Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, August 10, 1998 Volume 34—Number 32 Pages 1553–1589

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Addresses and Remarks Executive Orders See also Bill Signings American Indian and Alaska Native Africa, bombings—1585 Education—1580 Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, Interparliamentary Union—1588 proposed extension—1574 Suspension of Executive Order 13083—1570 Democratic Congressional Campaign Proclamations Committee dinner—1567 Maryland, summer jobs program funding in Designating Klondike Gold Rush International Historical Park—1570 Cheverly—1560 Victims of the Bombing Incidents in Africa— New York 1587 Democratic National Committee dinner in East Hampton—1553 Statements by the President Democratic National Committee reception Congressional action in East Hampton—1557 Campaign finance reform legislation—1563 Saxophone Club reception in East Job training reform legislation—1553 Hampton—1559 Death of Arthur Barbieri—1566 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Family and Medical Leave Act, anniversary— Reconciliation Act of 1996, anniversary— 1569 1563 House of Representatives action Radio address—1556 Campaign finance reform legislation—1584 Social Security—1575 Census amendment—1569 Unity ’98 dinner—1571 Credit union legislation—1566 White House Conference on Building Hefley amendment—1576 Economic Self-Determination in Indian Iraq, failure to comply with U.N. weapons Communities—1576 inspections—1584 Senate confirmation of Bill Richardson to be Bill Signings Secretary of Energy—1553 Work Force Investment Act of 1998, Supplementary Materials remarks—1584 Acts approved by the President—1589 Checklist of White House press releases— Communications to Federal Agencies 1589 Economic development in American Indian Digest of other White House and Alaska Native communities, announcements—1588 memorandum—1582 Nominations submitted to the Senate—1589

Editor’s Note: The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is also available on the Inter- net on the GPO Access service at http://www.gpo.gov/nara/nara003.html.

WEEKLY COMPILATION OF regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; 1 CFR Part 10). PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. Published every Monday by the Office of the Federal Reg- The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents will be ister, National Archives and Records Administration, Washing- furnished by mail to domestic subscribers for $80.00 per year ton, DC 20408, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ($137.00 for mailing first class) and to foreign subscribers for ments contains statements, messages, and other Presidential $93.75 per year, payable to the Superintendent of Documents, materials released by the White House during the preceding Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The week. charge for a single copy is $3.00 ($3.75 for foreign mailing). The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is pub- There are no restrictions on the republication of material lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under ments.

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Statement on Congressional Action I am confident that Ambassador Richard- on Job Training Reform Legislation son’s tremendous energy, creativity, and July 31, 1998 leadership will help secure our Nation’s en- ergy future so that America continues to I am pleased that both Houses of Congress prosper. have now passed a comprehensive bill to give NOTE: This item was not received in time for pub- Americans new opportunities and choices to lication in the appropriate issue. train for the jobs of the future. This bill will modernize job training to fit the needs of today’s economy, and I appreciate the bipar- Remarks at a Democratic National tisan spirit that prevailed in getting that done. Committee Dinner in East Hampton, Modeled on my GI bill for America’s work- New York ers, this new training bill streamlines the vast July 31, 1998 array of existing job programs and empowers individuals to learn new skills with a simple First of all, I thank Bruce and Claude for grant. It makes sure that job training helps their wonderful hospitality in this magnifi- Americans meet the demand of a rapidly cent home and the terrific dinner. Our com- changing economy, and I look forward to pliments to all the—the chef and the people signing it into law. in the kitchen. I thank Alan and Susan for dreaming up this weekend and all of you who NOTE: This item was not received in time for pub- have come to be a part of it. lication in the appropriate issue. We’ve had a great time tonight. Since Bruce asked me if I would go in there when we’re having coffee in the other room and Statement on Senate Confirmation of answer questions, I will spare you any ex- Bill Richardson To Be Secretary of tended remarks. I want to ask you to think Energy about something. I am—we’re here for the July 31, 1998 Democrat Committee, and I’m very grateful to Steve Grossman and to Len Barrack and I am very pleased that the Senate today to Fran Katz and all the other people. But voted unanimously to confirm Ambassador I was born a Democrat because I was a De- Bill Richardson as Secretary of Energy. pression era—my parents were and my Ambassador Richardson brings extraor- grandparents. My grandfather, who raised dinary experience and expertise to this vital me until I was 4, thought he was going to post. As a Member of the U.S. Congress rep- Franklin Roosevelt when he died. resenting New Mexico, an energy-rich State But I was determined in 1991 and 1992 that is home to two Department of Energy to be faithful to the traditional values of our national laboratories, he has extensive first- country and our party, but to modernize our hand experience on issues ranging from oil party and to bring a new set of ideas to the and gas deregulation, to alternative energy, debate in Washington, which I thought, to ensuring strong environmental standards frankly, was stale and divisive and dominated in energy development. As U.S. Ambassador by the people in the other party who thought to the United Nations, he has been a vigorous they had an entitlement to the White House. and articulate proponent of U.S. engagement Some days, I think they still do. [Laughter] and has successfully tackled tough negotiat- And I thought the White House belonged ing challenges around the world. to all the rest of you and everybody else in

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the country and was the instrument of ideas The reason I’m a Democrat in 1998, apart consistent with our democracy to keep our from the fact that I was born and raised one country moving forward. and believed in the civil rights movement and Now, Hillary is leading this Millennium the things that were dominant in my child- Project, which was referred to earlier. And hood, is that I think we more clearly rep- you probably saw that they started—Hillary resent the last of those ideas. I think we be- and Ralph Lauren started by saving the Star- lieve that Union is very important. I think Spangled Banner the other day. And then we believe that part of the Declaration of she went to Fort McHenry, and then to Independence that we are dedicated to the Thomas Edison’s home, and then to Harriet permanent mission of forming a more perfect Tubman’s home, and then to George Wash- Union because there are some things that ington’s Revolutionary War headquarters in we want to achieve for ourselves, our fami- New York. lies, and our future that we cannot achieve But the theme of the Millennium Project alone or in isolated groups. is: ‘‘honoring the past and imagining the fu- And I say that because I think that we’ve, ture.’’ So I think about that all the time. Tom for the last couple of decades, seen a real said that McKinley was the last President to assault on Government and on the idea that come here, for example—it must be true. we do have sort of mutual ties and bonds [Laughter] Now, McKinley was an interest- and responsibilities to one another that en- ing fellow, but I’ll tell you the interesting— hance our own lives. And I believe that very McKinley was elected President in 1896 and strongly. reelected in 1900. Now, between 1868, Ulys- So as we look ahead, I think—I will just ses Grant, Rutherford Hayes, Benjamin Har- tell you what I think some of the great chal- rison, and William McKinley were elected lenges of tomorrow are. I think, first of all, President. You know what they had in com- it will be the period of greatest possibility mon? They were all generals in the Union in all human history, and we ought to be Army from Ohio. ashamed of ourselves if we mess it up. It will If you got to be a general in the Union be an age of breathtaking biological ad- Army, and you were from Ohio, you had vances. It will be an age of breathtaking tech- about a 50 percent chance of being President nological advances. It will be an age where in that period of time. [Laughter] That’s a we will be able to relate to people around rather interesting bit of our history. [Laugh- the world through the device of the Inter- ter] So tell that tomorrow when they tell you net—the fastest growing social organism in McKinley was the last President. I care a lot history, I might add—in ways that our par- about this country’s history. I’ve spent a lot ents could never imagine, probably in ways of time reading it, studying it, trying to feel that most of us could never imagine. it in the White House, in every room, in the But we have some big challenges at home life of every predecessor I have had and their and abroad. And I will just mention them families. And I think it’s very important when and stop, and you ask yourself: If you’re try- you imagine the future that we do it in a ing to imagine the future, what do you think way that is consistent with the history of this the big challenges are? Now, let me just country. mention what I think they are. So I will say that I think the most impor- At home, I think, first of all, the baby tant things about American history can be boomers have got to retire in a way that pre- found in the ideas of the Declaration of Inde- serves the dignity of American society for the pendence and the Constitution, which—and elderly without bankrupting our kids and un- manifest in every changing time, this country dermining their ability to raise our grand- has always been about at least three things: children, which means we have to reform So- widening the circle of opportunity for re- cial Security and Medicare in a way that sponsible citizens, deepening the meaning of keeps them there functioning for people who freedom in each succeeding generation, and need them to the extent that they’re needed strengthening the bonds of our Union. and brings our country together, but does it

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in a way that does not dramatically under- a lot of challenges in the global economy; mine the standard of living of our children we have a lot of challenges in the area of and their ability to raise our grandchildren. world peace, the proliferation of weapons of Secondly, we have to recognize that in an mass destruction, dealing with terrorism, and information society we have to do a much trying to stop people from killing each other better job of elementary and secondary edu- because of their ethnic, racial, and religious cation and preschool education, and not just differences. for some or most but for all of our children. There will be plenty to do in the post-cold- And we have to maximize everything we war world to create a trade-centered, people- know about child psychology, about support centered, peaceful network of national co- for kids who come from troubled families and operation and institutions to help deal with live in troubled neighborhoods, about the ac- those who won’t be part of that framework. cess to technology. But no one in the world We also have to recognize, I think, that who really knows anything about it would se- we have an incredible opportunity and an ob- riously question the proposition that Amer- ligation here—and those of you from New ican has the finest system of higher education York, I’d say, should feel it especially—to in the world. No one believes that America prove that we can bring free enterprise to has the finest system of elementary and sec- the areas of America which haven’t received ondary education in the world for all its chil- it yet. There are still neighborhoods in New dren. And I think that’s a big challenge. York City that have double-digit unemploy- Number three, I think we have a whole ment rates, largely because of underinvest- new attitude about the environment. We ment and low skill levels—not because most have basically for 30 years done great things people aren’t responsible; most people in as a country on the environment since the most neighborhoods get up and go to work passage of the Clean Air Act and setting up every day, pay taxes, and try to be good citi- the EPA, and we concluded that if we take zens. So we’re never going to have a better these things one at a time, we can afford to time than the next couple of years to try to clean up the environment and keep our econ- help. omy still growing. I think now we have to And the last thing I’d like to say is I think understand that we cannot maintain or sus- that this theme, that Hillary and I have tain our economy unless we make the preser- worked on, of one America means something vation and even the improvement of the envi- to me. It means one America across all the ronment an integral part of our economic lines that divide us. It means an America in policy. which citizens commit themselves to serve In other words, I believe global warming their fellow human beings, which is why I’m is real. I do not think it is an accident that so proud of our AmeriCorps program, our 9 hottest years on record have all occurred national service program. It also means that in the last 11 years. I don’t think that’s an we understand that the unity we have is a accident. I don’t think it’s an accident that precious gift, and we should manage our dif- ’97 was the hottest year on record, and every ferences with dignity and decency and always month in ’98 has been hotter than every strive for unity over division; always put peo- month in ’97. And I think there are at hand ple over politics; always put progress over the means to continue to grow the economy partisanship. That’s what I believe. and improve the environment in ways that And if we do those things, I think we’re will make sure it’s all here a hundred years going to do just great in the 21st century. from now for our great grandchildren. And I’m going to do everything I can for the Let me just mention a couple of other next 21⁄2 years to make sure that that is ex- things. I believe that, with regard to the actly what we do. economy, I think it’s obvious—and around Thank you very much. our table I had a fascinating conversation talking about the global economy, in particu- NOTE: The President spoke at 9:40 p.m. at a pri- lar, as you might imagine, Japan and Asia, vate residence. In his remarks, he referred to din- China, and we talked about Russia. We have ner hosts Bruce and Claude Wasserstein; event

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cochairs Alan and Susan Patricof; Steve Gross- gency room care, a bill that guarantees doc- man, national chair; Leonard Barrack, national fi- tors are not receiving secret financial incen- nance chair; and Fran Katz, national finance di- tives to limit care, a bill that guarantees a rector, Democratic National Committee; and remedy to families who have suffered harm fashion designer Ralph Lauren. This item was not because of bad decisions by their health received in time for publication in the appropriate issue. plans. And for 9 months the American people have waited. Finally, the Republican leadership has The President’s Radio Address proposed a partisan bill that does not provide August 1, 1998 these guarantees. Now they’ve left town without taking action, leaving millions of Good morning. Today Hillary and I are Americans without the health care protec- at the fire station in Amagansett, Long Is- tions they need. Any bill that doesn’t guaran- land, New York, one of many beautiful com- tee these protections is a Patients’ Bill of munities on Long Island, where we’re joined Rights in name only. today by doctors, nurses, breast cancer pa- Today the American Medical Association, tients, and public health advocates, to talk the American Nurses Association, the Na- about something that concerns all Americans: tional Breast Cancer Coalition, the American making a Patients’ Bill of Rights the law of College of Emergency Room Physicians, the the land. American Small Business Alliance, and the I’m also very proud to be joined by Con- National Partnership for Women and Fami- gressman Michael Forbes and his family. lies have all come forward to say the plan Congressman Forbes is a Republican who is of the Republican leadership is an empty cosponsoring bipartisan legislation to achieve promise; it simply will not protect the Amer- a genuine Patients’ Bill of Rights. ican public or ensure the quality health care We all know that our health care system they deserve. Now Congress should rise to is rapidly changing. Since 1990 the number its responsibilities and guarantee a Patients’ of Americans in managed care has nearly Bill of Rights, and they should reject propos- doubled. Today, most Americans, 160 million als that are more loopholed than law. of us, are in managed care plans. I think that, Until Congress acts, I will continue to do on balance, managed care has been good for everything I can to ensure that more Ameri- America because it’s made health care more cans are protected by a Patients’ Bill of affordable and more accessible for more Rights. In February I signed an executive Americans. But sometimes cost cutting can memorandum that extends those protections lead to lower standards. That’s when the to 85 million Americans in Federal health bottomline becomes more important than plans. Last month the Department of Veter- patients’ lives. And when families have no- ans Affairs put in place a new health care where to turn when their loved ones are appeals procedure for 3 million veterans. harmed by health care plans’ bad decisions, Today we’re building on our efforts. I’m when there’s a denial of specialist care or pleased to announce that the Defense De- emergency care when they’re plainly needed partment is issuing a directive to make the and recommended by physicians, when those protections of the Patients’ Bill of Rights real kinds of things happen, we know we have for more than 8 million servicemen and to take action. women, their families, and Defense Depart- Whether in managed care or traditional ment employees. These men and women care, every single American deserves quality stand ready every day to keep our Nation care. I’m doing everything I can as President safe. They should not have to worry about to help to meet that challenge. For 9 months the heath care they or their families receive. I have worked in good faith with lawmakers This action brings us one step closer to of both parties to pass a strong, enforceable, a Patients’ Bill of Rights for all Americans, bipartisan Patients’ Bill of Rights, a bill that but Congress must act. And so once again, covers individual and group plans, a bill that I ask Congress to do its part. There are just guarantees access to specialists and emer- a few weeks left in this legislative session,

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only a few weeks left to improve health care were a Union general from Ohio, you had and strengthen our families. Let’s put about a 50 percent chance of being elected progress ahead of partnership. I ask all Mem- President between the end of the Civil War bers of Congress to join Congressman and 1900. Forbes, me, and the other Democrats and Now, what has that got to do with all this Republicans who want a real Patients’ Bill today? There’s a reason they won. They won of Rights. because Ohio was the heartland of America Thanks for listening. at the time and because they embodied the idea of the Nation for which Abraham Lin- NOTE: The President spoke at 10:06 a.m. from the Amagansett Fire Station in Long Island, NY. coln gave his life—that slavery was wrong, that discrimination based on race was wrong, and that we needed a strong, united country Remarks at a Democratic National for America and for all Americans to fulfill Committee Reception in East their God-given capacity. Hampton Throughout American history, one of our August 1, 1998 two parties has always been essentially the party of the Nation. And even though the Thank you. This is one clever man. I want Democrats, I regret to say, after the Civil you to watch this. You see this? He took the War, were just kind of coming to that—they watch again. [Laughter] Thank you, Jona- were the party of immigrants, and that was than. Thank you, Christopher. I want to good, and they stood against discrimination thank Andy and Jeff and Elizabeth and all against immigrants—but for all kinds of rea- the others who were cochairs tonight. I want sons, we didn’t become the party of the Na- to thank Sandy Thurman and Richard tion until the election of Woodrow Wilson. Socarides and Marsha Scott, who’ve done a And then, our fate was sealed when Franklin lot of great work for me and on my behalf Roosevelt was elected and Harry Truman with so many of you. succeeded him. And I want to thank Brian Rich for serving as a White House volunteer. The whole place We haven’t always been right on every runs on volunteers, believe it or not, to an issue in the 20th century, but I think it’s clear astonishing extent. I want to thank Steve and that we have been on the right side of history. Len and all fine people here from the DNC, And I think that’s why you’re here today. And and all of you for being here. a lot of you said a lot of very kind things Last night we were with some people, and to me as I worked my way through the crowd, a person who’s lived here for many years said, and I appreciate them more than you know. ‘‘You know, the last sitting President to visit When I ran for President in 1992, I did it Long Island was William McKinley—the because I thought our country was divided, eastern end of Long Island—William that we hadn’t taken care of the business be- McKinley.’’ And everybody laughed. They fore us, and we certainly weren’t planning didn’t exactly see me as a natural successor for the future very well. It seemed to me to William McKinley. We don’t think of him that we needed to be trying to create an in the same terms that I’m frequently painted America in which there was genuine oppor- these days. tunity for every responsible citizen, in which But I’ll tell you an interesting thing about we were continuing to lead the world toward William McKinley. He was the last of a line peace and freedom and prosperity, and in of either four or five generals, Union generals which we were coming closer together as one from Ohio, to be elected President between community. 1868 and 1896, that included Ulysses Grant; Or, if you put it in another way—if you his successor, Rutherford Hayes; James Gar- go back and read the Declaration of Inde- field, who, unfortunately, was assassinated pendence, it basically lays out the things that and lived only a few months; Mr. McKin- our country has been for all along. We just ley—Mr. Harrison might have been from never perfectly lived up to them. We’ve al- Ohio; I’m not sure. But the point is, if you ways been for deepening the meaning of

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freedom. Keep in mind, when all those peo- things like citizen service and the opportuni- ple said all people are created equal, if you ties I’ve had to work with many of you to weren’t a white male property owner, you remind the American people that we’re all couldn’t even vote. But Jefferson said, one country and that everybody is entitled ‘‘When I think of slavery, I tremble to think to be treated with dignity and respect and that God is just.’’ equality. So we set out an ideal, and then we knew And I would just like to say, if you look we’d have to be working toward it for a long ahead at the big challenges facing the coun- time, constantly redefining it, deepening the try—how are we are going to prepare for the meaning of freedom. We’ve always tried to retirement of the baby boom generation? We widen the circle of opportunity, and we have have to reform Social Security and Medicare been on a permanent mission, in the Found- so that it will do what it needs to do to hold ers’ words, to ‘‘form a more perfect Union.’’ our society together and provide for dignity Now, on all fronts, I believe our party is in old age without bankrupting our children on the right side of history on the edge of and grandchildren—those of us who are baby this new millennium. Hillary is running this boomers. great Millennial Project called imagining the We have to provide, for the first time in past and imagine the future—excuse— history, a genuine world-class elementary ‘‘honor the past had imagine the future.’’ It’s and secondary education for all of our kids, been a long day. [Laughter] Anyway, the not just those who are middle class or better. thing I like about it is, I don’t think you can We have to prove that we can grow the econ- imagine the future unless you do it in terms omy and improve the environment—not just of the values and the history of the past, and preserve it but improve it—because I believe I don’t think you can just live in the past. that the global warming phenomenon is real. So everything I’ve done the last 6 years I’ve tried to make America, first of all, work again. I know the oceans are being slowly under- I’ve tried to develop a working definition of mined. And we had a fabulous conference what the role of the Federal Government in on that recently in California. our national life should be. And I’ve tried We have to prove that America can still to get out of the old debate about Govern- be a force for peace and freedom and secu- ment is the problem, Government is the solu- rity around the world, standing up against tion, toward seeing Government as an em- all this racial and ethnic and religious hatred powering agent to enable the rest of us to around the world and the spread of dan- live our lives, and to create the conditions gerous weapons and taking advantage of the and give people the tools to do what needs opportunities that are there. to be done. And finally, I don’t think we can do good And I think that the ideas we brought to around the world unless we are good at the economic and social debate, to the for- home. And that’s why I have always said I eign policy debate, have contributed measur- belong to a party that puts progress over par- ably to the remarkable conditions in our tisanship, that puts people over politics, that country today. Most of you know that we puts unity over division. have the lowest unemployment rate in 28 And you know sometimes when you try years and the lowest crime rate in 25 years to affect that kind of transformation, you and the lowest percentage of people on wel- know you’re going to provoke a reaction. I fare in 29 years. We’re about to have the first didn’t dream it would be quite as profound balanced budget and surplus in 29 years, the as it has been—this reaction. But I must say, highest homeownership in history, with the if I had it to do over again, I would gladly smallest Government in 35 years. assume the challenge because it’s been a But we also have advanced the cause of wonderful thing. And if it weren’t for the peace and freedom around the world, ad- 22nd amendment, I’d give the people one vanced the cause of interdependence around more chance to elect or defeat me—[laugh- the world through economic cooperation, ter]—because I believe in what we’re doing. and advanced the cause of unity at home with And I’ve been blessed to have not only a wife

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but also a wonderful Vice President who be- we’re up against is designed to depress the lieves in what we’re doing. vote. In 1994 we had a very depressed vote. And I just want to say to all of you, what Now, I personally don’t think it’s going to Hillary said is right. We can do very well in work this time, because the country is in bet- this election. If you go all the way back to ter shape and the consequences of the poli- the Civil War, the party of the President cies of the administration are more evident, when the President’s in his second term al- and the strategy against us is a little more ways has lost seats at midterm. It may not bald, I’d say. I think that’s a delicate way of happen this time, which is one reason the saying it. And so I don’t think it will work. heat, the incoming fire, is so intense now, But you’ve got to think about that. Go out because they know it may not happen this there and tell people that you’re doing this time. Why? Because we have an agenda out because throughout history, America was al- there: We have a Patients’ Bill of Rights. ways at its best by trying to perfect what we We’ve got an education agenda. We’ve got started with in the Declaration of Independ- an environmental agenda. We’ve got a for- ence—to widen the circle of opportunity, eign policy agenda. We’ve got an economic deepen the meaning of freedom, strengthen agenda for the inner cities. The debate—the the bonds of our Union—and because we’re substantive debate is out there. on the edge of a whole new millennium, a And I still believe that the biggest problem whole new way of thinking and living and with the American people not feeling the working and relating to each other and the sense of unity and mutual harmony and re- rest of the world; and the party of the future spect that affects among other things— is the party that’s on the right side of history among others, people in the gay community and that you’re proud to be a part of it. all the time, is a lack of genuine, open, Thank you, and God bless you. unthreatening contact, debate, discussion. And so, I just want to say to you, I thank NOTE: The President spoke at 6:30 p.m. at a pri- you for your contributions; I thank you for vate residence. In his remarks, he referred to re- being here; we’ll try to make good use of ception hosts Jonathan Sheffer and Christopher the investments you’ve given us. But I hope Barley; event cochairs Andy Tobias and Jeff Soref; Elizabeth Birch, executive director, Human between now and November, you will go out Rights Campaign; and Steve Grossman, national and tell people that it’s not an accident that chair, and Leonard Barrack, national finance America is better off today than it was 6 years chair, Democratic National Committee. ago, that there are ideas behind the changes that took place in this country, and they’re good ideas. And the ideas we have for the Remarks at a Saxophone Club future are good ideas. And the American Reception in East Hampton people ought to go out there in this election August 1, 1998 and be heard on those ideas. And if they are, I think that our Democrats will do very well Thank you very much. Wow! [Laughter] indeed, because we know that given a rea- First, I want to thank you for being so laid soned chance to make a judgment, we win back and quiet and restrained. Aren’t you two-to-one on almost every critical issue fac- proud you’re here and proud of what we’re ing the country. trying to do for our country? [Applause] But given organized and well-financed Let me begin by thanking Alec and Kim disinformation campaigns, we sometimes for opening their home tonight to this inti- have trouble, as we did recently when, much mate little gathering, giving up their privacy to Andy’s grief, we lost the fight with the for this high public purpose, and making us big tobacco interests in Congress. I’m not all feel like we’re very welcome at their beau- done with that, and we’re going to come back tiful home. Thank you very much. to it. I want to thank Judith Hope and Tom But you can help us prevail. And the last Twomey, Alan and Susan Patricof, Liz Rob- thing I’d like to say is—the other thing Hil- bins, all the cochairs of the event tonight. lary said is right—a part of this strategy that Thank you, Chairman Grossman, and all the

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people from the DNC. And thank you, lowest, small Federal Government in 35 Hootie and the Blowfish. Thank you. I told years. And I am proud of that. some people coming in even an old guy like We also made the first 2 years of college me likes them. I love them. I thank Con- virtually free to most Americans, opened the gressman Meeks, Congresswoman McCar- doors of college to everyone, immunized over thy, Lieutenant Governor Ross, Mark Green, 90 percent of our children, kept 250,000 peo- all the other office holders who are here. ple with a bad criminal or mental health his- Ladies and gentlemen, I am so thrilled to tory from buying handguns with the Brady see you. I’m thrilled that you’re here for this bill, banned the assault weapons over the op- purpose, and I want you to take this enthu- position of the other party. The water is siasm out from under this tent back to your cleaner; the air is cleaner; the food is safer; daily lives. And I want you to infect every there are fewer toxic waste dumps. We are person you meet with it between now and moving in the right direction, my fellow November. Americans. And our party right now is working in Con- You know, in—a young girl came through gress not just to pass a Patients’ Bill of Rights the line earlier tonight, shook my hand, and but also to put 100,000 more teachers in the had her picture taken with me—a little girl. early grades, to build new schools and repair And she said, ‘‘Why did you want to be Presi- old ones, to bring economic opportunity to dent?’’ She must have been about 8 years urban neighborhoods and rural areas that old, maybe 7. I said, ‘‘Well, I wanted you haven’t gotten it yet, to have a genuine envi- to have a better future; I wanted your coun- ronmental policy that will deal with the prob- try to do better; and I wanted you to live lem of climate change and continue to grow in a safe world.’’ And she said, ‘‘That sounds the economy, that will have record amounts pretty good to me.’’ [Laughter] of money going into medical research and When I ran for President in 1992, I wanted other scientific research—in short, that will this country to move in a different direction. prepare our path for the 21st century. And here we are, on the edge of a new mil- And in almost every area, we are being lennium, just 2 years away from a new cen- opposed by the leadership of the other party. tury, a new 1,000 years, an amazing time. The choice is clear. The record is clear. The Hillary was in Seneca Falls and at George results are in. You’re here—go out of here Washington’s Revolutionary War head- and tell the American people you’re proud quarters and other places in New York, sort to be part of the direction we’re taking to of promoting our idea of how we should mark tomorrow. this sea change in history by honoring our Thank you, and God bless you all. past and imaging our future—a future where things are changing faster and more pro- NOTE: The President spoke at 8:24 p.m. at a pri- vate residence. In his remarks, he referred to ac- foundly in the way we live, the way we work, tors Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger, reception the way we related to each other and the hosts; New York State Democratic Chair Judith rest of the world. Hope, Tom Twomey, Liz Robbins, Alan and We’ve been working on this for 6 years, Susan Patricof, event cochairs; Steve Grossman, thanks to New York in 1992 and the magnifi- national chair, Democratic National Committee; cent victory the people here gave us in 1996. Assemblyman Gregory W. Meeks, 31st New York And I thank you. And you ought to tell the District; Lt. Gov. Betsy McCaughey Ross of New doubters that there is a connection between York; and Mark Green, New York City public ad- vocate. the economic and social policies and foreign policies this country has pursued for the last 6 years, and the fact that we have the lowest Remarks on Summer Jobs Program unemployment rate in 28 years, the lowest Funding in Cheverly, Maryland crime rate in 25 years, the smallest percent- August 3, 1998 age of people on welfare in 29 years, the first balanced budget and surplus in 29 years, the Thank you very much. Let’s give Terence highest homeownership in history, with the another hand. Wasn’t he good. [Applause]

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Well, I would say Terence has gotten quite to their income, their race, their background, a lot out of his job opportunity here. And or where they live, would have the oppor- he made quite a good speech. Maybe he tunity to make the most of his or her life. needs a summer job with Wayne Curry or I wanted to create a 21st century America Congressman Wynn or Lieutenant Governor where the American dream is alive for all Kathleen Kennedy Townsend or the Presi- our people and where our people are coming dent—or something. He’s very good, I think. together, across all lines that divide us, into I’d like to thank my friend, Wayne Curry, one American community and where that for that wonderful welcome. I thank Lieuten- gives us the strength to continue to lead the ant Governor Kathleen Kennedy Townsend world to greater peace and freedom and for her sentiments and her passionate work prosperity. None of that can occur unless we for our children. And I thank, in his absence, make sure that every American has a first- Governor Glendening for his support for so class education, and then, that we have an many good causes, but especially the one we economy that functions so every American have come here to advance today. can make the most of that education. I thank Al Wynn. He didn’t even come Right now in Washington, we are prepar- close to breaking the Barbara Mikulski step ing the budget that will determine how we up here. [Laughter] But every day he comes continue to reform, renew, and advance edu- close to the ideal of what I think a Congress- cation next year. This isn’t just a normal man should be. I thank the State and the budget. Because of 5 years of strict budget local officials who are here, and I thank this discipline in our Nation, this will be the first hospital. As Wayne said, it’s quite an accom- balanced budget in most of your lifetimes, modation to take in a Presidential visit, and the first one in 29 years. It is also a validation I thank them for making me and Secretary of our economic strategy that you can cut Herman and our party feel so welcome. the deficit and continue to invest money in I, too, want to say my personal thanks to people, in science and technology, in edu- Secretary Herman for her role in settling the cation, in the environment, in building the General Motors strike. We want to keep the right kind of future. We have to do both. economy going, and we don’t do very well To do our part, I have proposed in this in America unless all of our autoworkers are balanced budget a comprehensive education out there working hard and making cars. And agenda with high national standards, more I know we’re all grateful for that. accountability, more school choice in charter Let me say to all the young people here schools, more well-qualified teachers, small- in this audience on the summer job program, er classrooms, modernized schools equipped both those behind me and on the stage and with computers and hooked up to the Inter- those out here in the audience, I am very net, reading tutors for children who are fall- proud of what you’re doing here, and I hope ing behind, before- and after-school pro- you are as well, because whether you’re serv- grams and summer school programs to keep ing lunch in a cafeteria or escorting patients young people learning in the classroom, not in the hallways, you’re not only helping this lost on the streets, and summer jobs pro- hospital to help others, you’re helping to grams like this one, to give young people the build a better future for yourselves; proving skills they need to succeed when they leave that given the opportunity to work and to school and to give them something to do and learn, there is no limit to what our young a way to earn money during the summer. people can do. I believe all these things are necessary to I want to talk to you today about what we help all of you and people like you all across are doing to make sure more young people this country live up to their God-given poten- have the chance to continue to participate tial. I believe they’re necessary to make the in summer jobs and to continue to improve America we all want in the 21st century. their education. One of the principal reasons I am very proud of the fact that today we I ran for President in 1992 was to make sure are enjoying the lowest unemployment in 28 that as we move into the 21st century, every years, the lowest crime rate in 25 years, the young person in this country, without regard lowest—[applause]—we have the smallest

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percentage of people on welfare in 29 years. It would cut $140 million from my proposal And as I’ve said, we’re about to have the first to expand after-school programs that keep balanced budget and surplus in 29 years, the young people learning in the classroom, not highest homeownership in history. I’m proud lost on the streets, in the hours of prime ac- of that. tivity for juvenile crime. And believe it or But this a rare moment in American his- not, the House Republican budget plan tory when we have a lot of confidence about would even kill summer jobs programs like our ability to make things work in this coun- this one next year. try. And we have to use it as an opportunity I’m sure when you started this program to act, to give everyone—everyone—a some of you didn’t know how rewarding it chance. We can’t let this moment pass us would be. I was quite amused to hear what by. And we have to make progress, both par- Terence said about his experience and the ties together, especially when it comes to the dress code. [Laughter] But now that you interest of children, education, employment, know how rewarding these programs can be, and the future. now that you know that there is no limit to There are, as you have already heard from what you can achieve if you continue to work previous speakers, those in Congress who hard and be responsible citizens, you must disagree with this agenda. They have pro- surely know that other young people like you posed a narrow and much more partisan plan deserve the same chance next year and that that, in my view, is not a step into the future you may need this chance next year. but a step backward. At a time when we Today, because of the budget we passed should be increasing our investments in edu- last year, there are half a million young peo- cation and training, their plan actually cuts ple just like you in summer jobs programs. more than $3 billion from the plan I pro- And if my budget passes this year, there will posed. At a time when we should be raising be half a million next year. But if the House standards and challenging our students to Republican budget passes, most of those chil- meet them and helping school districts with dren would not have a job next year. a lot of poor children to do just that, their And that’s not all the Republicans plan to plan would prohibit the development of na- do away with. At a time when more families tional tests for our schools. At at time when have both parents working, their plan would more children enter school now than anytime cut nearly $180 million from my proposal to since my generation—the baby boomers make child care centers better, safer places were in school—I have proposed to expand for our children. At a time when we are Head Start. Their plan would deny 25,000 struggling so hard around the world to pro- children the opportunity to participate in that tect children from being abused in other important early learning program when com- countries—to send cheap products here—it pared with my budget. undercuts our ability to fight the exploitative My America Reads initiative—which al- practice of child labor. At a time when our ready involves volunteer students from 1,000 Nation is experiencing extremely severe colleges and universities around America, weather, from crippling cold in the winter and many churches and other organizations, to record heat waves that have killed more going into the schools, working with children than 100 people already this summer, the one-on-one to make sure they can read inde- House Republicans want to eliminate the pendently by the time they finish the third program called LIHEAP that today helps grade—it would give thousands more stu- millions and millions of families—millions of dents a chance to have a tutor and to help families with low incomes—a lot of them them learn. Their plan would cut that pro- very vulnerable older people—pay for home gram off without a penny. heating and this summer for cooling cost. At a time when we should be helping If this budget were to pass, those folks young people learn the skills they need to would be on their own. This is a time when succeed in the jobs of tomorrow, their plan we ought to be putting progress ahead of par- would make it harder for 400 of our school tisanship. We’ve got all the evidence in the districts across America to buy computers. world that when we do that, it works. Look

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at how America is doing. The House Repub- was made in a young man from a modest lican plan puts politics ahead of people and family in a small town a long time ago. puts your future in the backseat. That is You, too, will do great things. And, in part, wrong. And if a bill like the one that is pro- it will be because your country has believed posed by the House Republicans passes, I in you and invested in you. And I don’t want will veto it. us to stop. I want us to do more. I have sent Congress a balanced budget Thank you, and God bless you. that proves we can maintain our budget re- sponsibility and still invest in our people. So NOTE: The President spoke at 11:36 a.m. in the Deitz Memorial Auditorium at Prince Georges far, Congress hasn’t passed that budget or Hospital Center. In his remarks, he referred to one of its own. Within less than 2 months, Terence Newton, who introduced the President; they’ll have to act because our new budget Prince Georges County Executive Wayne K. year will start. Because of the delay they may Curry; and Gov. Parris N. Glendening of Mary- decide to send me a barebones budget that land. The President also referred to the Low In- fails to expand the critical investments we come Home Energy Assistance Program need to make, from education to summer (LIHEAP). jobs to school modernization to child care. But the last budget of the 20th century Statement on Congressional Action should be preparing our Nation for the chal- on Campaign Finance Reform lenges of the next. I will not accept a budget that fails to do this. Legislation There are those in both parties who under- August 3, 1998 stand this. It was mentioned earlier that the Tonight’s vote for the Shays-Meehan bill Congress, just last Friday night, passed the is a breakthrough in the fight for bipartisan Senate bid, the GI bill for America’s workers, campaign finance reform. The breadth of its that consolidates scores and scores of dispar- support, from Members of both parties, ate training programs into one program that showed that reform is an idea whose time will give skills grants to people in their work- has come, even in the face of persistent ob- ing years, to adults who have to go back to struction by the Republican leaders of Con- school and learn new skills. It was one of gress. It is time to ban soft money, improve the major commitments I made when I ran disclosure, and curb backdoor campaign for President in ’92. I have worked for 4 years spending. Now a majority of both the House on this. So there is the capacity there to forge and the Senate have gone on record for this this kind of bipartisan relationship. We have legislation. I urge the House to move this to do it for summer jobs and for education. legislation to final passage before they ad- Let me just close with this—it’s not in my journ for the August recess. And I urge the notes, but I was looking at Terence up there Republican leaders of the Senate, who are talking and I thought you might like to know using procedural tactics to block this meas- that over 30 years ago I was involved in two ure, to listen to the will of the majority and Federally-funded summer jobs programs. I the loud voice of the American people. I con- didn’t get to wear a shirt and tie to work; gratulate Representatives Chris Shays, Mar- I was working at our National Park in my tin Meehan, and their colleagues for their hometown doing basic maintenance and courage and their persistence. clearing work. And then I worked in a sum- mer camp for disadvantaged young people where I was a counselor, after my first year Remarks on the Anniversary of the in college. I loved that work, and I loved Personal Responsibility and Work those kids. And I was very grateful that my Opportunity Reconciliation Act of country gave me an opportunity to do some- 1996 thing productive, to learn something, and to August 4, 1998 make a little money. I hope when the history books are written, Thank you. Thank you very much, Vesta it will look like a pretty good investment that Kimble, for that fine statement and for the

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good work you do. And I welcome your col- more in child care and other family sup- leagues and co-workers from Maryland here. ports.’’ I thank Congressman Levin and Congress- Today we come here not only to observe man Roemer for coming. There was a vote this anniversary but to lay to rest the last ves- in the House of Representatives which was tige of the old system, an anti-work, anti-fam- concluded literally 2 minutes before we start- ily provision that has deprived some two-par- ed this ceremony, and they got here as quick ent families of their Medicaid coverage when as they could. We welcome you and thank a parent secures a full-time job. you for your role in welfare reform. But first, on this important anniversary, I I’d like to thank Secretary Herman and think it’s important to recognize that this new Secretary Shalala for the terrific job they strategy, this great new experiment that we have done and welcome all of you in the au- launched 2 years ago, has already shown re- dience, including my good friend, Eli Segal, markable signs of success. Two years ago we who founded our partnership with the busi- said welfare reform would spark a race to ness community, about which I’ll say more independence, not a race to the bottom, and later. The First Lady was recently—just a few this prediction is coming true. moments ago meeting with members and, I According to the National Governors’ As- think, maybe some former members of the sociation, State investments in helping DC control board. I know that some of them former welfare parents succeed at work have are here, and I welcome them as well. gone up by one-third, and spending on child Two years ago I stood with many of you care has increased by one-half. And let me in the Rose Garden and made the following remind you, I believe this has happened part- statement: ‘‘From now on, our Nation’s an- ly because the Congress in the balanced swer to the problems of poverty will no budget amendment appropriated $3 billion longer be a never-ending cycle of welfare; for child care, but partly because there was it will be the dignity, the power, and the ethic a little-noticed provision in the welfare re- of work. . . . We are taking an historic form law which lets States keep the amount chance to make welfare what it was meant of money they were receiving for the welfare to be: a second chance, not a way of life.’’ caseload in February of ’94, when it had As those of us who have been working for reached an all-time high. So as the caseloads years and years to change the system know go down, they can keep the money as long all too well, welfare had in too many ways as they reinvest it in the potential of the fami- failed our society and, more important, failed lies involved. And I think that was a very the millions of families it was designed to good thing to do. help. So in the Rose Garden we came to- We also said back then that work should gether 2 years ago to restore our basic bar- pay more than welfare. Last week the Urban gain of providing opportunity to all those Institute reported that family income goes up willing to exercise responsibility in turn. We more than 50 percent, on average, when par- ended welfare as we knew it and made way ents move form welfare to part-time entry- for a system based on the dignity of inde- level jobs and significantly more when they pendence and the value of work. move up to full-time work. And I must say, But I would also like to reiterate some- I was especially pleased to note how helpful thing Secretary Shalala said. We did not want the earned-income tax credit is for families to put poor people moving from welfare to making this transition. In several States, it work in the exact same position too many accounts for almost half the income gains. people who’ve always been in the work force For those of you who may not know it, find themselves, of having to choose between the earned-income tax credit is a tax cut to being a good worker and a good parent. So lower income working people that is espe- we said, ‘‘Okay, we will require people who cially generous to working families with chil- have to move from welfare to work, if they’re dren. We doubled it in 1993. And because able-bodied, to go to work. But we will leave of that provision, today it’s worth a tax cut their children with food assistance and guar- of approximately $1,000 a year to a family anteed medical coverage, and we will invest of four with an income of under $30,000 a

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year. Obviously, for people working for more 100-hour rule. Just think of the message it modest wages than that, it means a very great sent. It took away health care from people deal. who secured a full-time job just as we were Today we have more good news. In a few imploring everybody to move from welfare moments, I will release our first annual re- to work. Instead of rewarding stable families, port to Congress on welfare reform, precisely it actually punished couples that work and the kind of report we had hoped for 2 years work hard to stay together. Instead of de- ago. It shows that the number of welfare re- manding responsibility, it basically said a fa- cipients entering the work force rose by near- ther could do more for his children’s health ly 30 percent in a single year. It reports that by sitting at home or walking away than earn- States are spending more per person on wel- ing a living. fare-to-work efforts than they did 2 years ago, The 100-hour rule was wrong. Now, it and including health care, job training, job place- every other strand of the old welfare system ment, child care, and job retention. are history. The remaining challenges are Come in, Congressman Shaw, you’re wel- ones we all have to accept. All of us, the pub- come. [Laughter] Thank you for the role lic, private, religious, nonprofit sectors, have you’ve played in welfare reform legislation. an obligation to continue helping all former We’re glad to see you. welfare recipients not only find but stay in It shows that more single parents are mov- those jobs. ing into the work force, a very significant sta- First, we must continue to offer States and tistic. And it confirms that the percentage of communities the tools they need to promote Americans now on welfare is at its lowest work. Today we will release $60 million more level since 1969—29 years. There are other, in welfare-to-work grants to States to help more powerful signs of success that of course mothers and fathers facing the most signifi- a report can’t show. Too often we take for cant employment hurdles. And I also want granted what it really means for a family to to call on Congress to fully fund my plan reconnect to the world of work. Work is more to provide housing vouchers for welfare re- than a punchcard, more than a paycheck. It cipients who need to move closer to their provides structure to a day, link to a society, place of work. dignity for a family. It can build self-con- Some recent studies, including some com- fidence and self-esteem. There is nothing ing out of New York, show that the effects like the pride in a child’s eyes when he or of welfare reform in terms of people being she goes to school and can answer, often for able to move into the workplace have been the first time, what their parents do for a quite uneven, depending upon the level of living. preparation of the people on welfare for the One of the most important ways we can work force and their level of isolation from now build on these everyday triumphs is to available jobs. So these are important next make absolutely sure that parents who do steps. enter the work force can go to bed at night Second, the private sector, the true engine without worrying that they will lose health of job creation in our country, must continue coverage for their families. That is why I’m to do its part. Listen to this: Last year our proud to announce that the Department of welfare-to-work partners, who were mobi- Health and Human Services will revise its lized by Eli Segal, as I said earlier, hired regulations to allow all States to continue to more than 135,000 former welfare recipients. provide Medicaid coverage to two-parent I have asked them to hire another 270,000 families after a parent takes a full-time job. by the end of this year. Thank you, Eli, but Believe it or not, under the old rules, adults you have to do more. [Laughter] in two-parent families who worked more Third, we must continue to welcome than 100 hours per month could actually be former welfare recipients into the Federal cut off Medicaid in many States. family work force. Today we released new Perhaps no aspect of the old welfare sys- data showing that the Federal Government tem did more to defy common sense and in- has hired more than 5,700 former welfare sult our common values than this so-called recipients in just the past year. That means

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we’re well over half the way toward our goal who are committed to keeping on until the of hiring 10,000 by the year 2000. job is done, I extend the thanks of our Na- Fourth, let me say again, I think it’s impor- tion. Great job. Let’s do better. tant that we do more to bring the benefits Thank you very much, and God bless you. of this economic revival our country is enjoy- ing into isolated urban and rural areas where free enterprise has not yet reached. A lot of NOTE: The President spoke at 3:15 p.m. in the the people who are still stuck on welfare are East Room at the White House. In his remarks, physically separate from the job availability. he referred to Vesta Kimble, deputy director, Anne Arundel County Department of Social Serv- And I have asked the Congress to approve ices, MD; and Eli Segal, president and chief exec- a second round of empowerment zones, to utive officer, Welfare to Work Partnership. approve a whole range of initiatives, and Sec- retary Herman and Secretary Cuomo’s budg- et designed to create jobs principally in the private sector in isolated inner-city and rural Statement on the Death of Arthur neighborhoods. So I hope that will be a part Barbieri of the work we conclude in the days remain- August 4, 1998 ing in this congressional session. Welfare reform itself was a bipartisan ef- Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the fort. It became an American issue. Now, pro- death of Arthur Barbieri. New Haven has lost viding jobs and opportunity and new busi- a great political leader; I have lost a mentor nesses and new free enterprise in these and a friend. neighborhoods that still have not felt the When I was a law student, I was lucky economy should also be an American issue. enough to work by Arthur’s side and learn We have now the lowest unemployment grassroots politics at its absolute best. I’m in 28 years, the lowest inflation in 32 years, the highest homeownership in history. Wages forever grateful for all that he taught me. Our are on the rise for our families after 20 years thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones. of stagnation. This is our window of maxi- mum opportunity to make sure every poor person in America stuck on welfare has a Statement on House Action on Credit chance to be a part of America’s future and Union Legislation to share in the American dream. if we can’t do it now, when our economy and our pros- August 4, 1998 pects and our confidence are so strong, then I am pleased that the House has passed when? Now we have jobs waiting to be filled in the ‘‘Credit Union Membership Access Act’’ almost every community. I’ve been working to protect and strengthen credit unions for with people here in Washington, DC—there the 71 million Americans who own, use , and are hundreds of thousands of jobs in informa- rely upon them. This bill resolves uncertainty tion technology-related fields open today, ev- about the future of credit unions created by erywhere from Silicon Valley to the suburban a recent Supreme Court decision by protect- areas of the Nation’s Capital. If we make the ing existing credit union members and mak- best use of this time, we can change the ing it easier for credit unions to expand whole culture of poverty and long neglected where appropriate. It also helps put credit neighborhoods. We can help millions more unions on sounder footing by making impor- people ensure that their children will be tant reforms that could pay enormous divi- raised in homes full of hope and pride based dends in more difficult times. This bill en- on dignity and work. sures that consumers continue to have a To all of you who have made this day come broad array of choices in financial services, to pass, who have played a role in the and, when Congress sends me this bill, I will progress of the last 2 years, and to all of you sign it.

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Remarks at a Democratic just like to make a couple of observations. Congressional Campaign Committee I’m very grateful to have had the chance to Dinner serve as President at a time of remarkable August 4, 1998 change and to try to make sure that this pe- riod of change works for all Americans and Thank you very much. Maxine, you have that, when we get to the 21st century, the neither been a fair-weather nor a faint-heart- American dream is alive and well for every- ed friend. [Laughter] And you have always body who is responsible enough to work for let me know exactly what you think, whether it, that our country is strong and visionary I wanted to hear it or not—[laughter]—in enough to continue to lead the world toward good times and bad. And I thank you. prosperity and peace and freedom, and that I thank all of you for coming. Sidney, thank we can do that because we have enough you for being here and for the service you’ve sense to come together, across all the lines rendered our country as an Ambassador. I that divide us, into one America. That is what thank the Members of the Democratic con- I have worked for. gressional caucus who are here: Congress- Now, we all know that we are facing a new man Ford; Congressman Frost, the head of time of economic challenge because of the the DCCC; Congressman Hoyer; Congress- difficulties in Asia, which I have spent an woman Lee; Congressman Rush; and Con- enormous amount of time on, as you might gressman Lewis, who, like Maxine, started imagine—actually since last November. For out with me in 1991. And Congressman quite a long while now, we’ve been working Stokes, we’re going to miss you, and we thank on that, and every day we work on it, because you for your service. Asia is a big part of our economic growth. I would like to thank two former members Thirty percent of our growth in the last 6 of your group who are here, also my longtime years has come from exports and expanding friends, Harold Ford, Sr., and Andrew our position in foreign countries. Young. Thank you both for being here to- night. I also note your high degree of judg- But I want to ask you to think about where ment about how the Federal Government we go now. The temptation for a great, free works in bringing Secretary Slater. You prob- country when you have the lowest unemploy- ably know he got the first budget out this ment rate in 28 years and the lowest crime year. He has all the money. [Laughter] He rate in 25 years and the lowest percentage may have the only money in the Federal Gov- of people on welfare in 29 years and the first ernment. He’s doing a wonderful job, and balanced budget and surplus in 29 years and I thank you for bringing him tonight. the highest homeownership in history, is to Let me say very briefly, we’ve already had say that’s pretty good; let’s take a break; I’ve a chance to visit individually and in groups. been working myself to death; let’s just take More than anything else I would like to thank a break. [Laughter] you. I’d like to thank you for supporting our But the truth is, as all of you who deal congressional candidates and the genuine in international economics know especially, prospect we have to reverse 150-plus years that things are changing so fast, we can’t af- of history in making historic gains in this elec- ford to take a break, number one; and num- tion. And I would like to thank you for the ber two, we now have the confidence and example you have set for Americans—for all the resources to deal with the long-term chal- Americans—the work you have done, the lenges of the country. And I would like to barriers you have broken, the hurdles you just offer a couple of observations. have overcome, the Americans you have We are working with our friends in Asia helped, and the reaffirmation you give in to try to restore economic growth, and we your daily lives that the American dream can will do everything we can to help those who be made real in the lives of all kinds of peo- are prepared to take the necessary steps to ple. help themselves. But we have to look also I also thank you for the specific ideas you at what other opportunities are there to con- gave me tonight to move forward. I would tinue to grow the American economy. And

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I would just like to offer a couple of observa- atively well and continuing to prosper in this tions. difficult time. And there are opportunities in Number one, there are still places in this the Caribbean where there was a relative dis- country that have not fully absorbed this eco- investment for several years that I think need nomic recovery. The unemployment rate in to be looked at by Americans. And we have New York City is 9 percent; the unemploy- a lot of cultural ties to a lot of the island ment rate in many neighborhoods is consid- nations of the Caribbean as well as to Latin erably higher. And yet in all those neighbor- America that I think would bear fruit. hoods, over 80 percent of the people are And so I think it very important that in working. There’s opportunity for investment America, while we do everything we can to that will create jobs for the others and bring focus on the Asian financial challenges, that a very high rate of return, with no risk of we also know that there are opportunities inflation to the aggregate economy because here at home and opportunities in Africa and those are underutilized human resources. opportunities in Latin America and else- And it’s true in every city in this country; where to continue to grow the American it’s true in a lot of smaller towns; it’s true economy. in a lot of Native American communities. Now, in connection with the issues here We’re going to have a Native American eco- at home, the thing that I think is important nomic conference in the next few days, first to remember in this election is that in order one ever held. And I think it is very impor- for the Democrats to buck the tide of a cen- tant that we focus on the fact that people tury and a half of history, we have to continue who are out of work, or communities where to do what we’ve been doing for the last 8 the unemployment rate is too high and the months. We have to continue to press our investment rate is too low, are enormous op- agenda and to be for something that will ex- portunities for us at a time when there is cite America and bring hope. some turmoil around the world. We have before the Congress now an op- The second thing I’d like to do is make portunity agenda that would help a lot of you a plug again for Africa. We have an Africa to make more investments in America’s com- trade bill before the Congress. I took a great munities: a second round of empowerment trip to Africa; a number of you went on it. zones, another round of community develop- American investors earned a 30 percent re- ment financial institutions. One of you told turn on their investment in Africa last year— me today you’re involved with a community 30 percent. Now, you may say, ‘‘Well, yes, development bank in Los Angeles that this Mr. President, but those were the easiest in- administration helped to set up. These things vestments, and they picked the low-hanging are going to make a huge difference around fruit.’’ But you could go a ways down from the country if we can reach a critical mass 30 percent and still make pretty good money. of capital in enough communities. And so I say again, I think that is an impor- Secretary Cuomo at HUD has a number tant thing. Tomorrow Deputy President of initiatives that are part of this that will Mbeki of South Africa is coming back to the actually create significant numbers of jobs United States for another one of his meetings with investment—private sector jobs in com- with the Vice President and the Gore-Mbeki munities where they’re needed. Commission, and I intend to see him. Sec- So I ask for your support in publicizing retary Daley is going to Africa in September. of the community empowerment agenda that Secretary Slater and Secretary Rubin were we have been pushing now ever since my there last month. So we have followed up State of the Union Address in Congress, and on the trip that Hillary and I took to Africa that the Democratic caucus, as far as I know, with, as I said, a number of you in this room, unanimously supports. and we want to continue to work on that. We need to stand up for the educational It is of enormous importance. empowerment zones that we have been I would also note that Latin America is pushing. In Chicago now, the summer school doing very well. Our neighbors in Latin in Chicago, since it’s summer, I can say is America and in the Caribbean are doing rel- the sixth largest school district in America.

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That’s how many children are in summer the Bahamas; and Deputy President Thabo Mbeki school. Guess what? The juvenile crime rate of South Africa. is way down in Chicago, and the learning is way up. Over 40,000 children during a regular Statement on the Anniversary of the school year now get 3 square meals a day Family and Medical Leave Act at their school in that city. We have an edu- cational community empowerment initiative August 5, 1998 before the Congress that would enable us to support other communities in doing that, giv- Five years ago today the Family and Medi- ing children a chance to stay out of trouble cal Leave Act went into effect, giving tens and in school, after school, giving children of millions of Americans the peace of mind a chance to go to summer programs like this, that they would never have to choose be- giving us a chance to give educational oppor- tween the jobs they need and the families tunities to all different kinds of people. And they love. I am very proud that the Family I ask for your support for that, but I ask you and Medical Leave Act was the very first to talk to your friends and neighbors about piece of legislation I signed into law. it. There are big issues in this election season Millions of Americans have benefited from that deserve to be debated. this historic legislation by taking time off— What we really need to do is to make sure without fear of losing their jobs—to care for that every child of whatever race and of what- a newborn or adopted child, to attend to their ever station, in whatever neighborhood own serious health needs, or to care for a they’re born in, has the chance to live the seriously ill parent, child, or spouse. In addi- success stories that you have lived. What we tion, a report issued today by the Depart- really need to do is to make sure that we ment of Labor shows the relative ease with are still working hard to create one America. which the law has been implemented—the What we really need to do is to make sure overwhelming majority of employers have that we’re not sitting on our laurels and being found the FMLA easy to administer and 9 distracted but instead bearing down and out of 10 complaints have been successfully looking forward and lifting up and pulling resolved, often with a simple phone call. together this country. I have always believed that we can help All over the world people still look to the our workers fulfill their family responsibil- United States for leadership, for peace, for freedom, for security. But in order for us to ities and strengthen the economy and Ameri- do good in the 21st century around the ca’s businesses. For 5 years, the Family and world, we first must be good here at home Medical Leave Act has helped us to fulfill on those things that we know matter most. both of those critical goals. You’ve helped us a lot, and I can tell you that Maxine is grateful; I am grateful. You’re going to make Congressman Frost look bet- Statement on House Action on the ter tomorrow with what he’s done for the Census Amendment Democratic Congressional Campaign Com- mittee. But the most important thing is, by August 5, 1998 being here tonight, you have helped us to I am very disappointed that the House work with your constituents to make 21st failed to adopt an amendment to the FY 99 century America the greatest period in our Commerce-Justice-State appropriations bill Nation’s history, and I thank you for it. Thank you, and God bless you. that would have removed onerous restric- tions on the Census Bureau’s plan for the decennial census. By failing to adopt this NOTE: The President spoke at 8:24 p.m., in Ball- amendment, the House is undermining the room Two at the Washington Court Hotel. In his remarks, he referred to Representative Maxine Census Bureau’s ability to plan and conduct Waters; Sidney Williams, former Ambassador to an accurate decennial census.

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To ensure a fair and accurate count, my Proclamation 7114—Designating administration has supported the 2000 cen- Klondike Gold Rush International sus plan developed by the experts at the Cen- Historical Park sus Bureau that was based upon rec- August 5, 1998 ommendations by the National Academy of Sciences. It is a plan that will correct the By the President of the United States inaccuracies of the 1990 census, which of America missed millions of Americans and dispropor- tionately undercounted children, minorities, A Proclamation and residents in urban and rural commu- A century ago, the Klondike Gold Rush nities. This is the first census of the 21st cen- began a migration that forever changed Alas- tury, and we must ensure that the census, ka and the Yukon Territory. More than the single most important source of informa- 100,000 people headed north during 1897 tion about the American people, is accurate. and 1898, catapulting a little-known region Congress must remove these restrictions. from obscurity to the center of the world It is critically important that the Census Bu- stage. While the Klondike was not the first reau have the funding it needs to implement or largest western gold rush, coming nearly its 2000 census plan—a plan that will 50 years after the 1848 gold discovery at Sut- produce the most accurate census in history ter’s Mill, California, it is remembered for using the best, most up-to-date scientific the sheer drama by which it was announced methods. to the world and for its century-long influ- ence on Alaska and the upper Yukon River basin. The United States and Canada have been Executive Order 13095—Suspension engaged for 30 years in joint planning and of Executive Order 13083 cooperation to commemorate the Klondike August 5, 1998 Gold Rush and preserve historic structures and trails on both sides of the international By the authority vested in me as President boundary. In 1976, the Government of the by the Constitution and the laws of the United States established Klondike Gold United States of America and in order to en- Rush National Historical Park, consisting of able full and adequate consultation with a Seattle unit, a Skagway unit, a Chilkoot Pass State and local elected officials, their rep- unit, and a White Pass unit, to preserve the resentative organizations, and other inter- historic structures and trails. The Govern- ested parties, it is hereby ordered that Execu- ment of Canada has recognized the national tive Order 13083, entitled ‘‘Federalism,’’ is significance of the Chilkoot Trail and Daw- suspended. son Historical Complex by designating them as National Historic Sites. It has also des- William J. Clinton ignated a section of the Yukon River as a Canadian Heritage River and taken other The White House, steps to commemorate the rich history of this region. August 5, 1998. It is the desire of the United States to join our Canadian neighbors in celebrating our [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, shared history on the occasion of the centen- 8:45 a.m., August 6, 1998] nial of the Klondike Gold Rush and to reaf- firm the commitment of the United States NOTE: This Executive order was published in the to continuing the joint efforts of both nations Federal Register on August 7. to preserve our shared Klondike history.

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In 1996, Canadian Prime Minister Jean Let me just say the most important words Chretien proclaimed that, ‘‘the governments I can say: Thank you. Thank you for your of Canada and the United States and of support for me and for our administration Yukon and Alaska in a long-standing spirit and for our candidates for Senate and Con- of cooperation have agreed to establish the gress and for the whole concept of this Unity Klondike Gold Rush International Historic campaign. Thank you, Representative Pelosi Park, incorporating the resources of the and Leader Gephardt and Senator Torricelli Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site in Brit- and Steve Grossman, all dedicated Demo- ish Columbia and the Klondike Gold Rush crats, all dedicated Americans. National Historical Park in Alaska . . .’’ Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for the Section 3(a) of U.S. Public Law 94–323 wonderful work that you have done in so states, ‘‘At such time . . . that planning, de- many ways, and everything that we’ve done velopment, and protection of the adjacent or together in the last 51⁄2 years. related historic and scenic resources in Can- In 1996, when the American people were ada have been accomplished by the Govern- good enough to give the Vice President and ment of Canada in a manner consistent with me another term and made me the first the purposes for which the park was estab- Democratic President in 60 years, since lished, and upon enactment of a provision Franklin Roosevelt in 1936, to be reelected, similar to this section by the proper authority we picked up some seats in the House. And of the Canadian Government, the President if we had picked up a few more, we would is authorized to issue a proclamation des- have won the House. There was, I think, one ignating and including the park as a part of overwhelming reason—in the last 10 days, an international historical park to be known even though we had the issues and the direc- as Klondike Gold Rush International Histori- tion, we were outspent in the 20 closest dis- cal Park.’’ tricts 41⁄2 to one. Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, But we did begin this Unity concept a little President of the United States of America, too late, but it still did very well. All of our by virtue of the authority vested in me by contributors liked it because all three com- section 3(a) of Public Law 94–323 of June mittees weren’t asking at the same time to 30, 1976, do proclaim that Klondike Gold give money or raise it. But it was the right Rush National Historical Park is designated thing to do, because we could work on help- and included as part of an international his- ing particular candidates, targeting particular torical park to be known as Klondike Gold States, going after particular constituencies, Rush International Historical Park. getting our turnout up. In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set This year we’re trying to go sooner and my hand this fifth day of August, in the year do more. And I cannot say enough for what of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety- I believe is the vision of the leaders of the eight, and of the Independence of the United House, the Senate, and the Democratic States of America the two hundred and twen- Committee for doing this early and doing it ty-third. together and in good faith with a good heart. William J. Clinton The Vice President and I and the First Lady and Tipper, we’re all committed to making [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, this work. 8:45 a.m., August 6, 1998] The Vice President gave that wonderful portrait of what’s happened the last 6 years NOTE: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on August 7. through chapter 6. Chapter 7 is, we win if we do the right things—if we do the right things, we win. Remarks at a Unity ’98 Dinner Hillary came up with this great motto for August 5, 1998 the millennial celebration we’re going to have on New Year’s Eve 1999–2000, and be- Thank you. I know you need a stretch, but tween now and then: ‘‘Honor the past; imag- it’s going on too long. [Laughter] ine the future.’’ And we started out a couple

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of weeks ago honoring the past by announc- which puts progress over partisanship and ing grants by private citizens to help us save people over power and unity over division. the Star-Spangled Banner. It’s hard to think We believe this country has big challenges. of anything that embodies our past more. We believe, first, you don’t sit on a lead in And then Hillary went to Thomas Edison’s 1 a global economy and society like the one home in New Jersey to talk about saving that we’re living in. You know, the temptation is and then to Harriet Tubman’s home, then after all the tough years we had, ‘‘things are to George Washington’s revolutionary head- going so well now; why don’t we just relax, quarters, then to New York to celebrate the kick back and enjoy it?’’ All you have to do 150th anniversary of the beginning of the is pick up the paper every day to know that women’s movement, all honoring the past. it’s a reasonably dynamic world we’re living But we’ve also had a lot of interesting lec- in. tures at the White House imagining the fu- If someone had told you 5 years ago that ture. Stephen Hawking, the great physicist Japan would have 5 years of one percent from Cambridge, England, came and spoke growth a year during which time the stock in a very heroic way, because he suffers from market there would lose half its value, would Lou Gehrig’s disease, about what we would you have believed that? Is there a person in learn about the larger world in the future. this room that really thought that would hap- We had poets for the first time in a long pen? If there is, I’d like to clean out what time—a genuine poetry reading in the White little I’ve got left in my bank account and House with our poet laureates and ordinary let you be my investment adviser from now citizens, including children, thinking about on. [Laughter] their future. Now, they’re a very great country, and Steve said that never, at least—I quit look- they’re going to come back. I don’t mean that ing at the Civil War because I’m not sure in a negative way. I’m trying to point out before that political trends are indicative. But that nothing stays the same. The way people since the Civil War, the party of the Presi- work and live and relate to each other and dent in the President’s second term has al- the rest of the world is changing at a breath- ways lost some seats at midterm. But there taking pace. Nobody is smart enough to un- is a reason for that which we have deter- derstand it all and figure out all of its rami- mined to erase—and these records are made fications. But I know this: When people have to be changed—and that is, that generally the good fortune of good times, they should there is the sense that no matter how well take their treasure and their confidence and liked the President might be, the term is think about tomorrow and deal with the long- three-quarters over, so what else is new. term challenges of the country. Well, when I was reelected, the Vice Presi- There are four big issues that I think will dent and I sat down one day, and I told our sweep across the country this year and carry people, I said, ‘‘Look, I want us to drive the us home if our party will advance them. agenda of this country until the last hour of Number one, we waited 29 years to get the last day of my term in January of 2001. out of the red. Let’s don’t run out and spend That is what we signed on for. That is what this surplus on a tax cut or a spending pro- we owe the American people. That is the gram until we save the Social Security system right thing to do.’’ And if you look at what for the 21st century so that the baby boomers is happening today, our party—I love what don’t bankrupt their kids and their ability to Dick Gephardt said about when he was the raise their grandchildren when we retire. majority leader, how he met with the minor- Number two, managed care, on balance, ity leader and how we tried to work together. has been a good thing for America because Because this election fundamentally is not we couldn’t sustain inflation in health care about the Democratic Party; it’s about the costs at 3 times the rate of inflation in the American people. And it’s about our agenda, economy. That was an unsustainable trend that developed in the 1980’s. But it is just 1 White House correction. a device, and it must not be allowed to block

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quality care. Therefore, we should have a Pa- more school choice. We’ve got an agenda, tients’ Bill of Rights that puts quality care and we think it ought to be supported. So back at the center of the health care debate. we have a better schools agenda. People should have access to the medical Number four, after this summer—I take care they need. Decisions should be made it no one seriously questions the fact that the by doctors, not by accountants. People climate is genuinely changing. The 9 hottest shouldn’t be turned away from emergency years on record have occurred in the last 11 rooms or specialists if they need them. And years. The 5 hottest years in history have oc- their privacy should not be violated in the curred in the 1990’s. Last year was the hot- medical arena. That’s what this Patients’ Bill test year on record; this year every month of Rights is all about. It’s a first step toward has been hotter than the same month last reconciling the imperative of having better year. This is not a joke. management in the health care system with We still have 40 percent of our water that’s keeping health care uppermost in the health not safe for swimming, in spite of all the work care system. since the Clean Water Act passed. We still And a lot of you are in the health care have problems with safe drinking water in business. One of the reasons we need legisla- some places. We still have too many toxic tion is, it is simply unfair to all the good peo- waste dumps in some places. ple out there in health care today that are If there is one thing America has learned already complying with the requirements of since 1970, it is that we improve the quality the Patients’ Bill of Rights because they think of life and the strength of the economy when it is the morally right thing to do. It is unfair we clean up the environment, in the right for them to be at an economic disadvantage way. So this old-fashioned, anti-environ- with those who don’t. So we need a Patients’ mental rhetoric doesn’t hold much water. Bill of Rights. We’ve got to face the environmental chal- Number three, we have succeeded in the lenges of today and tomorrow and do them last 51⁄2 years in opening the doors of college in a way that promotes new markets, new to just about everybody in America. The technologies, new jobs, but a cleaner envi- HOPE scholarship makes the first 2 years ronment and a growing economy. of college virtually free to most Americans. So those, I think, are the four great na- It certainly makes community college vir- tional issues: save Social Security, pass a Pa- tually free to most Americans. We now have tients’ Bill of Rights, improve the public tax credits for the junior and senior year and school, clean up the environment and im- for graduate school. The interest deductibil- prove the economy. There are lots of local ity on student loans is back. We’ve dramati- issues. In a lot of places our farmers are in cally increased scholarships and work-study trouble. In a lot of urban areas where we positions. We had 100,000 young people go have a good empowerment agenda, still through AmeriCorps. One of you told me you haven’t felt the economic recovery. But So- had a child going to California in the cial Security first, the Patients’ Bill of Rights, AmeriCorps program, and I thank you for the school agenda, the environmental agen- that. da, those things will help us to move forward. But no one believes that we still that— And if we can get the Congress to face our even after all this, we still can’t say that we clear international economic responsibilities, have the best elementary and secondary edu- which take an awful lot of my time these cation in the world for all Americans. We days, then obviously that’s something that the have an agenda for smaller classes, more new Congress won’t have to do. And I’m still teachers, more well-trained teachers, mod- hoping and praying that we’ll face up to our ernized schools, hooking up all the class- responsibilities as Americans and do the rooms to the Internet, more after-school pro- International Monetary Fund and these grams, more summer school programs for other things we have to do. kids in difficult areas with troubled lives— But that is an agenda we can win on. You things that we know work—higher standards, win elections with a message, with can- greater accountability, more charter schools, didates, and with the means for the candidate

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to get the message to the people. That’s what Flynn, I thought you were just downright ter- the Unity campaign is all about. I believe that rific up here today, and I was very proud I’ve gone to more of these events than any of you. Thank you. person in America in the last 6 years. [Laugh- I want to thank all the Members of Con- ter] Therefore, the happiest citizen in the gress who are here. I think the Vice President United States was me when the Shays-Mee- attempted to introduce everyone. I think we han campaign finance reform bill passed the inadvertently didn’t mention Congressman House last week. Roemer from Indiana. We thank him for And we Democrats have been almost being there. And there are a number of you unanimous in support of real campaign fi- who have played large roles over the years. nance reform. The other party’s leadership I hesitate to single out anyone, but I want has been unanimous against it, although we to thank Senator Durbin, and I want to say have had some of their great renegades. We a special word of appreciation to Congress- got 51, I think, bolted and voted with us last man Schumer. Thank you, sir, and all the week, and I applaud them. But until we get rest of you for what you have done. that done—we’ve got the candidates; we’ve As the Vice President said, more than 5 got the message; you’re giving us the means years ago we committed ourselves to a com- to get the message out; and you’re going to prehensive strategy to lower the crime rate have a lot to celebrate this November. and to make America a safer place to live: Thank you, and God bless you. community policing; anti-gang initiatives; tar- geted deterrence; tougher penalties; but NOTE: The President spoke at 8:46 p.m. in the most important of all, because of what law Crystal Ballroom at the Carlton Hotel. In his re- enforcement officers and community leaders marks, he referred to Steve Grossman, national chair, Democratic National Committee. told us, smarter, more comprehensive pre- vention. The strategy from the Brady bill to the Remarks on the Proposed Extension crime bill, from the assault weapons ban to of the Brady Handgun Violence the Violence Against Women Act, has begun Prevention Act to show remarkable results, thanks to police August 6, 1998 officers and citizens all across America. We’re ahead of schedule and under budget Thank you, Sarah and Jim. I think every in meeting our goal of putting 100,000 police American should be grateful that the power on the street. All across America, violent of your spirit was great enough to overcome crime, property crime, murder are down. the pain of your injury and disappointment, Crime rates overall are at 25-year low. Amer- so that you could dedicate all these years to icans should take pride in that but should this great cause. resolve to do better. No serious person be- Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for being, lieves that this country is as safe as it ought as you said when you got such a laugh, a to be. critical part of every good thing that happens, The Brady law, in particular, shows the and even before we met, an early sponsor progress we can make when we take respon- of the Brady bill. Coming from where we sibility for making our community safe. Since come from, the Vice President and I were the law took effect, gun trafficking and gun- not always popular with all of our constitu- related crime are on the wane. And as has ents because we were always for the Brady been said, according to a recent Justice De- bill, but just about every one of them knows partment report, background checks have now that it was the right thing to do. put a stop to nearly a quarter of a million I thank the Attorney General and the Sec- handgun purchases since the law took effect, retary of the Treasury for all they have done. 62 percent of them based on felony convic- I thank all the law enforcement officials, the tions or indictment. leaders of the Association of Chiefs of Police, Now, that sounds like a big number, and the Sheriffs Association, the Brotherhood of Officer Flynn mentioned those gripping, per- Police Officers who are here. And Officer sonal, tragic cases. But let me break it down

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for you: that number is 118 felons a day, erized, and stop every last prohibited person every day, since the Brady law took effect— who can be found from walking home with 118 a day going home empty-handed instead a gun in hand and violence in mind. of well-armed. How many people are alive This is good law enforcement. It’s smart. today because of that law? We will never It works. That’s why both the International know. But no one doubts the number is very, Brotherhood of Police Officers and the Inter- very large indeed. national Association of Chiefs of Police are As we near the fifth anniversary of the law today supporting permanent extension of the and celebrate its progress, we have to con- Brady waiting period. The real measure of tinue to fight against crime and violence. We our progress, of course, is more than a de- cannot retreat. Yet, as has already been cline in crime; it’s a rise in responsibility and noted, that is precisely what the gun lobby respect for the law and the feeling of security and its allies on Capitol Hill have asked us that is so intangible yet so profoundly impor- to do, to retreat from a law that is keeping tant to the essence of American citizenship. guns out of the hands of criminals, retreat For those of us in public life, it is our obli- from the national interests, surrender our gation to strengthen that feeling of security, fight for safety to the special interests. especially the laws that protect our families, Now, before the Brady law even goes fully save lives, and draw the line between right into effect, the gun lobby and its friends in and wrong and against violence. At heart, this Congress are trying to destroy it. They claim is what the Brady law has accomplished, and to support the national insta-check system this is the vision to which we must all remain but would deny the FBI the funds necessary true if we are to build a safer and stronger to make the system work. They claim to sup- America for the 21st century. port background checks but would have the FBI immediately destroy records vital to the Social Security process. In their official literature, the gun There has been another development lobby is proudly calling this measure, and I today that because of this opportunity, I feel quote, ‘‘an anti-Brady amendment.’’ I have to comment on. One of the reasons Let me be clear. I will oppose any legisla- that the crime rate has gone down, as every- tion that would gut the Brady law and put one knows, is that the economy has gone up, guns back into the hands of felons and fugi- and the unemployment rate is at a 28-year tives when we can prevent it. Here again, low. I think it is important to keep the econ- this is a place we ought to put progress ahead omy strong and for the long run and to honor of partisanship, public safety ahead of poli- our obligations across the generations. That’s tics. why I have said that I’m proud we’re going Years of experience now show that this law to have the first balanced budget and surplus works, as the Vice President so clearly ar- in 29 years, but I don’t want us to run right gued. Now we have to make it more effec- out and spend it before we take care of the tive, not less effective. I have asked Congress crisis in Social Security that is looming when to extend Brady background checks to violent the baby boomers retire. juveniles who should not be able to buy a Therefore, I was disappointed today when gun on their 21st birthday. Congress should the Speaker proposed to drain $700 million also enact the Brady waiting period as a per- from the surplus before we have even real- manent requirement before it expires in No- ized the surplus and before we take even the vember. first steps to save Social Security. As I said Too many crimes are committed—[ap- in my State of the Union Address, we should plause]—thank you. Too many crimes are reserve every penny of the surplus until we committed within hours of a handgun pur- save Social Security for the 21st century. chase. The waiting period gives tempers time You know, we waited 29 years for this, to to cool. It gives potential criminals the time get out of the red ink. It looks to me like to consider the consequences. It gives local we could at least wait a year and enjoy it law enforcement officials the time to check and take care of future generations’ chal- all relevant records, even those not comput- lenges before we run right out and spend

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this money. This is about our budget, the Government make employment-related deci- health of our economy, keeping us strong and sions in the civilian work force based on indi- safer, about our fundamental values as a vidual ability and not on sexual orientation. country. We worked a long time to get back on the path of responsibility, and we NOTE: Executive Order 13087 of May 28 on equal shouldn’t abandon it before we’ve even employment opportunity in the Federal Govern- ment was published in the Federal Register on achieved our real objectives. June 2. Now, I think it would be wrong for us to end today without hearing from the person whose courage made this day possible, our Remarks to the White House friend Jim Brady. Conference on Building Economic Self-Determination in Indian NOTE: The President spoke at 11:06 a.m. in the Rose Garden at the White House. In his remarks, Communities he referred to James Brady, former White House August 6, 1998 Press Secretary, who was wounded in the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald The President. Thank you. Thank you for Reagan, and his wife Sarah Brady, chair, Handgun the wonderful welcome. Thank you for the Control, Inc.; Officer Gerald Flynn, national vice song. Thank you, Dominic, for giving us a president, International Brotherhood of Police picture of opportunity and hope for the fu- Officers. The transcript made available by the Of- ture. I’m very glad that you’re not only a good fice of the Press Secretary also included the re- student but a good entrepreneur and a good marks of James Brady. The Brady Handgun Vio- promoter. Dominic was kind enough to give lence Prevention Act is title I of Public Law 103– 159, approved November 30, 1993. me one of his bracelets before I came out. [Laughter] So I’m his latest walking adver- tisement, and I’m glad to shill for him. Statement on House Action on the [Laughter] Hefley Amendment I would like to thank the members of the August 6, 1998 administration, the 15 agencies that have come together with the White House to I am gratified that the House has defeated sponsor this conference. I thank Secretary an attempt to overturn my Executive order Daley, Secretary Riley, Secretary Glickman, providing a uniform policy to prohibit dis- Small Business Administrator Aida Alvarez, crimination based on sexual orientation in who are here. I’d like to thank Deputy Assist- the Federal civilian work force. ant Secretary Michael Anderson, Kevin This vote reflected the values of our Na- Gover, Mark Van Norman, Angela Ham- tion. The American people believe in fair- mond, and two young people on our staff, ness, not discrimination, and the Hefley Julie Fernandes and Mary Smith, who work amendment would have legitimized Govern- with Mickey Ibarra and Lynn Cutler; all of ment-sponsored discrimination against its them worked very hard on this conference. own citizens based on their sexual orienta- I thank them. [Applause] Thank you. tion. I’m proud to be here with Chief Marge It has always been the practice of this ad- Anderson, Governor Walter Dasheno; Chief ministration to prohibit employment dis- Joyce Dugan, Chairman Frank Ettawageshik, crimination in the Federal civilian work force Chairman Roland Harris, Chairwoman Kath- based on sexual orientation. Most Federal ryn Harrison, President Ivan Makil, Gov- agencies and departments have taken actions ernor Mary Thomas, Chairman Brian Wal- to memorialize that policy. The Executive lace, President John Yellow Bird Steele. I order does no more than make that policy thank all of you. uniform across the Federal Government. It I have looked forward to this day for quite does not authorize affirmative action, or pref- a long time. The Iroquois teach us that every erences, or special rights for anyone. decision we make, every action we take, must The Executive order reflects this adminis- be judged not only on the impact it makes tration’s firm commitment that the Federal today but on the impact it makes on the next

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seven generations. It is, therefore, fitting on ployment at a 28-year low, still, on some res- the eve of a new century and a new millen- ervations more than 70 percent of all adults nium, that we come together today to deter- do not have regular work. Diabetes in Indian mine what we must do to build a stronger country has reached epidemic proportions. future for our children, for our grand- Other preventable diseases and alcoholism children, for future generations of Native continue to diminish the quality of life for Americans, and indeed, for all Americans. hundreds of thousands. For too many Americans, our understand- At a time of such great prosperity, when ing of Native Americans is frozen in time, we know we don’t have a person to waste, in sepia-toned photography of legendary this is an unacceptable condition. That’s why chieftains, in the ancient names of rivers, we’re here today, to find new ways to em- lakes, and mountain ranges, in the chapters power our people, especially our children, of old history books. But as we have all seen with the tools and the opportunity to build at this conference, the more than 2 million brighter futures for themselves and their members of tribal nations in the United families. Our Government alone cannot solve States, from energetic, young entrepreneurs the problems of Indian country, nor can trib- like Dominic to innovative leaders like the al governments be left to fend alone for ones sitting here with me today, are a vital themselves. part of today’s America and must be an even Everyone must do his or her part, tribal more vital part of tomorrow’s America. and Federal governments, along with the pri- We are living in a time of great opportunity vate sector. We all have to work together to and hope, with our economy the strongest empower our people with the tools they need in a generation. Soon we will have the first to succeed. Most of all, every individual must balanced budget and surplus in 29 years, the take responsibility to seize the opportunities lowest unemployment in 28 years, the high- of this new time and to break the cycle of est homeownership in history. Social prob- poverty. lems are finally beginning to bend to our ef- As President, I have worked very hard to forts as a Nation: the crime rate, the lowest honor tribal sovereignty and to strengthen in 25 years; the welfare rolls, the smallest our government-to-government relation- percentage of our people in 29 years. We ships. Long ago, many of your ancestors gave are taking strong steps toward the America up land, water, and mineral rights in ex- I dreamed of when I first ran for this office change for peace, security, health care, edu- beginning in late 1991, an America where cation from the Federal Government. It is there is opportunity for all, responsibility a solemn pact. And while the United States from all, a community of all our people. Government did not live up to its side of It is a time of unprecedented prosperity the bargain in the past, we can and we must for some of our tribes as well. Gaming and honor it today and into that new millennium. a variety of innovative enterprises have en- Four years ago, when I became the first abled tribes to free their people from lives President since James Monroe in the 1820’s of poverty and dependence. The new wealth to invite the leaders of every tribe to the is sparking a cultural renaissance in parts of White House, I issued a memorandum di- Indian country, as tribes build new commu- recting all Federal agencies to consult with nity centers, museums, language schools, the Indian tribes before making decisions on elder care centers. matters affecting your people. This spring I But we also know the hard truth, that on strengthened that directive so that decisions far too many reservations across America made by the Federal Government regarding such glowing statistics and reports mean very Indian country are always made in coopera- little indeed. While some tribes have found tion with the tribes. new success in our new economy, too many In the last 6 months, Jackie Johnson has more remain caught in a cycle of poverty, joined the staff at HUD, Carrie Billy at Edu- unemployment, and disease. The facts are all cation, Rhonda Whiting at the Small Busi- too familiar. More than a third of all Native ness Administration, to help coordinate and Americans still live in poverty. With unem- promote Native American initiatives at these

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agencies. Raynell Morris will join the White ondary graduation rates, to reduce the influ- House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs to ence of poverty and substance abuse on stu- help Mickey Ibarra and Lynn Cutler with dent performance, to create safe drug-free Native American initiatives and outreach. I schools, to expand the use of science and welcome all to my administration. technology. I believe in this. I have done We also, as all of you know, have been what I could to support Native American working very hard for more than a year now higher education and will continue to do so. on a race initiative designed to address the We have also tried to open the doors of opportunity gaps for all Americans, and I college to all, with more Pell grants, tax cred- thank those of you who have had a role in its which make the first 2 years of college that. The most recent public event we did now virtually free to all Americans, increased with the race initiative was an hour-long con- work-study slots, and AmeriCorps commu- versation on Jim Lehrer’s Public Broadcast- nity service slots—other things we have tried ing System show. The Native American com- to do to make college education more afford- munity was represented by a delightful, ener- able. But we have to have more people who getic young man named Sherman Alexie, are able to take advantage of it. whose new movie, ‘‘Smoke Signals,’’ is re- The second tool is high-quality health care. ceiving very good reviews around the coun- Native American communities will never try, and I had it brought to me at the White reach their full potential if people continue House and watched it. He’s got a great talent, to be hobbled by disease, diseases often pre- and I wish him well. ventable, easily treatable. Native Americans Today I want to talk about opportunity and are 3 times as likely to suffer from diabetes about three tools of opportunity every Amer- as white people. Therefore, they should get ican needs to thrive in the 21st century, how 3 times the benefit of the remarkable ad- we can bring these tools to every person in very corner of Indian country, from Pine vances that we made in the last year in the Ridge, South Dakota, to Window Rock, Ari- diabetes prevention effort. zona, to Cherokee, North Carolina. The American Diabetes Association said that what we did for diabetes not too long [At this point, an audience member cheered.] ago was the most important step forward The President. That’s okay. [Laughter] since the discovery of insulin—in treatment, The first and most important tool of oppor- in prevention, in research. Every tribe should tunity, of course, is education. Throughout know what is in the law, what the benefits history, in the United States, education has are, and should be in a position to take maxi- been the key to a better life for generations mum advantage of it. of Americans. This will clearly be even more Last summer, as I said when I signed this true in a global, knowledge-based economy legislation, I wanted to make sure that it that will reward children, but only children helped all Americans with diabetes but espe- who have the skills to succeed and to keep cially those in our Native American commu- learning for a lifetime. nities. Earlier this year, I launched an initia- Today fewer than two-thirds of our Native tive to help eliminate health disparities be- Americans over the age of 25 hold high tween racial and ethnic minority groups by school degrees. Fewer than 10 percent go the year 2010. I want you to make sure Con- on to college. If the trend continues, then gress fully funds this initiative as well. the future for Native American children will Today I am pleased to announce that we’re become even bleaker. The opportunity gap going to make an adjustment in our new chil- between them and their peers will widen to dren’s health insurance program to ensure a dangerous chasm. In a few moments, there- that Native American children get the health fore, I will sign an Executive order directing care they need. [Applause] Thank you. In the our administration to work together with balanced budget bill which passed Congress tribal and State governments to improve Na- last year, we had $24 billion over a 5-year tive American achievement in math and period to extend health insurance to 5 million reading, to raise high school and post-sec- more children. The action I’m taking today

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makes sure that the money is fairly allocated Think how much good we could do if we so that Native American children who are could finance 2 million small loans in devel- disproportionately without health insurance oping communities in the United States of will now have their fair chance to be covered. America. We’re also directing the Depart- I also want you to know that I am commit- ment of Treasury and HUD to work with ted to working with Congress and Secretary tribal governments to create and improve Shalala to elevate the Director of the Indian one-stop mortgage shopping centers to help Health Service, Dr. Michael Trujillo, who is more Native Americans obtain loans more here today, to the rank of Assistant Secretary easily. And our first pilot will be in the Navajo for Health and Human Services. By elevating nation. the head of the Indian Health Service, we Last, I am proud to announce the plan by can ensure that the health needs of our Na- the United States Department of Agriculture tive Americans get the full consideration they to help seven tribes to get a foothold in our deserve when it comes to setting health pol- high-tech economy. The Department will icy in our country. help these tribes establish small technology The third tool is economic opportunity, in companies to obtain Government contracts the form of jobs, credit, small business. Very for software development and other services. few grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, I have asked HUD Secretary Andrew and banks are doing business on reservations. Cuomo to visit several reservations to deter- As a result, money that could be used to build mine what more his department and our ad- tribal economies and create jobs is spent too ministration can do to boost economic devel- often off reservation. opment there. A few weeks ago he met with I’ve issued a new directive to boost eco- leaders of 60 Alaskan native villages; today nomic development in Indian country. The he’s visiting Pine Ridge and Lower Brule In- directive will do three things. It will ask the dian reservations in South Dakota. Department of Commerce to work with the Interior Department and with the tribal gov- The next millennium must be a time of ernments to study and develop a plan to meet great progress and prosperity for our Native the technology infrastructure needs of Indian American communities, and we can make it country. No tribe will be able to attract new so. Today American Indian population is still business if it doesn’t have the phone, fax, very young. In the last census, 39 percent Internet, and other technology capabilities of all Native Americans were under the age essential to the 21st century. of 20. I kind of wish I were one of them. The directive calls on several agencies to [Laughter] coordinate and strengthen our existing Na- But this statistic is one that should bring tive American economic development initia- us great hope, even as it poses your and my tives. And I might say in particular, I think greatest challenge. We have a new large gen- micro-credit institutions have a terrific po- eration of young people who, if given the tential to do even more than some of you tools, the encouragement, and the oppor- have already done for the last several years tunity, can work together to lead their fami- in Indian country. The community develop- lies out of the stifling poverty and despair ment financial institutions that we have es- of the past. tablished in this country in the last few years So let us work to bring this generation and have played an important role in providing the next seven generations a world of abun- credit to people who otherwise could not get dant hope and opportunity, where all tribes it to start small businesses or to expand small have vanquished poverty and disease and all businesses. I have asked the Congress for a people have the tools to achieve their great- significant expansion in the Community De- est potential. velopment Financial Institutions Act. I be- I leave you with the words of the Lakota lieve in microlending. song we heard a few moments ago. ‘‘Beneath The United States last year through our the President’s flag, the people stand, that aid programs financed 2 million small loans they may grow for generations to come.’’ Let in developing nations around the world. us stand together under America’s flag to

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build that kind of future for generations to that impede educational performance, such come. as poverty and substance abuse; (4) creating Thank you, and God bless you. strong, safe, and drug-free school environ- ments; (5) improving science education; and NOTE: The President spoke at 1:55 p.m. in the (6) expanding the use of educational tech- Independence Ballroom at the Grand Hyatt nology. Hotel. In his remarks, he referred to Dominic Ortiz, owner, Pottawatomie Traders; Marge An- Sec. 2. Strategy. In order to meet the six derson, chief, Mille Lacs Reservation; Walter goals of this order, a comprehensive Federal Dasheno, governor, Pueblo Santa Clara; Joyce response is needed to address the fragmenta- Dugan, chief, Eastern Band of Cherokee; Frank tion of government services available to Ettawageshik, president, Little Traverse Bay Band American Indian and Alaska Native students of Odawa; Roland Harris, chairman, Mohegan In- and the complexity of inter-governmental re- dian Tribe; Kathryn Harrison, chairperson, Con- lationships affecting the education of those federated Tribes of the Grand Ronde; Ivan Makil, students. The purpose of the Federal activi- president, Salt River Maricopa Indian Commu- ties described in this order is to develop a nity; Mary Thomas, governor, Gila River Indian long-term, comprehensive Federal Indian Community; Brian Wallace, chairman, Washoe Tribal Council; and John Yellow Bird Steele, education policy that will accomplish those president, Oglala Sioux. goals. (a) Interagency Task Force. There is estab- lished an Interagency Task Force on Amer- Executive Order 13096—American ican Indian and Alaska Native Education Indian and Alaska Native Education (Task Force) to oversee the planning and im- August 6, 1998 plementation of this order. The Task Force shall confer with the National Advisory By the authority vested in me as President Council on Indian Education (NACIE) in by the Constitution and the laws of the carrying out activities under this order. The United States of America, in affirmation of Task Force shall consult with representatives the unique political and legal relationship of of American Indian and Alaska Native tribes the Federal Government with tribal govern- and organizations, including the National In- ments, and in recognition of the unique edu- dian Education Association (NIEA) and the cational and culturally related academic National Congress of American Indians needs of America Indian and Alaska Native (NCAI), to gather advice on implementation students, it is hereby ordered as follows: of the activities called for in this order. Section 1. Goals. The Federal Govern- (b) Composition of the Task Force. (1) The ment has a special, historic responsibility for membership of the Task Force shall include the education of American Indian and Alaska representatives of the Departments of the Native students. Improving educational Treasury, Defense, Justice, the Interior, Ag- achievement and academic progress for riculture, Commerce, Labor, Health and American Indian and Alaska Native students Human Services, Housing and Urban Devel- is vital to the national goal of preparing every opment, Transportation, Energy, and Edu- student for responsible citizenship, contin- cation, as well as the Environmental Protec- ued learning, and productive employment. tion Agency, the Corporation for National The Federal Government is committed to and Community Service, and the National improving the academic performance and re- Science Foundation. With the agreement of ducing the dropout rate of American Indian the Secretaries of Education and the Inte- and Alaska Native students. To help fulfill rior, other agencies may participate in the this commitment in a manner consistent with activities of the Task Force. tribal traditions and cultures, Federal agen- (2) Within 30 days of the date of this order, cies need to focus special attention on six the head of each participating agency shall goals: (1) improving reading and mathe- designate a senior official who is responsible matics; (2) increasing high school completion for management or program administration and postsecondary attendance rates; (3) re- to serve as a member of the Task Force. The ducing the influence of long-standing factors official shall report directly to the agency

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head on the agency’s activities under this dian and Alaska Native students in order to order. monitor improvements; (3) The Assistant Secretary for Elementary (2) evaluate promising practices used with and Secondary Education of the Department those students; and of Education and the Assistant Secretary for (3) evaluate the role of native language and Indian Affairs of the Department of the Inte- culture in the development of educational rior shall co-chair the Task Force. strategies. Within 1 year, the Secretary of (c) Interagency plan. The Task Force shall, Education shall submit the research agenda, within 90 days of the date of this order, de- including proposed timelines, to the Task velop a Federal interagency plan with rec- Force. ommendations identifying initiatives, strate- (g) Comprehensive Federal Indian edu- gies, and ideas for future interagency action cation policy. supportive of the goals of this order. (1) The Task Force shall, within 2 years (d) Agency participation. To the extent of the date of this order, develop a com- consistent with law and agency priorities, prehensive Federal Indian education policy each participating agency shall adopt and im- to support the accomplishment of the goals plement strategies to maximize the availabil- of this order. The policy shall be designed to: ity of the agency’s education-related pro- (A) improve Federal interagency coopera- grams, activities, resources, information, and tion; technical assistance to American Indian and (B) promote intergovernmental collabora- Alaska Native students. In keeping with the tion; and spirit of the Executive Memorandum of April (C) assist tribal governments in meeting 29, 1994, on Government-to-Government the unique educational needs of their chil- Relations with Native American Tribal Gov- dren, including the need to preserve, revital- ernments and Executive Order 13084 of May ize, and use native languages and cultural tra- 14, 1998, each participating agency shall con- ditions. sult with tribal governments on their edu- (2) In developing the policy, the Task cation-related needs and priorities, and on Force shall consider ideas in the Com- how the agency can better accomplish the prehensive Federal Indian Education Policy goals of this order. Within 6 months, each Statement proposal developed by the NIEA participating agency shall report to the Task and the NCAI. Force regarding the strategies it has devel- (3) The Task Force shall develop rec- oped to ensure such consultation. ommendations to implement the policy, in- (e) Interagency resource guide. The Task cluding ideas for future interagency action. Force shall identify, within participating Fed- (4) As appropriate, participating agencies eral agencies, all education-related programs may develop memoranda of agreement with and resources that support the goals of this one another to enable and enhance the abil- order. Within 12 months, the Task Force, in ity of tribes and schools to provide, and to conjunction with the Department of Edu- coordinate the delivery of, Federal, tribal, cation, shall develop, publish, and widely dis- State, and local resources and services, in- tribute a guide that describes those programs cluding social and health-related services, to and resources and how American Indians and meet the educational needs of American In- Alaska Natives can benefit from them. dian and Alaska Native students. (f) Research. The Secretary of Education, (h) Reports. The task Force co-chairs shall through the Office of Educational Research submit the comprehensive Federal Indian and Improvement and the Office of Indian education policy, and report annually on the Education, and in consultation with NACIE agencies’ activities, accomplishments, and and participating agencies, shall develop and progress toward meeting the goals of this implement a comprehensive Federal re- order, to the Director of the Office of Man- search agenda to: agement and Budget. (1) establish baseline data on academic Sec. 3. Regional partnership forums. The achievement and retention of American In- Departments of Education and the Interior,

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in collaboration with the Task Force and Sec. 6. Termination. The Task Force es- Federal, tribal, State, and local government tablished under section 2 of this order shall representatives, shall jointly convene, within terminate not later than 5 years from the date 18 months, a series of regional forums to of this order. identify promising practices and approaches Sec. 7. General provisions. This order is on how to share information, provide assist- intended only to improve the internal man- ance to schools, develop partnerships, and agement of the executive branch and is not coordinate intergovernmental strategies sup- intended to, and does not, create any right portive of accomplishing the goals of this or benefit, substantive or procedural, en- order. The Departments of Education and forceable at law or equity by a party against the Interior shall submit a report on the fo- the United States, its agencies or instrumen- rums to the Task force, which may include talities, its officers or employees, or any other recommendations relating to intergovern- person. This order is not intended to pre- mental relations. clude, supersede, replace, or otherwise dilute Sec. 4. School pilot sites. The Depart- any other Executive order relating to Amer- ments of Education and the Interior shall ican Indian and Alaska Native education. identify a reasonable number of schools William J. Clinton funded by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and public schools that can serve as a model The White House, for schools with American Indian and Alaska August 6, 1998. Native students, and provide them with com- prehensive technical assistance in support of [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, the goals of this order. A special team of tech- 8:45 a.m., August 10, 1998] nical assistance providers, including Federal NOTE: This Executive order will be published in staff, shall provide assistance to these schools. the Federal Register on August 11. Special attention shall be given, where appro- priate, to assistance in implementing com- prehensive school reform demonstration pro- Memorandum on Economic grams that meet the criteria for those pro- Development in American Indian grams established by the Departments of and Alaska Native Communities Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropria- August 6, 1998 tions Act, 1998 (Public Law 105–78), and to Memorandum for the Secretary of providing comprehensive service delivery Commerce, the Secretary of Housing and that connects and uses diverse Federal agen- Urban Development, the Secretary of the cy resources. The team shall disseminate ef- Interior, the Secretary of the Treasury, fective and promising practices of the school Administrator of the Small Business pilot sites to other local educational agencies. Administration The team shall report to the Task Force on its accomplishments and its recommenda- Subject: Economic Development in tions for improving technical support to local American Indian and Alaska Native educational agencies and schools funded by Communities the BIA. Across America, communities are rec- Sec. 5. Administration. The Department ognizing that technology and information of Education shall provide appropriate ad- technologies are key to creating economic ministrative services and staff support to the opportunities and increasing productivity. Task Force. With the consent of the Depart- My Administration has made substantial ment of Education, other participating agen- gains in spurring the development of an ad- cies may provide administrative support to vanced information infrastructure in order to the Task Force, consistent with their statu- bring the benefits of the Information Age to tory authority, and may detail agency em- all Americans. ployees to the Department of Education, to Looking to the future, we know that tech- the extent permitted by law. nology is critical to economic growth. We

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need to stimulate the growth of modern pro- merce Department’s National Telecommuni- duction facilities, small business incubators, cations and Information Administration has capital access for start-up companies, and funded demonstration projects that help strategic planning to develop a vision for show Native American communities how technologically competent communities. In they can use technologies to improve the particular, as telecommunications and infor- quality of life on reservations. And the Com- mation technologies continue to play a key merce Department’s Minority Business De- role in providing new job and educational op- velopment Agency has funded eight Native portunities, we must ensure that all of our American Business Development Centers communities are able to participate fully in that provide assistance with accounting, ad- the new information economy. ministration, business planning, construction, Because of their often remote locations, and marketing. American Indian and Alaska Native commu- To continue our focus on infrastructure nities stand to benefit greatly from the Infor- technology needs and business development mation Age, yet are in grave danger of being in American Indian and Alaska Native com- left behind. For example, a recent Depart- munities, I direct the following actions. ment of Commerce study on Internet and First, I direct the Secretary of Commerce, computer usage in America shows that, al- in collaboration with the Department of the though many more Americans now own com- Interior and tribal governments, to report puters, minority and low-income households back to me within 9 months on the state of are still far less likely than white and more infrastructure technology needs in Indian affluent households to have personal com- communities, including distance learning fa- puters or access to the Internet. Even more cilities, telecommunications capabilities, and disturbing, this study reveals that this ‘‘digital manufacturing facilities. This report should divide’’ between households of different identify the infrastructure technology needs races and income levels is growing. We must in Indian country and set forth proposals that act to ensure that American Indian and Alas- would help address these needs. ka Native communities gain the new tools Second, I direct the Secretary of the Inte- they need to battle high levels of unemploy- rior, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Ad- ment and low per-capita income. ministrator of the Small Business Administra- The ability to own a home and have access tion to report back to me within 90 days with to capital are also very important for eco- a strategic plan for coordinating existing eco- nomic development. Residents of Indian res- nomic development initiatives for Native ervations encounter several unique issues American and Alaska Native communities, when seeking to obtain a mortgage. Trust including initiatives involving the private sec- land status, tribal sovereignty, and require- tor. In developing this strategic plan, the Sec- ments to gain clear title from the Bureau of retaries and the Administrator should consult Indian Affairs are examples of issues that with all interested parties, including tribal lenders and borrowers must grapple with governments and other Federal agencies and during the mortgage lending process. Thus, offices—particularly, the Departments of individuals seeking to acquire a homesite Housing and Urban Development, Transpor- lease or a residential mortgage are often re- tation, and Agriculture. The plan should quired to obtain approval from several Fed- build upon current efforts in the agencies eral, tribal, State, and local agencies as well and detail future efforts such as providing as private providers. technical assistance, enhancing infrastruc- I am proud that the Department of Com- ture, and developing software. merce, particularly through the Economic Third, I direct the Secretaries of the Treas- Development Administration, has a 30-year ury and of Housing and Urban Development, history of investing over $730 million in eco- in partnership with local tribal governments nomic development projects in American In- and in cooperation with other Federal agen- dian and Alaska Native communities, work- cies—particularly, the Departments of the ing with its existing network of 65 tribal plan- Interior, Veterans Affairs, and Agriculture— ning organizations. Additionally, the Com- to initiate a project to help streamline the

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mortgage lending process in Indian country As a condition of the cease-fire in the Gulf in order to improve access to mortgage loans war, the United Nations demanded and Iraq on Indian reservations. The Secretaries agreed to account for its nuclear, chemical, should initiate this effort through a year-long and biological weapons and the missiles to pilot program on the Navajo Nation and in deliver them within 15 days, and to destroy at least one other location. them. Last February, Iraq reiterated that These steps, taken together, will help en- commitment in an agreement it signed with sure the continued economic development of U.N. Secretary-General Annan. In short, American Indian and Alaska Native commu- Iraq has had it within its power to end the nities and help them recognize the full bene- sanctions by meeting this affirmative obliga- fits of the Information Age. tion, letting the inspectors finish their job, and complying with the other relevant Secu- William J. Clinton rity Council resolutions. Instead of cooperating, Iraq has spent the better part of this decade avoiding its com- Statement on House Action on mitments to the international community. Campaign Finance Reform Recent discoveries by the weapons inspec- Legislation tors—including new documents on chemical August 6, 1998 munitions used in the Iran-Iraq war and nerve gas residue on Iraqi warheads—only The vote for final passage of the Shays- underscore Iraq’s failure to meet its obliga- Meehan bipartisan campaign finance reform tions to the world. bill is a heartening sign for the health of our Iraq’s most recent refusal to cooperate democracy. The House vote to ban soft with U.N. weapons inspectors is another mis- money and improve disclosure, in defiance guided attempt to divide the international of the Republican leadership, is a rebuke to community in order to gain the lifting of the the cynical view that political reform can sanctions. These sanctions have denied Iraq never happen. Now, only a minority of the over $120 billion in resources to rebuild its United States Senate stands in the way of military and build more weapons of mass de- campaign finance reform becoming the law struction. Its current tactics once again will of the land. I call upon those few Senators backfire. Unless Iraq reverses course and co- who now block reform to heed the actions operates fully with the international weapons of the House and the will of the people and inspectors, the United States will stop any pass bipartisan campaign finance reform. I and all efforts to alter the sanctions regime. again congratulate Representatives Chris- This will deny the Iraqi leadership what it topher Shays, Marty Meehan, and all their wants most: an end to sanctions. Because of colleagues who set aside partisanship to make the expanded oil-for-food arrangement we real progress today. created last winter, the Iraqi people will con- tinue to receive the food, medicine, and other essential supplies they need. Statement on Iraq’s Failure To The burden has always been and remains Comply With United Nations on Iraq to disclose and dismantle its weapons Weapons Inspections of mass destruction capability. We remain August 6, 1998 determined to see that Iraq keeps that com- mitment. Iraq’s latest refusal to cooperate with the international weapons inspectors is unaccept- able. Far from hastening the day the inter- Remarks on Signing the Workforce national community lifts sanctions against Investment Act of 1998 Iraq, as Iraq intends, its failure to live up August 7, 1998 to its obligations will perpetuate those sanc- tions and keep the Iraqi economy under tight Thank you very much, and good morning. international control. Thank you very much, Mr. Antosy, to Benny

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Hernandez, examples of what we come here every day is vital to our security and prosper- to celebrate and enhance today. Thank you, ity. Your well-being is, therefore, vital to us, Secretary Herman, for your leadership on and we will do everything we can to assure this bill which was so essential to its passage. that you can serve in safety. Chairman Goodling, Senator DeWine, Con- To the families and loved ones of the gressman Clay, Congressman McKeon, Con- American and African victims of these cow- gressman Kildee, many other Members of ardly attacks, you are in our thoughts and the House Representatives who are here. To prayers. Out of respect for those who lost Senator Jeffords and others who are not here, their lives, I have ordered that the American who, along with Senator DeWine, worked on flag be flown at halfstaff at all Government the passage in the Senate. buildings here at home and around the I’d also like to thank the representatives world. We are determined to get answers and of the National Association of Counties and justice. other local groups who are here. And I will Thank you very much. say more about all of you in a moment. Now, we are here to do something very Bombing Incidents in Africa important for America’s long-term future today. I mentioned the Congressmen and I hope you will understand why I feel the Senators who played a leading role who are need to comment on the fact that early this here. I’d like to also acknowledge those who morning bombs exploded outside two of our are out there whose names I have, and if American Embassies in Africa. An explosion I make a mistake, stand up and be recog- in Nairobi, Kenya, killed and wounded scores Laughter of people. We have reports that several nized. [ ] If I say you’re here and Americans are among the dead. Another ex- you’re not, just let it go. [Laughter] plosion in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, also In addition to Senator DeWine, and Chair- caused many casualties. At this time, there man Goodling and Mr. Clay and Mr. are no reports that any Americans were killed McKeon, Mr. Kildee, we have here Con- in that attack, although our Embassy appears gressman Barrett, Congressman Chaka to have been the target. Fattah, Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, Both explosions caused large-scale damage Representative Dennis Kucinich, Represent- to our Embassies and to surrounding build- ative Carrie Meek, Representative Dan Mil- ings, as you may have already seen from the ler, Representative Patsy Mink, Representa- pictures coming in. Though the attacks ap- tive Louis Stokes, Representative Steve pear to have been coordinated, no one has LaTourette, Representative George Brown, yet claimed responsibility for them. Representative Paul Kanjorski, Congressman As I speak, we have dispatched Defense Bruce Vento, Congressman Donald Payne, Department and State Department-led and Congressman Tim Roemer with his own emergency response teams to the region. The version of America’s future in his lap. teams include medical personnel, disaster re- [Laughter] lief experts, criminal investigators, counter- I’d also like to thank, again, Alexis Herman terrorism specialists. We have taken appro- and Erskine Bowles and all the people on priate security measures at our Embassies my staff for their role in this. But one person and military facilities throughout the region above all who has been with me since 1991 and around the world. and who shared my dream and consolidating These acts of terrorist violence are abhor- this blizzard of Government programs into rent; they are inhuman. We will use all the one grant that we could give a person who means at our disposal to bring those respon- was unemployed or underemployed so that sible to justice, no matter what or how long they could decide, as Mr. Antosy did, what it takes. Let me say to the thousands and to do with the help we were giving them on thousands of hard-working men and women the theory that they would know their own from the State Department and from our best interest and be able to pursue it, and other Government agencies who serve us that is Gene Sperling, who has worked on abroad in these embassies, the work you do this for years and years. This is—his heart

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is in this bill. And I want to thank him as The story Mr. Antosy told is a moving and well as all the staff people in Congress. heartening story. There are a lot of people As Secretary Herman said, this bill fulfills in his position. In a dynamic global economy, principles for reform of our work force train- more and more people, even if they stay with ing program that I outlined in my first cam- the same employer, will have to change the paign for President over 6 years ago, and that nature of their work several times over the the Vice President set out in our National course of a lifetime. It is, therefore, very im- Performance Review. It is a model of what portant that every person who is willing to we should be doing, and also the way we work hard to make the most of his or her did it is a model of how our Government own life should be able to become the suc- ought to work. It was a truly bipartisan, cess stories we celebrate with Benny American effort. Hernandez and James Antosy. This morning, we received some more Therefore, we have to do more than we good news about our economy. Even though have been doing, even though we have been the latest economic reports shows the effects making progress. The vast majority of cor- of the now settled GM strike, we still see porate managers say the number one pre- that over the past year wages have risen at requisite for continued prosperity is finding more than twice the rate of inflation, the fast- a way to fill all our high-skill jobs. est real wage growth for ordinary Americans I’m telling you today, there are—even with in 20 years. This past month our unemploy- the unemployment rate as low as it is, there are hundreds of thousands of jobs which are ment rate held firm, in spite of the GM going begging that are high-wage, high-skill strike, at 41⁄2 percent. For nearly a quarter jobs, undermining the ability of our free en- century, not once had our Nation’s unem- terprise economy to maximize its benefits to ployment rate gone below 5 percent; it’s now all our people to reach into all the urban been below 5 percent for 13 months in a neighborhoods and the rural communities row. We have low unemployment, low infla- and the places that it has not yet reached. tion, strong growth, and higher wages. Therefore, giving all Americans the tools they But to maintain this momentum we must need to learn for a lifetime is critical to our continue to change and move forward. Over ability to continue to grow. the long run, in the face of daily new chal- We are making progress in building an lenges in the global marketplace, we simply America where every 8-year-old can read, must press forward with the economic strat- every 12-year-old can log onto the Internet, egy outlined 51⁄2 years ago: fiscal discipline, every 18-year-old can go on to college. And expanded trade, investment in our people today we celebrate a big step forward in mak- and communities. To maintain fiscal dis- ing sure that every adult can keep on learning cipline, we must save every penny of our sur- for a lifetime, where no disadvantaged child, plus until we save the Social Security system. no displaced worker, no welfare parent, no To maintain exports, we must immediately one willing to learn and work is left behind. support the international efforts to stabilize This is the crowning jewel of a lifetime our customers in Asia to reform and lift their learning agenda—the Work Force Invest- economies. In recent weeks we have clearly ment Act to give all our workers opportuni- seen that the crisis in Asia is having an impact ties for growth and advancement. It, as Mr. on our economy. You can talk to any Amer- Goodling said and Mr. Clay said in specifying ican grain farmer who will tell you that. For what was in the bill, has many things that our economy to remain strong, therefore, we will help millions of workers enhance our Na- must pay our dues to the International Mon- tion’s competitive age. etary Fund. To invest in our people we have Let me just mention some of the things to give all our people access to world-class that are most important to me. It empowers education and training, beginning with our workers, not Government programs, by of- children before their school years and ending fering training grants directly to them, so with people who have access to education they can choose for themselves what kind of throughout a lifetime. training they want and where they want to

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get it. There was a time, decades ago, when Access Act. Credit unions serve a vital and Congress actually needed to pass specified unique purpose; they make sure financial training programs with specific purposes and services and credit are available to people of mechanisms to implement them. But that modest means. The law I signed strengthens time has long since passed. Almost every them, helps them to withstand hard eco- American is within driving distance of a com- nomic times, clarifies who can join, and en- munity college or some other mechanism of sures that those who are in credit unions now advanced training. And almost every Amer- won’t ever get locked out. It will help extend ican has more than enough sense to decide greater credit to those who need it most. It what is in his or her best interest, given a is also good for our economy. little good helpful advice on the available al- Both these bills are bipartisan bills. They ternatives. passed with overwhelming bipartisan majori- The law streamlines and consolidates a ties. They show what can happen when we tangle of training programs, therefore, into can put our differences aside and put a single, commonsense system. And it also progress ahead of partisanship and people expands our successful model of One-Stop ahead of politics. That’s a good thing because Career Centers so people don’t have to trot our plate is still full. In the few days remain- around to one different agency after another ing in this legislative session, we must still when they find themselves in the position work together to save Social Security first, that Mr. Antosy found himself in. It enhances secure funding for the International Mone- accountability for tough performance stand- tary Fund to stabilize our own economic ards for States and communities and training growth, to pass a strong Patients’ Bill of providers, even as it gives more flexibility to Rights, a very crowded education agenda the States to develop innovative ways to serve built on excellence and opportunity, and an our working people better. important element of our environmental It helps to create opportunities for dis- agenda to preserve our environment and advantaged youth. And I think that is terribly grow the economy. important. Everybody is concerned about the We can do all these things. And as we see juvenile crime rate; we need to be con- today on this very happy occasion, when we cerned, therefore, about the number of juve- do it, we strengthen our country and the fu- niles that are out here on the street, out of ture of the children over there with Con- school, not doing what could be done to give gressman Roemer and all the others like them a more constructive future. them throughout America. And finally, it does two more things that Thank you very much. I think are quite important. It has a real em- phasis on helping people with disabilities NOTE: The President spoke at 11:04 a.m. in the prepare for employment, and it gives adults Rose Garden at the White House. In his remarks, who need it literacy support to move ahead. he referred to job training beneficiary James You cannot train for a lot of these programs Antosy, who introduced the President; and ex- if you cannot read at an adequate level. And gangmember Benny Hernandez, currently a suc- I think that is terribly important. cessful college student. H.R. 1385, approved Au- What all this amounts to is that we get gust 7, was assigned Public Law No. 105–220. to celebrate Labor Day a month early this year. At long last, we’re giving our workers the tools they need to move quickly to 21st Proclamation 7115—Victims of the century jobs, higher incomes, and brighter Bombing Incidents in Africa futures. I thank all those on this stage, all August 7, 1998 those in this audience, and those who could not be here who have worked and waited By the President of the United States for this day. of America Let me also say that just a couple of min- utes ago I had the chance to sign another A Proclamation bill that helps all Americans share in our As a mark of respect for those killed in prosperity, the Credit Union Membership the bombing incidents outside the United

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States embassies in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar quired or may acquire by international agree- es Salaam, Tanzania, I hereby order, by the ments or by congressional action. authority vested in me as President of the William J. Clinton United States of America by section 175 of title 36 of the United States Code, that the The White House, flag of the United States shall be flown at August 7, 1998 half-staff at the White House and upon all [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, public buildings and grounds, at all military 11:15 a.m., August 10, 1998] posts and naval stations, and on all naval ves- sels of the Federal Government in the Dis- NOTE: This Executive order will be published in trict of Columbia and throughout the United the Federal Register on August 11. States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, Sunday, August 9, 1998. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half- staff for the same length of time at all United Digest of Other States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all mili- White House Announcements tary facilities and naval vessels and stations. In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set The following list includes the President’s public my hand this seventh day of August, in the schedule and other items of general interest an- year of our Lord nineteen hundred and nine- nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and ty-eight, and of the Independence of the not included elsewhere in this issue. United States of America the two hundred and twenty-third. August 2 William J. Clinton In the morning, the President returned to Washington, DC, from East Hampton, NY. [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:48 a.m., August 10, 1998] August 3 In the morning, the President met with NOTE: This proclamation will be published in the President-elect Andres Pastrana of Colombia Federal Register on August 11. in the Oval Office. Later, the President trav- eled to Cheverly, MD, and returned to Executive Order 13097— Washington, DC, in the afternoon. Interparliamentary Union August 4 August 7, 1998 The President announced his intention to appoint Eugene Kinlow, Constance New- By the authority vested in me as President man, and Darius Mans as Chair, Vice Chair, by the Constitution and the laws of the and member, respectively, of the District of United States of America, including section Columbia Financial Responsibility and Man- 1 of the International Organizations Immuni- agement Assistance Authority. ties Act (22 U.S.C. 288), and having found that the Interparliamentary Union is a public August 5 international organization in which the In the morning, the President made re- United States participates within the mean- marks to the House Democratic caucus at ing of the International Organizations Immu- the Cannon House Office Building. nities Act, I hereby designate the Inter- In the evening, the President met with parliamentary Union as a public international Deputy President Thabo Mbeki of South Af- organization entitled to enjoy the privileges, rica in the Oval Office. exemptions, and immunities conferred by the The President declared a major disaster in International Organizations Immunities Act. Michigan and ordered Federal aid to supple- This designation is not intended to abridge ment State and local recovery efforts in the in any respect privileges, exemptions, or im- area struck by severe storms and high winds munities that such organization may have ac- on July 21–22.

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Nominations Transcript of a press briefing by Assistant to Submitted to the Senate the President for Domestic Policy Planning Bruce Reed and Special Assistant for Do- mestic Policy Jose Cerda on the proposed NOTE: No nominations were submitted to the extension of the Brady Handgun Violence Senate during the period covered by this issue. Prevention Act Released August 7 Checklist Transcript of a press briefing by Deputy of White House Press Releases Press Secretary Barry Toiv and Assistant Press Secretary for Foreign Affairs P.J. Crowley The following list contains releases of the Office of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as items nor covered by entries in the Digest of Other White House Announcements. Acts Approved Released August 3 by the President Transcript of a press briefing by Deputy Press Secretary Barry Toiv Approved August 5 Transcript of a press briefing by NSC Senior Director for Inter-American Affairs Jim H.R. 39 / Public Law 105–217 Dobbins on the President’s meeting with African Elephant Conservation Reauthoriza- President-elect Pastrana of Colombia tion Act of 1998 Statement by the Press Secretary: On the Approved August 7 Visit of President-Elect Andres Pastrana of Colombia H.R. 643 / Public Law 105–218 Released August 4 To designate the United States courthouse to be constructed at the corner of Superior Transcript of a press briefing by Deputy and Huron Roads, in Cleveland, Ohio, as the Press Secretary Barry Toiv ‘‘Carl B. Stokes United States Courthouse’’ Transcript of a press briefing by Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy Planning H.R. 1151 / Public Law 105–219 Bruce Reed and Labor Secretary Alexis Her- Credit Union Membership Access Act man on the anniversary of the Personal Re- H.R. 1385 / Public Law 105–220 sponsibility and Work Opportunity Rec- Workforce Investment Act of 1998 onciliation Act of 1996 Released August 5 H.R. 3152 / Public Law 105–221 Amy Somers Volunteers at Food Banks Act Transcript of a press briefing by Deputy Press Secretary Barry Toiv and Assistant H.R. 3731 / Public Law 105–222 Press Secretary for Foreign Affairs P.J. To designate the auditorium located within Crowley the Sandia Technology Transfer Center in Statement by the Press Secretary: President Albuquerque, New Mexico, as the ‘‘Steve Clinton’s Meeting with South African Dep- Schiff Auditorium’’ uty President Thabo Mbeki H.R. 4354 / Public Law 105–223 Released August 6 To establish the United States Capitol Police Transcript of a press briefing by Deputy Memorial Fund on behalf of the families of Press Secretary Barry Toiv and Assistant Detective John Michael Gibson and Private Press Secretary for Foreign Affairs P.J. First Class Jacob Joseph Chestnut of the Crowley United States Capitol Police

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