to return ulations’’) administered by the Office respect thereto. Additional administra- Kuwaiti property worth millions of dol- of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of tive proceedings have been initiated lars, including military equipment that the Department of the Treasury during and others await commencement. was used by Iraq in its movement of the reporting period. 4. The Office of Foreign Assets Con- troops to the Kuwaiti border in Octo- As previously reported, the Regula- trol has issued a total of 700 specific li- ber 1994; sponsorship of assassinations tions were amended on December 10, censes regarding transactions pertain- in Lebanon and in northern Iraq; in- 1996, to provide a statement of licens- ing to Iraq or Iraqi assets since August ing policy regarding specific licensing 1990. Licenses have been issued for complete declarations to weapons in- of United States persons seeking to transactions such as the filing of legal structors and refusal of unimpeded ac- purchase Iraqi-origin petroleum and action against Iraqi governmental cess by these inspectors; and ongoing petroleum products from Iraq (61 Fed. entitites, legal representation of Iraq, widespread human rights violations. As Reg. 65312, December 11, 1996). State- and the exportation to Iraq of donated a result, the U.N. sanctions remain in ments of licensing policy were also pro- medicine, medical supplies, and food place; the United States will continue vided regarding sales of essential parts intended for humanitarian relief pur- to enforce those sanctions under do- and equipment for the Kirkuk- poses, executory contracts pursuant to mestic authority. Yumurtalik pipeline systems, and sales UNSCR 986, sales of humanitarian sup- The Baghdad government continues of humanitarian goods to Iraq, pursu- plies to Iraq under UNSCR 986, the exe- to violate basic human rights of its ant to United Nations approval. A gen- cution of powers of attorney relating own citizens through the systematic eral license was also added to authorize to the administration of personal as- dealings in Iraqi-origin petroleum and sets and decedent’s estates in Iraq and H6684 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 repression of minorities and denial of There was no objection. I would submit to my friends on both humanitarian assistance. The Govern- f sides of the aisle, Democrat and Repub- ment of Iraq has repeatedly said it will lican, including our leadership, His- not be bound by UNSCR 668. The Iraqi DISPENSING WITH CALENDAR panic American leadership in this military routinely harasses residents WEDNESDAY BUSINESS ON country, that the real victims of this of the north, and has attempted to ‘‘Ar- WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 1997 fraud in that particular part of Orange abize’’ the Kurdish, Turcomen, and As- Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, I ask County were the people who were urged syrian areas in the north. Iraq has not unanimous consent that business in to vote, who were not yet citizens of relented in its artillery attacks against order under the Calendar Wednesday the United States and who believed civilian population centers in the rule be dispensed with on Wednesday, these proctors who came around and south, or in its burning and draining September 3, 1997. handed out ballot registration forms to operations in the southern marshes, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there them and said, it is your duty if you which have forced thousands to flee to objection to the request of the gen- want to become an American citizen. neighboring states. tleman from Michigan? I am citing, I am paraphrasing what The policies and actions of the Sad- There was no objection. they gave back to investigators when dam Hussein regime continue to pose f an unusual and extraordinary threat to asked why they registered to vote the national security and foreign pol- FURTHER MESSAGE FROM THE when it was illegal to vote. I would icy of the United States, as well as to SENATE offer to my colleagues that they were regional peace and security. The U.N. A further message from the Senate the victims of this. They were ex- resolutions affirm that the Security by Mr. Lundregan, one of its clerks, an- ploited. They were demeaned. Every- Council must be assured of Iraq’s nounced that the Senate had passed body, every community in America peaceful intentions in judging its com- without amendment a joint resolution should have an interest in having free pliance with sanctions. Because of and a concurrent resolution of the and fair elections where fraud does not Iraq’s failure to comply fully with House of the following titles: occur. these resolutions, the United States H. J. Res. 90. Joint resolution waiving cer- What happened following that was will continue to apply economic sanc- tain enrollment requirements with respect that a criminal investigation was tions to deter it from threatening to two specified bills of the One Hundred started, is under way by criminal, by peace and stability in the region. Fifth Congress; and law enforcement authorities in Califor- WILLIAM J. CLINTON. H. Con. Res. 136. Concurrent resolution nia. A challenge was filed by Mr. Dor- THE WHITE HOUSE, July 31, 1997. providing for an adjournment of the two nan. I want to go over very briefly Houses. f what the litany of the chronology of f actions by this House has been. GENERAL LEAVE SPECIAL ORDERS On May 14, the Committee on House Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, I ask Oversight subpoenaed the Immigration unanimous consent that all Members The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- and Naturalization Service after may have 5 legislative days in which to months of failed attempts to receive revise and extend their remarks on the uary 7, 1997, and under a previous order adoption of the Senate amendments to of the House, the following Members information. House oversight asked the H.R. 408. will be recognized for 5 minutes each. INS to perform a match between INS f databases and the Orange County voter The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there list. May 21, the Committee on House objection to the request of the gen- CONTESTED ELECTION IN Oversight receives the INS computer tleman from Michigan? CALIFORNIA 46TH DISTRICT matches. This constitutes a partial There was no objection. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a compliance with the committee sub- f previous order of the House, the gen- poena. AUTHORIZING THE SPEAKER, THE tleman from California [Mr. HUNTER] is June 13, the Committee on House MAJORITY LEADER, AND THE recognized for 5 minutes. Oversight receives a list of 4,119 poten- MINORITY LEADER TO ACCEPT Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, a con- tial matches identified by a computer RESIGNATIONS AND MAKE AP- tested election is a very difficult thing. review by the INS. June 23, the Com- POINTMENTS AUTHORIZED BY It strains friendships, often friendships mittee on House Oversight requests LAW OR THE HOUSE, NOTWITH- between Republicans and Democrats that INS check an additional 1,349 per- STANDING ADJOURNMENT because we all have our political alli- sons identified by a manual review by Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, I ask ances and those are legitimate alli- House Oversight staff of INS docu- unanimous consent that notwithstand- ances, and we have our friends and we ments. ing any adjournment of the House until have our party loyalties and it makes June 24, the INS delivers to the com- Wednesday, September 3, 1997, the sometimes for a difficult time when we mittee 3,257 of 4,119 worksheets, sum- Speaker, majority leader, and minority have to decide who won a particular marizing their files. July 3, the INS de- election. Sometimes these things be- leader be authorized to accept resigna- livers to the committee 503 more work- come bitter and sometimes things are tions and to make appointments au- sheets. July 9, House Oversight re- said that Members wish later they thorized by law or by the House. ceives a list of over 3,000 potential The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there could have been left unsaid or have been retracted. matches between individuals who voted objection to the request of the gen- in the 46th Congressional District and tleman from Michigan? The contest between former Con- individuals that declared that they There was no objection. gressman, my friend, Bob Dornan and were not citizens when summoned for f our gentlewoman from California [Ms. jury duty. That means these people SANCHEZ] is not about those two indi- GRANTING MEMBERS OF HOUSE said, made written statements saying I viduals. It is not about Bob Dornan. It am not a U.S. citizen and it appears PRIVILEGE TO EXTEND RE- is not about LORETTA SANCHEZ. It is that they voted. It appears that they MARKS AND INCLUDE EXTRA- about something that is very near and voted in the election, and we are NEOUS MATERIAL IN CONGRES- dear to our Nation, to the basis for our SIONAL RECORD democracy, and that is the principle of checking on that. I think that is a le- Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, I ask free and fair elections. Unfortunately gitimate question. unanimous consent that today and to- in this election, as newspaper reporters July 18, INS delivers 500 more of the morrow all Members be permitted to uncovered, one organization registered 4,119 worksheets; 100 remain outstand- extend their remarks and to include ex- to vote over 300 people. That one orga- ing. traneous material in that section of nization registered to vote over 300 July 30, INS produces 300 of the 1,349 the RECORD entitled ‘‘Extensions of Re- people who did not have the legal right worksheets. This investigation is ongo- marks.’’ to vote. Those people who voted did not ing. It is going to be completed hope- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there realize they were committing a felony fully over the break. objection to the request of the gen- when they voted. They were urged by Everybody wants to see it end so we tleman from Michigan? political activists to do that, to vote. can figure out what happened in that July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6685 congressional district. But one thing is tant and included in the process. Per- on the High Court, a true pioneer who was very clear, enough of a criminal inves- haps this is why she was so successful also the first woman of Samoan American an- tigation has been done and enough as a public servant. cestry to be appointed Director of Education. good reporting has been done to show Mr. Speaker, Judge Betham exempli- It is these and other ``firsts'' for which she will us that there has been some fraud in fied all of the traits of a true Samoan always be remembered by the Samoan peo- that district and at least enough to leader. She was decisive yet compas- ple. warrant an analysis of who won that sionate, firm and yet not inflexible, Judge Betham was someone who cared election. and she was a woman of wisdom. Most very much about each and every person she Only one thing should dominate our important of all, she was a humble per- encountered in her personal and professional thoughts in this Chamber: That the son who remained close to the people. life, and she was someone for whom I had tre- person who got the most votes in this She served even after she was ap- mendous respect. She was always courteous election from legal voters should win pointed to high government posts. and helpful to me, firm and helpful to her stu- the election and should be seated in the Mrs. Betham was born in 1932 in dents, and fair and just with those who ap- House of Representatives. American Samoa. She received her ele- peared before her in court. She always ex- The gentlewoman from California mentary school education in the is- tended the hand of friendship. Although our [Ms. SANCHEZ] wants to see this thing lands, graduated from the high school careers never crossed paths, we nevertheless over and done with. I talked with Mr. in 1950, where she was the only female shared many similar concerns, and chief Dornan a few days ago. He is tired of to graduate with her first class. Short- among these concerns was the issue of edu- seeing himself smeared in the news- ly after high school, she left American cation in American Samoa. papers regularly by people who have Samoa to attend college in California. I learned from her how to make every per- brought the race card into this. He She enrolled at the Pomona College in son you encounter feel important, and how to wants to see it over with. I think we Claremont and later transferred to Ge- make every person feel that he or she, too, can handle this in an evenhanded man- neva College in Beaver Falls, PA, had something important to contribute to the ner and make a term determination where she went on to receive her bach- process. She was the kind of individual who within a few weeks. Let us calm down elor’s degree in the field of economics could put a hostile student or any other person this rhetoric. Let us do the analysis. in 1954. at ease by making that person feel important Let us see who won the election. After graduating from college, Judge and included in the process. Perhaps this is f Betham returned to the islands to why she was so successful as a public serv- begin her career as a secondary school- ant. SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO MERE teacher. She taught at a high school Mr. Speaker, Judge Betham exemplified all BETHAM from 1954 until 1961, the year she was of the traits of a true Samoan leader. She was The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a appointed assistant principal. Later on decisive yet compassionate, firm yet not in- previous order of the House, the gen- in 1968, she was appointed principal of flexible, and she was a woman of wisdom. tleman from American Samoa [Mr. the only high school then in the terri- Most important of all, she was a humble per- FALEOMAVAEGA] is recognized for 5 tory. Two years after becoming prin- son who remained close to the people she minutes. cipal, Judge Betham was transferred to served even after she was appointed to high Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Education in which government posts. Seuvaai Mere Tuiasosopo Betham was born I rise to honor the memory of a distin- years later she became the first woman on April 3, 1932, in Pago Pago, American guished Pacific educator and judge the to earn the rank of the director of edu- Samoa. She received her elementary school late Seuvaai ‘‘Mere’’ Tuiasosopo cation. Judge Betham held this posi- education in Tutuila and graduated from the Betham, former director of education tion for more than 11 years. In 1985 she High School of American Samoa in 1950, of American Samoa and an associate retired from the department of edu- where she was the only female to graduate judge on the High Court of American cation and Samoa’s education system with that class. Shortly after high school, she Samoa, who passed away recently. A underwent major changes in teaching left American Samoa to attend college in Cali- dedicated public servant, educator and practices, philosophies during her ten- administrator with more than 43 years fornia. She enrolled at Pomona College in ure and bringing television as a tool or Claremont, CA. She later transferred to Gene- of public service, Judge Betham was a means of assisting the educational va College in Beaverfalls, PA where she went our first American Samoan woman system in the territory. on to receive her Bachelor's Degree in the judge on the High Court, a true pioneer Even after she retired from the De- field of economics in 1954. who was also the first woman of Sa- partment of Education, Judge Betham After graduating from Geneva College, moan American ancestry to be ap- continued to be active in the field of Judge Betham returned to American Samoa to pointed as Director of Education. It is education. As an educator, Mr. Speak- begin her career as a secondary school teach- these and other firsts for which she er, Judge Betham touched many lives er. She taught at Samoana High School from will always be remembered by the Sa- and she found such joy and pleasure in 1954 until 1961, the year in which she was moan people. following the successes of her former appointed assistant principal. Even after she Judge Betham was someone who students. As a judge, she touched was appointed assistant principal, Judge cared very much about each and every equally as many lives as she found Betham continued to teach because she want- person she encountered in her personal much satisfaction and comfort in mak- ed to remain close to her students. Seven and professional life. She was someone ing sure the result reached by the years later, in 1968, she was appointed prin- for whom I had tremendous respect. court was just and fair. cipal of Samoana High School. She was always courteous and helpful In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like Two years after becoming principal, in 1970, to me, firm and helpful to her students to offer my condolences to Judge Judge Betham was transferred to the Depart- and fair and just with those who ap- Betham’s husband, James Rusty ment of Education's central office as an edu- peared before her in court. She always Betham and her children. I am sure cation program administrator, where a year extended the hand of friendship. Al- that the proud legacy which she left later, in 1971, she was again promoted by the though our careers never crossed paths, will live on in their hearts and in the DOE to the post of deputy director. Just four we nevertheless shared many similar hearts of all the people of American short years after being promoted to the post of concerns, and chief among these con- Samoa. deputy director, in 1974, Judge Betham was cerns was the issue of education in the Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise again tapped by the DOE for another pro- American Samoa. to honor the memory of a distinguished Pacific motion, this time to the post of Director of I learned from her how to make every educator and judge, the late Seuvaai ``Mere'' Education. This appointment made her the person you encounter feel important, Tuiasosopo Betham, former director of edu- first Samoan woman to earn this rank and the how to make every person feel that he cation of American Samoa and an associate second Samoan American to undertake this or she, too, had something important judge on the High Court of American Samoa, tremendous challenge. to contribute to the process. She was who passed away recently. A dedicated public Judge Betham held this post for more than the kind of individual who could put a servant, educator, and administrator with more 11 years. In 1985, she retired from the Depart- hostile student or any other person at than 43 years of public service, Judge Betham ment of Education. Samoa's educational sys- ease by making that person feel impor- was our first American Samoan female judge tem underwent major changes in teaching H6686 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 practices and philosophies during her tenure, sistently displayed open hostility to- laws and cattle thieves. They also and local educators today credit Judge ward United States’ interests. played an important role in both World Betham for having revolutionized ``teaching'' in Although Russia has acknowledged War I and World War II. American Samoa. previous weapons trade with Iran, the During World War II Mr. Pottard Even after she retired from the Department most extreme action they have taken served in the Ninth Cavalry stationed of Education, Judge Betham continued to be to end the current proliferation of in the Burma-India-China Theater. He active in the field of education. A short time weapons of mass destruction is to initi- later served the unit until it was de- after retiring from the DOE, she was appointed ate an investigation. As I see it, Mr. commissioned, which resulted in the director of Catholic Schools. She served as di- Speaker, an investigation does not ade- end of a significant era. rector for several years until she was again quately address this critical situation. At this time I ask my fellow Ameri- called on by the government to serve as an Nevertheless, Russia continues to cans to join me and New Mexico in associate judge on the High Court of Amer- enjoy foreign aid from the United thanking Mr. Ira Pottard for his years ican Samoa. Judge Betham was sworn in on States and the financial profits of of dedicated military service as a Buf- April 17, 1991, a day which is very significant trade with Iran. Russia is enjoying the falo Soldier. and special to the people of American Samoa. best of both worlds at the expense of f April 17 marks the date on which the United the safety of innocent victims who all The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a States first raised its flag over the Islands of too often fall prey to the hostilities in- previous order of the House, the gen- stigated from Iran’s terrorist regime. American Samoa. The people of American tleman from New York [Mr. QUINN] is We now have reached a point where Samoa celebrate the anniversary of this rela- recognized for 5 minutes. tionship every year on April 17, and it is the agreements and investigations are sim- biggest holiday of the year. ply not enough. It is time to eradicate [Mr. QUINN addressed the House. His As an educator, Mr. Speaker, Judge the proliferation of weapons of mass remarks will appear hereafter in the Betham touched many lives and she found destruction between Russia and Iran. Extensions of Remarks.] much joy and pleasure in following the suc- Congress and the President should de- f cesses of her former students. As a judge, mand that the Russian government The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a she touched equally as many lives and she take steps necessary to stop all in- previous order of the House, the gentle- found much satisfaction and comfort in making volvement, including the involvement woman from Hawaii [Mrs. MINK] is rec- sure that the result reached by the court was of nongovernmental entities, in the ognized for 5 minutes. just and fair. disbursement of weapons of mass de- [Mrs. MINK addressed the House. Her In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer struction, especially when the country remarks will appear hereafter in the my condolences to Judge Betham's husband, of Iran is involved. Extensions of Remarks.] Furthermore, should Russia ignore James ``Rusty'' Betham, and her children. I am f sure that the proud legacy which she left them our request, we must not simply dis- will live on in their hearts and in the hearts of regard their failure to succumb to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a all the people of American Samoa. peacekeeping efforts, but rather, we previous order of the House, the gen- tleman from New York [Mr. BOEHLERT] f must take the most serious and effec- is recognized for 5 minutes. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a tive steps to end this dangerous activ- previous order of the House, the gen- ity and impose sanctions on the re- [Mr. BOEHLERT addressed the House. His remarks will appear here- tleman from New York [Mr. SOLOMON] sponsible parties. is recognized for 5 minutes. House Concurrent Resolution 121 ex- after in the Extensions of Remarks.] presses congressional concern regard- [Mr. SOLOMON addressed the House. f ing the proliferation of missile tech- His remarks will appear hereafter in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a nology from Russia to Iran, and I the Extensions of Remarks.] previous order of the House, the gen- strongly urge my colleagues in this f tleman from New York [Mr. HOUGHTON] House to give their support to this wor- is recognized for 5 minutes. b 1815 thy resolution. [Mr. HOUGHTON addressed the f SUPPORT HOUSE CONCURRENT House. His remarks will appear here- RESOLUTION 121, REGARDING TRIBUTE TO IRA POTTARD after in the Extensions of Remarks.] PROLIFERATION OF MISSILE (Mr. REDMOND asked and was given f TECHNOLOGY FROM RUSSIA TO permission to address the House for 1 ORDER OF BUSINESS IRAN minute and to revise and extend his re- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. marks.) Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I ask LAHOOD). Under a previous order of the Mr. REDMOND. Mr. Speaker, I rise unanimous consent to proceed out of House, the gentleman from Ohio [Mr. tonight to pay tribute to a distin- order with my special order now. STRICKLAND] is recognized for 5 min- guished individual in New Mexico, Mr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there utes. Ira Pottard. He lives in Clovis, NM, and objection to the request of the gen- Mr. STRICKLAND. Mr. Speaker, I he is one of the last living Buffalo Sol- tleman from New Jersey? rise today to address a very serious diers of the U.S. Army. Coincidentally, There was no objection. issue related to the well-being of our he is celebrating his 75th birthday. f Nation. Recently it has come to the at- Mr. Pottard has reason to be proud of tention of the Central Intelligence his accomplishments and his contribu- INDIA’S INDEPENDENCE Agency that nongovernmental entities tion to military history. The Buffalo The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a within Russia have participated in the Soldier horse cavalry units played an previous order of the House, the gen- proliferation of weapons of mass de- important but often forgotten role in tleman from New Jersey [Mr. PALLONE] struction to the country of Iran. our national defense. is recognized for 5 minutes. This specific trade practice threatens Buffalo Soldiers attained their name Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I would the security of the United States and while fighting in the Cheyenne War like to speak in support of House Reso- our allies and, quite simply, it endan- from 1867 to 1869. Native American war- lution 157, which was passed by unani- gers our ability to maintain world riors referred to the African-American mous consent just a few minutes ago peace. Furthermore, the advancement horse soldier troops as Buffalo Soldiers this evening. of weapons of mass destruction to Iran because of their dark-colored dusty It is a great pleasure for me to join happens to be in violation of the Mis- coats and the fearlessness which they with the people of India and the Indian- sile Technology Control Regime. showed in battle. American community in paying tribute For these reasons alone, this trade Until they were disbanded in 1945, to the 50th anniversary of India’s inde- between Iran and Russia must stop. As Buffalo Soldiers fought to maintain pendence, which is one of the things history illustrates, Iran has nurtured a law and order by guarding the western that is mentioned in the House Resolu- reputation for terrorism and has con- front of our Nation and pursuing out- tion. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6687 After years of determined and dig- lead up to it in August over the next ened this in many respects to trying to nified struggle, the people of India fi- couple of weeks, some of them in Wash- drive a MACK truck through a car wash, nally gained their independence at ington, some of them in almost every because the gentleman from Texas, Mr. midnight on August 14, 1947. That mid- major city and a lot of other places in BILL ARCHER, the chairman of the night hour, evoked by India’s first this country. So as we adjourn today in House Committee on Ways and Means, Prime Minister Nehru in a stirring the House of Representatives, I think and his colleagues on that committee, speech to the parliament, marked the it is particularly fitting that we pay had an enormous and daunting chal- beginning of an inspiring effort by the tribute to the 50th anniversary. Many lenge, and that is how to find some tax people of India to establish a republic of us will be joining in these celebra- relief, how to take a small amount of devoted to the principles of democracy tions over the next 2 weeks. revenue and make it go as far as we and secularism. f can in terms of bringing relief to the In the five decades since then, despite largest number of people in this coun- THE CONCLUSION OF A the challenges of sustaining economic try. I think they did that. MOMENTOUS PROCESS development while reconciling her We could not afford to build a bigger many ethnic, religious and linguistic The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. car wash so we had to come up with a communities, India has stuck to the HUTCHINSON). Under a previous order of smaller vehicle, and yet the vehicle path of free and fair elections, a the House, the gentleman from South that we have has a tremendous number multiparty political system, and the Dakota [Mr. Thune] is recognized for 5 of things that will be important to the orderly transfer of power from one gov- minutes. people in my State of South Dakota. I ernment to a successor. Mr. THUNE. Mr. Speaker, it is a look at what this bill contains and I Anyone who doubted India’s lasting great privilege to be here this evening am delighted to be a part of this. commitment to these values would at the conclusion of such a momentous I think rural America will fare very, have had to be converted into a be- process. For the first time in 30 years very well in the final analysis. There is liever in Indian democracy after wit- we have balanced this country’s budg- death tax relief. My State of South Da- nessing the elections of the spring of et. For the first time in 16 years we are kota consists primarily of small busi- last year in 1996. In what proved to be bringing tax relief to the hard-working nesses and family farms, and we want the largest exercise in democracy in men and women and families of this to encourage people who are on the world history, half a billion people country, and we are saving Medicare farm, people who are in those busi- voted to shape their country’s direc- for the next generation. nesses to be able to pass those on to These things are so inseparable from tion heading into a new century. the next generation. This is an impor- my whole objective in being a part of The coalition governments that fol- tant first step. this process and my desire to seek this lowed that election in the spring of 1996 There will be a health care deduc- position in the first place. It was on a have shown their commitment basi- tion, deductibility for insurance pre- fundamental level, because I believe in cally not only to democracy but also to miums paid by self-employed people. those values. That also is something that is very pro representing the broad spectrum of the And what a difference a Republican Indian population and continuing on small business, very pro family farm. Congress can make. These are our val- And a home office deduction for people the path of economic reform. ues. When we start talking about bal- Although many Americans may not who work out of their homes. ancing the budget and lowering taxes The capital gains tax relief. If some- necessarily recognize it, there is a rich and saving Medicare and reforming one sells a steer or a stock or a home, tradition of shared values between the welfare, those are the things for which they will pay a lower rate. In fact, United States and India. Just as the we have stood. when they sell their home, and it fits United States proclaimed its independ- The reason we have succeeded today within the criteria in this bill, they ence from the British colonial order, so in a bipartisan way, with the support of will not pay any capital gains tax. was India born of the struggle for free- a lot of Democrats in balancing the What a wonderful thing for the home- dom and self-determination. India de- budget and lowering taxes and saving owners and the families of this country rived key aspects of its constitution, Medicare, is because the other side has who are trying to pursue the American particularly its statement of fun- also figured out that these things are dream. damental rights, from our own Bill of consistent with the values that the And of course education tax relief, Rights; and the Indian independence American people hold. The reason we the tax incentives that are in here to movement, under the inspired leader- were able to succeed in doing this is be- encourage young people, families, to ship of Mahatma Gandhi, had strong cause the American people, very clear- get the higher education they need moral support from American intellec- ly, sent a message that they believe in that will make us competitive and pre- tuals, political leaders and journalists. a balanced budget, that they want pare us as we approach the 21st Cen- In turn, Dr. Martin Luther King, in lower taxes, that they want smaller tury. his struggle to make the promise of government, that they want more free- These are all things that help enable American democracy a reality for all dom at home. And for the first time in people to make the decisions that af- of our citizens, derived many of his a generation, we are sending more fect their daily lives, and it puts more ideas of nonviolent resistance to injus- power and control back to the people of freedom and more control, and it is a tice from the teachings of Gandhi. this country. shift of power out of Washington, DC Thus, we see a clear pattern of Indian So this is an historic day, and it is a and back home. That is something for and American democracy inspiring and privilege to be a part of this process which I am, indeed, very, very proud. enriching one another at almost every and be here when all this happens. It is If we look at where we have to go, historical turn. the fulfillment of a goal that many of this is an important first step. We have I happen to be, Mr. Speaker, the us have had. And as we look at the a long road ahead of us, but for the founder and also now the cochairman progress that we have made in achiev- first time in a long time we have recog- of the Congressional Caucus on India, ing those goals, this has to be the cap nized how important it is that we take and I represent in my district in New stone. a portion of that which Washington Jersey one of the largest Indian-Amer- Think about what we have accom- takes from the hard-working people in ican communities in our country. I plished and what we did today for the this country and give it back. want to continue to work for stronger first time in a long time. We can talk I think there will be a lot of people ties of friendship and cooperation be- about the intricacies of tax law, but it taking credit for the way this bill has tween the United States and India, in is really about people and it is about played out. We have heard a lot of dis- part because we have such a legacy and giving them more control of their eco- cussion on the floor today about var- we are the two greatest democracies. nomic future. In this Congress we have ious components and parts of that, but It is an honor for me to pay tribute committed ourselves to doing just take, for example, the family tax cred- to India for 50 years of independence. I that. it. The other side has claimed some know there will be a number of events When we look at the tax cut and the amount of credit for that, but look at celebrating the 50th anniversary as we relief that will go back, and I have lik- where that originated. H6688 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 That was in the Contract With Amer- The first thing I would bring to the jury proceeding in the Federal district ica in 1994 that the Republicans, before attention of Members of the House of court in which these grand jury pro- they were elected to Congress, signed Representatives is that this Justice ceedings is brought. on to. It is an important part of this Department has prosecuted numerous f final package, and it is something that Democratic Members, including WELFARE REFORM will benefit a whole lot of families in Messrs. Rostenkowski, Reynolds, this country, and I am glad that we Bustamante, and Fauntroy. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a were able to retain it in there. And so, I am not sure whether it is previous order of the House, the gentle- We have started down a road on fair or not to characterize the Depart- woman from Texas [Ms. JACKSON-LEE] which we have a long ways to go before ment of Justice’s conduct as politicized is recognized for 5 minutes. we reach completion in this battle, and in the sense that the administration Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. one of the things that I hope to be a has acted in disregard of its legal obli- Speaker, this has been quite a day. part of, as we continue that fight, is gation when the record to date is that Sometimes in the heat of debate the simplification of the Tax Code. the Attorney General has repeatedly clarity of what has been done has be- come more confused and a little less b 1830 exercised her discretion with very due diligence and has appointed repeatedly evident. So I think it is important One thing that we have done, if noth- independent counsels to investigate today to clarify for the American peo- ing else, we have, hopefully, at least prima facie allegations against this ad- ple and for those who have worked so started to lower the revenues and made ministration, its Cabinet officials, and hard to drive the economic engine of Government smaller, the values that others. this Nation to clarify for them that we believe in. But we still have an inor- Now what kind of job the chairman this legislation, this tax bill, this tax dinately complex Tax Code which is in of the Committee on Government Re- bill that was truly a creature of a bi- desperate need for simplification. And form and Oversight is doing is not in partisan effort led by a President who we have not done anything in this bill my province this evening. But we are never shies away from the Democratic that in any way lessens the complexity well aware of the objections that the principles that helped to elect him or- in the tax bill. campaign finances and investigation, chestrated. So I hope that as we continue down that the chairman of that committee is It is a time, as well, to be able to ap- the road that one of the priorities for conducting has had some problems. I plaud those who sat at the negotiating this Congress, as we come back here in refer particularly to the fact that the table and to recognize those of us who September, is to continue to bring ad- general counsel of the committee, who were soldiers on this floor who said ditional tax relief, but also to come up submitted his resignation earlier this that we would maintain the battle line with a Tax Code that makes sense to month, has indicated that his resigna- to ensure that dignity would be given the American people who have to com- tion was based on the fact that he was to those citizens who worked every day ply with that Tax Code. I am looking unable to implement the standards of making $25,000 a year, $30,000 a year, forward to being a part of that process. professional conduct he was accus- $50,000 a year, and $75,000 a year. Again, I want to thank my many col- tomed to at the U.S. attorney’s office. It is important, however, that those leagues who supported this bill today In any case, it is not important how of us who advocated that position, because it is an important first step well or poorly the chairman may be those Democratic principles for work- and it is a critical step for the future of doing his job. Right now I am con- ing men and women not be labeled as this country. cerned about the allegations being not understanding that it is business f raised in his defense, which challenge that adds to the economic engine, it is business which we foster under the cap- GRAND JURY PROCEEDINGS the integrity of the Department of Jus- tice in this instance. And I would sug- italistic system that those around the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a gest that it is a leap of faith to believe world applaud and admire and try to previous order of the House, the gen- that the coincidence of the chairman’s emulate and imitate. tleman from Michigan [Mr. CONYERS] is investigation followed by a subpoena of So it is important in this discussion recognized for 5 minutes. his records mean that the subpoena is to say a few things. One, it is valuable Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, Mem- a consequence of his investigation. to acknowledge, as my colleagues have bers of the House, earlier this week the I do not know the scope of the grand heard over and over again, the tax gentleman from Tennessee [Mr. DUN- jury that it is alleged concerns itself credit that will be given to families no CAN], a good friend and distinguished with his conduct, nor may I be privi- matter what their income if it falls Member of the Congress, on the floor of leged to know the scope. And I would under, for example, $75,000. So a $20,000- this body, charged that the ongoing refer the gentleman from Indiana and a-year family making $8,000 maybe the Federal grand jury investigation of the the gentleman from Tennessee to the spouse and $14,000 the other spouse, gentleman from Indiana [Mr. BURTON], Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, $22,000 they can get the tax credit for chairman of the House Committee on rule 6(e), which quite carefully says no their children. The children of the Government Reform and Oversight, attorney for the Government can dis- working poor and working families are was a political prosecution and was close what the grand jury is doing. It is no less valuable than those making brought because the chairman was try- at page 36 of the 1997 edition of the thousands and thousands and thou- ing to do his job. My colleague from Federal criminal code and rules. sands of dollars. I am gratified for that. Tennessee further accused the Attor- For the same reason, I do not know We stayed on the battle line for that ney General of politicizing our system what evidence, if any, prompted any issue and it is very, very important. of justice. subpoena the grand jury may issue of Then I would like to mention that I I would like to examine those re- the grand jury matters are secret in voted against the Republican welfare marks for a few minutes to determine order to protect the person under in- reform bill. Oh, not because I was not whether there is any foundation in vestigation. For that reason, the De- the advocate of all of those who want these remarks. As the senior member partment of Justice may not comment to raise themselves up, all the con- of the Committee on the Judiciary, I on the scope of its investigation, nor stituents in any district whose homes have tried to follow the activities of may it publicly justify the legitimacy did not look as attractive as someone the Department of Justice as carefully of the subpoena or its scope. else, when I went to their homes and as I can, and I am trying to find where But the chairman has a remedy, or they were on welfare and they were de- the Justice Department is politicized his counsel. They may challenge the pendent on public assistance. They or whether it prefers, as has been al- scope and appropriateness of the sub- said, ‘‘I really want a job. I want to get leged, to investigate and prosecute Re- poena. out of this.’’ But I was not going to publicans or in particular the chairman I would close by pointing out that vote for a bill that did not give child of the Committee on Government Re- the gentleman can file a motion to care, give job training. form and Oversight, the gentleman quash or modify the subpoena and in- And yet, now we have a tax bill that from Indiana Mr. BURTON. deed he can challenge the entire grand gives $3 billion to cities. We bypassed July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6689 all the bureaucracy to help move peo- uary 7, 1997, the gentleman from Michi- plex and less intrusive on the American ple from welfare to work to help create gan [Mr. HOEKSTRA] is recognized for 60 people than the current Tax Code and jobs and yes an amendment that I of- minutes as the designee of the major- the current IRS. fered in the 104th Congress to give tax ity leader. This provides us with an opportunity incentives to those good employers Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, to- to think about Social Security in new who will take those people off the rolls night I come to the floor to celebrate and different ways, to make sure that and give them jobs, working mothers the accomplishments that this House, Social Security is solvent much longer like I spent 30 minutes on the phone in a bipartisan way, working along than 2029 which it is currently pro- late at night. A mother who was on with the other body and working with jected at. We now have the opportunity crack said, ‘‘I simply want to work and the President, have accomplished real- to go back and take a look at ending show my daughter it can be done.’’ She ly working over a period of the last 6 corporate welfare. We can now make is going to benefit and the person who months, but really beginning the dia- attempts to have serious discussions hires her is going to be benefit as well log after the last election, recognizing about real budget process reform, regu- by this tax credit that will begin to that we wanted to work together, that latory reform, campaign finance re- those who hire former welfare recipi- we wanted to make progress, that we form. ents moving from welfare to work and wanted to address some major prob- The journal of ideas also has some the $3 billion to our cities will help lems facing this country, and that we documents in here for some things that them provide training and help them also wanted to get the deficit under I really want to talk about and that I along. control. can have the opportunity to work on, My airline friends were in con- Today we passed the second piece of which are education reform and work- troversy, small airliners versus large our major legislative package, the tax place reform. These two items are tied airliners. There are thousands of em- portion, which, combined with the very, very closely together. But as I ployees. The airline industries over the spending portion, has moved us now, take a look at education, earlier this years have become more and more hopefully, the final steps towards get- year we began a process which we call prosperous. I am gratified that we tried ting to a surplus budget when the num- Education at a Crossroads. We have to work something out, decreasing the bers come out. In the middle of August, really in that process agreed with our ticket tax, and then sort of working I think we will see good news that the President, when the President said in with our international airlines. deficit for 1997 is going to be some- 1996 that we cannot ask the American But we are not finished yet. I will where less than $50 billion, which is people to spend more on education promise them that I will monitor this still a very large number. until we do a better job with the so that airlines like Southwest Air- As we start taking the look out at money that we have got now or the lines, that has been so good to Texas, where we are going to be in 1998, the money that we are spending now. We have had a number of hearings can keep strong, and Continental Air- real possibility that we will move to a around the country. We have been in lines and others can work together to surplus budget in 1998, maybe 1999, but New York, we have been in Milwaukee, keep this industry functioning. We did perhaps much sooner than the year Chicago, L.A., Phoenix, Louisville, Cin- what we could in this bill, but I think 2002, which the bipartisan agreement cinnati, Little Rock. We have been the industry should recognize that we set as its outside target. around the country, along with hear- have got to work together on this. b 1845 ings in Washington to ask some basic I have studied England, a very small We have made significant progress. questions: nation that has a No. 3 place in the What is working in education today? world in terms of its economy based The exciting thing about reaching these milestones, saving Medicare, re- What is not working? What Federal mostly on the transfer of money over programs are working in education? the last couple of years. The reason ducing taxes, moving forward, getting to a surplus budget, is that it really Which ones are not? Our Federal edu- they have that value in their nation cation initiatives, are they fostering with such a small number of popu- now does open us up to consider a num- ber of other issues that we can talk the type of change and creativity that lation is because the English have we need at the local level, or are they about and we can talk about in the learned to save. barriers to helping our children get the context of saying we have got a surplus I know America is a country of boun- kind of education that they need? The budget, now let us talk about some ty and we have tended over years not dollars that we send to Washington, longer range perspectives. We have got- to save. I am gratified that we can are they helping our kids get the edu- ten rid of that nagging problem. clearly point to now real incentives for cation that they need or are they being We have shown to the American peo- Americans to save their money, to cre- sucked up by a bureaucracy in Wash- ple that we are serious about getting ate savings accounts, to have IRA’s, to ington? ensure that those who are frugal and our House in order, we are serious We know that as a Nation we are not work and save will be able to handle about making the tough decisions that achieving the kind of results that we their business well. this country needs to make and hope- would like to be getting. Some of our Mr. Speaker, as I close, let me simply fully tomorrow, we were supposed to first hearings that we had in California say that this tax bill is good for small have it ready today to share with Mem- in January of this year highlighted businesses, and Democrats made it bers, we have compiled what we call a some of the problems. good for them, and family farmers by journal of ideas. I put this together and We met with some college educators. $1,300,000 incentive on the family farms I developed this with my former col- People are interested in the young peo- when they are passed on to families. league here in the House, Mr. ple who are graduating from our K And lastly, let me commit myself to BROWNBACK, but this is a journal of through 12 system because they are re- watching this tax bill so there is not an ideas. ceiving these children into higher edu- out explosion on the deficit, because we It is intended to be a thought-pro- cation. When we met with them, the brought it down as Democrats by vot- voking document, a journal that raises first thing they said to us is, ‘‘Make ing in 1993 for a budget bill. And as some of the issues and some of the top- sure you don’t reduce or cut your re- well, I commit myself to simplifying ics that I believe we can now talk medial education dollars, your reme- this process of filing your taxes so that about in a very constructive way, talk- dial education programs, the dollars Americans can continue to support this ing about we have reduced taxes but we that you are sending to higher edu- system that is based on capitalization have not really done what we want to cation.’’ and support a system that supports all do with taxes which is, sure, more tax And we kind of sat back and said, of America. reductions, but we want to move for- well, this is kind of interesting. These f ward now with an overhaul of the tax are kids who are getting into college, system. We need tax reform. I do not they have graduated from high school, DEFICIT AND THE BUDGET know whether it is a flat tax, whether and they are signing up for remedial The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under it is a national sales tax, but we need education? In California it was 26 per- the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- something that is fairer and less com- cent. We went to Arizona the next day H6690 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 and I said well, that is not bad, in Ari- committee is beginning, which is talk- charter school. Here is a woman who zona it is 27 percent. These are kids ing about the relationship between, if was a principal in a public school, and getting into college. this is what is happening in education, she was frustrated by the process. We say, why do we need remedial how does that impact our future ‘‘As a public school principal,’’ she education? These kids have been ac- workforce, a workforce at an oppor- said, ‘‘I had to worry about the 3 Bs.’’ cepted and they are going to college. tunity in the global economy where we In the hearing we asked, what are the Twenty-six percent, 27 percent of them should be more excited about the op- 3 Bs? We know about the 3 Rs, but what are functionally illiterate. What does portunities for American workers to are the 3 Bs? She said, ‘‘As a public functionally illiterate mean? It means maintain and achieve the highest school principal, I had to worry about that they cannot read and write at an standard of living of any workers in busing, budgets and buts.’’ eighth grade level. the world. But how do we face that, and We understood the busing part, we I think we may be asking the wrong what issues do we need to address? And understood the importance of meeting kind of question here, or perhaps pro- how do we take the changes, the budgets, but we did not know what she posing the wrong kind of solution. The changes in technology, the changes in meant by the buts. She said, ‘‘Well, solution here is not to provide more the type of skilled workers we need, whenever I focus on my kids in my dollars for remedial education in high the labor law that we have in place, school and I see something that I think school or in college. The issue here is Federal spending on job training and my kids need, and my kids may be a finding out what is going on in K other job programs, how do we address little bit different than the school through 12, why these kids are not get- that to make sure that we will con- down the street and my needs may be a ting the kind of education that they tinue to be and have the most produc- little bit different, but I would go to should be. Why are they not learning in tive workers in the world? K through 12? the L.A. unified school district and I Our purpose in education, our pur- would say this is what I would like to Let us not put a Band-Aid on the sys- pose in the workforce is to really find tem. As a matter of fact, let us not do for my kids,’’ because I am focused out what is going on, where we are, on my kids and I am focused on my give an incentive to the colleges by where we are going, and outline a per- saying the more remedial students kids learning. She said, ‘‘Sometimes I spective of the types of policy changes would get the response that it is a good they get, the more money they get. Let that we need to have. This is an ongo- us go back and fix the problem. idea, Ms. Chan, but page 15, paragraph ing process. We are in the middle of the Sixty-four percent of 12th graders do C, section 3 says you cannot do that, education process and we are in the be- not read at a proficient level. SAT we cannot let you do it.’’ scores have dropped nearly 60 points in ginning phases of the workforce Or it would be, ‘‘That is a good idea, the past 3 decades. What other things project. but if we let you do it, we would have Let me outline some of the lessons do we see going on? Almost 20 percent to let everybody else do it. And then we have already learned as we have of Americans, this is including adults, what would happen?’’ gone through this process, and have almost 20 percent of Americans are And it was clear that when she was gone around the country and have considered functionally illiterate. talking about educating and focusing heard from parents and teachers and Thirteen percent are considered totally on her children, the children in the administrators at the local level. Some illiterate, reading and writing below school and what was best for them, she of this, much of it, is not that complex. the fourth grade level. ran into another approach which was As some of people listen to this, they Between 1992 and 1994 our NAPE the bureaucratic approach, which was will say, ‘‘Wow, we know that,’’ and it reading scores have not improved by not focused on the kids but was focused is kind of like, ‘‘Yeah, I thought every- more than 2 points. In 1992 United on the rules and the regulations. States 14-year-olds scored an average body here in Washington would under- stand that as well,’’ but I am not sure. We saw the same kind of thing when of 535 on a reading literacy test. Eight we went to Phoenix. We saw the ATOP other countries achieved higher scores. Just today in one of our committee hearings on literacy, we heard the need Academy, it is another charter school, Sixty percent of our 12th graders can- serves mostly African-American stu- not read at a proficient level. The same for more Washington involvement, more Federal Government involve- dents in an inner city area. It focuses thing for math, science and history. on college prep courses, personal dis- These are real problems and real issues ment, perhaps even more Washington rules and regulations. cipline. How do they go into this in a that we are facing. very tough environment and how do We have had hearings on literacy. As So there is a real contrast and a real conflict and a real contest of ideas here they make a difference with these the experts come in and talk about the kids? impact of Federal programs, and there in Washington about how to improve For the kids to get into this school, is debate about what works and what education, whether we move forward in parents are asked to agree to the fol- does not work, there is one consistent one way by increasing the control that message that comes out. If we do not Washington has on our local schools, or lowing basic 5 points: Curtail the chil- improve our educational system, if we by saying perhaps that system does not dren’s television viewing during the do not improve what we are doing and work and we need a child-centered, I week. Secondly, spend 15 to 20 minutes how we educate our children, we will call it a child-centered approach versus on school nights reading to their chil- face a crisis because we have too many a Washington bureaucracy approach. I dren. Attend all parent-teacher con- of our children who cannot read, who think there are certain things that ferences. Attend parental involvement cannot write. We do know that in to- lead us to a child-centered approach. monthly committee meetings. Partici- day’s workplace, in today’s environ- Lesson one that we have learned pate in their children’s classroom ac- ment, if you cannot read, if you cannot from our site visits, not complex, par- tivities. The parents are required to write, if you are functionally illiterate, ents care the most about their chil- have an up-front commitment and in- we will lose you as an individual, which dren’s education. But there are those volvement in their children’s edu- is a tragic situation for the individual, here in Washington that would argue cation. but we will also lose you as a contribu- with that point. We heard it today. It is not only in Los Angeles, it is not tor to helping America be a better They would say, no, it is more impor- only in Phoenix, but we have gone place. tant, they may not say it that clearly, around and we have seen great pro- That is what we are here to talk but they are implying that it is more grams in so many different cities, and about. That is what we have been important and that a bureaucrat per- it is very interesting what we hear working on in our subcommittee. We haps cares more about a child’s edu- when we ask teachers, parents, stu- want to talk about education, we want cation than what a parent would. Par- dents, what is making this school suc- to talk about education at a cross- ents care the most about their chil- cessful? I have yet to hear it is Pro- roads, because we have to pick a path dren’s education. gram ‘‘A’’ from Washington, or that on which way we are going to go. In Los Angeles, we traveled to the what really made this school excel is We are also going to talk about a new Vaughn Learning Center where Dr. when Washington came out with this project which our oversight sub- Yvonne Chan has blazed a bold new program and told us what to do. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6691 b 1900 So good intentions do not always into the bureaucracy that said no, a Now it is when parents and adminis- equal good policies. I would argue, in bureaucracy that was not focused on trators and teachers were given the fact, that too often good intentions in the children and what needed to be freedom, the opportunity, to put kids Washington equal bad policy. We have done and recognize that for under- first and not bureaucracy. had so many good intentions, we have standing what needed to go on in that Awhile back we saw another initia- got a hundred programs in here that school and what needed to happen with tive come forward from the White are not even funded. So we keep pass- these children probably was best under- House. Lesson two is that good inten- ing good ideas, we do not have the stood by the principal, by the teachers tions do not equal good policies. Too money or do not know how to get the and by the parents associated with the often we see a problem, we create a money down to a classroom, but this is kids in that school. program, put a nice name on it, give it a bureaucracy that has gone out of Fifth lesson, new spending equals some money and say, yes, we have whack. It just is not working. new tax burden. Just talked about that fixed the problem. No, we have not. All As we take a look at this, the Wash- a little bit. Every time we come up we have done is created a program, ington mentality now says we know with a new program it equals new tax gave it some money, gave it a nice that we are not getting the kind of re- burden. The disappointing thing about name, and we have not necessarily sults that we want to get in the class- our tax burden is I would love to be- fixed anything. room, we need to fix this. If you believe lieve that when we send, and tell you, The Washington approach of good in- the lesson of good intentions does not that when we send a dollar to Washing- tentions not equaling good policies; necessarily equal good policy, but that ton for taxes that 98, 95, 93 cents made this is the chart of good intentions. is the myth in Washington, that if we it back to the classroom, made it back This is also the chart that dem- have got a problem, create another pro- to the teacher, made it back to the stu- onstrates that we probably are not gram, our kids are not learning, we are dent. But that is not where it goes. The going to get results. What is this not satisfied with the results, what dollar goes through a whole series of chart? This chart is the Washington re- would you expect the response to be? different cycles. To get that dollar sponse of good intentions trying to The response would be, well, we must local school districts need to spend solve a very complex problem. What do need more. If our kids are not learning, money to get that dollar back. We esti- all these lines and boxes and circles let us have a few more literacy pro- mate that when you send a dollar to and different colors symbolize in these grams. Washington, in that process of actually little boxes in here with numbers? We talk about the literacy issue. We getting it back into a classroom and Twenty-one programs, 3, 17, 2, 42, 15. now have some more suggestions about getting it back to a student, we prob- What this is, is a compilation of the 760 how to have literacy, spending perhaps ably lose about 30 to 40 cents. We do Washington programs designed to help up to $1 billion more for tutors. So let not know the exact number, but some- education. us put another agency in place, Cor- where in the neighborhood of 30 to 40 And you say, boy, am I glad that we poration for National Service, put an- cents of every dollar that comes to have an Education Department because other program in place so we got 761, 40 Washington, only about 60 to 70 cents when we have an Education Depart- different agencies, and put another bil- of it ever makes it back into a class- ment, we can take these 760 programs lion dollars with it, and we got $101 bil- room. and we know that they are going lion. We have not asked the basic ques- We think that is a problem. We think through one agency and they are going tion as to why this $100 billion is not that that whole system, the whole sys- to be streamlined and coordinated, enabling our kids to read and learn tem of 760 programs, 39 different agen- compliment each other, streamlined to what they should learn in the class- cies and a hundred billion dollars of the school districts and the States so room, we will just say we will put tu- spending means that when we walk that very easily this money flows from tors out there to help them after across the street and we walk back to Washington, flows to the schools, flows school. our offices we like to think that we are to the classroom, and we really lever- And think about this process. Kids walking and crossing Independence Av- age where we need the money to be, are not learning, so we need another enue. But when you have got 39 agen- which is in the classroom and with the program, we need another bureaucracy, cies involved in educating our children, teacher. we need to come up with another set of 39 education agencies that are based in Wrong. We do not have one agency rules and regulations about what to Washington, that really do not know where 760 programs go through. We do happen in the classroom. Of course, we the difference between what the needs not have 10 agencies. We have 39 dif- need $100 billion. So the taxpayers are are in my congressional district back ferent agencies that develop education going to have to work a little harder to in west Michigan versus the differences programs, that develop criteria, they send a little bit more money to Wash- in New York City versus the dif- develop ideas, not always coordinated; ington and to get a little bit more ferences in Miami, and when you have most of the time they are not. As a money and to keep their heads above got 39 agencies in Washington doling matter of fact, as we had hearings in water. Maybe we are going to have out money, when you have got 39 agen- the Committee on the Budget, we some more parents and some more fam- cies in Washington that are sending asked different people in the adminis- ilies that are going to say, wow, we are out rules and regulations, when you tration as to where is the focal point getting stretched here, Washington have got 39 agencies that are requiring for bringing these 760 programs to- needs some more money, maybe one of paperwork and accountability back gether, to bring these 39 agencies to- us ought to take a second job or ought from local schools, that really what we gether, and by the way, $100 billion? to work a little bit longer, meaning have done is the street that we cross is Where is the focal point for this? Is it that instead of a parent tutoring their called Independence Avenue. Secretary Riley at the Education De- child this parent is going to take a sec- But more appropriately, as we are partment? Is it somebody else at an- ond job so that a tutor can come and talking about education, it is Depend- other agency? And the answer came take care of their child after school. ence Avenue, that local school dis- back, well, the focal point for 39 dif- More is not always better. tricts, local parents, State agencies are ferent agencies is exactly where you The fourth lesson that we have dependent on what happens in Wash- would think it would be. It would be at learned so far is education must be ington rather than being independent the President, the presidential level. child centered. Too often we find that to create and develop and solve the Now I think the President is a pretty the education and the process is not fo- problems locally, learning from what bright guy, but I do not believe that cused on the child, but it is focused on other people are doing, understanding with all of his responsibilities that he the bureaucracy and the bureaucrats. their needs and their own area and de- in the Executive Branch at that level I shared with you this story about veloping the solutions that work best can coordinate 760 different programs, Mrs. Chan worrying about the ‘‘buts,’’ for them. and I do not necessarily think that we trying to do what she wanted and Too often at the local level people should ask him at that level to coordi- thought was necessary for the children who are involved in educating our chil- nate those programs. and her school, but constantly running dren have been reduced to filling out H6692 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 paperwork, being and reporting back to go out and we need to take and ensure kids who are functionally illiterate Washington rather than back to par- that every child has the opportunity to that they can move into and they can ents. It is a problem that we need to learn and that we as a Nation cannot get good paying jobs, where they will work on, and you know, it really does afford to lose a single child, which be successful. We need to really exam- get to be this is another which we pre- means we have to go back and we have ine that. The answer, as I think we all pared; we call it the Tale of Two Vi- to rethink some of the Washington as- know, is no. Take a look at it. sions, and it very much applies to this sumptions. Technology. We are in a rapidly issue of education. Is our vision a vi- We really have to rethink the issue changing environment where tech- sion of Washington; we call it the vi- about who cares most about our kids. nology is just growing. That should be sion of bureaucracy, or are we more at- Is it bureaucrats, or is it parents? If it an opportunity for this country. We tuned to what we believe is most ap- is bureaucrats that care the most should not view that as a problem. It is propriate, which is called a Vision of about our children, then let us em- an opportunity that we need to get our Opportunity? power bureaucrats. If it is parents, let young people ready for; it should not We have gone around the country, us empower parents. Let us evaluate be, well, we have these unskilled kids and we have seen schools that are ex- the assumption of good intentions. We coming in, we better find a way so that celling, and it is not because of the bu- have 20 years or more of good inten- they can deal with technology. No, it is reaucratic vision, the bureaucratic vi- tions in Washington and we have not a huge opportunity for them and for us sion that is symbolized by this photo of seen improvement. We need to take a as a Nation. Washington, DC, but the vision of op- look at whether 760 programs going We need to take a look at what hap- portunity which we see as we have through 39 different agencies, spending pens in terms of global competition. gone around the country, the vision of $100 billion based in Washington is the What is the impact of unskilled work- opportunity of parents, of teachers and best way to help our kids learn. We ers coming in? Will we have the ability administrators at the local level saying have to take a look at that assump- to compete on a global basis? I sure give me the opportunity and the free- tion, and when we do that, we are going hope so. Because the opportunities are dom to educate these kids. I know to have to make the decision. tremendous. Markets are opening up their names, I know their needs, and I If we believe this works and we still around the world, and our workers care more about them than anybody have problems, then the answer is very right now are the most productive in else in this country. I want them to clear. If this is the way we go, we need the world, and that is where we want to excel. Give me the resources, but also more. We need more money, we need keep them. So the new project which give me the freedom to enable me to more programs and we need more agen- we have is we call it the American achieve the kind of results that every cies. Or, if we believe that maybe this Worker at a Crossroad, building off of American child is entitled to. Do not does not work, we need to streamline education at a crossroads, because we take the money from my community, this process and move power and au- want to take a look at what their skill do not send the money to the IRS, do thority and responsibility back to the level needs to be, what the world mar- not send it into a bureaucracy that is local level, back to parents, and back ket opportunities are going to be. going to suck up 35 to 40 cents of every to the States. We need to analyze the Some of the labor law that we have precious dollar, taking it away from assumption as to whether education, to today was developed in the 1930’s and my children and feeding it into a bu- be successful, can be developed in a the 1940’s. Is it still the appropriate reaucracy. manual that says, here is the how-to; model for labor law in the year 2000 and That approach puts the Washington we can develop a bureaucratic ap- beyond. bureaucracy first and puts the child proach, a bureaucratic how-to manual We need to take a look at the Federal second. We need to flip that equation. to help our kids, and if we go to the spending. We give the Labor Depart- We need the child Senate approach manual and if we understand the man- ment $30 billion to $40 billion each first asking why are not children learn- ual and if we follow the rules and the year. We need to take a look at how ing before we propose new Washington regulations of the manual, we will be they spend their money. How do Fed- solutions. able to teach our kids and our kids will eral programs on job training work? Recognize that perhaps some of the learn. This manual will apply to John- Federal job training dollars work in Washington solutions are part of the ny and Sara and Billy and Brian and such a way that we give people dollars problem. Parents I do not think want Aaron. Or, does every child need a per- after they lose their job. That might be to hear about a million new tutors. I sonal development plan, recognizing okay when people are in one job for a think parents want to ask that basic that they have their own individual long period of time, perhaps only one question: if my kids in school 51⁄2–61⁄2 needs, individual skills, and there has job their entire career, but in the new hours every day, why are they not to be a level of flexibility around that economy where perhaps people are learning in the classroom? Do not put child about how the teachers and the going to be going through two, three, an over lay Band-Aid on there. Help us parents and the administrators meet four job changes, significant career solve the problem in the classroom. the needs of that child. changes, where their skills need to Take a look at why your federal pro- We spend more almost than any change, it does not make sense any- grams are not working, and take a look other industrialized country and we are more to have a Federal job training at what we need to do to make the getting disappointing results. We need system in place that empowers people local system work and not the bureau- to reevaluate this model of education. to learn after they lose a job. I think cratic system. What are the implications as we we maybe need to step back and take a Mr. Speaker, what we need and what move forward? As we talked about this look at how do we encourage and help we know in education is that it is time as a committee, we said, we have re- people continually upgrade their skill to act more wisely. We need to be sponsibility for education; we also have levels as they are working so that they smart. We cannot afford to lose our responsibility for work force develop- can move and evolve into new jobs. kids, we cannot afford to spend or send ment. What are the implications as we We want education and workplace a dollar to Washington and only get 60 move forward and we recognize we have policies which will create the environ- cents back to our children. this growing group of people, kids com- ment where the American workers can ing through the system, who do not be the most productive, highest paid, b 1915 have the necessary basic skills perhaps and enjoy the highest standard of liv- I was with the Speaker last night and to function in our economy. As a mat- ing of any worker in the world. I am taking a look at a picture he has of Ei- ter of fact, let us take a look at what excited about being able to combine senhower looking at Utah Beach, and the economy is, and that is what we the education with the work force in 1945 we mobilized, we mobilized and said. We need to now go take a look at project, because even though on edu- we retook Europe. what the work force requirements are cation we need to be making changes What we need to do now is we need to going to be in the year 2000 and beyond. soon, the work force project allows us put a major emphasis on saving our What kind of economy are we moving a little bit of time to step back and to educational system, because we need to into? Do we have an economy where really take a longer range perspective July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6693 on this and say, where do we want to be jobs, their corporations, to themselves to meet the requirements for their by the year 2010, and what types of and to their families, and I think they families. changes do we need to be putting in will have and recognize the need to What we have seen, we have seen place over the next 2, 4, 6 years, so that constantly be upgrading their skills to that increasing. Families are under we can gracefully move to the changes take advantage of the opportunities of tremendous stress. Individuals are and the environment that we want to an ever-growing economy. under tremendous stress because of the have. The empowered American worker work requirements we put on them. We We know that the American edu- will see global markets and global need to increase their skills and give cation system is not the benchmark; competition as an opportunity and a them more flexibility and allow them we know that we need to improve that. threat, recognizing that in 1997 the to change their job arrangements so We are creating a generation of Amer- American workers are the most pro- they have the opportunity to get more ican workers who are not equipped. We ductive workers in the world, and that leisure time and spend more time with need to fix that problem. What we do by the year 2010, rather than seeing their families. know is that if we do not fix that, we that gap closing, we should see that There is one other way to do that, are going to have some severe prob- gap widening. As we bring in tech- which is what we did today. We lowered lems. But we are going to work on that nology, as we increase the knowledge their taxes, which says rather than and we are going to reassess all of and education of the American work- now spending some of your time to these assumptions. ers, as we invest capital and bring the work for the Government, or actually This also leads us to consider where appropriate equipment and machinery spending a lot of time to work for the we are going to go on the work force into place, as we invest in capital and Government, we are going to lessen the policy side. The changes need to be human capital, we can increase the dif- amount of time that you work for the made. I flew here a couple of weeks ago ference in productivity. As we increase Government, and you can then decide and picked up a Detroit Free Press. that differential in productivity, it to take that as perhaps more personal The front page: Detroit is going to cre- means that our workers will be more income. Or you can say rather than ate, over the next 5 to 7 years, 133,000 valuable and we can pay them more spending this time working for the new jobs, high tech, high quality jobs. and they will have a higher standard of Government, I am just going to have Being from the State of Michigan, that living. some more leisure time. is exciting. That should be a great I think the empowered worker who These are the kinds of issues that we story. It should be a great lead. It takes care of and sees responsibility for are going to be studying and taking a should be a great close: 133,000 Michi- increasing their knowledge, who sees look at over the coming months, con- ganites getting high pay, high quality responsibility and opportunity and tinuing to aggressively pursue the edu- jobs. helping their companies grow and to cation agenda, continuing to aggres- There is one problem. The thrust of meet the challenges of foreign competi- sively pursue an agenda which empow- the story was that we may not have tion, who sees global markets as an op- ers parents, not bureaucracies; which the workers with the skills to fill those portunity rather than global competi- drives toward focusing on the child; jobs. If we do not get those workers tion as a threat also need to create an which gets dollars into the classroom, and develop their skills to be able to opportunity where workers and man- not into bureaucrats; focuses on the fill those jobs, what happens? That agement can come together. basics, the reading, the writing, and work will have to be done, and there is As we have taken a look, those roles the math, not all the other extraneous a good potential that those jobs will are very much less defined in 1997 than things that go on in education today, move somewhere else. They may not they were in 1947. There has been a but giving the kids the basic skills in K move somewhere else in Michigan; coming together of management and through 12; really putting them into a they may not move somewhere else in employees and so often it is difficult safe school, dealing with the basics. America, they may move somewhere now to tell the differences, so that we We are going to challenge some of else. have to evolve and change labor law the Washington assumptions about The job opportunities that we see that enables them to work in a part- what is good for education and what is evolving and developing in Detroit may nership and enables them to work in good for kids. But it is a struggle, it is not be filled by people from Detroit, tame environments to meet the objec- a debate. It is a wonderful debate, be- they may not be filled by people from tives of the corporations and of the in- cause as we go on through this process, Michigan, they may not be filled by dividuals that are part of those cor- whether we are in Little Rock, whether people from this country. If we do not porations. we are in Cincinnati, whether we are in develop the skills, we do not develop the Bronx, we have seen kids in every b the people, those jobs may move and 1930 part of society be able to learn. That is they may move overseas, and that is a We need to empower employees in exciting. We see kids everywhere over problem. very different working environments this country who are empowered and So we need to create a climate where and work styles, some who are part are having the opportunity to learn. our young people are learning and time, some working at home, some It is kind of like when adults and where our workers who are working are where both parents or both individuals when the bureaucrats and when Wash- upgrading their skills and are provided in the family are working, to recognize ington gets out of the way, man, watch with the opportunity to constantly up- that they ought to have a whole series these kids go. Watch these parents and grade their skills. of opportunities to choose the work ar- watch these schools excel. When Wash- I also want to talk just a little bit rangements that they would like to ington gets in the way, whoa, watch about what I think the new workplace have, the benefits that they would like out and see how things start to change may evolve into and what it may look to have so they can tailor their bene- focus. like. I think we have to look very posi- fits and their work times and their We are going to focus on education. tively at the future for the American work schedules to meet their needs and We are also going to do the same kind worker. We have to have an optimistic their family needs and their personal of thing in the work force, examining view and a vision of an empowered needs rather than the needs of the cor- where we are, what the changes are, American worker. They are knowledge poration. what opportunities the changes in our workers. They are going to have a It is one of the interesting things in economy are going to bring, are going great amount of skill and knowledge. today’s society, today’s work force, one to appear, and how Washington at that They are going to be knowledgeable, of the most important ingredients and point in many cases needs to step back responsive, and I think capable of help- one of the things that they now meas- and get out of the way so American ing their companies compete in a glob- ure leisure by, and one of the most im- workers, American companies can em- al economy. They will have unprece- portant commodities to workers is the ploy the skills and the energies that dented opportunities for personal amount of leisure time that they get; make America such a wonderful place, growth. They will increasingly under- how much time do they need to spend perhaps the most creative people on stand their responsibilities to their working to be able to meet their needs, the globe, willing to take more risks, H6694 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 willing to take that creativity and that that down to 5 percent, it is still too force was plagued by a host of difficul- risk and to work hard. That is why we high, but boy, we will have come a long ties. Like the country as the whole, the are the most productive. way. military had to recover from the fis- So in some of these areas, we need to Think of the energy, the positive en- sures of the Vietnam era, and adjust to remove the barriers and let American ergy and the positive influence that sweeping cultural changes as the baby workers and American companies that will bring into our whole economy boom generation grew up. excel. We are setting the standard and our whole society if we raise the Both the country and the volunteer today. We need to make sure that we threshold from 70 percent literacy to force got through it. Nurtured by a recognize what our skills are, what 95, 98 percent literacy, and the positive cadre of military leaders that matured makes us different, so we can step out benefits that we will all receive from after the war in Vietnam, the all vol- of the way and let those skills and those kinds of changes. unteer force today has shown, first, those differences bloom, so we can con- f that a high-quality personal military tinue to lead the world because of the force can be recruited and sustained by quality of American workers. FURTHER MESSAGE FROM THE a democratic Nation, and second, that Those are the kinds of challenges we SENATE a professional force can exploit modern will take up when we come back in A further message from the Senate technology and carry out an extraor- September. Those are the kinds of by Mr. Lundregan, one of its clerks, an- dinarily broad range of military mis- challenges that we can now get our nounced that the Senate had passed sions with great loyalty and dedica- hands around and have a constructive without amendment a concurrent reso- tion. dialogue and debate, as we have kind of lution of the House of the following One of the concerns that people had changed the shift. We are moving title: when the all volunteer force was insti- power back to the American people tuted, however, seems to me to deserve H. Con. Res. 138. Concurrent resolution to with the bills we have passed today, correct technical errors in the enrollment of some additional attention today, espe- the bills from today and yesterday, by the bill H.R. 2014. cially as the country makes a transi- reducing taxes, by getting the deficit The message further announced that the tion from the Cold War era to a new pe- under control and hopefully being at a Senate agrees to the report of the Commit- riod in world affairs. This is the issue surplus budget within the next year or tee of Conference on the disagreeing votes of of civil-military relations, by which I two. the two Houses on the amendment of the mean the relationship between the pro- We have turned the ship around by Senate to the bill (H.R. 2014) ‘‘An Act to pro- fessional military force and the broad- saying we are not going to keep mov- vide for reconciliation pursuant to sub- er society from which it is drawn and ing more power to Washington and get- sections (b)(2) and (d) of section 105 of the which it serves. ting in the way. We recognize that concurrent resolution on the budget for fis- Let me be clear at the outset that I cal year 1998.’’. there is a limit to the kinds of solu- am not worried about a loss of civilian tions and the extent of the solutions f control over the military. On the con- that Washington can bring, and we IMPROVING CIVIL-MILITARY trary, it is built into the very fabric of have come back to recognize the real RELATIONS the U.S. military to be dedicated to the beauty of America, which is individuals defense of democratic institutions. and freedom and opportunity and cre- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under I am only slightly more concerned ativity and entrepreneurship. the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- about the supposed politicization of the We are going to get Washington out uary 7, 1997, the gentleman from Mis- military, a situation in which many of the way, and we are going to go after souri [Mr. SKELTON]) is recognized for members of the Armed Forces feel some of these chronic problems. We are 60 minutes as the designee of the mi- themselves at odds with their elected going to move forward. We are going to nority leader. and appointed leaders in the executive reassess some of the assumptions that Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, when he branch. Though this could become a we have had for the last 30 years of was chairman of the Joint Chiefs of problem, it is incumbent on senior offi- moving power to Washington as the Staff, General Colin Powell often de- cials in the executive branch and on way to solve the problems and saying scribed the men and women he led as senior officers in the military to pre- maybe we have gone too far, and it is an exquisite military force. I do not be- vent a serious rift from growing. time to continue to move some of that lieve he was overstating the situation. What I am mainly concerned about is power back to parents, to school dis- Soldier for soldier, sailor for sailor, that the professional military may be tricts, to move it back to workers and airman for airman, marine for marine, becoming more and more isolated from management at a local level, providing the U.S. military today is as fine a the rest of society, to the detriment of some wonderful opportunities. fighting force as has ever been assem- popular understanding of the needs of That is why I think that the balance bled, perhaps the best ever. defense. The result will not be the evo- of this Congress and future Congresses, It is a force that is well trained and lution of a rogue military force, but because we have that monkey off our well led. It is equipped with modern rather, the loss of public support for back of the deficit, perhaps we have the weapons. It has worked hard to devise necessary military preparedness. monkey off our back of partisan poli- and implement a body of military doc- Indeed, for most Americans, the mili- tics, that we have now found a way to trine that multiplies its effectiveness. tary is an institution, as a rule, simply work in a bipartisan way, that we are The military services are more and off the screen, unless an international going to have some great days in front more able to work jointly to carry out crisis develops, or some military scan- of us. We are going to be able to pass their missions. It is, above all, a high dal gets on the front pages. Because some legislation and some new initia- quality force made up of well-educated, the military is off the screen for most tives that really will start to address carefully selected, disciplined volun- Americans, it is also increasingly off some serious, nagging problems. teers. When called upon, the members the screen for Congress. If we do not address them, it will cre- of this force have served with as much The solution to this problem, it ate some huge problems for us in the bravery and distinction as American seems to me, has to be addressed main- future. But if we address them, and we soldiers ever have. ly by the military itself. Above all, the no longer have 30 percent of our kids A large part of the reason for this ex- military has to try harder to establish going into college needing remedial quisite character of this force is that it and maintain better ties to the com- education, just think, in 4 years if we is comprised of professionals. As vir- munities in which it works. went down from 30 percent needing re- tually all senior military officers now Mr. Speaker, the reasons for a gap medial education, think about it; I do acknowledge, the all volunteer force, between the professional military and not even know how we as a society ac- or AVF, that was instituted in 1973 has the rest of society are deep-rooted. For cept that today, K through 12 turning been a remarkable success. most of American history the peace- out 30 to 40 percent of our kids who are The all volunteer force, to be sure, time standing army was very small, illiterate. How do we accept that? Just took some time to fulfill its promise. and sometimes quite isolated. After think, if in 5 years and 8 years we move In its early years the all volunteer World War II and the Korean conflict, July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6695 that changed. For the first time in A turning point in public attitudes, I than the society it protects. For my peacetime, the United States main- think, came in 1980, with the failure of part, however, I have been concerned tained a large standing army, with the the Iran hostage rescue mission in less with the implications of military bulk of its personnel provided through Desert One. After that many Ameri- perceptions of civilian society than conscription. As a result, a large part cans resolved never again to allow the with the implications for civilian per- of the male population had direct expe- Nation to be in such a position of ap- ceptions of military society. rience in the military, and, in almost parent weakness. Public support for One implication is this, in the long every American family, someone had the military grew dramatically strong- run a military that sees itself as a cul- served. er and with public support a rejuve- tural elite will at best foster misunder- b 1945 nated officer corps was able to bring to standing and at worst create public re- fruition the developments in doctrine, sentment. At the very least, the public Moreover, millions of Americans con- education and training, weapons tech- will begin to regard unique features of tinued their direct involvement with nology and jointness that had been ini- military life as somehow peculiar. Con- the military after active duty by serv- tiated in the darkest days after Viet- sider the recent public reaction to ing in the National Guard and Re- nam. The result was a string of mili- cases of adultery in the military. From serves. tary successes, though not without the military’s perspective, rules At least until the war in Vietnam, some shortfalls along the way, cul- against adultery are not simply a puri- the large standing force and the draft minating in the American led victory tanical anachronism. Rather, they fol- enjoyed widespread public support. In- of coalition forces in the Persian Gulf low from the critical requirement that deed following World War II, our sense of identity as a Nation involved pride War. The outpouring of popular enthu- members of the services refrain from in the global role that our military siasm following the war was hearten- activities that undermine good order played in preserving peace. Service in ing, especially to those who had and discipline. Good order and dis- the military was accordingly also a worked to rebuild the military after cipline are essential to a system of matter of pride. It was a way of serving Vietnam. General Schwartzkopf said command that must be effective when the Nation as a whole. Pride in the for him that the public reaction to the matters of life and death are at stake. military was a fundamental element of Persian Gulf War finally healed the That rules against adultery are en- our social and political makeup. More- psychic wounds he had suffered with forced in some cases and not in others over, a key result of the draft was that ever since Vietnam. It was a moment is not necessarily a result of pref- the service in the military cut across of national unity that recalled for me erential treatment. Rather, the rules cultural, socioeconomic and regional the closeness between the military and are enforced when good order and dis- lines. It was, therefore, an important the public that those of us in the post- cipline are threatened. source of national unity. World War II generation grew up with. To many civilians however, these no- Perhaps the most lasting damage But it is not quite the same. tions are entirely alien. The military caused by the war in Vietnam was that The difference, I think, lies in the for its part has not done a good job of it reversed the unifying effects of mili- lack of deeper understanding between diffusing the sensationalism of much tary service and aggravated social divi- the professionals who serve in the mili- reporting about the issue in part, I be- sions. The children of the economically tary and the public that admires the lieve, because it has not thought it and educationally better off often military but does not fully identify necessary to explain why and how its avoided service in the military during with it. The danger is not that any sig- rules must be unique. For many in the the Vietnam War while the children of nificant part of the public distrusts or military, it was sufficient to say sim- less privileged families were called up disdains the military, as was the case ply that we have a higher and better and sent to fight. This left a social and after Vietnam, but that the public does standard. cultural gash across the country which not really know what it is like to serve Another symptom of the civil-mili- has never completely healed. in the military and therefore neglects tary gap lies in the sense of grievance The decision to abandon conscription things that are necessary to keep the that some members of the military after Vietnam was necessary and ulti- military focused and strong and effec- services harbor about various issues mately good for the military. The all- tive. that affect them. As those who served volunteer force has been a success, but Many symptoms of the civil-military in the military in the past always it has come at a price in civil-military gap are apparent. Recently Tom Ricks, knew, it is a deep rooted and innate relations. Now the number of people an outstanding military affairs re- feature of military life to gripe about with military service has declined porter for the Wall Street Journal, almost everything. The old comedy se- steadily over the time. Many, both wrote an excellent article in the Atlan- ries Mash is as much about the appar- within and outside the military, regard tic Monthly entitled The Widening Gap ent arbitrariness of life in the military the professional military force as Between the Military and Society. He and constant griping about it as any- something different from the rest of so- began by relating interviews with thing else. ciety. As a Nation, we have slowly lost young men and women who had re- Today, however, there is often some- our sense of the military’s global role cently begun military service. Over- thing deeper in the complaints in the and of service in the military as a key whelmingly their reaction on returning ranks. Often people in the military part of our national identity. home for visits was a sense that the today feel that they are being made ob- In the meantime, public attitudes to- military was in many ways different jects of social experimentation because ward the military have evolved over from and, most importantly, better of sexual integration, rules against sex- the years, largely for the better but than the civilian world that they had ual and racial harassment or even also in a way that is more difficult to left behind. Repeatedly his respondents changes in health care for military de- discern, partly for the worst. cited public disorder, lack of discipline, pendents and other measures. In fact, After Vietnam many Americans drug and alcohol use, sloppy appear- the military has done an excellent job looked on the military in a negative ance, a lack of direction among former over the years in responding to changes way, even many who supported a peers and a score of other flaws in ci- in social norms. strong defense were disdainful, vilian society. Witness the relatively successful ra- wrongly, I think, of the military’s per- Ricks acknowledged that the results cial integration of the military com- formance in the war while others dis- were due in part to the fact that the pared to the rest of society. For good trusted anyone in uniform. During the military services trained new recruits or ill, the military is never going to be 1970’s, military leaders, to their ever to have a sense of uniqueness as an as- insulated from battles over changes in lasting great credit, resolved to fix pect of pride in their service. social relations, including relations be- what was broken and to make the new He sees something deeper in the sen- tween the sexes. These changes will all-volunteer force work. But it was a timents of these military recruits, and necessarily create frictions. But if the task made all the more difficult by I agree with his conclusion, that the military feels itself as somehow budget constraints and by hurdles to military increasingly sees itself as unique, as if it should be insulated recruiting top-notch people. apart from and in many respects better from these social changes, then the H6696 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 battles themselves will be unneces- are several things the military should Military leaders should also vastly sarily destructive both within the mili- continue doing and some things it expand programs to educate civilians tary and between civilians and the should do much better. about the military. There should be military. One thing it must continue doing is many more opportunities for civilian To be sure, there is much for service to educate its own leadership in civil- community leaders to visit military fa- members to feel aggravated, if not ag- ian affairs. One thing that is especially cilities and interact with military per- grieved about. For my part, I believe striking to me is the growing portion sonnel. the current pace of military operation of the military, both officer and civil- One final step is also critically im- is putting too much of a strain on mili- ian, that comes from military families. portant, and that is for the active duty tary families. I think the solution is to According to Professor Eliot Cohen of Army and the National Guard relations be more selective in committing forces the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced to improve. National Guard and Re- abroad and to maintain an adequate International Studies, roughly 25 per- serve troops are truly a national treas- force structure. But legitimate com- cent of the current force comes from ure for the simple reason that they re- plaints from within the ranks will be families of service members. This is a main true citizen soldiers. unnecessarily divisive if the civil-mili- startling figure which suggests that Relations between the active duty tary gap does not narrow. the professional military could in time force and the National Guard and the Solutions to some of these problems become almost a separate caste unless Army, however, are laden with dis- cannot be found solely within the mili- measures are taken to broaden the ex- trust. This rift must be healed. The ac- tary. For their part senior civilian offi- perience of military service members tive Army leadership must work on cials in the executive branch must con- to include educational, cultural and so- ways to integrate the Guard forces into stantly be aware of the need to prevent cial contacts within the civilian com- military plans, and must genuinely the gap from growing wider. For its munity. rely on the Guard as a key element of part, the Clinton administration de- I am also struck by the fact that an the force. serves some credit for working so hard increasing proportion of the officer Mr. Speaker, the professional U.S. at this when its relations with the corps is being drawn from the military military force of today is by every military could easily have soured. service academies relative to the pro- measure the best in the world and per- Early in the administration, the con- portion from ROTC or officer candidate haps the best in history. It is, however, flict over gays in the military, appar- schools. According to a recent Congres- a difficult matter for democracy to ent disrespect for military officers sional Research Service report, if we maintain a large professional military among some younger White House staff exclude officers serving in the health establishment. To make it work re- members and I believe, most impor- care professions, chaplains and some quires that military leaders pay seri- tantly, a failure to be clear on the mili- other categories, about 22 percent of ous attention to the social and politi- tary role in Somalia, all created a po- the officer corps in 1995, was comprised cal issues that arise. tentially disastrous lack of trust to de- of graduates of the military academies, Both the military and the society as a whole will greatly benefit from the velop within the military. a dramatically higher portion than in Secretary of Defense Perry, espe- the past, when ROTC and OCS sources military leadership if the military cially, did much to reduce the tension, were relatively greater sources of offi- leadership works more assiduously to above all with his focus on the quality cers. prevent a widening rift from develop- of life of people in the service. More- Among general and flag officers the ing between civilian and military soci- over the administration has learned proportion from the service academies eties. that the use of military force abroad is even greater, about 36 percent in f 1995. I would not suggest because of must be thought through carefully. In A LOOK BACKWARD, A LOOK this that we close or significantly re- Haiti, in Bosnia, whether one agrees FORWARD duce the size of the academies. I do with the mission or not, it is clear that The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. the administration worked to define think, however, that it becomes more and more imperative that as a military HUTCHINSON). Under the Speaker’s an- the goals of the military actions care- nounced policy of January 7, 1997, the fully. I am still concerned that the ad- officer advances, he or she receive edu- cation in nonmilitary institutions and gentleman from California [Mr. SHER- ministration is asking too much of peo- that military training institutions MAN] is recognized for 60 minutes. ple in uniform but at least it is not make it a point of broadening the in- Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, as lightly taking risks with the lives of tellectual and cultural perspectives of probably the last Speaker of this ses- military service members. their students. sion, at least that portion of the ses- Congress also has a role to play in sion before we go back to our districts keeping the civil-military gap in b 2000 for the summer, I am grateful to have check. Perhaps most importantly it is Most importantly of all, I believe this opportunity to speak tonight. incumbent upon Members of Congress that the military must take steps to I know we are all anxious to go back to seek consensus on social and politi- ensure that the military commanders to our districts, and yet we ought to re- cal issues that might otherwise have a are held accountable for building much flect a little bit on some of the things polarizing effect within the military. I better relations with the civilian com- that have gone on in this House over think we have done a good job of that munity. the last 6 months. I am especially in recent years. In my own experience representing a grateful for a sufficient amount of time For the most part, however, I do not congressional district with large mili- to review these events, because during believe the military can look elsewhere tary bases, I know that some military more hectic parts of our legislative to narrow the civil-military gap. In- officers are excellent at community re- business we are recognized for 1 minute stead it is incumbent on the military lations and others are not. Increasingly or for 2 minutes, which is often not leadership to work at reducing this there is no substitute for having com- enough time to go even into one topic, civil-military gap as assiduously as it manders who are good at it. Even the and I have several topics I would like has worked at leadership development, most mundane community activities to address. recruit training, doctrinal improve- are profoundly effective in building I know that very few of my col- ments, jointness or other key aspects public identification with an under- leagues are here in the Chamber. I ex- of organizational management. The standing of the military. pect that many are back in their of- public is not going to become more un- Participation in Lion’s Clubs, spon- fices finishing things up, perhaps derstanding of military concerns and sorship of Little Leagues, and of Boy watching these remarks on C-SPAN or the military requirements on its own, and Girl Scout Troops, involvement on cable, and I really have not had a rather, the military itself must reach school and other similar affairs are es- chance to introduce myself to all of my out to the public to create better un- sential. Community relations should be colleagues, only most of them, so I derstanding, even among those who made a prominent factor in officer effi- would like to take a minute to do that. have never served in the military. In ciency report ratings that determine I represent proudly the 24th Congres- carrying out this responsibility, there whether an officer will be promoted. sional District in California, which July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6697 goes from Northridge on the north to cause when people come back in Sep- Child Protection Act of 1997. Already 28 Malibu on the south. That is why tember I would like to have hearings of my colleagues from both sides of the FEMA is my favorite Government on this bill and I would like to see it aisle and from all parts of the country, agency. From the Northridge earth- pass. have cosponsored this legislation. quakes to the other problems that we After I review that bill, I would like And to those who are watching at have had, certainly we have had more to review my own efforts on the Com- home, the next month will be an out- than our share of disasters, we have ex- mittee on the Budget and the Commit- standing opportunity to interact with perienced superb help from that agen- tee on International Relations. But your own Senators and your own Rep- cy. first I would like to address that one resentatives and, I hope, urge them to In addition, my district goes on the piece of legislation, and that is the support the Child Protection Act of west from the city of Thousand Oaks in Child Protection Act of 1997. 1997. the Conejo Valley into the east to the There were 425,000 children sexually With that, Mr. Speaker, I would like city of Los Angeles, as far east as abused last year. It is time for the Fed- to address the work of the various com- America’s best named town, Sherman eral Government to do everything pos- mittees that I have been privileged to Oaks, CA. sible to protect our children from sex- serve on. The first of these is the Com- I never expected to be in this House, ual predators. A good idea came out of mittee on the Budget. and for those of my colleagues I have California that I would like to see First, I would like to review how it is yet to meet and explain my story, I adopted on a national basis, and that is that well before the deadline and sur- will take a minute to do that. the idea of providing parents with the prising all the skeptics, first the Com- I began my career over 20 years ago information they need about adults mittee on the Budget and then the as a CPA. And after a while, my friends who may be coming in contact with House overwhelmingly adopted a bipar- got together and said, ‘‘Brad, you need their children because of their proxim- tisan budget plan for this Nation which to find an occupation held in lower ity or occupation. balances the budget by the year 2002 public esteem,’’ so I went to law In California there is a 900 number and makes sure it remains balanced for school. After 3 years of Harvard Law that parents can call, and if they have at least 5 years thereafter. School and 10 years of practicing busi- very specific information about an in- Credit must go to prior Congresses ness law, these same friends got to- dividual, can ask whether this individ- because they adopted a fiscal policy for gether and they said, ‘‘Brad, for anyone ual has been convicted, not merely ar- this country and supported the Federal else we know, law would be low rested but convicted of a sexual preda- Reserve Board in a monetary policy enough, but you must find an occupa- tory offense. Making use of the data that has given us unparalleled eco- tion held in even lower public esteem.’’ base required by Megan’s law, officials nomic growth, an economic recovery They spent some time trying to of the California attorney general will that is the longest in the post-World think of what it might be, and they de- advise parents whether that person has War II era. cided that I had to find some unique been convicted. b 2015 combination of occupations held in low In fact, there have been 11,000 inquir- esteem. In my State we have an elected ies to this line and on over 1,000 occa- They did their job. As a result, just a tax commission called the State Board sions parents, those who administer few months ago, in predicting the fu- of Equalization. With their help, I ran day care programs and others with a ture economic developments of this for that board, and for 6 years I was si- legitimate interest have been advised, country, the Congressional Budget Of- multaneously a politician and a tax told on over 1,000 occasions that the in- fice was able to tell us that they ex- collector. dividual that they were concerned pected $45 billion of additional unex- Those of my friends in California who about had, in fact, been convicted of a pected tax revenue not only in this are already lawyers and aspire to be sexual predatory offense. year, but in each of the next 5 years. held in even lower esteem might exam- For example, there was an amuse- Our reaction to that news was calm. ine the opportunity of running for the ment park that noticed that an indi- And we deserve credit, both Democrats Board of Equalization next year. vidual would show up by himself every and Republicans, and I am particularly These same friends gathered together day, would often be talking to children impressed by my colleagues, in the ma- last year, when our Congressman was and striking up what appeared to be ture reaction that we had to that won- retiring, and perhaps they thought that friendships, and that this individual derful discovery. Because all around coming to this House would be an occu- had purchased a year-long pass, but the world, developed countries are run- pation held in even lower public esteem never came with a child to this amuse- ning huge deficits because they are than being simultaneously a politician ment park that catered to children. slashing taxes on the one hand and and a tax collector. This year we have They checked on this individual and coming up with very expensive govern- proved them wrong. found that the person who had pur- ment programs on the other. This year my occupational self-es- chased a year-long pass to the amuse- The European Union is trying to cre- teem is on the rebound, because while ment park had, in fact, been convicted ate its own European currency, but last Congress was noted for deadlock of a sexual offense involving a child they decided to do that only when the and division, so far in this Congress we under 14 years of age. countries involved are able to reduce are noted for working together, some- In another circumstance, a parent their deficit to 3 percent of gross do- times with some acrimony, sometimes was concerned about someone who mestic product. We in the United with some division, but eventually wanted to serve as the new Little States, even before this budget deal, re- coming together in a bipartisan spirit, League coach, and discovered that that duced our deficit to well less than 1 in a spirit that gives America the gov- person had been convicted in 1990 and percent of our gross domestic product. ernment that America voted for last again in 1992 of child molestation. In fact, looking around the world at year, a government of the vital center; This system in California works well, the developed countries, the only coun- government not catering to a right but it suffers from two limitations: The tries that meet the European Union’s wing or to a left wing, but rather bal- data base is statewide and only parents standards for a new currency are Lux- ancing those wings with policies that in the State can use it. This line and embourg and the United States and ar- make sense. database should be nationwide. Parents guably Cyprus. Perhaps the United It is in that spirit that I would like in California who call should be able to States and Luxembourg should create to review our last 6 months and take a get information about convictions that our own currency, because the rest of look at the next several months of Con- occurred anywhere in the United the developed world has not mastered gress that will be reconvened this Sep- States. And, likewise, this service the fiscal discipline displayed in this tember. I would like to look first at ought to be available to parents from House. The most important thing we one bill that I have introduced, that I Maine to Arizona, not just to those in did this week is that we did not foul it hope people around the country will California. up. Prior Congresses, when confronted bring to the attention of their Mem- So I ask my colleagues who may be with good news, would have responded bers of Congress and their Senators, be- listening to consider cosponsoring the with $100 million spending programs, H6698 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 $200 million tax cuts, attempts to buy we provided tax relief for college stu- continue the $150 million that we have votes from this constituency or that, dents and their parents, a HOPE schol- spent year after year for the last sev- paying a price that the country could arship that provides a $1,500 tax credit eral years. not afford. Instead, we acted with re- for those who spend $2,000 on tuition Instead, in the Committee on the straint. during the first 2 years of college. Dol- Budget, I proposed an amendment, the Yes, we adopted some additional lar for dollar, this is not a mere deduc- only substantive amendment that we spending programs, more than offset by tion but a credit dollar for dollar on were able to get adopted in the Com- the spending reductions that we the first $1,000 and a 50-percent credit mittee on the Budget of this House, achieved. And yes, we provided tax re- on the next $1,000 spent during the first which provided first documentation ductions. But tax reductions that were 2 years of college. And for those who and inescapable documentation, no moderate tax reductions this country have gone beyond their first 2 years of wiggle room documentation, that $700 could afford, tax reductions that were college, we have provided a tax credit million of additional funds should be far less than had been proposed just 2 of 20 percent on the first $5,000 that spent in the next 5 years on acquiring years ago. they spend on college tuition. environmentally sensitive land. Another area where we did not foul America needs to invest in education. Beyond that, the amendment pro- things up is that of the Social Secu- Our colleges and universities are still vided that all of those funds should be rity. Earlier this year we were urged by the envy of the world. And if we are to spent in 1998. That is important for many to artificially adjust the maintain the high living standards several reasons. The first is that the Consumer Price Index, to tell those that we enjoy compared to the rest of $700 million will have the greatest pur- who are dependent on Social Security the world, we must encourage people to chasing power if spent now before land that if the Consumer Price Index said pursue a college education in their post prices go up. But second, spending the prices had gone up by 3 percent, we high school years. money in 1998 assures that what was were only going to count 11⁄2 percent. The country benefits. The revenue supposed to be extra money is in fact That would have been a breach of faith people benefit. We in the Federal Gov- extra, that we spend the $700 million with America’s seniors, and this Con- ernment are all too happy to benefit extra in 1998, and come 1999, with the gress said no. Yes, we are going to bal- when someone gets a college education, support of my colleagues, we should go ance the budget, but no we are not earns more, and therefore pays higher back to spending at least $150 million going to do so by artificially tinkering taxes. We should be there on the front year in and year out. And I would urge with the promise that we have made to end providing tax breaks and incen- this House to spend far more. tives to encourage people to get that our seniors to maintain their purchas- So we have a budget resolution that college education. If we are partners in ing power. is very clear, that has been passed by Instead, we adopted a spending bill the profits of education, we should be both Houses of Congress, and that is that will extend the Medicare trust partners in the expense. supposed to be binding on both Houses, fund and its solvency to the year 2007, Another element that is very impor- providing that an additional $700 mil- and that will allow us to provide insur- tant to me in the budget resolution re- lion be spent during 1998 on acquiring ance to children who do not currently volves around the Land and Water Con- environmentally sensitive lands. have medical insurance. Five million servation Fund. Most people at home children who now must worry and and, frankly, some of my colleagues Unfortunately, the Committee on Ap- whose parents must worry about have not focused on the Land and propriations of the House of Represent- whether they can afford to see a doc- Water Conservation Fund. This is a atives did not follow that instruction tor, or if they can get medical care, special fund in the U.S. Treasury, is and adopted an Interior Committee ap- will be told yes, you can, the door of funded with money received by the propriations bill which did not include the clinic is open. Federal Government from royalties on the expenditure of that $700 million. We also adopted very important tax offshore oil drilling. I have always op- The other body, the Senate, did fol- reductions. The most important one for posed offshore drilling, especially off low the budget resolution, did follow my district is a virtual elimination of the coast of California. But wherever the amendment that I had offered for the tax on the gain on the sale of a there is already oil being produced off that resolution, and provided for the home. We in Los Angeles are blessed our coast and royalties being paid to $700 million to be spent. I am confident with high property values or high hous- the Federal Government, those funds that we will spend that money and that ing costs, however you choose to view should be used to mitigate environ- we will acquire environmentally sen- it. And so many southern Californians mental degradation by providing us sitive lands before they are doomed to are faced with a situation where they with the funding we need to acquire development and degradation. are thinking of selling their home now new Federal lands for our national I acquire this confidence for one rea- that their children have moved. They parks and forests. son. My colleagues are going home. have a 3-bedroom, a 4-bedroom, a 6-bed- This year, for the first time in nearly The ladies and gentlemen watching us room home and are still living in it, a decade, we are going to live more or in this House will have a chance to not because they need the space and less in conformity with the law that es- talk to them about the priorities of not because they want to invite their tablished the Land and Water Con- this country. We are very close to the 20-something children to move back servation Fund. I am particularly end of this millenia. What greater gift into their old bedrooms, but because proud of the work I did in the Commit- could we make to the next millenia they are concerned about the huge tax tee on the Budget, because in that than to preserve forever the Head- that they would pay if they sold their committee we reviewed a White House- waters Forest, to preserve forever the home and moved into a smaller one. negotiated deal which provided that Yellow Stone area, and to preserve for- Today we said yes, people can sell their there should be $700 million of new ever the Santa Monica Mountains Na- homes and do not have to pay taxes on funds to acquire lands around the coun- tional Recreation Area? the first $500,000 of gain. try, environmentally sensitive lands, I am confident that as the people of And for those in other parts of the but that that $700 million of new funds America interface with their Rep- country where the gains are smaller, should be spread out over the next 5 resentatives, they will say, you have a please reflect on the fact that your in- years. I could see it happen, could see balanced budget resolution. It provides terest payments are lower, your mort- the problem. The problem is that we for $700 million of additional funds to gage payments are lower. We in Cali- traditionally spend about $150 million acquire these lands, you have told us fornia spend far more for housing than every year, which is not nearly enough, that that resolution will give us a bal- people in most of the rest of the coun- on acquiring environmentally sensitive anced budget and fiscal responsibility. try. lands. If we provided for $700 million If we can protect the lands and be fis- Just as important, we adopted a $500 spread out over 5 years, the new money cally responsible, we should do it and tax credit per child so that parents could simply displace the old money. do it now. And I am confident that would have some help with the high The $700 million spread out over 5 when my colleagues return and go into cost of raising their own children. And years could then be the excuse to dis- that conference committee that they July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6699 will be strong advocates for the envi- millions of people, who question its prus. We look forward to the unifica- ronment and strong advocates for pro- right to exist and plot its extermi- tion of Nicosia, not the division of Je- tecting lands and adding to our na- nation. No other country faces that rusalem. We look forward to peace in tional parks. kind of security threat, and no country Cyprus and a united federal Cyprus I would especially hope that there is has a closer relationship with the Unit- joining the European Union. attention to the Santa Monica Moun- ed States than the State of Israel I also would like to address the un- tains National Recreation Area. This is which has supported us. Israel has sup- fortunate visit to the United States of the last great chance to have a na- ported us again and again and again the President of Azerbaijan Mr. Aliyev. tional park and a great national park when we needed a friend in a very dan- We met with this individual yesterday. just on the fringes of one of America’s gerous and very important region of He tried to convince us that Nogorno- great metropolitan areas. We are close the country. karabagh was a natural part of Azer- to being able to acquire the last parcels Particularly I want to point to the baijan. He was wrong. The only individ- we need to acquire to complete the fact that this latest terrorist act oc- ual who had a hand in transferring that backbone trail and provide a 65-mile curred in Jerusalem, and it was prob- territory to Azeri sovereignty even for hike that starts in Santa Monica and ably committed by those who were try- a while was Joseph Stalin. The idea continues through unabated wilderness ing to destroy the peace process. But it that Azerbaijan would claim a terri- and through nationally-owned and was allowed to occur, or at least not tory populated by Armenians and their State-owned lands. prevented, by a Palestinian Authority only claim to it is Joseph Stalin gave it to us; I think that is a rather weak b 2030 that is still trying to negotiate about the status of Jerusalem and has again claim. President Aliyev urged us to re- We have a chance to preserve for pos- and again signaled that terrorism, or peal Section 907 which prohibits aid to terity a park that already generates 30 at least turning a blind eye to terror- a country that is receiving aid and is million visitors a year. There are far ism, is a negotiating tactic that it is blockading another country to which more visitors to the mountains and willing to employ. we would like to send aid. The block- beaches of the Santa Monica National We must tell the Palestinian Author- ade of Armenia must end, and it is Recreation Area than to Yellowstone ity that terror is not an appropriate or time for Turkey and Azerbaijan to pro- or Yosemite or any of the other units tolerable method for negotiation, and vide humanitarian corridors so that of the National Park System. We have we must tell the entire world that the food and medicine can reach the people a chance to complete the construction United States recognizes Jerusalem, an of Armenia and so that Armenia can and acquisition of a park that is al- undivided and indivisible Jerusalem, as trade with the world. ready, even in its current form, the the capital of the land of Israel. Mr. Speaker, this is the 50th anniver- most popular element of our National Up until now there has been some sary of the reemergence as an inde- Park System. question as to American policy. Con- pendent democracy of the Nation of And so, if you happen to see my col- gress has always been clear. Congress India, and I would like to take this op- leagues back in your districts, please has directed the United States to move portunity as the sun sets on this Con- tell them now is the time to protect our embassy to Jerusalem to signal for gress until September to urge the our national treasures. the entire world that Jerusalem is the President, and if that is impossible, This completes what I would like to capital of Israel and always will be. So then the Vice President or the Sec- say about the Committee on the Budg- far that embassy has not been moved, retary of State to go to India to cele- et. I would like to turn my attention but congressional enactment after con- brate its independence. now to my work on and the work in gressional enactment has instructed We have more in common with India general of the Committee on Inter- the State Department to do just that, than is commonly acknowledged. They national Relations. I especially want to and when it comes to the American are the world’s largest democracy, we turn my attention to the tragic events Embassy, we must say, ‘‘Next year in are the worlds greatest democracy. It in Jerusalem of just a few days ago, for Jerusalem.’’ is time to celebrate Indian independ- these events remind us that the Middle I do want to talk about several other ence. East has not yet achieved peace, that points that arose involving inter- I am particularly proud of the role I Israel remains surrounded by those national relations and the Committee played in the Committee on Inter- who would destroy her and that Israel on International Relations. One of national Relations when one of my col- is not yet secure, and it reminds us of those was an idea, a rather bad idea, to leagues put forward an amendment the importance of the eternal city of transfer free, three Perry class frigates that was a hidden attack against India, Jerusalem. to the Navy of the Republic of Turkey. which said that we would end all aid to It was not covered much by the press, Now Turkey does face significant se- countries that did not vote with us all but a few months ago there was a reso- curity threats facing Iran and Iraq on the time in the General Assembly of lution in the Committee on Inter- its eastern borders, but my question the United Nations. This was a ill con- national Relations to cut aid to Israel. for the Defense Department is: In ef- sidered amendment. Counting votes is The proponent pointed out that the liv- forts against Iran and Iraq, how do you not a way to see whether a country ing standards in Israel are somewhat deploy the frigates? Obviously, these shares our values. Many of us here in higher, considerably higher than many frigates would be deployed in the Ae- the Chamber cast votes on a variety of of the other countries that receive our gean where they would threaten Cy- things that are inconsequential, and aid, and wondered why Israel needed prus and Greece. They should not be those who try to judge our values by economic aid from the United States. transferred, and it is certainly an in- tabulating votes and producing scores, The answer of the committee was sult to American taxpayers to think of particularly if they look at every vote overwhelming. The answer of the com- transferring them to Turkey for free. as being equivalent and of equal impor- mittee was clear. As long as Israel When you think of the idea of frigates tance will be misled. must confront hostile neighbors in so being used to combat the threat of Iran Just one example. Every day we vote many directions, as long as Iran and and Iraq, we should reflect that the on whether to approve the Journal. Iraq swear every day that they will last oceangoing ships seen in eastern The Journal for the CONGRESSIONAL push Israel into the sea, Israel needs Anatolia, the last such ship was Noah’s RECORD I think is professionally pre- both the military aid that it gets from ark. pared, and so I vote to prepare it, to the United States and the economic aid The idea of strengthening the Turk- approve the Journal, to say, yes, there that is necessary so that Israel can af- ish Navy, a Navy whose work in Cyprus are no typos in it that I have been able ford to spend its own money on dealing and the Aegean we are not overly to find. The Republican leadership with the greatest security threat of happy with, is an incredibly bad idea. I votes to approve the Journal in every any country in the world. am very gratified that Richard recorded vote. The Democratic leader- There is only one country in the Holbrooke, arguably our most accom- ship, many of them, vote against ap- world where there are millions of peo- plished ambassador has been appointed proving the Journal. Perhaps they have ple, or at least governments governing to try to deal with the problem of Cy- a keener eye for typos than I do. It H6700 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 would be rather absurd to decide that I in control of major economic decisions, vent and chose not to prevent. The deal shared more values with the Repub- make those economic decisions in a in the Middle East is land for peace, lican leadership than the Democratic way that opens their markets to Amer- and again and again and again Israel leadership on the basis of such an in- ican goods. has conceded and provided land. consequential vote, and likewise our Mr. Speaker, this weekend many of Lands that Israel came to occupy by Committee on International Relations us will get a chance to see a movie, and defending itself in a war of aggression knows that you cannot judge whether we should reflect that at least for the it returned, not by force of arms of its America and other countries share val- area I represent, the movie business is adversaries, but by a genuine and sin- ues by tabulating of votes in the Gen- the biggest business and the television cere wish for peace. The land is there, eral Assembly of the United Nations. business is included in that. We have the Sinai has been returned. Gaza is Now on the Committee on Inter- tolerated for no ascertainable reason a now under the Palestinian Authority. national Relations I serve on the trade policy that discriminates explicitly, re- Huge areas of the West Bank have been subcommittee, and again and again my peatedly and consistently against turned over to Mr. Arafat’s govern- voice is there to say it is time for American television programs and ment. The land is there. Where is the America to get tough on trade. Unfor- against American movies when we seek peace? tunately on trade issues there appear to exhibit them in France and other We must remember that turnovers of to be only 2 voices, one a protectionist European countries. The French explic- land are permanent, or relatively so. voice that says build a wall around itly discriminate and say that one- They are ascertainable. Each acre America. That is impossible. The other third of all TV shows, one-third of all turned over to an Arab government or a, quote, free trade voice that says movie screens are available only for to the Palestinian Authority can be open America to every import regard- domestic content. I am not sure of that measured, ascertained and protected. less of how that country treats our standard of one-third; it might even be In contrast, the peace which is sup- trade. That is absurd, but unfortu- higher. posed to be delivered to Israel is nately it is treated as a serious policy They say it is not a matter of trade; ephemeral. There can be peace today by the trade establishment and by the they say it is a matter of culture. Well, and a terrorist incident tomorrow, and foreign policy establishment of the I am from California, where in the then peace the next day. United States. south of California culture is Holly- It is time to insist that peace be de- We even had a distinguished gen- wood, but in the north of California livered, and it is not just peace with tleman testify before our subcommit- culture is exemplified by our fine the fathers of the Middle East that Is- tee that trade deficits do not matter. wines. If the French can tell us that we rael deserves, because what good is it That is as absurd as the people who 10 cannot have our movies and our TV to have peace with all of those in their years ago told us that budget deficits programs in their country because it 40s and 50s and 60s in positions of power do not matter. corrupts their culture, then why are we in various Arab States, if the children America runs a huge trade deficit drinking French wines? Are they not are educated for hatred and war? It is with the world year in and year out having an equivalent effect on our cul- time for the Middle East peace treaty every year and it is time for us to focus ture? to reach into every textbook in every on that deficit with the same intensity Certainly, we should be as aggressive Arab land and to begin to teach Arab that we focused on the Federal budget in trade negotiations with the French children the truth: that Israel is a le- deficit. and we should use every device, includ- gitimate, permanent, unerasable part For all too long our foreign policy ing exaggerated cultural sensitivity if of the Middle East; that its presence in around the world could best be de- that is what we need to get access to the Middle East may well lead to pros- scribed by one sentence uttered by an their markets, and to deny access to perity and enlightenment for much of American diplomat to a diplomat from the French where they deny access to that region; that lands have been re- any of the other countries. America’s us. turned because of a pledge of peace. position was that we would like the Mr. Speaker, in a few weeks I will get But instead, Arab children are taught honor of defending Europe and Japan a chance to go to Israel with a delega- lies. They are taught hatred. There are for free, defending their territory, their tion of our colleagues, and I will have still textbooks that teach math by ask- trade routes and their interests, and in a chance to see for myself what can be ing what happens when you add two return for that honor we were prepared done to maintain a strong relationship dead Jews to three dead Jews. to make trade concession after trade between the United States and Israel. The answer is that they do not have concession. Our group will meet with Prime Min- peace, and it is time for Arab states to No country in the history of the ister Netanyahu and we will also meet deliver the ephemeral by looking at world has ever exercised our respon- with the head of the Palestinian Au- every aspect of their society and say- sibility or our power around the world. thority Chairman Yasser Arafat. We ing, have we complied with the peace But no great country has survived with will have, I believe, some very pointed agreement? Have we provided Israel such unmitigated generosity. We can- questions for Mr. Arafat, for it is his with the security of knowing that the not simultaneously open our markets government that announced a death next generation and the generation to Japan and Europe and China while warrant for those people whose crime after that will accept the borders that their markets remain closed to us. it was to sell land to Jews. Israel has voluntarily retreated to? Now at least this year we voted in Mr. Speaker, I have a lot of realtors So while we take a minute to reflect favor of Most Favored Nation status in my district. Now and then they face on those who died in Israel and in Jeru- for China, and it is good that we retain some danger in their business, maybe a salem just a few days ago, we must re- a trade relationship with China. But it flat tire on the way to show a house, flect on what needs to happen: the re- is time for us to demand that they give but the idea that one would assassinate internment of those that were wrong- Most Favored Nation status to the people for engaging in the real estate fully released by the Palestinian Au- United States. Perhaps the least audi- business strikes me as an all-time low thority, and education for peace among ble part of the debate on Most Favored in human rights and human dignity, all the Arab States who once were at Nation status was the fact that China and an all-time low in an effort to cre- war. From Morocco to Tehran, Arab sends $45 billion of goods to the United ate peace in the Middle East. Likewise, and Islamic children should be edu- States every year and accepts only $11 it is the Palestinian Authority which cated for peace. And until that hap- billion of our exports. time and again has arrested terrorists, pens, Israel will have conceded land known terrorists, Hezbollah, Islamic and will have received only a tem- b 2045 Jihad, arrested them and then released porary peace, a peace that may die We must restore balance to this rela- them. with the fathers, a war that may be tionship. We must insist on parity. We Certainly one must take responsibil- born with the sons. must insist that a country like China, ity for the actions of those one facili- Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my col- which, whether we like it or not, is a tates. One must take responsibility for leagues for their patience and indul- Communist State with a government the actions one was obligated to pre- gence, for I have spoken longer than I July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6701 had imagined, but it has been a long truly enrolled a joint resolution of the 4485. A letter from the Acting General session of Congress, and we all look House of the following title, which was Counsel, Department of Housing and Urban forward to returning to our districts. thereupon signed by the Speaker: Development, transmitting the Depart- ment’s final rule—Base Closure Community I look forward to returning to Wood- H.J. Res. 90. Joint resolution waiving cer- Redevelopment and Homeless Assistance land Hills, where I am available to my tain enrollment requirements with respect [FR–3820] received July 24, 1997, pursuant to constituents at 818–999–1990, and I espe- to two specified bills of the One Hundred 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on cially look forward to seeing hundreds Fifth Congress. National Security. of people at a new home-buyer fair, a f 4486. A letter from the Secretary of De- fense, transmitting a report on the Dem- fair designed to give people, particu- JOINT RESOLUTION PRESENTED larly first time buyers, information onstration Program to Train Military Medi- TO THE PRESIDENT cal Personnel in CIvilian Shock Trauma about buying a new home. We will also Units, pursuant to Public Law 104—201, sec- have information about the new tax Mr. THOMAS, from the Committee on House Oversight, reported that that tion 744; to the Committee on National Secu- law and how it affects those selling a rity. home. We will convene on Saturday, committee did on this day present to 4487. A letter from the Secretary of De- August 9 at 9 a.m. through 1 p.m. If my the President, for his approval, a joint fense, transmitting a report on Dual Use Ap- constituents cannot be there the whole resolution of the House of the following plication Program Investment Strategy for time, we will have information for peo- title: Fiscal Years 1998 through 2000, pursuant to Public Law 104—201, section 203(g); to the ple for part of the time. We will be at H.J. Res. 90. Joint resolution waiving cer- tain enrollment requirements with respect Committee on National Security. the Coast Federal Bank in Canoga 4488. A letter from the Deputy Under Sec- to two specified bills of the One Hundred Park. retary for International and Commercial Fifth Congress. I know that all of my colleagues are Programs, Department of Defense, transmit- f smiling today. We all get to go home, ting the annual report to Congress describ- but none of them deserve to smile more ADJOURNMENT ing the activities of the Defense Production Act Fund, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. app. 2094; to than me. I get to go back to the San Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move the Committee on Banking and Financial Fernando, the Conejo and the Las that the House do now adjourn. Services. Virgenes Valleys, and I am looking for- The motion was agreed to; accord- 4489. A letter from the Acting General ward to it. ingly (at 8 o’clock and 55 minutes Counsel, Department of Housing and Urban Development, transmitting the Depart- f p.m.), the House adjourned until to- ment’s final rule—Homeownership of Single morrow, Friday, August 1, 1997, at 9 ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Family Homes Program (HOPE 3); Stream- a.m. PRO TEMPORE lining Rule [FR–3857] received July 24, 1997, f pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. mittee on Banking and Financial Services. HUTCHINSON). The Chair will remind all EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, 4490. A letter from the Managing Director, Members to address their remarks to ETC. Federal Housing Finance Board, transmit- the Chair and not to the viewing audi- ting the Board’s final rule—Amendment of Under clause 2 of rule XXIV, execu- Affordable Housing Program Regulation [No. ence. tive communications were taken from 97–44] (RIN: 3069–AA28) received July 31, 1997, f the Speaker’s table and referred as fol- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- lows: mittee on Banking and Financial Services. SPECIAL ORDERS GRANTED 4479. A letter from the Administrator, Ag- 4491. A letter from the General Counsel, By unanimous consent, permission to ricultural Marketing Service, transmitting National Credit Union Administration, transmitting the Administration’s final address the House, following the legis- the Service’s final rule—Fresh Cut Flowers and Fresh Cut Greens Promotion and Infor- rule—Investment and Deposit Activities lative program and any special orders (RIN: 3133–AB73) received July 30, 1997, pur- heretofore entered, was granted to: mation Order [FV–97–703] received July 28, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Commit- (The following Members (at the re- Committee on Agriculture. tee on Banking and Financial Services. 4492. A letter from the AMD—Performance quest of Mr. HOEKSTRA) to revise and 4480. A letter from the Administrator, Ag- Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- extend their remarks and include ex- ricultural Marketing Service, transmitting eral Communications Commission, transmit- the Service’s final rule—Regulations Govern- traneous material:) ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- ing the Fresh Irish Potato Diversion Pro- Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA, for 5 minutes, ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- today. gram, 1996 Crop [Docket No. FV–97–80–02] ments, FM Broadcast Stations (Glenrock, (RIN:0581–AA93) received July 31, 1997, pursu- Mr. STRICKLAND, for 5 minutes, Wyoming) [MM Docket No. 96–227, RM–8910] today. ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee received July 31, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. on Agriculture. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Commerce. Mrs. MINK of Hawaii, for 5 minutes, 4481. A letter from the Director, Office of today. 4493. A letter from the AMD—Performance Regulatory Management and Information, Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- Mr. CONYERS, for 5 minutes, today. Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- eral Communications Commission, transmit- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, for 5 min- ting the Agency’s final rule—Buprofezin; ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- utes, today. Pesticide Tolerances for Emergency Exemp- ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- Mr. PALLONE, for 5 minutes, today. tions [OPP–300519; FRL–5732–1] (RIN: 2070– ments, FM Broadcast Stations (Mt. Juliet (The following Members (at the re- AB78) received July 28, 1997, pursuant to 5 and Belle Meade, Tennessee) [MM Docket U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Ag- quest of Mr. POSHARD) to revise and ex- No. 97–97, RM–9047] received July 31, 1997, riculture. tend their remarks and to include ex- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- 4482. A letter from the Assistant Secretary mittee on Commerce. traneous material:) for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, 4494. A letter from the AMD—Performance Mr. HUNTER, for 5 minutes, today. transmitting on behalf of the President, the Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- Mr. SOLOMON, for 5 minutes, today. Annual Report on the Panama Canal Trea- eral Communications Commission, transmit- Mr. QUINN, for 5 minutes, today. ties, Fiscal Year 1996, pursuant to 22 U.S.C. ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- Mr. BOEHLERT, for 5 minutes, on July 3871; to the Committee on National Security. ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- 23. 4483. A letter from the Director, Office of ments, FM Broadcast Stations (Fife Lake, the Secretary, Department of Defense, trans- Michigan) [MM Docket No. 97–25, RM–8981] Mr. HOUGHTON, for 5 minutes, today. mitting the Department’s final rule—Com- received July 31, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Mr. THUNE, for 5 minutes, today. pensation of Certain Former Operatives In- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Commerce. Mr. FOLEY, for 5 minutes, on August carcerated by the Democratic Republic of 4495. A letter from the AMD—Performance 1. Vietnam (RIN: 0790–AG43) received July 28, Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- f 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the eral Communications Commission, transmit- Committee on National Security. ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION 4484. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- SIGNED Department of Defense, transmitting a letter ments, FM Broadcast Stations (Bear Creek concerning the mobilization income insur- and Pocono Pines, Pennsylvania) [MM Dock- Mr. THOMAS, from the Committee ance program for activated Reservists, pur- et No. 96–151, RM–8808, RM–8891] received on House Oversight, reported that that suant to Public Law 104—201, section 1233; to July 31, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. committee had examined and found the Committee on National Security. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Commerce. H6702 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 4496. A letter from the AMD—Performance 4506. A letter from the Chairman and Chief tieth Annual Report on the Child Support Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- Executive Officer, Farm Credit Administra- Enforcement Program, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. eral Communications Commission, transmit- tion, transmitting the Administration’s final 652(a)(10); to the Committee on Ways and ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- rule—Releasing Information (RIN: 3052– Means. ment of Section 73.606(b), Table of Allot- AB77) received July 29, 1997, pursuant to 5 4519. A letter from the Administrator, En- ments, TV Broadcast Stations (Johnstown U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Gov- vironmental Protection Agency, transmit- and Jeannette, Pennsylvania) [MM Docket ernment Reform and Oversight. ting a report on the implementation of the No. 97–96, RM–8756] received July 31, 1997, 4507. A letter from the Office of Special Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Land With- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- Counsel, transmitting the Annual Report of drawal Act, pursuant to Public Law 102—579, mittee on Commerce. the Office of the Special Counsel (OSC) for section 23(a)(2); jointly to the Committees on 4497. A letter from the AMD—Performance Fiscal Year (FY) 1996, pursuant to Public National Security and Commerce. Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- Law 101—12, section 3(a)(11) (103 Stat. 29); to 4520. A letter from the Board of Governors, eral Communications Commission, transmit- the Committee on Government Reform and Federal Reserve System, transmitting the ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- Oversight. Board’s mid-year Monetary Policy Report to ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- 4508. A letter from the Secretary of Com- the Congress, pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 225a; ments, FM Broadcast Stations (Centennial, merce, transmitting a report on the Plan for jointly to the Committees on Banking and Wyoming) [MM DOcket No. 97–88, RM–9031] Census 2000, pursuant to Public Law 105—18, Financial Services and Education and the received July 31, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. title VIII (111 stat. 217); to the Committee on Workforce. Government Reform and Oversight. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Commerce. f 4498. A letter from the AMD—Performance 4509. A letter from the the Acting Chief Ad- ministrative Officer, the U.S. House of Rep- Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON resentatives, transmitting the quarterly re- eral Communications Commission, transmit- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- port of receipts and expenditures of appro- ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- priations and other funds for the period Oc- Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of tober 1, 1996, through December 31, 1996 as ments, FM Broadcast Stations (SMITH and committees were delivered to the Clerk Reno, Nevada, Susanville and Truckee, Cali- compiled by the Chief Administrative Offi- for printing and reference to the proper fornia) [MM Docket No. 96–103, RM–8794, RM– cer, pursuant to 2 U.S.C. 104a; (H. Doc. No. 105—112); to the Committee on House Over- calendar, as follows: 8839] received July 31, 1997, pursuant to 5 Mr. DREIER: Committee on Rules. House U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on sight and ordered to be printed. 4510. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, Resolution 206. Resolution waiving points of Commerce. Land and Minerals Management, Depart- order against the conference report to ac- 4499. A letter from the AMD—Performance ment of the Interior, transmitting notice on company the bill (H.R. 2014) to provide for Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- leasing systems for the Western Gulf of Mex- reconciliation pursuant to subsections (b)(2) eral Communications Commission, transmit- ico, Sale 168, scheduled to be held in August and (d) of section 105 of the concurrent reso- ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- 1997, pursuant to 43 U.S.C. 1337(a)(8); to the lution on the budget for fiscal year 1998 ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- Committee on Resources. (Rept. 105–221). Referred to the House Cal- ments, FM Broadcast Stations (Atlanta, 4511. A letter from the Director, Office of endar. Louisiana) [MM Docket No. 97–105, RM–9046] Sustainable Fisheries, National Oceanic and Mr. SMITH of Texas: Committee on the Ju- received July 31, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Atmospheric Administration, transmitting diciary. H.R. 1211. A bill for the relief of 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Commerce. the Administration’s final rule—Fisheries of 4500. A letter from the AMD—Performance Global Exploration and Development Corp., the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Kerr-McGee Corp., and Kerr-McGee Chemical Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- Greenland Turbot in the Bering Sea Subarea eral Communications Commission, transmit- Corp.; with an amendment (Rept. 105–222). [Docket No. 961107312–7021–02; I.D. 072297D] Ordered to be printed. ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- received July 28, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- Mr. LEACH: Committee on Banking and 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Resources. Financial Services. H.R. 1370. A bill to reau- ments, FM Broadcast Stations (Parker, Ari- 4512. A letter from the Deputy Assistant zona) [MM Docket No. 96–164, RM–8847] re- thorize the Export-Import Bank of the Unit- Administrator for Fisheries, National Oce- ed States; with an amendment (Rept. 105– ceived July 31, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. anic and Atmospheric Administration, trans- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Commerce. 224). Referred to the Committee of the Whole mitting the Administration’s final rule— House on the State of the Union. 4501. A letter from the AMD—Performance Fisheries Off West Coast States and in the Evaluation and RECORDs Management, Fed- Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- Western Pacific; West Coast Salmon Fish- tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 1502. A bill to eral Communications Commission, transmit- eries; Amendment 12 [Docket No. 970318059– ting the Commission’s final rule—Amend- designate the U.S. courthouse located at 301 7148–02; I.D. 022197B] (RIN: 0648–AI82) received West Main Street in Benton, IL, as the ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- July 28, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. ments, FM Broadcast Stations (Earlville, Il- ‘‘James L. Foreman United States Court- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Resources. house’’ (Rept. 105–225). Referred to the House linois) [MM Docket No. 97–48, RM–8994] re- 4513. A letter from the Secretary of Agri- Calendar. ceived July 31, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. culture, transmitting a draft of proposed leg- Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Commerce. islation to amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 1484. A bill to 4502. A letter from the Director, Regula- Act to designate a segment of the Upper redesignate the Dublin Federal courthouse tions Policy Management Staff, Office of White Salmon River in the State of Washing- building located in Dublin, GA, as the J. Roy Policy, Food and Drug Administration, ton as a component of the National Wild and Rowland Federal Courthouse; with amend- transmitting the Administration’s final Scenic Rivers System; to the Committee on ments (Rept. 105–226). Referred to the House rule—Indirect Food Additives: Adjuvants, Resources. Production Aids, and Sanitizers [Docket No. 4514. A letter from the Deputy Executive Calendar. 96F–0051] received July 28, 1997, pursuant to 5 Director, Reserve Officers Association, Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on transmitting the Association’s financial tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 1479. A bill to Commerce. audit for the period ending March 31, 1997, designate the Federal building and U.S. 4503. A letter from the Director, Office of pursuant to 36 U.S.C. 1101(41) and 1103; to the courthouse located at 300 Northeast First Congressional Affairs, Nuclear Regulatory Committee on the Judiciary. Avenue in Miami, FL, as the ‘‘David W. Dyer Commission, transmitting the Commission’s 4515. A letter from the Secretary of Com- Federal Courthouse’’; with amendments final rule—Compliance with Small Business merce, transmitting a draft of proposed leg- (Rept. 105–227). Referred to the House Cal- Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act [EGM islation to amend Title 17 to implement the endar. 97–015] received July 28, 1997, pursuant to 5 WIPO Copyright Treaty and the WIPO Per- Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on formances and Phonograms Treaty; to the tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 994. A bill to Commerce. Committee on the Judiciary. designate the U.S. border station located in 4504. A letter from the Assistant Secretary 4516. A letter from the Treasurer, The Con- Pharr, TX, as the ‘‘Kika de la Garza United for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, gressional Medal of Honor Society of the States Border Station’’ (Rept. 105–228). Re- transmitting the forty-fifth report on the ex- United States of America, transmitting the ferred to the House Calendar. tent and disposition of United States con- annual financial report of the Society for Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- tributions to international organizations for calendar year 1996, pursuant to 36 U.S.C. tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 962. A bill to fiscal year 1996, pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 262a; to 1101(19) and 1103; to the Committee on the redesignate a Federal building in Suitland, the Committee on International Relations. Judiciary. MD, as the ‘‘W. Edwards Deming Federal 4505. A letter from the Director, Office of 4517. A letter from the Chairman, United Building’’ (Rept. 105–229). Referred to the the Secretary, Department of Defense, trans- States Sentencing Commission, transmitting House Calendar. mitting the Department’s final rule—Pri- the 1996 annual report of the activities of the Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- vacy Program [32 CFR Part 311] received Commission, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 997; to the tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 892. A bill to July 30, 1997, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Committee on the Judiciary. redesignate the Federal building located at 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Govern- 4518. A letter from the Secretary of Health 223 Sharkey Street in Clarksdale, MS, as the ment Reform and Oversight. and Human Services, transmitting the Twen- ‘‘Aaron Henry United States Post Office’’; July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6703 with amendments (Rept. 105–230). Referred to By Mr. ABERCROMBIE (for himself, BILBRAY, Mr. DOOLEY of California, the House Calendar. Mr. YOUNG of Alaska, and Mrs. MINK Mr. DOOLITTLE, Mr. FILNER, Mr. Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- of Hawaii): GOODE, Mr. POMBO, and Mr. tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 643. A bill to H.R. 2318. A bill to repeal the provisions of RADANOVICH): designate the U.S. courthouse to be con- the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 which change H.R. 2328. A bill to amend the Clean Air structed at the corner of Superior and Huron the rates of the airline ticket taxes and im- Act to impose certain requirements on areas Roads, in Cleveland, OH, as the ‘‘Carl B. pose a separate tax on domestic segments of upwind of ozone nonattainment areas, and Stokes United States Courthouse’’ (Rept. air transportation; to the Committee on for other purposes; to the Committee on 105–231). Referred to the House Calendar. Ways and Means. Commerce. Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- By Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin (for By Mr. CRANE: tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 613. A bill to himself, Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, H.R. 2329. A bill to establish the National designate the Federal building located at 100 Mr. VENTO, Mr. LAFALCE, Mr. Dividend Plan by reforming the budget proc- Alabama Street NW, in Atlanta, GA, as the GUTIERREZ, Mr. HINCHEY, Ms. CARSON, ess, and by amending the Internal Revenue ‘‘Sam Nunn Federal Center’’; with amend- Mr. KIND of Wisconsin, Mr. KLECZKA, Code of 1986 to eliminate the double tax on ments (Rept. 105–232). Referred to the House Mr. MCHUGH, Mr. TRAFICANT, and Mr. dividends, to allocate corporate income tax revenues for payments to qualified reg- Calendar. MCHALE): istered voters, and for other purposes; to the Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- H.R. 2319. A bill to amend the Electronic Committee on Ways and Means, and in addi- tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 595. A bill to Fund Transfer Act to safeguard consumers in tion to the Committee on Rules, for a period designate the Federal building and U.S. connection with utilization of certain debit to be subsequently determined by the Speak- courthouse located at 475 Mulberry Street in credit cards; to the Committee on Banking er, in each case for consideration of such pro- Macon, GA, as the ‘‘William Augustus Bootle and Financial Services. By Mr. BROWN of California (for him- visions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Federal Building and United States Court- committee concerned. house’’ (Rept. 105–233). Referred to the House self and Mrs. MORELLA): By Ms. DELAURO (for herself, Mr. Calendar. H.R. 2320. A bill to establish an education GREEN, Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island, Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- satellite loan guarantee program to facili- Mr. FORD, Mr. BONIOR, Mr. FROST, tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 548. A bill to tate the development of an integrated, na- Mr. OLVER, Ms. CHRISTIAN-GREEN, Mr. designate the U.S. courthouse located at 500 tional and global telecommunications sys- tem dedicated to instruction and used soley MCGOVERN, and Ms. PELOSI): Pearl Street in New York City, NY, as the H.R. 2330. A bill to authorize the Secretary for communications among Federal, State, ‘‘Ted Weiss United States Courthouse’’ of Transportation to make direct loans and and local instructional institutions and (Rept. 105–234). Referred to the House Cal- provide lines of credit to finance surface agencies and instructional resource provid- endar. transportation projects, and for other pur- Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- ers; to the Committee on Education and the poses; to the Committee on Transportation tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 81. A bill to Workforce. and Infrastructure. By Mr. BURTON of Indiana (for him- designate the U.S. courthouse located at 401 By Mr. EVANS (for himself, Mrs. MEEK self, Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA, Mr. BUYER, South Michigan Street in South Bend, IN, as of Florida, Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, Mr. GILCHREST, Mr. BARTLETT of the ‘‘Robert K. Rodibaugh United States Mr. KIND of Wisconsin, Ms. RIVERS, Maryland, Mr. NORWOOD, Mr. BOEH- Bankruptcy Courthouse’’ (Rept. 105–235). Re- Mr. FROST, Mr. PETRI, Mr. BONIOR, LERT, Mr. KING of New York, Mr. ferred to the House Calendar. Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. MCHUGH, Mr. KASICH, Mr. SESSIONS, Mr. SHUSTER: Committee on Transpor- FOGLIETTA, Mr. BARRETT of Wiscon- Mr. PACKARD, Mr. CASTLE, Mr. tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 2204. A bill to sin, Mr. MASCARA, Mr. DOYLE, Mr. OXLEY, Mr. CLEMENT, Mrs. MORELLA, authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1998 OLVER, and Mr. LEWIS of Georgia): and 1999 for the Coast Guard, and for other and Mr. QUINN): H.R. 2331. A bill to amend title 5, United purposes; with amendments (Rept. 105–236). H.R. 2321. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- States Code, to provide that civilian employ- Referred to the Committee of the Whole enue Code of 1986 regarding the treatment of ees of the National Guard may not be re- House on the State of the Union. golf caddies for employment tax purposes; to quired to wear military uniforms while per- the Committee on Ways and Means. f forming civilian service; to the Committee By Mr. CASTLE: on Government Reform and Oversight, and REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON PRI- H.R. 2322. A bill to suspend the duty on the in addition to the Committee on National organo-phosphorus compound ACM until VATE BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Security, for a period to be subsequently de- January 1, 2000; to the Committee on Ways termined by the Speaker, in each case for Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of com- and Means. consideration of such provisions as fall with- mittees were delivered to the Clerk for print- By Mr. METCALF (for himself, Mr. in the jurisdiction of the committee con- ing and reference to the proper calendar, as LAZIO of New York, and Mr. KAN- cerned. follows: JORSKI): By Mr. EVERETT (for himself, Mr. H.R. 2323. A bill to allow depository insti- Mr. SMITH of Texas: Committee on the Ju- ADERHOLT, Mr. BARCIA of Michigan, tutions to offer negotiable order of with- diciary. H.R. 998. A bill for the relief of Lloyd Mr. BOEHNER, Mr. BONO, Mr. BOYD, drawal accounts to all businesses, to repeal B. Gamble (Rept. 105–223). Ordered to be Mr. CALLAHAN, Mr. CAMPBELL, Mr. the prohibition on the payment of interest printed. CRAMER, Mr. DEAL of Georgia, Ms. on demand deposits, to require the Board of DEGETTE, Mr. DELLUMS, Mr. DUNCAN, f Governors of the Fedeal Reserve System to Mr. FARR of California, Mr. FILNER, pay interest on certain reserves, and for PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Mr. FOLEY, Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. HUNTER, other purposes; to the Committee on Bank- Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. Under clause 5 of Rule X and clause 4 ing and Financial Services. MCHUGH, Mr. MCNULTY, Mrs. MEEK of of Rule XXII, public bills and resolu- By Mr. CASTLE: Florida, Mr. MILLER of California, H.R. 2324. A bill to suspend the duty on the tions were introduced and severally re- Mr. NEY, Mr. POSHARD, Mr. RILEY, synthetic organic coloring matter C.I. Pig- ferred, as follows: Ms. RIVERS, Mr. ROHRABACHER, Mr. ment Yellow 109 until January 1, 2000; to the SOUDER, Mr. SPRATT, Mr. STUMP, Mr. By Mr. CRANE (for himself, Mr. AR- Committee on Ways and Means. TANNER, and Mrs. THURMAN): CHER, Mr. THOMAS, Mr. RAMSTAD, Ms. H.R. 2325. A bill to suspend the duty on the H.R. 2332. A bill to amend section 304 of the DUNN of Washington, Mr. HAMILTON, synthetic organic coloring matter C.I. Pig- Tariff Act of 1930 to require the marking of Mr. BEREUTER, Mr. DREIER, Mr. ment Yellow 110 until January 1, 2000; to the frozen produce with the country of origin on KOLBE, and Mr. CAPPS): Committee on Ways and Means. the front panel of the package for retail sale; H.R. 2316. A bill to amend trade laws and H.R. 2326. A bill to suspend the duty on the to the Committee on Ways and Means. related provisions to clarify the designation organic chemical parachlorobenzonitrile By Mr. FOX of Pennsylvania: of normal trade relations; to the Committee until January 1, 2000; to the Committee on H.R. 2333. A bill to provide improvements on Ways and Means. Ways and Means. for the financial and emotional security of By Mr. ABERCROMBIE (for himself, By Mr. COMBEST (for himself, Mr. seniors; to the Committee on Ways and Mr. EVANS, Mr. FILNER, Mr. GREEN, and Mr. MARTINEZ): Means, and in addition to the Committees on FALEOMAVAEGA, Mr. UNDERWOOD, Mr. H.R. 2327. A bill to provide for a change in the Judiciary, Banking and Financial Serv- FROST, Mr. MILLER of California, the exemption from the child labor provi- ices, and the Budget, for a period to be subse- Mrs. MINK of Hawaii, Mr. sions of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 quently determined by the Speaker, in each MCDERMOTT, Mr. BONIOR, and Mr. for minors between 16 and 18 years of age case for consideration of such provisions as RANGEL): who engage in the operation of automobiles fall within the jurisdiction of the committee H.R. 2317. A bill to amend title 38, United and trucks; to the Committee on Education concerned. States Code, to make permanent the Native and the Workforce. By Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN: American Veteran Housing Loan Pilot Pro- By Mr. CONDIT (for himself, Mr. H.R. 2334. A bill to suspend temporarily the gram; to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- CRAMER, Mr. SISISKY, Mr. PETERSON duty on ferroboron; to the Committee on fairs. of Minnesota, Mr. TURNER, Mr. Ways and Means. H6704 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997

By Mr. GOODE (for himself, Mr. TORRES, Mr. TOWNS, Ms. WOOLSEY, MCDERMOTT, Mrs. MORELLA, Ms. GOODLATTE, Mr. BOUCHER, Mr. PICK- and Mr. YATES): PELOSI, Mrs. MALONEY of New York, ETT, and Mr. DAVIS of Virginia): H.R. 2345. A bill to prohibit the sale, lease, Mr. SHAYS, Mr. FRANK of Massachu- H.R. 2335. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- or other transfer of attack, bomber, or fight- setts, Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. STARK, Mr. enue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 Federal er aircraft to Latin American countries; to MARKEY, Ms. CHRISTIAN-GREEN, Mr. income tax rate increases on trusts estab- the Committee on International Relations. YATES, Mrs. LOWEY, Mr. DICKS, Mr. lished for the benefit of individuals with dis- By Mrs. LOWEY: DELAHUNT, Mr. LANTOS, Ms. RIVERS, abilities; to the Committee on Ways and H.R. 2346. A bill to amend title 18, United Mr. GEJDENSON, Mr. SERRANO, Mr. Means. States Code, to prohibit desecration of veter- SKAGGS, Mr. SHERMAN, Ms. KIL- By Mr. HEFLEY: ans’ memorials; to the Committee on the Ju- PATRICK, Mr. BERMAN, Mr. H.R. 2336. A bill to temporarily decrease diciary. FALEOMAVAEGA, Ms. FURSE, Mr. the duty on certain industrial nylon fabrics; By Mrs. MALONEY of New York (for THOMPSON, Mr. BONIOR, Ms. DEGETTE, to the Committee on Ways and Means. herself and Mr. HORN): Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts, Mr. H.R. 2347. A bill to ensure the accuracy of By Mr. HILL: BARRETT of Wisconsin, Mr. DELLUMS, information regarding the eligibility of ap- H.R. 2337. A bill to authorize funds to fur- Mrs. MEEK of Florida, Mr. WEXLER, plicants for benefits under Federal benefit ther the strong Federal interest in the im- Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. MORAN of Vir- programs; to the Committee on Government provement of highways and transportation, ginia, Mr. ADAM SMITH of Washing- Reform and Oversight. and for other purposes; to the Committee on ton, Mr. CARDIN, Mr. TIERNEY, Mr. By Ms. MILLENDER-MCDONALD (for Transportation and Infrastructure. MCNULTY, Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, herself, Mr. DELLUMS, Mr. HASTINGS By Mr. HINCHEY (for himself, Mr. GIL- Mr. MEEHAN, Mr. MCGOVERN, Ms. WA- of Florida, Mr. JACKSON, Mr. MAR- MAN, and Mrs. KELLY): TERS, Mr. ENGEL, Ms. CARSON, and TINEZ, Mrs. MEEK of Florida, Mr. H.R. 2338. A bill to amend title 38, United Mr. PALLONE): States Code, to require that health-care pro- WYNN, Mr. DIXON, Ms. CHRISTIAN- H.R. 2351. A bill to amend the Endangered fessionals of the Department of Veterans Af- GREEN, Mr. FORD, Mr. FLAKE, Mr. Species Act of 1973 to ensure the recovery of fairs be assigned to facilities of the Depart- JEFFERSON, Mr. CLYBURN, Ms. KIL- our Nation’s declining biological diversity; ment only in States in which they are li- PATRICK, Mr. OWENS, Mr. MILLER of to reaffirm and strengthen this Nation’s censed to practice, and to require that the California, Ms. HARMAN, Mr. FAZIO of commitment to protect wildlife; to safeguard Secretary of Veterans Affairs follow State California, Ms. BROWN of Florida, Ms. our children’s economic and ecological fu- requirements concerning the filing of death WATERS, Mr. SCOTT, Ms. EDDIE BER- ture; and to provide assurances to local gov- certificates; to the Committee on Veterans’ NICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. WATT of ernments, communities, and individuals in Affairs. North Carolina, Mr. TOWNS, Mr. RAN- their planning and economic develpoment ef- By Mrs. JOHNSON of Connecticut (for GEL, Mr. THOMPSON, Mr. CLAY, Mr. forts; to the Committee on Resources, and in herself and Mrs. KENNELLY of Con- DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. FARR of Califor- addition to the Committee on Ways and necticut): nia, Mr. BERMAN, Mr. RUSH, Mrs. Means, for a period to be subsequently deter- H.R. 2339. A bill relating to the tariff treat- CLAYTON, Mr. WAXMAN, Ms. CARSON, mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- ment of nuclear fuel assemblies; to the Com- Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. HILLIARD, Ms. sideration of such provisions as fall within mittee on Ways and Means. JACKSON-LEE, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. By Mrs. KELLY (for herself and Mr. Mr. CONYERS, Mr. TORRES, Ms. By Mr. MORAN of Kansas (for himself, CUNNINGHAM): LOFGREN, Mr. CONDIT, Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. RYUN, Mr. HUTCHINSON, and Mr. H.R. 2340. A bill to provide for mandatory Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Ms. PELOSI, and BOB SCHAFFER): prison terms for possessing, brandishing, or Mr. FILNER): H.R. 2352. A bill to amend the National discharging a firearm or destructive device H.R. 2348. A bill to redesignate the Federal Trails System Act to require local approval during a Federal crime that is a crime of vio- building located at 701 South Santa Fe Ave- of designations of railroad rights-of-way for lence or a drug trafficking crime; to the nue in Compton, CA, and known as the interim use as trails; to the Committee on Committee on the Judiciary. Compton Main Post Office, as the ‘‘Mervyn Resources. By Mr. KIM (for himself, Mr. Dymally Post Office Building’’; to the Com- By Mr. NADLER: GILCHREST, Mr. GILMAN, and Mr. mittee on Government Reform and Over- H.R. 2353. A bill to amend title 18, United CARDIN): sight. States Code, to prohibit certain conduct re- H.R. 2341. A bill to amend title 23, United By Ms. MILLENDER-MCDONALD (for lating to civil disorders; to the Committee States Code, to authorize Federal participa- herself, Mr. DIXON, Ms. ROYBAL-AL- on the Judiciary. tion in financing of projects to demonstrate LARD, Mr. FAZIO of California, Ms. By Ms. NORTON (for herself, Mr. MAN- the feasibility of deployment of magnetic PELOSI, Ms. WOOLSEY, Ms. LOFGREN, TON, and Mr. ENSIGN): levitation transportation technology, and for Mr. CONDIT, Mrs. MEEK of Florida, H.R. 2354. A bill to amend the Professional other purposes; to the Committee on Trans- Mr. WYNN, Ms. NORTON, Mr. WATTS of Boxing Safety Act of 1996 to provide an addi- portation and Infrastructure, and in addition Oklahoma, Mr. BROWN of California, tional safety provision; to the Committee on to the Committees on Science, and Ways and Ms. BROWN of Florida, Mr. LANTOS, Commerce, and in addition to the Committee Means, for a period to be subsequently deter- Mr. MILLER of California, Ms. KIL- on Education and the Workforce, for a period mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- PATRICK, Mr. DELLUMS, Mr. OWENS, to be subsequently determined by the Speak- sideration of such provisions as fall within Mr. FILNER, Mr. JACKSON, Mr. MAR- er, in each case for consideration of such pro- the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. TINEZ, Mr. FLAKE, Mr. FORD, Mr. visions as fall within the jurisdiction of the By Mr. KLECZKA: WAXMAN, Mr. TORRES, Mr. CLYBURN, committee concerned. H.R. 2342. A bill to amend title 18, United Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, By Mr. ORTIZ: States Code, to permit gunsmiths to obtain a Ms. HARMAN, Mr. JEFFERSON, Ms. H.R. 2355. A bill to extend the repayment Federal firearms license without having to CHRISTIAN-GREEN, Mr. SCOTT, Mr. periods for the repayment for Nueces River comply with State or local laws relating to WATT of North Carolina, Mr. TOWNS, reclamation project; to the Committee on zoning of firearms businesses; to the Com- Mr. RANGEL, Mr. THOMPSON, Mr. Resources. mittee on the Judiciary. CLAY, Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. By Mr. PORTER (for himself, Mr. AR- By Mr. LEACH: RUSH, Mrs. CLAYTON, Mr. FARR of CHER, Mr. BAKER, Mr. BARR of Geor- H.R. 2343. A bill to abolish the Thrift De- California, Mr. BERMAN, Ms. CARSON, gia, Mr. BARTLETT of Maryland, Mr. positor Protection Oversight Board, and for Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. HILLIARD, Ms. BEREUTER, Mr. BILBRAY, Mr. CAL- other purposes; to the Committee on Bank- JACKSON-LEE, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, LAHAN, Mr. CANNON, Mrs. CHENOWETH, ing and Financial Services. and Mr. CONYERS): Mrs. CUBIN, Mr. CUNNINGHAM, Mr. By Mrs. LOWEY: H.R. 2349. A bill to redesignate the Federal DOOLITTLE, Mr. GOODLATTE, Mr. H.R. 2344. A bill to expand the enforcement building located at 10301 South Compton Av- GOSS, Mr. HERGER, Mr. HILLEARY, Mr. options under the Federal Meat Inspection enue, in Los Angeles, CA, and known as the HORN, Mr. HUNTER, Mr. KIM, Mr. KING Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act Watts Finance Office, as the ‘‘Augustus F. of New York, Mr. KNOLLENBERG, Mr. to include the imposition of civil money Hawkins Post Office Building’’; to the Com- LATHAM, Mr. LAHOOD, Mr. LIVING- penalities; to the Committee on Agriculture. mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- STON, Mr. LIPINSKI, Mr. MCCOLLUM, By Mrs. LOWEY (for herself, Mr. FOG- ture. Mr. MCKEON, Mr. NEY, Mr. NORWOOD, LIETTA, Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin, By Mr. MILLER of California: Mr. PACKARD, Mr. PETRI, Mr. Mr. BROWN of Ohio, Mr. DEFAZIO, Ms. H.R. 2350. A bill to authorize certain uses ROHRABACHER, Mrs. ROUKEMA, Mr. FURSE, Mr. KENNEDY of Massachu- of water from the Solano Project, California; SENSENBRENNER, Mr. SHAYS, Mr. TAY- setts, Mrs. MALONEY of New York, to the Committee on Resources. LOR of North Carolina, and Mr. Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. MILLER of Cali- By Mr. MILLER of California (for him- WELDON of Florida): fornia, Mr. MINGE, Mrs. MINK of Ha- self, Mr. VENTO, Mr. OLVER, Mr. FARR H.R. 2356. A bill to amend the Voting waii, Mrs. MORELLA, Mr. OBERSTAR, of California, Ms. JACKSON-LEE, Mr. Rights Act of 1965 to eliminate certain provi- Mr. OLVER, Mr. RANGEL, Mr. SABO, HINCHEY, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. SAND- sions relating to bilingual voting require- Mr. STRICKLAND, Mrs. TAUSCHER, Mr. ERS, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. ments; to the Committee on the Judiciary. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6705 By Mr. RIGGS (for himself, Mr. National Security, and in addition to the By Mr. BARR of Georgia (for himself, RAMSTAD, Mr. CUNNINGHAM, Mr. Committees on International Relations, Mr. CALLAHAN, Mr. BOYD, Mr. MCKEON, Mr. CAMPBELL, and Mr. Science, Agriculture, Transportation and In- ADERHOLT, Mr. BACHUS, Mr. BISHOP, BILBRAY): frastructure, Resources, Education and the Ms. BROWN of Florida, Mr. CANADY of H.R. 2357. A bill to amend the Fair Labor Workforce, Veterans’ Affairs, and Commerce, Florida, Mr. CHAMBLISS, Mr. COLLINS, Standards Act of 1938 to provide that a State for a period to be subsequently determined Mr. CRAMER, Mr. DAVIS of Florida, or local government may not, in their mini- by the Speaker, in each case for consider- Mr. DEAL of Georgia, Mr. DEUTSCH, mum wage laws, ordinances, regulations, or ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- Mr. EVERETT, Mr. FOLEY, Mrs. FOWL- orders, preclude a tip credit or require a cer- risdiction of the committee concerned. ER, Mr. GINGRICH, Mr. GOSS, Mr. tain tip credit; to the Committee on Edu- By Mr. SOLOMON (for himself and Mr. HILLIARD, Mr. KINGSTON, Mr. LEWIS of cation and the Workforce. MCHUGH): Georgia, Mr. LINDER, Mr. MCCOLLUM, By Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN (for herself, H.R. 2365. A bill to reduce acid deposition Mrs. MEEK of Florida, Mr. NORWOOD, Mr. KING of New York, Mr. ROYCE, under the Clean Air Act, and for other pur- Mr. RILEY, Mrs. THURMAN, and Mr. Mr. COX of California, Mr. GIBBONS, poses; to the Committee on Commerce. WEXLER): Mr. GILMAN, Mr. HUNTER, Mr. SAM By Mr. STENHOLM (for himself, Mr. H.J. Res. 91. Joint resolution granting the JOHNSON, Mr. MCINTOSH, Mr. SKEEN, Mr. WISE, Mr. COMBEST, Mr. consent of Congress to the Apalachicola- ROHRABACHER, Mr. SHADEGG, Mr. LUCAS of Oklahoma, Mr. GOODE, Mr. Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin Compact; SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. SOLOMON, PICKERING, Mr. EWING, Mr. CANADY of to the Committee on the Judiciary. and Mr. SPENCE): Florida, Mr. ETHERIDGE, Mr. By Mr. CALLAHAN (for himself, Mr. H.R. 2358. A bill to provide for improved BALDACCI, Mr. FARR of California, BARR of Georgia, Mr. ADERHOLT, Mr. monitoring of human rights violations in the Mr. BERRY, Mr. MORAN of Kansas, and BACHUS, Mr. BISHOP, Mr. CHAMBLISS, People’s Republic of China; to the Commit- Mr. POMEROY): Mr. COLLINS, Mr. CRAMER, Mr. DEAL H.R. 2366. A bill to transfer to the Sec- tee on International Relations. of Georgia, Mr. EVERETT, Mr. retary of Agriculture the authority to con- By Mr. ROTHMAN (for himself, Mrs. HILLIARD, Mr. GINGRICH, Mr. KINGS- duct the census of agriculture, and for other LOWEY, Mrs. ROUKEMA, Mr. YATES, TON, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. purposes; to the Committee on Government Mr. DELLUMS, Mr. STARK, Mr. LINDER, Mr. NORWOOD, and Mr. Reform and Oversight, and in addition to the FILNER, and Mr. WEXLER): RILEY): H.R. 2359. A bill to require the Secretary of Committee on Agriculture, for a period to be H.J. Res. 92. Joint resolution granting the subsequently determined by the Speaker, in the Treasury, acting through the Director of consent of Congress to the Alabama-Coosa- each case for consideration of such provi- the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Fire- Tallapoosa River Basin Compact; to the sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the arms, to issue minimum safety and security Committee on the Judiciary. committee concerned. standards for dealers of firearms; to the By Mr. GOODE: Committee on the Judiciary. By Mr. STUMP (for himself, Mr. H.J. Res. 93. Joint resolution proposing an By Mr. SAXTON: EVANS, Mr. QUINN, and Mr. FILNER): amendment to the Constitution of the Unit- H.R. 2367. A bill to increase, effective as of H.R. 2360. A bill to mandate price stability ed States relating to the power of the several December 1, 1997, the rates of compensation as the primary goal of the monetary policy States to propose amendments to the Con- for veterans with service-connected disabil- of the Board of Governors of the Federal Re- stitution; to the Committee on the Judici- ities and the rates of dependency and indem- serve System and the Federal Open Market ary. Committee; to the Committee on Banking nity compensation for the survivors of cer- tain disabled veterans; to the Committee on By Mr. GOSS: and Financial Services. H. Con. Res. 136. Concurrent resolution Veterans’ Affairs. By Mr. SCHIFF (for himself, Mr. providing for an adjournment of the two By Mr. TAUZIN (for himself and Mr. MCCOLLUM, Ms. DUNN of Washington, Houses; considered and agreed to GILLMOR): Mr. CALVERT, Mr. BEREUTER, and Mr. H.R. 2368. A bill to promote the privacy of By Mr. GILMAN (for himself and Mr. REDMOND): interactive computer service users through PORTER): H.R. 2361. A bill to amend title 18, United H. Con. Res. 137. Concurrent resolution ex- self-regulation by the providers of such serv- States Code, with respect to the ‘‘three ices, and for other purposes; to the Commit- pressing the sense of the House of Represent- strikes’’ life sentence; to the Committee on tee on Commerce. atives concerning the urgent need for an the Judiciary. international criminal tribunal to try mem- By Mr. TAUZIN (for himself, Mr. MAR- By Mr. SCHUMER (for himself, Mr. bers of the Iraqi regime for crimes against KEY, Mr. OXLEY, Mr. GILLMOR, Ms. CONDIT, Mr. CONYERS, Ms. LOFGREN, humanity; to the Committee on Inter- ESHOO, and Ms. MCCARTHY of Mis- and Ms. SLAUGHTER): national Relations. H.R. 2362. A bill to guarantee a republican souri): H.R. 2369. A bill to amend the Communica- By Mr. ARCHER: form of government to the States by pre- tions Act of 1934 to strengthen and clarify H. Con. Res. 138. Concurrent resolution to venting paramilitary violence; to the Com- prohibitions on electronic eavesdropping, correct technical errors in the enrollment of mittee on the Judiciary. and for other purposes; to the Committee on the bill H.R. 2014; which was considered and By Mr. SESSIONS (for himself, Mr. Commerce. agreed to. BARTLETT of Maryland, Mr. COMBEST, By Mr. UNDERWOOD (for himself, Mr. By Mr. BEREUTER (for himself, Mr. Mr. NORWOOD, Mr. SMITH of Texas, MILLER of California, and Mr. ABER- OXLEY, Mr. PICKETT, and Mr. HAMIL- Ms. GRANGER, Mr. DELAY, Mr. CROMBIE): TON): BONILLA, Mr. ADERHOLT, Mr. SALMON, H.R. 2370. A bill to amend the Organic Act H. Con. Res. 139. Concurrent resolution ex- Mr. HALL of Texas, Mr. PAPPAS, Mr. of Guam for the purposes of clarifying the pressing the sense of Congress that the Unit- CRANE, Mr. THOMAS, Mr. PETERSON of local judicial structure and the office of At- ed States Government should fully partici- Pennsylvania, Mr. CALVERT, Mr. BUR- torney General; to the Committee on Re- pate in EXPO 2000 in the year 2000, in Han- TON of Indiana, Mr. FOX of Penn- sources. nover, Germany, and should encourage the sylvania, Mr. MCCRERY, Mr. TRAFI- By Mr. VENTO: academic community and the private sector CANT, Mr. LATOURETTE, Mr. HULSHOF, H.R. 2371. A bill to amend title II of the So- in the United States to support this worth- Mr. LAZIO of New York, Mrs. EMER- cial Security Act to require that contracts while undertaking; to the Committee on SON, Mr. LARGENT, Mr. NUSSLE, Mr. entered into by the Commissioner of Social International Relations. GIBBONS, Mr. SCARBOROUGH, Mr. HUN- Security and the States and local govern- By Mr. MCINNIS: TER, Mr. CALLAHAN, Mr. PORTMAN, ments providing for furnishing the Commis- H. Con. Res. 140. Concurrent resolution ex- Mr. MICA, Mr. BOEHNER, Mr. BOB sioner with death certificate information re- pressing the sense of Congress that before SCHAFFER, Mr. COLLINS, Mr. quire that such information be furnished the consideration of any legislation regard- SHADEGG, Mr. ROGAN, Mr. MCINTOSH, within 30 days after the death involved; to ing the comprehensive tobacco settlement Mr. BARR of Georgia, Mr. BAKER, Mr. the Committee on Ways and Means. each plaintiff attorney shall fully disclose HASTERT, and Mr. COOKSEY): By Mr. WHITE (for himself, Mr. BOU- the attorney’s anticipated fees as a result of H.R. 2363. A bill to amend the Controlled CHER, Mr. TAUZIN, Mr. OXLEY, Mr. such settlement agreement; to the Commit- Substances Act to provide a mandatory life COX of California, and Mr. LAZIO of tee on the Judiciary. penalty for certain offenses involving meth- New York): By Mr. BOEHNER: amphetamine; to the Committee on the Judi- H.R. 2372. A bill to ensure that the develop- H. Res. 207. Resolution electing the Chief ciary, and in addition to the Committee on ment of the Internet and interactive com- Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Commerce, for a period to be subsequently puter services is unfettered by Federal and Representatives; considered and agreed to. determined by the Speaker, in each case for State regulation; to the Committee on Com- By Mr. FAZIO of California: consideration of such provisions as fall with- merce. H. Res. 208. Resolution designating minor- in the jurisdiction of the committee con- By Mr. DIAZ-BALART: ity membership on certain standing commit- cerned. H.J. Res. 90. Joint resolution waiving cer- tees of the House; considered and agreed to. By Mr. SHAYS: tain enrollment requirements with respect By Mr. FOX of Pennsylvania: H.R. 2364. A bill to reduce Federal spending to two specified bills of the 105th Congress; H. Res. 209. Resolution amending the rules in several programs; to the Committee on considered and agreed to. of the House of Representatives to take away H6706 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 the power of the Committee on Rules to re- stamp commemorating Joshua Lawrence port, and care they deserve; to the Commit- port rules or orders waiving the germaneness Chamberlain; to the Committee on Govern- tee on Veterans’ Affairs. requirement; to the Committee on Rules. ment Reform and Oversight. f By Ms. KAPTUR: 165. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of H. Res. 210. Resolution to express the sense the State of Texas, relative to House Concur- ADDITIONAL SPONSORS of the House of Representatives on consider- rent Resolution 168 requesting the Congress ation of comprehensive campaign finance re- of the United States to conduct thorough Under clause 4 of rule XXII, sponsors form; to the Committee on House Oversight. oversight hearings of the Office of the In- were added to public bills and resolu- By Mr. KNOLLENBERG: spector General audit process sufficient to tions as follows: H. Res. 211. Resolution expressing the sense ensure that the rights and protections inher- H.R. 12: Mr. MCGOVERN. of the House of Representatives regarding ent in the nation’s legal code are maintained H.R. 38: Mr. STENHOLM. the conditions for the United States becom- and upheld in the process; to the Committee H.R. 56: Mr. LAZIO of New York. ing a signatory to any international agree- on Government Reform and Oversight. H.R. 96: Mr. KINGSTON. 166. Also, a memorial of the General As- ment on greenhouse gas emissions under the H.R. 123: Mr. GIBBONS and Mr. RADANOVICH. sembly of the State of California, relative to U.N. Framework Convention on Climate H.R. 135: Mr. KIND of Wisconsin. Assembly Joint Resolution No. 12 memori- Change; to the Committee on International H.R. 192: Mr. STENHOLM. alizing the President and the Congress to ap- Relations. H.R. 216: Mr. MANTON. propriate federal funds to be used to preserve By Mr. LEWIS of Georgia (for himself, H.R. 218: Mr. GOODLATTE and Mr. GOSS. and protect the Bolinas Lagoon; to the Com- Mr. BOEHLERT, Mr. BROWN of Ohio, H.R. 234: Ms. CHRISTIAN-GREEN and Mr. mittee on Resources. Mr. BERRY, Mr. CAPPS, Ms. CHRIS- BONIOR. 167. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of TIAN-GREEN, Mr. CLEMENT, Mr. H.R. 282: Mr. SOLOMON. the State of Alaska, relative to Legislative EVANS, Mr. FLAKE, Ms. JACKSON-LEE, H.R. 306: Mr. KANJORSKI and Mr. WISE. Resolve No. 26 supporting enhancement of Mr. MATSUI, Mrs. MEEK of Florida, H.R. 371: Mr. GILMAN and Ms. FURSE. visitors access to Denali National Park and Ms. NORTON, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. H.R. 399: Mr. ENGEL. Preserve through development of a northern RAMSTAD, Mr. ROTHMAN, Mr. SAND- H.R. 414: Mr. STENHOLM. railroad route corridor access to the vicinity ERS, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. TIERNEY, H.R. 458: Mr. SCHIFF. of Wonder Lake; to the Committee on Re- Mr. TRAFICANT, Mr. VENTO, Mr. H.R. 526: Mr. STUMP. sources. WEXLER, and Mr. WYNN): H.R. 543: Mr. BOUCHER, Mr. FILNER, Mr. H. Res. 212. Resolution recognizing suicide 168. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of the State of Alaska, relative to Legislative CHRISTENSN, Mr. CAMPBELL, and Mr. HALL of as a national problem, and for other pur- Texas. poses; to the Committee on Commerce. Resolve No. 20 urging the legislature of each state of the nation to ratify a balanced budg- H.R. 559: Mr. WATTS of Oklahoma. f et amendment that is passed by the United H.R. 598: Mr. FARR of California. States Congress; to the Committee on the H.R. 610: Mr. BARR of Georgia. MEMORIALS Judiciary. H.R. 612: Mr. ROEMER. Under clause 4 of rule XXII, memori- 169. Also, a memorial of the General As- H.R. 628: Mr. PASTOR. sembly of the State of Tennessee, relative to H.R. 634: Mr. HERGER, Mr. SESSIONS, and als were presented and referred as fol- Mr. NETHERCUTT. lows: House Joint Resolution No. 32 post-ratifying Amendment 15 to the Constitution of the H.R. 674: Mr. EHLERS, Mr. CAMP, Mr. 159. The SPEAKER presented a memorial United States of America guaranteeing the UPTON, Mr. SMITH of Michigan, Mr. of the General Assembly of the State of Cali- right of citizens to vote regardless of race, HOEKSTRA, and Mr. KNOLLENBERG. fornia, relative to Assembly Joint Resolu- color, or previous condition of servitude; to H.R. 678: Mr. BAESLER, Mr. BLAGOJEVICH, tion No. 19 memorializing the President and the Committee on the Judiciary. Mr. BOUCHER, MR. CLAY, Mr. CLEMENT, Mr. Congress of the United States to endorse and 170. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of CLYBURN, Mr. COSTELLO, Mr. ENGEL, Ms. support the Southwest Defense Complex, and the State of Alaska, relative to Legislative ESHOO, Mr. FORD, Ms. FURSE, Mr. GREEN, Mr. the efforts of the Southwest Defense Alliance Resolve No. 27 relating to the creation of a HALL of Texas, Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, Mr. in furtherance of the Southwest Defense new United States Court of Appeals for the HILLIARD, Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. JACKSON, Ms. Complex; to the Committee on National Se- Twelfth Circuit; to the Committee on the Ju- EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. LEWIS curity. diciary. of Georgia, Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York, 160. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of 171. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of Mrs. MINK of Hawaii, Mr. OWENS, Mr. PAS- the State of Alaska, relative to Legislative the State of Alaska, relative to Legislative TOR, Mr. RAHALL, Mr. ROEMER, Mr. ROMERO- Resolve No. 36 requesting the President of Resolve No. 19 requesting the United States BARCELO, Ms. SANCHEZ, Mr. SCOTT, Mr. SKEL- the United States to take all actions nec- Congress to accommodate Alaska’s unique TON, Mr. THOMPSON, Mr. WATT of North Caro- essary, within the considerable limits of the wetlands circumstances by amending the lina, Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. WYNN, Mr. YATES, resources of the United States, to protect on Clean Water Act to modify the wetlands reg- Mr. BALLENGER, Mr. BARRETT of Nebraska, an equal basis all peoples and resources of ulatory program and to recognize Alaska’s Mr. BARTLETT of Maryland, Mr. BEREUTER, this great Union from threat of missile at- outstanding history of wetlands conserva- Mr. BUYER, Mr. CAMP, Mr. COBLE, Mr. tack regardless of the physical location of tion; to the Committee on Transportation COBURN, Mr. COLLINS, Mr. COX of California, the member state; to the Committee on Na- and Infrastructure. Mrs. CUBIN, Mr. DUNCAN, Mrs. EMERSON, Mr. tional Security. 172. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of EWING, Mr. FAWELL, Mr. GANSKE, Mr. 161. Also, a memorial of the House of Rep- the State of Texas, relative to House Concur- GILCHREST, Mr. GOODLING, Mr. GREENWOOD, resentatives of the State of New Hampshire, rent Resolution 137 urging the United States Mr. HAMILTON, Mr. HILL, Mr. HOUGHTON, Mr. relative to House Joint Resolution 5 urging Congress to create a NAFTA Trade Impact HYDE, Mr. JENKINS, Mr. KLUG, Mr. LAZIO of the United States Congress and the United Fund under the Intermodal Surface Trans- New York, Mr. LINDER, Mr. LIVINGSTON, Mr. States Environmental Protection Agency to portation Efficiency Act to provide border NEUMANN, Mr. NORWOOD, Mr. ROGAN, Mr. make certain changes in the Clean Air Act states and communities with funding for ROHRABACHER, Mr. DAN SCHAEFER of Colo- which would result in more cost effective air transportation infrastructure for the facili- rado, Mr. BOB SCHAFFER, Mr. SESSIONS, Mr. pollutant emission reductions; to the Com- tation of free trade and NAFTA-generated SHAW, Mr. SHIMKUS, Mr. SMITH of New Jer- mittee on Commerce. passenger and commercial traffic; to the sey, Mr. SPENCE, Mr. SOUDER, Mr. TALENT, 162. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of Committee on Transportation and Infra- Mr. WHITFIELD, Mr. WHITE, Mr. WOLF, Mr. the State of Alaska, relative to Legislative structure. BOEHLERT, Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN, Mr. GORDON, Resolve No. 40 requesting the United States 173. Also, a memorial of the General As- Mr. MCDADE, Mr. REDMOND, Mr. FOLEY, Mr. Congress to amend the Federal Food, Drug, sembly of the State of California, relative to WELDON of Florida, Mr. WALSH, Ms. DANNER, and Cosmetic Act; to the Committee on Assembly Joint Resolution No. 5 memorializ- Mr. GONZALEZ, Mrs. MALONEY of New York, Commerce. ing the President and Congress of the United Mr. MANTON, Mr. MENENDEZ, Mr. OBERSTAR, 163. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of States to continue efforts to ensure that vet- Mr. SISISKY, and Mr. MCHALE. the State of Alaska, relative to Legislative erans of the Gulf War are appropriately H.R. 690: Mr. KUCINICH. Resolve No. 30 urging the United States Con- cared for, to do everything possible to under- H.R. 715: Mr. FORD. gress to amend the Social Security Act so stand and explain Gulf War illnesses, to put H.R. 725: Mr. BISHOP, Mr. BEREUTER, Mr. that the higher cost of living in Alaska is re- into place those military doctrines, person- PICKERING, and Mr. WHITFIELD. flected when the per capita income of the nel, and medical policies, procedures, and H.R. 755: Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. GANSKE, and state is used as a factor in determining the equipment that will minimize any future Ms. DEGETTE. federal share of Medicaid costs; to the Com- problems from exposure to biological or H.R. 789: Ms. DANNER. mittee on Commerce. chemical agents or other environmental haz- H.R. 793: Ms. FURSE. 164. Also, a memorial of the House of Rep- ards, and to use all means necessary to en- H.R. 805: Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota. resentatives of the State of Maine, relative sure that Gulf War veterans who placed H.R. 836: Mr. HUNTER. to a Joint Resolution memorializing the themselves in harm’s way on behalf of all H.R. 859: Mr. BARR of Georgia and Mr. CAL- United States Postal Service to issue a Americans, are provided the assistance, sup- VERT. July 31, 1997 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6707

H.R. 890: Mr. MARTINEZ, Mr. STEARNS, and KNOLLENBERG, Mr. SOLOMON, Mr. WICKER, WOLF, Mr. BLILEY, Mrs. KELLY, Ms. ROS- Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. LAHOOD, Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. GREEN, and LEHTINEN, Mr. ENGEL, Mr. YOUNG of Florida, H.R. 900: Ms. CARSON. Mr. MCKEON. Mr. SPENCE, Mr. ACKERMAN, Mr. MCGOVERN, H.R. 974: Mr. ACKERMAN. H.R. 1710: Mr. KIM, Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN, Mr. KENNEDY of Massachusetts, Mr. H.R. 991: Mr. KING of New York, Mr. FROST, Mr. REYES, Ms. SANCHEZ, Mr. CAPPS, and LOBIONDO, Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, Mr. Mr. COYNE, Mr. MCNULTY, Mr. KENNEDY of Mrs. CHENOWETH. DELLUMS, Mr. PAPPAS, Mr. TIERNEY, Mr. Massachusetts, and Mr. BERMAN. H.R. 1711: Mr. SESSIONS. EVANS, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. BOYD, H.R. 1010: Mrs. EMERSON, Mr. PARKER, and H.R. 1712: Mr. MINGE and Mr. BOB SCHAF- Mr. LAFALCE, Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island, Mr. PICKERING. FER. Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, and Mr. DINGELL. H.R. 1060: Mr. BEREUTER. H.R. 1719: Mr. PARKER. H.R. 2253: Ms. FURSE. H.R. 1062: Mr. WOLF. H.R. 1748: Mr. UNDERWOOD and Ms. RIVERS. H.R. 2272: Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin and H.R. 1070: Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island. H.R. 1799: Mr. DEFAZIO. Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 1100: Mr. GIBBONS. H.R. 1806: Mr. EHLERS. H.R. 2283: Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA, Mr. H.R. 1114: Mr. TOWNS and Mr. FAWELL. H.R. 1815: Mr. EVANS, Ms. EDDIE BERNICE HAYWORTH, and Mr. ADERHOLT. H.R. 1126: Mr. FAZIO of California, Mr. JOHNSON of Texas, and Mr. KUCINICH. H. Con. Res. 19: Mr. ACKERMAN, Mr. BROWN PARKER, and Ms. FURSE. H.R. 1824: Mr. ACKERMAN and Mr. ENGEL. of California, Mr. KING of New York, Mr. H.R. 1129: Mr. WEXLER. H.R. 1839: Mr. SNYDER, Mr. PICKERING, Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, Mr. PORTER, Mrs. H.R. 1153: Ms. STABENOW. DUNCAN, and Mr. ROEMER. MALONEY of New York, and Mr. DELLUMS. H.R. 1165: Mr. HEFLEY. H.R. 1842: Mr. BARTON of Texas. H. Con. Res. 38: Ms. KAPTUR. H.R. 1215: Mr. FAZIO of California, Mr. H.R. 1872: Mr. WHITE, Ms. ESHOO, and Mr. H. Con. Res. 65: Mr. MENENDEZ, Mr. COYNE, PAYNE, Mr. ENGEL, and Mr. MCHUGH. CANADY of Florida. Mr. PARKER, Ms. HOOLEY of Oregon, Mr. H.R. 1246: Ms. FURSE. H.R. 1891: Mr. RAMSTAD. MCHALE, Mr. KENNEDY of Massachusetts, and H.R. 1290: Mr. GILCHREST. H.R. 1903: Ms. RIVERS, Mr. ROHRABACHER, Mr. ORTIZ. H.R. 1302: Ms. FURSE. and Mr. ROEMER. H. Con. Res. 68: Ms. FURSE. H.R. 1318: Mr. RAMSTAD, Mr. FOLEY, and H.R. 1909: Mr. SAM JOHNSON and Mr. GRA- H. Con. Res. 80: Mr. GIBBONS, Mr. SHERMAN, Mr. BOSWELL. HAM. Mr. STARK, Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York, Mr. H.R. 1320: Mr. KUCINICH. H.R. 1913: Mr. RODRIGUEZ and Mr. LOFGREN. SANDERS, Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. KIND of Wiscon- H.R. 1371: Mr. TURNER. H.R. 1951: Ms. RIVERS. sin, Mr. COYNE, Mr. JENKINS, and Ms. H.R. 1373: Ms. CHRISTIAN-GREEN and Mr. H.R. 1975: Mr. BORSKI, Mr. DELAHUNT, Mr. SANCHEZ. KUCINICH. DELLUMS, Mr. EVANS, Mr. FILNER, Mr. GEJD- H. Con. Res. 83: Mr. DELLUMS and Mr. H.R. 1391: Mr. ABERCROMBIE. ENSON, Mr. KUCINICH, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, FROST. H.R. 1398: Mr. HILL. and Mr. STARK. H. Con. Res. 91: Mr. KUCINICH and Mr. H.R. 1404: Ms. MALONEY of Connecticut, Mr. H.R. 1984: Mr. DOOLITTLE, Mr. BOSWELL, BALDACCI. MEEHAN, Mr. MATSUI, Mr. OWENS, Ms. WA- Mr. BOB SCHAFFER, Mr. DEAL of Georgia, Mr. H. Con. Res. 96: Mr. ENGEL. TERS, Mr. FORD and Mr. CAPPS. MCCRERY, Mr. HUTCHINSON, Mr. WATKINS, Mr. H. Con. Res. 106: Mr. TORRES and Mr. CAMP- H.R. 1427: Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. LARGENT, and Mr. PARKER. BELL. H.R. 1450: Mr. MCINTYRE and Mr. BROWN of H.R. 1991: Mr. MORAN of Kansas. H. Con. Res. 109: Mr. STENHOLM, Mr. PAUL, California. H.R. 2004: Mr. PARKER and Ms. EDDIE BER- and Mr. SHUSTER. H.R. 1453: Mr. LEWIS of Georgia and Mr. NICE JOHNSON of Texas. H. Con. Res. 112: Mrs. MORELLA, Mr. KUCINICH. H.R. 2009: Mr. CONDIT, Mr. LEWIS of Geor- OWENS, Mr. BOYD, Mr. DELLUMS, and Mr. H.R. 1456: Mr. BARTON of Texas. gia, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mr. DUNCAN, CALVERT. H.R. 1493: Mr. STUMP, Mr. HAYWORTH, and Mr. EVANS, Mr. FROST, Mr. DELLUMS, Mr. H. Con. Res. 114: Mr. TALENT, Mr. STARK, Mr. COOK. MCDADE, and Mr. ROTHMAN. Ms. BROWN of Florida, Mr. DELLUMS, Mr. H.R. 1497: Mr. FURSE. H.R. 2011: Mrs. EMERSON. FALEOMAVAEGA, and Mr. CLEMENT. H.R. 1507: Mr. MURTHA and Mr. ENGEL. H.R. 2064: Mrs. KELLY. H. Con. Res. 120: Mr. KLINK, Mr. H.R. 1514: Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. H.R. 2070: Mr. COBURN. BLAGOJEVICH, Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, H.R. 1521: Mr. BROWN of California and Mr. H.R. 2090: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. and Mrs. MORELLA. PACKARD. LANTOS, Mrs. ROUKEMA, Mr. BONIOR, Mrs. H. Con. Res. 121: Mr. PACKARD, Mr. SKEL- H.R. 1524: Mr. PICKETT and Mr. SCOTT. THURMAN, Mr. OWENS, and Mr. FLAKE. TON, Mr. SPENCE, Mr. GEJDENSON, Mr. SOLO- H.R. 1526: Mr. CASTLE. H.R. 2094: Mr. DELAHUNT. MON, Mr. ACKERMAN, Mr. NEAL of Massachu- H.R. 1529: Mr. BROWN of Florida. H.R. 2095: Mrs. EMERSON, Mr. UNDERWOOD, setts, Mr. DOOLEY of California, Mr. H.R. 1531: Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. BENTSEN, and Mr. SNOWBARGER. STRICKLAND, Mr. HALL of Ohio, Mr. FRANK of H.R. 1534: Mr. STUMP, Mrs. LINDA SMITH of H.R. 2112: Mr. KUCINICH. Massachusetts, Mr. BLAGOJEVICH, Mr. Washington, Mr. LIVINGSTON, Mr. BARR of H.R. 2113: Mr. GRAHAM and Mr. BONIOR. MENENDEZ, Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. Georgia, Mr. SMITH of Texas, Mr. PETERSON H.R. 2121: Ms. DELAURO, Mr. CUMMINGS, Ms. FRELINGHUYSEN, Mr. HUTCHINSON, Mr. of Minnesota, Mr. LATHAM, Mr. GRAHAM, Mr. FURSE, Mr. NADLER, and Mr. SMITH of New HAYWORTH, Mr. CANADY of Florida, Mr. RADANOVICH, Mrs. FOWLER, Mr. BROWN of Jersey. ROHRABACHER, and Mr. HUNTER. California, Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania, Mr. H.R. 2122: Ms. FURSE and Mr. PARKER. H. Con. Res. 126: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. STENHOLM, Mr. CHABOT, Mr. WATTS of Okla- H.R. 2124: Mrs. MYRICK, Mr. CAMP, and Mr. H. Con. Res. 129: Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. MICA, homa, Mr. EDWARDS, Mr. FRANKS of New Jer- SAM JOHNSON. and Ms. FURSE. sey, and Mr. CRAPO. H.R. 2129: Mr. KASICH. H. Con. Res. 134: Mr. NEY and Mr. PORTER. H.R. 1542: Mr. SHADEGG, Mr. RADANOVICH, H.R. 2139: Mr. MCDADE, Mr. BOYD, Mr. H. Con. Res. 37: Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHN- and Mr. MCKEON. MARTINEZ, and Mr. BOSWELL. SON of Texas, Mr. BOUCHER, Mr. LAMPSON, H.R. 1544: Mr. SANDERS. H.R. 2167: Mr. OLVER, Mr. MANTON, Mr. and Mr. PASCRELL. H.R. 1573: Mr. STRICKLAND, Mr. GEJDENSON, Mr. FROST, and Mr. ACKERMAN. H. Res. 110: Ms. FURSE, Mr. OBERSTAR, and FALEOMAVAEGA, and Mr. ENGEL. H.R. 2168: Mr. WHITFIELD. Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. H.R. 1574: Mr. GIBBONS. H.R. 2183: Mr. CAMBELL, Mr. DICKEY, Ms. H. Res. 119: Mr. REYES and Mr. VENTO. H.R. 1583: Mr. KUCINICH and Mr. STABENOW, and Mr. GOODE. H. Res. 173: Mr. KENNEDY of Massachusetts, BLUMENAUER. H.R. 2185: Mr. FARR of California, Mrs. Mr. OLVER, Mrs. CLAYTON, Mr. DAVIS of Illi- H.R. 1595: Mr. MCINTOSH, Mr. GRAHAM, and KENNELLY of Connecticut, Mr. PASTOR, Ms. nois, Mr. PASTOR, Mr. TORRES, Ms. LOFGREN, Mr. WICKER. FURSE, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Ms. WOOLSEY, Ms. Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania, Mr. NEY, Ms. H.R. 1619: Mr. PICKERING. VELAZQUEZ, Ms. ESHOO, Ms. LOFGREN, Mr. ESHOO, Mrs. KENNELLY of Connecticut, Mr. H.R. 1625: Mr. PARKER, Mr. COOKSEY, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, TOWNS, Mr. QUINN, Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. DICKEY, Mr. CUNNINGHAM, Mr. MCCOLLUM, Mr. FORD, Mr. JEFFERSON, Ms. MILLENDER- CLEMENT, Ms. HOOLEY of Oregon, Mr. THOMP- Mr. CALVERT, Mr. CAMPBELL, Mr. CANADY of MCDONALD, Mr. RUSH, Mr. FLAKE, Mr. RAN- SON, Mr. KLECZKA, Mr. MCNULTY, Ms. FURSE, Florida, Mr. BEREUTER, Mr. BOB SCHAFFER, GEL, and Mr. STOKES. and Mr. ENGEL. Mr. HUNTER, Mr. MANZULLO, Mr. PACKARD, H.R. 2191: Mr. DEAL of Georgia, Mr. RIGGS, H. Res. 200: Mr. SAWYER, Mr. GREEN, Mr. and Ms. GRANGER. Mr. HALL of Texas, and Mr. NORWOOD. BOUCHER, Mr. KLINK, and Mr. GUTIERREZ. H.R. 1636: Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Ms. H.R. 2198: Mr. LOBIONDO. f MILLENDER-MCDONALD, Mr. STOKES, and Mr. H.R. 2206: Mr. COOKSEY. GREEN. H.R. 2211: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. DELETIONS OF SPONSORS FROM H.R. 1683: Mr. NORWOOD. H.R. 2221: Mr. FOX of Pennsylvania, Mr. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS H.R. 1685: Mr. NEUMANN, Mr. ABERCROMBIE, TRAFICANT, and Mrs. MYRICK. Under clause 4 of rule XXII, sponsors Mr. TIAHRT, Mr. STARK, Mr. PASTOR, Mr. H.R. 2234: Mr. STARK, Mr. HASTINGS of BARTON of Texas, Mr. BUNNING of Kentucky, Florida, and Mr. KENNEDY of Massachusetts. were deleted from public bills and reso- Mr. UNDERWOOD, Mrs. CUBIN, Mr. HEFLEY, H.R. 2248: Mr. KLINK, Mr. BLAGOJEVICH, Mr. lutions as follows: Mr. STUPAK, Mr. TORRES, Mr. ACKERMAN, Mr. CAPPS, Mr. WEYGAND, Mrs. MORELLA, Mr. H.R. 303: Mr. CANADY of Florida, Mr. WATTS HALL of Texas, Mr. PICKERING, Mr. HAMILTON, Mr. GILMAN, Mr. LANTOS, Mr. of Oklahoma, and Mr. OLVER. H6708 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 31, 1997 PETITIONS, ETC. ‘‘(B) Subparagraph (A) applies only to the the account ‘‘HEALTH CARE FINANCING AD- Federal supply schedules of the General MINISTRATION—PROGRAM MANAGEMENT’’, Under clause 1 of rule XXII, Services Administration for general purpose $2,296,000 is transferred from such account 20. The SPEAKER presented a petition of automated data processing equipment (in- and made available, under the account the City and County of Honolulu, relative to cluding firmware), software, supplies, and ‘‘HEALTH RESOURCES AND SERVICES ADMINIS- Resolution 97–150 urging the United States support equipment (as listed in Federal sup- TRATION—HEALTH RESOURCES AND SERVICES’’, Congress to proceed with the funding of the ply classification code group 70, as contained for the program under section 330A of the new aircraft carrier known as CVN–77 and to in the December 1993 product and service Public Health Service Act (relating to rural designate Pearl Harbor as the Home Port of codes list of the Federal Procurement Data outreach grants). the new carrier or one of its sister carriers; System). which was referred to the Committee on Na- ‘‘(C) Subparagraph (A) may not be con- H.R. 2264 tional Security. strued to authorize an entity referred to in OFFERED BY: MR. PETERSON OF f that subparagraph to order existing stock or PENNSYLVANIA inventory from federally owned and oper- AMENDMENT NO. 27: Page 69, line 26, after AMENDMENTS ated, or federally owned and contractor oper- the first dollar amount, insert the following: ated, supply depots, warehouses, or similar Under clause 6 of rule XXIII, pro- ‘‘(increased by $85,000,000)’’. posed amendments were submitted as facilities. ‘‘(D) In any case in which an entity listed Page 69, line 26, after the second dollar follows: in subparagraph (A) uses a Federal supply amount, insert the following: ‘‘(increased by Treasury and Postal Service, FY 1998 schedule, the Administrator may require the $85,000,000)’’. OFFERED BY: MR. MORAN OF VIRGINIA entity to reimburse the General Services Ad- Page 73, line 15, after the first dollar AMENDMENT NO. 1: Strike Title IV, Section ministration for any administrative costs of amount, insert the following: ‘‘(decreased by 413, and replace with the following: using the schedule.’’. $85,000,000)’’. SEC. 413. REPEAL OF COOPERATIVE PURCHAS- (c) REPORT.— H.R. 2267 ING BY STATE AND LOCAL UNITS OF (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year GOVERNMENT; AUTHORIZATION FOR after the date of the enactment of this Act, OFFERED BY: MR. BASS SUCH PURCHASING FOR INFORMA- the Administrator of General Services shall AMENDMENT NO. 9: Page 49, strike lines 7 TION TECHNOLOGY ONLY. submit to Congress and publish for public through 13. (a) REPEAL OF COOPERATIVE PURCHASING comment a report on the implementation of H.R. 2267 AUTHORITY.—(1) Effective on the date of the section 201(b)(3) of the Federal Property and enactment of this Act— Administrative Services Act of 1949 (40 OFFERED BY: MR. SCOTT (A) paragraph (2) of section 201(b) of the U.S.C. 481(b)), as added by subsection (b). The AMENDMENT NO. 10: Page 29, line 10, insert Federal Property and Administrative Serv- report shall include the following: after the amount ‘‘(reduced by $258,750,000)’’ ices Act of 1949 (40 U.S.C. 481(b)(2)) is re- (A) An assessment of the effect on indus- and on page 34, insert after the amount in pealed; and try, including small businesses and local line 13 the following: ‘‘(increased by (B) section 4309 of the Clinger-Cohen Act of dealers, of providing for the use of Federal $258,750,000)’’. 1996 (Public Law 104–106; 110 Stat. 670; 40 supply schedules by the entities described in U.S.C. 481 note) is repealed. section 201(b)(3)(A) of that Act. H.R. 2267 (B) An assessment of the effect on such en- (2) Section 201(b) of the Federal Property OFFERED BY: MR. SCOTT and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (40 tities of providing for the use of Federal sup- U.S.C. 481(b)) is further amended by redesig- ply schedules by those entities. AMENDMENT NO. 11: Page 117, insert after nating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2). (2) SUBMISSION OF COMMENTS TO CON- line 2 the following: (b) AUTHORITY FOR USE OF FEDERAL SUPPLY GRESS.—Not later than 60 days after submit- SEC. 617. DEATH REPORTING.—Any person SCHEDULES FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.— ting the report under paragraph (1), the Ad- who receives any funds appropriated under Section 201(b) of the Federal Property and ministrator of General Services shall submit this Act or any subsequent appropriation for Administrative Services Act of 1949 (40 to Congress all public comments received on the Department of Justice shall report to the U.S.C. 481(b)(2)), as amended by subsection the report. Attorney General the occurrence of the (a), is further amended by adding at the end H.R. 2264 death of any individual who has been placed the following new paragraph: OFFERED BY: MR. HEFLEY in custody in connection with an arrest. ‘‘(3)(A) The Administrator may provide for Such a report shall include— AMENDMENT NO. 25: Page 79, line 13, after the use of the Federal supply schedules de- the dollar amount, insert after ‘‘(reduced by (1) the name, gender, ethnicity, and age of scribed in subparagraph (B) by any of the fol- $50,000,000)’’. the deceased; lowing entities upon request: H.R. 2264 (2) the date, time, and location of death; ‘‘(i) A State, any department or agency of and a State, and any political subdivision of a OFFERED BY: MR. PETERSON OF (3) the circumstances surrounding the State, including a local government. PENNSYLVANIA death. ‘‘(ii) The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. AMENDMENT NO. 26: At the end of title II, ‘‘(iii) The government of an Indian tribe insert after the last section (preceding the The Attorney General shall make an annual (as defined in section 4(e) of the Indian Self- short title) the following section: report to the Congress giving a statistical re- Determination and Education Assistance Act SEC. 213. Of the amounts made available in port of the information provided in the re- (25 U.S.C. 450b(e))). this title for Federal Administration under ports to the Attorney General.