E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 106 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

Vol. 145 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21, 1999 No. 55 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- Mr. Speaker, Americans across this called to order by the Speaker pro tem- nal stands approved. Nation are trying to come to grips with pore (Mr. SHIMKUS). f the latest senseless tragedy that hit f one of our schools. Why do some of our PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE children feel the need to kill? How can DESIGNATION OF THE SPEAKER The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the they feel such hate? And why do they PRO TEMPORE gentleman from California (Mr. RADAN- not have the moral framework that The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- OVICH) come forward and lead the would stop this kind of tragedy? fore the House the following commu- House in the Pledge of Allegiance. There are no easy answers to these nication from the Speaker: Mr. RADANOVICH led the Pledge of questions, but some things I do know, WASHINGTON, DC, Allegiance as follows: that we must do our best to make our April 21, 1999. I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the schools safe. We must provide our chil- I hereby appoint the Honorable JOHN United States of America, and to the Repub- dren with the moral framework from SHIMKUS to act as Speaker pro tempore on lic for which it stands, one nation under God, which they can distinguish between this day. indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. right and wrong. We must stop the cul- J. DENNIS HASTERT, f ture of death that makes vicious kill- Speaker of the House of Representatives. ers out of too many of our children. f MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE Mr. Speaker, our children are our fu- PRAYER A message from the Senate by Mr. ture. If we do not teach them the dif- Lundregan, one of its clerks, an- ferences between right and wrong, our The Reverend Bill Shimkus, Hope nounced that the Senate had passed a Nation’s future is in peril. Lutheran Church, Idaho Falls, Idaho, bill of the following title, in which the My deepest condolences go out to the offered the following prayer: concurrence of the House is requested: community of Littleton, Colorado and Most gracious heavenly Father, this S. 507. An act to provide for the conserva- especially to the parents of the stu- morning we are shocked and saddened tion and development of water and related dents of Columbine High School. As a by the tragic killings that took place resources, to authorize the Secretary of the parent of two boys, I can only imagine yesterday in Colorado. Our hearts go Army to construct various projects for im- the grief that you are feeling today as out to all of those who have lost loved provements to rivers and harbors of the you try to make sense of yesterday’s United States, and for other purposes. ones in this terrible act of violence. tragedy. Comfort the survivors in their time of The message also announced that f sadness and loss. Grant healing to pursuant to Public Law 105–83, the those hospitalized from wounds re- Chair, on behalf of the Majority Lead- WE NEED PRAYER IN OUR ceived in this attack and to those who er, announces the appointment of the SCHOOLS will carry wounds inside them for years Senator from Ohio (Mr. DEWINE) to (Mr. TRAFICANT asked and was to come. serve as a member of the National given permission to address the House As we again witness the sad spectacle Council on the Arts. for 1 minute and to revise and extend of senseless violence perpetrated on our f his remarks.) school campuses, we ask Your guid- Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Speaker, I ance. Help us, we pray, find ways to CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE want to associate myself with the re- safeguard the schools in which our (Mr. HASTERT asked and was given marks of our distinguished Speaker children learn and grow, and to help permission to address the House for 1 and his leadership. dysfunctional families with troubled minute and to revise and extend his re- We have another school tragedy now children prone to violence. In Jesus’ marks.) in Colorado. Experts are calling for name, Amen. Mr. HASTERT. Mr. Speaker, yester- more money, more police, more coun- f day our Nation witnessed a senseless selors, and certainly that would be a tragedy in Littleton, Colorado. Before I help. But I think there is something THE JOURNAL begin my 1 minute, I would like the else fundamentally missing. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The House to take a moment of silence to In America, when our schools can Chair has examined the Journal of the remember the lives of those poor stu- teach about Hitler and war but we can- last day’s proceedings and announces dents who died at Columbine High not discuss God, something is very to the House his approval thereof. School. wrong, I say to my colleagues. Not to

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

H2205

. H2206 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 use this great tragedy as the catalyst They want a system where inequalities ensuring that women have an equal say for a proposition we should be consid- generated by the market economy do in the crucial issues that affect us all. ering, but I believe school prayer not undermine political equality. Let f should be strongly considered by this us give the American people what they body. People who pray together are not want: Equal access and a commitment STOP THE VIOLENCE likely, through history, to kill one an- to service instead of campaigns. Let us (Ms. DUNN asked and was given per- other. I believe it is a reasonable thing pass bipartisan campaign finance re- mission to address the House for 1 to pursue. It may not be the total an- form and revive the guarantee of one minute.) swer, but it is a start in the right direc- citizen, one vote. Ms. DUNN. Mr. Speaker, there are no tion. f words to describe the tragedy that Let me remind Members that the took place yesterday at Columbine Constitution may separate church and ARMENIAN GENOCIDE High School in Colorado. As a mother, state, but it was never intended to sep- (Mr. RADANOVICH asked and was I can only empathize with those par- arate God and the American people. We given permission to address the House ents who were waiting for hours to find all pray for the families and grieve for for 1 minute.) out if their son or daughter was able to the victims. Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I leave that school safely. f rise today to join my colleagues, the These young people have seen more gentleman from California (Mr. in a few hours than any of our Nation’s SENSELESS VIOLENCE IN ROGAN); the gentleman from Michigan children should see in a lifetime. Par- COLORADO (Mr. BONIOR); the gentleman from New ents whose children were one month (Mr. GIBBONS asked and was given Jersey (Mr. PALLONE), and a bipartisan from graduating, one month from permission to address the House for 1 group of legislators in introducing a starting a brand-new chapter in their minute.) resolution to bring together all the lives are now grieving with an incon- Mr. GIBBONS. Mr. Speaker, like my U.S. records on the Armenian Genocide ceivable loss. This community has a colleagues here, we all rise today to ex- and to provide this collection to the heartache no one in his worst night- press our grief and sadness to the fami- House Committee on International Re- mare could ever have imagined. lies of Littleton, Colorado, and once lations, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial After the school shooting in Spring- again the television sets across this Museum, and the Armenian Genocide field, Oregon last year, the gentleman country have flashed the words, Museum in Yerevan, Armenia. from Oregon (Mr. DEFAZIO) and I ‘‘breaking news.’’ This is another inci- U.S. archives contain extensive docu- teamed up in an effort to do something dent of violence that has occurred at mentation of the widespread opposition to stop the violence on our Nation’s one of our Nation’s schools. to Ottoman Turkey’s brutal massacres school grounds. There is no cure-all, Yesterday, senseless and tragic and deportations. They contain, as but the Schoolyard Safety Act will shooting at Columbine High School is well, records of the unprecedented ef- help by beginning awareness before the another painful reminder of the risk forts of the American people to bring tragedy occurs. our children face every day as they at- relief to the survivors of this, the cen- We know that legislation is not the tend school. tury’s first genocide. final solution. High school students at Last year in my district I held sev- In introducing this legislation, we Columbine reported they knew the sus- eral townhall meetings to discuss the challenge those who would deny geno- pects in the shooting were troubled, issue of school violence. The interest cide, past or present. youths who needed our help long before generated by these forums provided an Please add your name today as a co- the tragedy occurred. But how do we important dialogue for community sponsor of this legislation and join help these children before they act out leaders across Nevada. They are doing with me at the Armenian National violence? an important job in helping to find the Committee’s Genocide Observance A discussion needs to take place with solutions to prevent these terrible inci- being held this evening at the Rayburn our students across the Nation. We dents from occurring in our State. House Office Building. need to talk to our children, after they As Members of Congress, we have the f get home from school, every night at the dinner table, on weekends, to find responsibility to work in a bipartisan SISTER TO SISTER FLY-IN manner to provide our teachers, par- out what they are thinking, what they ents, students and school officials with (Ms. MCKINNEY asked and was given are feeling. The solution is found with a safe, drug-free learning environment. permission to address the House for 1 our children. Our students, their education, their fu- minute.) Mr. Speaker, nothing can stop the ture and their safety demand no less. Ms. MCKINNEY. Mr. Speaker, for heartache of the community of Little- Mr. Speaker, with a heavy heart, I several years I have sponsored the Sis- ton, Colorado. We can only pray for yield back the balance of my time and ter to Sister Fly-In, an event that al- students and families and pull our com- pray for the families in Colorado. lows women from my district to come munities together to stop violence. f to Washington and discuss issues that f are important to them, issues like ONE CITIZEN, ONE VOTE health care, child care, improved pub- TRAGEDY IN COLORADO (Mr. CUMMINGS asked and was lic education, and protecting Social Se- (Mr. ROEMER asked and was given given permission to address the House curity. permission to address the House for 1 for 1 minute.) Today, I would like to welcome some minute and to revise and extend his re- Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I rise 50 women from Georgia’s 4th Congres- marks.) today to call attention to the funda- sional District who are here with me to Mr. ROEMER. Mr. Speaker, as a mental principle of one citizen, one experience firsthand how our political member of the Committee on Edu- vote. Sadly, high campaign costs and system works and how they, as women, cation and the Workforce and a father fund-raising abuses are eroding this es- are changing the landscape of Amer- of three children, I rise to ask for the sential feature of our democracy. ican politics. prayers and join in the grieving for the In 1976, $540 million was spent on all Currently, 65 women serve in the U.S. families that lost children in Littleton, elections and 20 years later, in 1996, Congress, a record 9 in the Senate, and Colorado. We lost, reports indicate, that figure had risen to an alarming $4 a record 56 in the House. Although we maybe 16 of our children. We have lost billion. have been shut out of the political more children in one day than we have Our political process has become a process in the past, we have always lost in four weeks of bombing in marketplace where a higher value is been in the vanguard of social change, Kosovo. We have lost children in Pearl, placed on economic and fund-raising including women like Rosa Parks, Mississippi and Paducah, Kentucky. We activities than on political ideology, whom we honored yesterday with the have lost children in Jonesboro, Arkan- accountability and service. Congressional Medal of Honor. sas and Springfield, Oregon. We have The American people want political The increased participation of women lost children to violence throughout commitment, not a political market. in the political process is a must for the last several years. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2207 While our children are entitled to a try, at least this institution can openly ing, and we must work together to an- very good education and safe schools, say a prayer for them. swer the prayers of parents who worry we also need to enforce discipline in f every night about their children’s safe- our schools, to target these children ty. COMMERCE COMMITTEE LEGISLA- that are coming to school with prob- Today we express our sorrow. We all TION TO AMEND NUCLEAR lems in an early fashion, and we need pray and grieve for those suffering WASTE POLICY to enforce the values in American soci- from the senseless violence in Colo- ety. (Ms. BERKLEY asked and was given rado. When we have guns in society, we are permission to address the House for 1 f minute and to revise and extend her re- going to have guns in our schools. VETERANS’ MEMORIAL When we have violence in society, we marks.) are going to have violence in our Ms. BERKLEY. Mr. Speaker, this (Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas asked and was given permission to address schools. And when we have hatred in Congress is on the verge of making a the House for 1 minute and to revise society, that hatred is going to per- monumental mistake. As we speak, the House Committee and extend his remarks.) meate into our schools. Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Let us, as Madison said, have a larger on Commerce is trying to pass legisla- tion that would dump more than 70,000 Speaker, to change the subject a little vision of America. Let us have and en- bit, today, along with the gentleman tons of lethal nuclear waste just 90 gage in a national dialogue to stop this from Pennsylvania (Mr. JOHN MURTHA), miles from my hometown, Las Vegas, hatred and violence in our schools. I will introduce legislation to authorize home to over 1 million men, women, f a memorial to honor our wounded and and children. disabled veterans. This memorial, the ASKING AMERICANS TO PRAY FOR What is worse, this bill proposes to only one dedicated to disabled vet- FAMILIES IN LITTLETON, COLO- move this waste on our Nation’s high- RADO erans, would give the American people ways and rail lines through 43 States an opportunity to honor and express (Mr. KINGSTON asked and was given through the backyards of 50 million gratitude to those who sacrificed so permission to address the House for 1 Americans. much for our freedom. minute and to revise and extend his re- Mr. Speaker, it is estimated that this We must never forget the terrifying marks.) mobile Chernobyl will create between human costs, physical, psychological, Mr. KINGSTON. Mr. Speaker, 15 200 and 400 potential deadly nuclear ac- and spiritual, that so many paid that years ago a childhood friend of mine cidents. I ask my colleagues if such an we might be free. They were citizen from Athens, Georgia, Ross Fox, moved accident occurred in their district and soldiers, everyday Americans who were out to Denver to start his career and they voted for this legislation, what willing to make the ultimate sacrifice, raise his family. possible explanation could they give and who offered themselves for the their constituents? Who would they b 1015 good of all. They should never be for- send to clean up the radioactive mess, gotten. Yesterday, as I heard, as did millions or care for the radioactive injured? This memorial will stand forever as a of other Americans, about the tragedy There is an alternative. Energy Sec- tribute to our disabled veterans and that went on in Littleton, I thought retary Bill Richardson has come up their sacrifices for our great Nation. immediately of Ross and 17-year-old with a good plan to keep the deadly ra- f Richard Fox and 15-year-old David Fox. dioactive waste off our Nation’s high- NORTHERN CALIFORNIANS ASK I did not know if they went to Col- ways and railways. He wants the En- REPUBLICAN LEADERSHIP TO umbine or not, so I called Ross. His ergy Department to take control of nu- BRING MANAGED CARE REFORM wife Paloma answered the phone and clear waste at our Nation’s reactor TO THE FLOOR OF THE HOUSE said they did not go there, that Ross sites. FOR DEBATE wanted to talk to me. Please vote against this horrible mo- Ross, who is a successful stockbroker bile Chernobyl before it causes a nu- (Ms. WOOLSEY asked and was given out there, had come home earlier to clear accident. permission to address the House for 1 hug his children and to meet them in f minute and to revise and extend her re- the driveway as they went rushing out marks.) to see their dad and embrace. They did GRIEVING FOR VICTIMS OF SENSE- Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, in the not go to Columbine, but their friends LESS VIOLENCE IN LITTLETON, last weeks dozens of national health did. As recently as Sunday, David had COLORADO organizations launched a nationwide been playing basketball with kids from (Mr. PITTS asked and was given per- online petition demanding the passage Columbine. mission to address the House for 1 of comprehensive Bill of Rights. This As I called them last night, they did minute and to revise and extend his re- would protect the basic rights of pa- not know if their friends were victims marks.) tients enrolled in managed care plans. or survivors. The sadness, the confu- Mr. PITTS. Mr. Speaker, first, Pearl, In my district north of the Golden Gate Bridge, even though we have some sion, the overwhelming frustration and Mississippi; then, West Paducah, Ken- very good health maintenance organi- anguish, was just too much for them. tucky; then Jonesboro, Arkansas; then zations, people are telling me that they As we talked on the phone last night, I Edinboro, Pennsylvania; then Spring- are very concerned about whether their think both of us had tears in our eyes. field, Ohio; and now, Littleton, Colo- health plan will be there when they We do not know the easy solutions, rado. It all seems too much to bear. need it. So they are getting on this pe- the quick answers. The tendency in so- We have no cure-all answers, quick tition, and they are asking the Repub- ciety is to rush out and say we need to and easy solutions, only questions and lican leadership to bring the Patients’ change this law or pass this bill, or prayers. Parents pray for many things Bill of Rights forward so that we can maybe get this off TV. We do not really in life: that their children grow up to debate it here in the Congress. know what would be the one panacea share the same values they tried to They are calling on the Speaker of that would end this sort of strange, bi- teach them, that they realize all their the House to bring managed care re- zarre, peculiar, repugnant type behav- hopes and dreams, that they feel love, form to the Floor of the House, man- ior and incidents. and that they love people and life. aged care reform that will guarantee One thing we do know: Right now One thing they all pray for is that access to emergency room care, ensure this country is united with the families their children spend their days in a that doctors and patients, not insur- of the victims; that they have our sym- safe and wholesome environment at ance companies, have the final word on pathy and they have our prayers. As school. There are too many schools in medical decisions, and give patients re- the Speaker called for prayer today, we America where the children are not course when care is denied. ask other Americans to pray, and per- safe, where the environment is not It is pretty basic, Mr. Speaker. In our haps we should remember that unlike wholesome, where positive values and health care system patients should be high school kids throughout the coun- experience do not triumph. It is a fail- number one, not the almighty dollar. H2208 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 OFFERING PRAYERS TO THE ing this coverage, these qualified Yesterday the Committee on Rules, GRIEVING AFTER A SENSELESS health professionals will finally be able by a vote of 11 to zero, granted the cus- TRAGEDY to provide the care so many of our con- tomary rule waiving all points of order (Mr. COOKSEY asked and was given stituents need. against the conference report. The permission to address the House for 1 f House will have 1 hour to debate the minute and to revise and extend his re- merits of this legislation. PRAYERS FOR THE PEOPLE OF As my colleagues may recall, back in marks.) LITTLETON, COLORADO, AND March the House passed the Ed-Flex Mr. COOKSEY. Mr. Speaker, there is FOR CONCERNED SCHOOL OFFI- bill by a bipartisan vote of 330 to 90. little that can be said during such mo- CIALS WORKING TO HELP CHIL- b ments of tragedy such as what the Na- DREN 1030 tion witnessed yesterday in Colorado. (Ms. PRYCE of Ohio asked and was The Senate followed suit by passing There are thousands of disaffected, ter- given permission to address the House its Ed-Flex legislation by an over- ribly disturbed teenagers across the for 1 minute and to revise and extend whelming vote of 98 to 1. country, but few will resort to vio- her remarks.) It is encouraging to know that Demo- lence. In this case, two of them did. Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, the crats and Republicans can come to- Their violence was of a self-destructive deaths caused by two troubled youths gether on at least one aspect of our Na- sort resulting in their own self-in- in Littleton, Colorado, point out the tion’s education policy. There are nu- flicted deaths after they took the lives tragedy of those lonely, alienated teens merous competing ideas for improving of innocent children. in our society who feel there is no one our schools and teaching our children; It is all too easy for armchair psy- to help, no one to turn to when their but we all agree that education, per- chologists to draw hasty conclusions lives seem empty and pointless. haps more than any other issue, will about what explains this tragedy and Many turn to self-destructive out- dictate our Nation’s future, and it the five other school shootings our Na- lets: drugs, alcohol, nihilistic subcul- must be a top priority. I do not think anyone would argue tion has witnessed over the past 2 tures which celebrate death and de- that many of our Nation’s schools are years: guns, the culture, violence on struction. They think there is no one failing, and there is no excuse. We are television, nihilistic music and video to help them, but they are wrong. The the world’s only remaining superpower, games, frightening Internet sites. It is help that is offered by parents, teach- yet we allow our children to graduate simply not possible to explain the ers, school psychologists and kindly from high school without basic reading cause. guidance counselors is rejected. No one and writing skills. Something is not Who could explain why millions and can reach them. working. It is time to move beyond the millions of other teenagers, nearly all But those whose occupations touch status quo and encourage innovative exposed to the same influences, do not the lives of our teenagers must not lose reform. choose to embark on such a senseless heart. They must continue to do the path? It is a senseless tragedy, nothing Passing the Ed-Flex conference re- good work that they rightly take pride port is a good first step in the right di- more. We can only offer our prayers to in. They must not be discouraged by the grieving. rection. This legislation will allow all the failures that they see, the children 50 States to participate in a program f whom they cannot comfort, and the that gives local school districts the anger they cannot dispel. freedom to implement effective re- MEDICAID NURSING INCENTIVE Our prayers go out today to the peo- ACT forms by liberating them from restric- ple of Littleton, and to all those school tive one-size-fits-all Federal require- (Mr. OLVER asked and was given officials who try so hard to help all of ments. permission to address the House for 1 our children. This approach recognizes that the minute and to revise and extend his re- f Federal Government does not have the marks.) EDUCATION FLEXIBILITY magic pill that will remedy the ail- Mr. OLVER. Mr. Speaker, today I am PARTNERSHIP ACT OF 1999 ments of each and every school. But reintroducing the Medicaid Nursing In- the least we can do is clear away some Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, by centive Act of 1999, and I want to thank of the obstacles found in onerous Fed- direction of the Committee on Rules, I the gentlewoman from Connecticut eral regulations that are blocking our call up House Resolution 143 and ask (Mrs. NANCY JOHNSON) and the 13 other schools’ path to improvement. for its immediate consideration. original cosponsors, men and women The Ed-Flex program is founded in The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- from all over this country and from the principle of trust, trust in our lows: both parties, for joining me in this in- State and local leaders who we believe troduction. H. RES. 143 will make good choices for their com- This bill will provide direct Medicaid Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- munities. Ed-Flex has worked in the 12 lution it shall be in order to consider the reimbursement for all nurse practi- States that are currently eligible, in- tioners and college nurse specialists. conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. 800) to provide for education flexibility cluding my own State of Ohio. This Each year millions of Americans go partnerships. All points of order against the success strongly suggests that we ex- without the health care they need sim- conference report and against its consider- pand Ed-Flex to all 50 States, and that ply because physicians are not avail- ation are waived. The conference report shall is what this legislation is all about. able to treat them. From the streets of be considered as read. Let us be clear. The Ed-Flex program Los Angeles to the hill towns of west- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. does not simply dissolve Federal edu- ern Massachusetts and all in between, SHIMKUS). The gentlewoman from Ohio cation law. We are not simply handing Americans cannot find physicians who (Ms. PRYCE) is recognized for 1 hour. out money and turning our heads the are willing to practice in their urban or Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, for other way. To be eligible for Ed-Flex, small rural communities. purposes of debate only, I yield the cus- States must demonstrate that they There is an exception to this trend, tomary 30 minutes to my friend, the have an effective plan for improving however. Nurse practitioners and clin- gentlewoman from New York (Ms. the education of poor and disadvan- ical nurse specialists often serve in SLAUGHTER), pending which I yield my- taged children, and they must agree to areas where others refuse to work. Fed- self such time as I may consume. Dur- be held accountable for the results. In eral law requires Medicaid reimburse- ing consideration of this resolution, all fact, this conference report strengthens ment only for certified family and pe- time yielded is for the purposes of de- the accountability provisions of cur- diatric nurse practitioners and cer- bate only. rent law. tified nurse midwives. Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 143 All told, the conference report actu- Extending Medicaid coverage to all provides for the consideration of the ally contains very few changes from nurse practitioners and clinical nurse conference report on H.R. 800, the Edu- the House-passed bill, and it should re- specialists, as 22 States have done, cation Flexibility Partnership Act of ceive the same broad support. The bi- makes good common sense. By expand- 1999, better known as the Ed-Flex bill. partisan spirit surrounding the Ed-Flex April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2209 bill was carried over into the con- Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I Earlier last month the House passed ference committee to produce a bill thank the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. a bill to extend the eligibility of the that both the House and Senate can ap- PRYCE) for yielding me the customary Ed-Flex program to all 50 States. This prove and the President should sign. time. program, which has broad bipartisan One example of this bipartisan effort Mr. Speaker, even as the Committee support, allows State education agen- is the decision of the Republican con- on Rules was considering the rule to cies to waive a wide range of require- ferees to drop a Senate amendment accompany H.R. 800, the Education ments that generally apply to certain which the Democrats and the President Flexibility Partnership Act, an un- Federal elementary and secondary edu- opposed. The amendment would have speakable tragedy was unfolding in cation assistance programs. provided additional flexibility to Littleton, Colorado. Along with many of my colleagues, I schools, giving them discretion to de- Mr. Speaker, I am a parent, and my stood in this very well and urged Mem- vote more funds to special education, grandson is visiting me here this week. bers to consider the importance of ac- which is a top Republican priority. We know what is truly precious in our countability when undertaking such an I cannot say I understand the Presi- lives, and we are literally heartsick endeavor. dent’s opposition to giving local school over what has happened to the people I am pleased that, during the con- districts the option of putting re- of Littleton. Our prayers are said for ference on this legislation, the major- sources into education for children them, and our hearts are heavy for ity agreed to make two important with special needs. However, I appre- them, and the Nation mourns their ter- changes to this bill. First, they chose ciate the decision of Republican con- rible loss and ours. not to include language which would ferees to compromise on this issue in Mr. Speaker, we have children and have reversed the decision of this body the interest of quickly moving this im- family members in our schools across to hire and train 100,000 new teachers portant legislation to the President’s the country, and parents are afraid to so that we may begin to reduce class desk where it can be signed into law. send their children to school. But we size in the early grades. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report that the gen- are also members of our communities study after study has told us the im- tleman from Pennsylvania (Chairman in which we live and who send us here. portance of doing just that. Second, GOODLING) has assured the Committee Here on this floor, we are elected offi- they allowed a provision requiring that cials with the responsibility to do what on Rules that the Republican commit- Title I funding must continue to give we can to guard against future trage- ment to funding special education will priority to schools with more than 75 dies. As we continue to discuss how to remain high on his committee’s agen- percent of their children below the pov- da. Other changes agreed to in the con- improve our schools, we have got to re- erty line. ference will ensure that our Nation’s double our efforts to keep our children This bill is an improvement over from slipping through the cracks. poorest schools continue to receive pri- what passed last month and, as a re- I have offered legislation to provide ority consideration for Title I funding. sult, I will not oppose it. But I will re- In addition, the conference report students, educators, and communities main concerned with its timing, par- clears up some confusion created by constructive activities that they can ticularly with the decision to bring it the Department of Education’s inter- be involved in, not just during but forward when the majority knows full pretation of the Individuals with Dis- after-school activities to steer our chil- abilities Act which governs the treat- dren away from guns and drugs and vi- well that these decisions will have to ment of children who possess a weapon olence. I implore this House to pass it. be reevaluated as Congress continues at school. Under this legislation, it is This and the tragedies that other work on reauthorization of all of our made clear that children who possess communities have endured all too re- elementary and secondary education weapons will be subject to the same cently remind us that we have children programs. discipline procedures as children who living their lives in the shadows, on the Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of the carry weapons. After yesterday’s horri- edges, children who may not be reached rule. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the fying incident in Colorado, it is clear by traditional means, who may not be gentleman from Indiana (Mr. ROEMER). that we must enforce strict rules of no involved in traditional school activi- Mr. ROEMER. Mr. Speaker, I thank tolerance for guns in school. This is a ties; too many guns, too much violence my good friend, the gentlewoman from step in that direction. in the media, too little love in our The conferees also agreed to an hearts, who knows for certain? But, New York, for yielding me the time. amendment designed to benefit rural sadly, we really cannot yet explain Mr. Speaker, I rise as a coauthor of school districts. Specifically, small what is truly unexplainable. We really the Ed-Flex bill with the gentleman school districts that reduce class size do not know what makes children who from Delaware (Mr. CASTLE), and to 18 or fewer children will be allowed have lived so little feel so hopeless proudly proclaim that we have made it to devote funds to professional develop- about the rest of their lives, but what a long way in the last 8 or 9 months ment without joining consortiums. we do not know we are obliged to try to when we introduced this bill through Outside of these few changes, the learn. committee, through the markup proc- conference report mirrors the House- Our efforts at after-school education ess, on to the floor where we had 112 passed bill. Fifty governors, the Na- and education in general cannot focus Democrats support this bill, and then tional School Board Association, the solely on students whose behavior into a conference last week. I am de- Chamber of Commerce, the American might more readily identify them as in lighted to say that we have accom- Association of School Administrators need or at risk. We must also cast the plished this with true trust and reach- all support this legislation. light of caring and concern into those ing out, Democrat to Republican and So I urge my colleagues, in the spirit shadows where our children have re- Republican to Democrat. of bipartisanship and in the name of in- treated. By doing so, we can begin to We have improved on a pilot bill that novative education reform, to move ex- help them build the self-esteem that is has existed in 12 States for the last 4 peditiously to adopt this rule and agree crucial in their ability to respect years, built on the successes that the to the Education Flexibility Con- themselves and others. pilot program and Ed-Flex has accom- ference Report. We cannot afford to Mr. Speaker, as the author of after- plished in States like Maryland and wait any longer to remove the obsta- school legislation, I will urge this Texas and Ohio, improved on those cles that stand in the way of our chil- House and this Congress to set aside pilot programs, applied some of the dren’s opportunities to learn. funds for school districts who want to strengths of those programs to our bill. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of provide their students more counseling So that is the first reason I hope that my time. and mentoring opportunities as well as people will vote for this conference re- Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I tutoring. That request and my efforts port, that this is an old value and a yield myself such time as I may con- in that regard are in keeping with the new idea. The old value is to trust the sume. legislation which we are considering local schools to do what is in their best (Ms. SLAUGHTER asked and was today, legislation giving schools more interest, to educate our children with given permission to revise and extend flexibility to do what works while the right curriculum, the right values, her remarks.) being accountable for the results. the right discipline. We will trust those H2210 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 local schools in Indiana and Delaware to state that I strongly support the States what is it we can expect in the and California to do it. concept of increased flexibility to im- way of success 5 years from now? Be- But the new idea is to say that we prove educational programs at the cause what we have gotten over the are not going to keep new handcuffs on local level, and I have voted for the last decade is failure. them and new regulations and new pa- original legislation, Goals 2000, which If we are going to put the public’s perwork. But we are going to have one was to establish the Ed-Flex program, money back into this program, we rope of accountability for this Federal but I must say, after viewing the con- want to know how are they going to money, and that is student scores and ference report, that I come at it from a measure and how are they going to tell student performance. If students do different direction with respect to ac- how these students are doing. Unfortu- better, they will stay in the Ed-Flexi- countability. nately, that evidence failed, and that is bility program. If their students see I think it is time that the Federal why I must oppose this legislation. significant declines in their scores, Government, in its use of the tax- I think a number of States that have they will be terminated from the pro- payers’ money to fund the Elementary engaged in some of the provisions that gram and they will go back to the old and Secondary Education Act, start to are allowed under flexibility have done regimented system. So it is an old hold the States and local districts ac- some very good things, and the com- value. It is a new idea. It is based upon countable for the education of all chil- mittee heard testimony from States a 12-State pilot program. dren. We all know that public officials like Texas and Maryland and North The second reason is accountability. today are talking about holding people Carolina that do not have it but are en- We have tougher accountability in our accountable but rarely do we, in fact, gaged in that kind of process, to bill than in current law. We must make do it. rethink how they are delivering edu- our schools accountable for better Most recently, as we have started a cation. But flexibility cannot be an ex- school performances from our students. program of high standards and assess- cuse for accountability. They must go This bill does it. It does it through the ment of how students are doing on hand-in-hand, and, unfortunately, the gateway into the program. It does it those standards, we now see we are evidence we have to date through the with tougher assessment and account- plagued with school districts all over GAO report, through the Inspector ability standards. It does it, as I men- the country that are taking poor per- General’s report tells us that the tioned before, with the termination forming students out of the testing States have not done terribly well clause. pool so that it will look like they are under the pilot program and, unfortu- Thirdly, I urge my colleagues to vote doing better when they report to the nately, this legislation does not go far for this bill because it is even improved parents in that school district. It will enough to hold them accountable. coming out of the Senate. In the Sen- look like everybody achieved better. No longer can we as a society write ate they attached the Lott amendment But what they did is they went around children off. No longer can we accept to the bill which would have restricted and took the tests of the kids that the level of failures that we see today the President’s proposal, initiated last were not doing so well out of the pool. in our local school districts. The time year, already being practiced, that al- They rigged the results, and now they has come to cut the mustard. The time lows the localities the opportunity to want to say that they are accountable. has come to hold districts accountable, hire new teachers and do something Just recently a prosecution was en- to hold States accountable for the uses about the teacher-student ratio. tered against a school district in Texas of these dollars, and I do not think we The Lott amendment would have for tampering with the public evidence. can continue to accept a lot of ration- greatly curtailed the availability of That is why we need accountability. ales for why districts should not be that program, the applicability of that We need accountability because we held accountable. program at our local level. It would must know how all of our children are It is rather simple. We know there have not allowed that program to go doing, in rich school districts, in poor are proposals that have been submitted forward. That Lott amendment has school districts, how minority children to the Federal Government to hold dis- been removed. That was a concern of are doing, how poor children are doing, tricts accountable in a very strict fash- the President. That was a concern of and others. Unfortunately, this legisla- ion. Then we would be able to tell how some Members when they came to the tion is weak on accountability. They this Nation is doing in education. floor, when this bill first went from the have failed to require the States aggre- Today we cannot. Today, many of the floor into conference. That amendment gate the data so that those States will States cannot put the data together to has been removed. be held responsible for all students. tell us how their schools are doing or, So I would hope that my colleagues They give a passing notion that maybe at best, they can tell us how the aver- would vote for this Ed-Flex Conference they will look at it by groups, but even age student is doing but it does not tell Report, and we can build on the 112 there the language has been weakened us how the other students are doing. Democrats that support it on the floor. from what the House put in. I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on the conference We can build on the bipartisanship that In the committee and on the floor report. we reached in crafting this bill and get- the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. KIL- Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I ting it through to the President. The DEE), the gentleman from New Jersey yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from President has indicated that he will (Mr. PAYNE), the gentleman from Vir- North Carolina (Mr. HAYES). support this bill in addition to the 50 ginia (Mr. SCOTT), and myself offered Mr. HAYES. Mr. Speaker, I would governors supporting this bill. an amendment to try to hold school like to report back to my colleagues of I look forward to helping children get districts accountable, to try to make the enthusiastic response I received a better education when this bill be- sure that we, in fact, knew how chil- from my time in the district at a num- comes law. dren were doing, because the time has ber of schools about the Ed-Flex legis- come when we must, in fact, make lation. b 1045 sure. I rise today to speak in favor of the Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I We have now invested over the last rule, but let me begin by saying, Mr. yield 6 minutes to the gentleman from decade maybe $50, $60 billion in this Speaker, how deeply sorry I am for the California (Mr. GEORGE MILLER). program, and one of the great hall- parents, classmates, friends and fami- (Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California marks was touted the other day when lies of the students who perished and asked and was given permission to re- it was suggested that the reading were wounded in the tragic events of vise and extend his remarks.) scores have improved. Yes, they have. yesterday in Littleton, Colorado. I am Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. They have improved back to where truly sick with grief over this tragedy, Mr. Speaker, I clearly want to recog- they were in 1990. So we have invested and I pledge to the mourning families nize the hard work that the sub- $60 billion in a program and we are get- and all Americans alike that I will do committee chair, the gentleman from ting ready to invest another $60 billion all I can as a Member of Congress to Delaware (Mr. CASTLE), and the gen- in the program and yet we are unable end the senseless violence preying on tleman from Indiana (Mr. ROEMER) put as public stewards of public policy and our students, our families, and our into this legislation, and I clearly want of the taxpayers’ money to ask the communities. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2211 After initial passage of the Education fore, they are not eligible for the Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Flexibility Partnership Act of 1999 in teachers funds in most cases and they of my time, and I move the previous March, I spent time during the Easter would like to be able to use their question on the resolution. recess in the classrooms of the schools money for IDEA. The previous question was ordered. of my 8th District in North Carolina So to some degree, when we micro- The resolution was agreed to. talking to teachers, students, and ad- manage from Washington, we punish A motion to reconsider was laid on ministrators about Ed-Flex. This bill those States that have actually done a the table. will allow innovative ideas in teaching better job of fixing certain conditions Mr. GOODLING. Mr. Speaker, pursu- to evolve at the local level. and problems in their States and to re- ant to House resolution 143, I call up I spoke with Captain Jack L. Ahart ward those States that have not done the conference report on the bill (H.R. at A L Brown High School in it. That is why we cannot micro- 800) to provide for education flexibility partnerships. Kannapolis, North Carolina, who is manage schools all over America. We need to have flexibility. The Clerk read the title of the bill. teaching civics in his JROTC class. He The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. told me that Ed-Flex will allow him to Unlike many bills that come out of the House, this is at least slightly bet- MCHUGH). Pursuant to House Resolu- incorporate more computers into his tion 143, the conference report is con- classroom and expand the students’ ter than when it went into conference committee. So we have a little bit sidered as having been read. learning experience. (For conference report and state- more flexibility, but I am very dis- I spoke with Scott Bennett and his ment, see proceedings of the House of appointed that we had to yield on the 9th grade history students at Ellerbee April 20, 1999, at page H2144.) Junior High regarding their visit to House side and the Senate withdrew on The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- the Lott amendment. We will revisit Washington, D.C. and Mr. Bennett’s tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. GOOD- that subject. creative involvement with the kids’ ex- LING) and the gentleman from Missouri Because one consequence of looking periences in the classroom environ- (Mr. CLAY) each will control 30 min- at the terrible tragedy of yesterday in ment. utes. I spoke with Miss Pam Van Riper and Colorado ought to be to say it is not The Chair recognizes the gentleman the school’s fault. The schools and the Principal Kevin Wimberly at Wingate from Pennsylvania (Mr. GOODLING). Elementary School about the chal- teachers are struggling with tremen- Mr. GOODLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield lenges they face in a rural community. dous social problems in this country. myself such time as I may consume. Each of these teachers are excited We in Washington should not try to This morning we had a panel discus- about the possibilities that greater tell them how to do it. We need to help sion on bipartisanship in education, freedom to work within their local them in their local flexibility, not by and I indicated to them at that time school districts will provide in the way having more standards or more ac- that they really were missing some of a better learning experience for all countability. people that should be on the panel, and The problem here is not that they are their students. those people, I reminded them, were As I have said before, Ed-Flex ad- not reporting enough to us. The prob- the press. Because just yesterday, as a dresses the basic fact that what works lem is they are fighting in their local matter of fact, my staffer said to the communities with how to deal with the in New York City does not necessarily press, we will have a press conference terrible problems of reading, of social work in Rockingham, North Carolina. I on education flexibility and the re- adjustments, of violence on television. encourage my colleagues to support sponse was, ‘‘Oh, the fight’s over. We We need to give them the flexibility in the rule and to show our teachers in only cover fights.’’ their schools that says, what is that the classroom that we support their I say that simply because in the last particular school’s need for their high- hard work and their new ideas. 2 years we had the most effective edu- risk students? Are some emotionally Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I cation effort in the history of the Con- disadvantaged? Do some have physical yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from gress of the United States in a bipar- handicaps that they are short of money Fort Wayne, Indiana (Mr. SOUDER). tisan fashion. The Higher Education on? Do some have particular reading Mr. SOUDER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Act, the new Individuals with Disabil- needs where they have LDD or ADD, or my friend, the gentlewoman from Ohio, ities Education Act, the Reading Excel- is it their class size is too big, or do and want to again commend those who lence Act, the Perkins Vocational Edu- they need school construction or do have worked so hard for this bill; to cational Amendments, the Work Force they need it for computers? the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Investment Act, the Head Start Reau- The local people know this. They are thorization, the Charter Schools Ex- GOODLING), and subcommittee chair- committed to education. We should not man, the gentleman from Delaware pansion Act, and the Child Nutrition sit here in Washington and say we do Reauthorization Act all passed the (Mr. CASTLE) castle, and the gentleman not trust our teachers, we do not trust from Indiana (Mr. ROEMER), my col- House and the Senate with more than our principals, we do not trust our three-fourths of the total vote. league from an adjacent district. school boards, we do not trust our su- It has been a long process, but we are perintendents. They are on the line. b 1100 nearing the end of at least this small They are fighting every day. They have So we start out the new year with an- step towards flexibility for schools in terrible problems they are struggling other bipartisan effort. As was men- Indiana and around this country. I say with, and we need to help them by giv- tioned several times, it passed over- it is a small step because we should not ing them flexibility, and this bill is a whelmingly here in a bipartisan effort, kid ourselves. We had other opportuni- first step. and I think it was something like 97–1 ties and will have more opportunities Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I or 98–2 or something of that nature in to actually make funding available. I have no further requests for time, and the other body. personally am very disappointed that I yield back the balance of my time. Well, the bill is Ed-Flex; and Ed-Flex we had to withdraw the Senate amend- Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I is about giving local schools and dis- ment that would have allowed some of yield myself the balance of my time, tricts the freedom to do things a little these funds to be used from last year’s and just say in closing that I want to differently if they can demonstrate it teachers program, if a school so chose, emphasize once again this is a bipar- is in the best interest of the children for IDEA. tisan bill. The conference report is vir- and then prove by using performance Because, in fact, this sets parameters tually identical to the bill that the data that it works. Ed-Flex gives the for the Federal Government to grant House passed by a vote of 330 to 90. All local schools the freedom to request waivers under certain conditions, but of my colleagues who supported this permission to make some of these that would have given real dollar flexi- legislation back in March should reg- changes. bility to schools if they felt that they ister their support again today. It is not that the Federal Govern- had their class size down. Like in Indi- Let us take the first step toward edu- ment was necessarily wrong when it ana, where we have mandated that the cation reform together by voting ‘‘yes’’ passed the law. It is impossible for Con- class size go down, many of the schools on both the rule and the Ed-Flex con- gress to design programs that effec- have reached those class sizes. There- ference report. tively and adequately address the H2212 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 needs of every school district in the gent need for this bill is part of the Mr. GOODLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield Nation. folly and the foolishness. what time he may consume to the gen- If a school district can demonstrate Current law authorizes Secretary tleman from Delaware (Mr. CASTLE), that they have a more effective way of Riley to give flexibility to States and former Governor of Delaware, one of helping poor and disadvantaged chil- school districts by waiver. And the the authors of the legislation and the dren improve faster and are willing to Secretary has granted hundreds of subcommittee chair. be accountable for the results, the Fed- waivers to school districts based on re- Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, let me eral Government should want to re- quests that permitted flexibility yet thank the gentleman from Pennsyl- move all obstacles as soon as possible. preserved the sound principles of ac- vania (Mr. GOODLING) not only for And accountability we have in the countability and targeting the funds to yielding but for the excellent input and bill is proportional to the flexibility we areas of greatest educational need. value the assistance that he gave to are giving. States cannot take their But, Mr. Speaker, this bill creates the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. ROE- Federal dollars and turn it into a block unprecedented loopholes for States and MER) and to myself in getting this bill grant, so we should not require any school districts to avoid their obliga- to the place where it is today. We ap- more of States than we give them. tion to serve poor school children first. preciate that tremendously. It was mentioned that some people in It eliminates the long established re- I do rise today in absolute full sup- some areas removed people from tests quirement that only schools with pov- port of the conference report to H.R. in order to show that they have done erty rates of 50 percent or greater can 800, the Education Flexibility Partner- better. Well, I want to remind my col- create school-wide programs with these ship Act of 1999. I cannot thank the leagues that those tests that were Federal funds. gentleman from Indiana (Mr. ROEMER) talked about were Federal tests, were This bill permits States to serve enough. He was there through thick the NAEP tests; and I assume the Fed- wealthier schools before serving poor and thin. We went through about 8 or 9 eral Government permitted them to re- ones and allows States to reduce per- months of this. We thought we were move those students from taking those student allocations at poor schools or going to get it done last year. We were tests. If they did not permit it, then pass over poor schools entirely to fund not able to do so. We were able to come they should not have been crowing those wealthier schools. back and get it done this year. And I This conference report also strikes about the fact that there have been think this is a day of great hope for the sunset provision sponsored by the tremendous gains under this adminis- both the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. gentleman from Michigan (Mr. KILDEE) tration because of the results of those ROEMER) and myself and I think for all which was contained in the House- tests. They were Federal tests. of us in Congress and the school kids passed bill. The Kildee provision would I want to take this opportunity to across the country. have required us to review these waiver thank those people who have been in- I would also like to acknowledge par- provisions during the ESEA reauthor- strumental in crafting the legislation ticularly the help of my Governor, who ization. Despite the strong rec- and guiding it through the legislative is both my predecessor and successor ommendation by Secretary Riley to process. First of all, I would like to because he is now the Governor of consider the waiver provisions as part thank the gentleman from Delaware Delaware, Tom Carper. His pushing for of the reauthorization of ESEA, the (Mr. CASTLE) and the gentleman from majority conferees agreed to strike the this was tremendously helpful amongst Indiana (Mr. ROEMER) for all of their sunset provision. all the governors, as well. efforts to produce a bipartisan bill that I am pleased however, Mr. Speaker, The gentleman from Indiana (Mr. grants real flexibility to States. that the conferees did support my mo- ROEMER) and I introduced this legisla- I would like to thank the members of tion instructing conferees to strike the tion because we believe it will provide the conference committee, the Repub- Lott amendment. This amendment was schools and their students with the lican members of the House Committee a reckless abandonment of our com- tools to improve academic achieve- for their efforts, as well as Senators mitment to parents and students to re- ment. It allows local school districts to FRIST, WYDEN and JEFFORDS, who duce class sizes. By striking the Lott think outside the box, which is some- moved this legislation through a gruel- amendment, we ensured that the $1.2 thing we needed forever, in order to de- ing process on the Senate side. billion class size reduction fund will be sign a system that is truly focused on Many thanks to all the 50 governors made available this July as promised. improving student performance. who supported this bill, but in par- Now that we are nearing the comple- Instead of having to plan a specific ticular to Governor Ridge of Pennsyl- tion of this bill, I hope that we can go project around a set of separate and vania and Governor Carper of Dela- to work on reauthorizing the Elemen- conflicting program requirements, ware. tary and Secondary Education Act and which is so often the case now, now the Then I would like to thank many other education priorities. Mr. Speak- districts will be able to develop a vi- staff members, some of which I will er, we must act to authorize the class sion of how to use local, State, and forget, who worked long and hard on size reduction program so we can finish Federal resources to more effectively the legislation: Christine Wolfe and the job of hiring 100,000 new teachers improve student performance and to Kent Talbert; Sally Lovejoy and Vic that we started last year. make that vision a reality. Klatt; Melanie Merola and Booth We should help communities strug- This will extend education flexibility Jameson; and Gina Mohoney, Jo-Marie gling to pay for school modernization to all 50 States. We all need to under- St. Martin, and Pam Davidson, to men- by supporting the Clinton school con- stand that 12 of our States have it now. tion a few. struction legislation. We must also They have used it extraordinarily well. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of continue our work to help communities They have shown dramatic improve- my time. recruit new, highly qualified teachers, ment in certain areas. Now all of our Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- and to strengthen accountability for States are going to be able to use it, self such time as I may consume. our elementary and secondary edu- which we think is of vital importance, Mr. Speaker, I oppose this conference cation programs. as well. report for the same reason that I voted So I urge Members to vote ‘‘no’’ on We have measurably improved cur- against the original bill, H.R. 800. This this legislation because it fails to con- rent law by increasing that flexibility report fails to include strong account- tain minimum accountability provi- and making more programs eligible for ability provisions and fails to ade- sions and basic protections for poor Ed-Flex waivers. In fact, one of the quately protect Title I provisions that school children. We should vote against things in the conference was the Tech- target assistance to our poorest chil- this proposal because it permits Fed- nology Literacy Challenge Fund, and dren. eral funds to be taken from those stu- that is I think an important step as It is legislative folly, Mr. Speaker, to dents in greatest need and given to well. let States and school districts waive those in least need. Under the conference agreement, the Elementary and Secondary Act be- Mr. Speaker, I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote. States are required to submit clear fore its reauthorization has been even Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of educational objectives and locals are drafted or passed. To proclaim an ur- my time. required to set specific and measurable April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2213 objectives. So while the gentleman out there is something that I should Lott amendment dealing with class from California (Mr. MILLER) appar- state and that everybody in this coun- size reduction and IDEA funding. This ently is not going to support it, a lot of try feels. amendment injected politics into what what he had to say I think ended up I do not know if the problem is with was a healthy debate over the policy being incorporated, not as far as he our ability to obtain guns, it is with objectives of expanding flexibility, and wanted to go of course, in what we are our families, it is with the perhaps lack pitted the needs of disabled children doing. And in that way I think his posi- of help needed in school to help the against non-disabled children. tion on this was constructive, as well. children who seem to have troubles, or b 1115 We have also improved current law it is a societal problem at large with by providing protections for Title I all the activities we read about, cults This was an ill-advised amendment, schools and students. Now, this is im- and everything else. So there are no and its absence from the conference re- portant, because Title I is a program easy answers. But I, for one, believe we port is critical to the success of today’s that all of us should be legitimately need a national discussion on this legislation. concerned about. It is a program which issue; and I hope, if there is anything Overall, I believe this bill makes basically is aimed at those school dis- possibly good that could ever come out some needed improvements to the tricts which have more children in pov- of a tragedy like that, it is that we present Ed-Flex demonstration pro- erty than others. And for the first time have that discussion. grams. It is not the bill I would have in a demonstrable way under Ed-Flex, I appreciate the time that the chair- written, but it is a bill I will vote for. particularly in Maryland and Texas, we man has yielded me. I would ask for I think it is vital to reexamine the de- are seeing test scores from Title I my colleagues’ support for the Ed-Flex cisions made in this legislation in the schools which are actually showing legislation. context of the policy decisions we dramatic improvement for those stu- Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 make during our work this Congress. dents who are poorer students in those minutes to the gentleman from Michi- That is why I wanted the sunset, but schools, because of things they were gan (Mr. KILDEE). we put language in the report talking able to put together through the Ed- Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank about this reexamination. Flex program. the ranking member for yielding me While I will support the legislation That is something that has been un- the time. before the House today, I strongly be- demonstrated over all the years with Mr. Speaker, the bill before the lieve we need to revisit Ed-Flex to en- all the monies put into Title I. So it is House today does not have the full sure that the steps taken by this bill to a tremendous help for that reason. I scope of provisions which I and other ensure accountability and protect tar- hope my colleagues will consider that Democrats have sought during the sev- geting of resources are sufficient. I when they come to the floor to vote on eral months which we have worked on look forward to this reexamination of this particular piece of legislation. this legislation. Ed-Flex during our deliberations in The Senate, as we know, prohibited The conference report on H.R. 800 ESEA. waivers to the requirement that school does, however, make much-needed im- Mr. GOODLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield districts must allocate funds to schools provements to the existing Ed-Flex such time as she may consume to the with more than 75 percent poverty demonstration program in the areas of gentlewoman from New Jersey (Mrs. first, and in the rank order. And we accountability and targeting of re- ROUKEMA), a senior member of the said in the House provision, we had a sources, and because of this will re- Committee on Education and the different measure in the conference re- ceive my support today. Workforce. port that basically retained both of The existing Ed-Flex demonstration Mrs. ROUKEMA. Mr. Speaker, I these measures, which provides a lot of program is found by GAO to require lit- thank the gentleman for having yield- protections to people in the Title I pro- tle accountability for increased stu- ed this time to me. grams. dent achievement. The gentleman from Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support Now, who supports this bill? And this California (Mr. MILLER) and I offered of this legislation and appreciate the is important I think for all of us to an amendment, both in committee and fact that we have yet again seen an- consider. It was reported out of com- on the floor, which attempted to ad- other demonstration of bipartisan sup- mittee in March here in the House by a dress these concerns. port, and I think that is very impor- vote of 33–9. It was passed in the House While this amendment was not tant for all of us to understand, as the by a vote of 330 yeas to 90 nays, both adopted, the legislation’s provision re- gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. parties voting in the majority for it. It quiring the Secretary to judge the GOODLING) has already referenced. But was passed in the Senate by a vote of 98 specificity and measurability of a I want to make a couple of points here yeas to 1 nay. State’s educational goals and strength- about how I think we are meeting the Last week it was reported out of con- en reporting requirements, including needs here. ference by voice vote. It has the sup- the requirement to provide reliable and Certainly one of the most important port of every single governor in this accurate data on student performance, things, in my opinion, is that we are country. And as a former governor, I are improvements over the existing preserving State and local control in can attest to the fact that getting all demonstration program that will pro- terms of what Ed-Flex is doing for us. 50 governors to agree to anything is a vide us with the information we need The decisions about our children’s edu- miracle. to truly analyze the link between flexi- cation should be made by parents and In addition, it has received support bility and student performance. educators and at the local and State from the administration and other edu- In addition, while the existing Ed- level, not by politicians in Washington, cation organizations around the coun- Flex demonstration program allows D.C., and I think that is terribly im- try. It is a good strong bill that each waivers of nearly all Title I targeting portant for us to protect. We in Wash- and every one of us can proudly sup- protections, this new legislation en- ington should be supporting and port because it supports schools and sures that States must continue to supplementing those efforts and giving students, it loosens the reins of the fund the highest poverty schools and direction but not overriding them. Federal Government, and allows for have only marginal flexibility in send- So, aside from, however, the local creativity in student learning. Ed-Flex ing Title I dollars to lower poverty control and State control aspect of will help our Nation’s schools, and I schools. this, I think this legislation very well hope we will all support it. It is important to note that even ex- preserves accountability, account- I would like to close, Mr. Speaker, isting Ed-Flex States, such as Michi- ability that will require the States and this probably will not help with the gan, once their opportunity to operate the school districts to make their own problems directly in Littleton, Colo- under the present authority expires, decisions, but they must meet specific rado, and I do not even want to connect will have to apply under the stricter and measurable educational objectives. it to that. But since we are discussing requirements of this legislation. The school may apply for a waiver, but education on the floor, my own grief in I was also pleased that the conferees they must justify that waiver when the this situation and sorrow for the people realized the importance of dropping the application is made, and I think the H2214 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 bill very well puts that into not only But we need even more arrows for the States. The fact of the matter is the perspective but into enforceable ways. quiver. We need a national dialogue. amount of money necessary for cre- Ed-Flex gives greater authority to the James Madison talked about a larger ativity in education at the local level States to determine their particular vision of America, and we need that is shrinking every day because of man- goals but holds them accountable. now for our most important issue in dates that we pass on in our areas or In terms of the accountability, I America, which is education. mandates the general assemblies pass think this bears repeating and stress- When we talk about Kosovo, Mr. on. But it is those small dollars that ing. The accountability means first Speaker, and we will soon talk about sometimes flexibility is granted upon that under the monitoring provisions an emergency supplemental for our that bring about the greatest of the States and local educational agen- troops in Kosovo, we do not talk about change. cies must report their progress on how are we going to fund Apaches, or F–16s; I just like to give one example which they are specifically meeting their are we going to fund F–15s, or are we both gives credit to a school back in goals. Secondly, regulations relating to going to fund B–2 bombers? We are Georgia, but also demonstrates pre- parental involvement cannot be going to get the troops the support cisely what I think we are on the verge waived. I think that is very important. they need. And now, with the most im- of doing in this country. I attended a And third, by providing public notice portant issue we face in this country, school that was about to be closed 3 and comment for application for waiv- our next step after Ed-Flex, we need to years ago. It is 100 percent free and re- ers Ed-Flex recognizes the importance make sure we fund IDEA, but it does duced lunch, total poverty, surrounded of community input and so that there not have to come out of education by a chain link fence with razor wire. must be notification for that kind of funds, it should be out of a tax cut. We It was my first visit as the chairman of waiver. need to look at how we fund more the State Board of Education, and my In summary I guess, Mr. Speaker, I troops to teachers. That is an idea that visit was because we had been asked to would say that this legislation gives has worked, moving people from the grant substantial waivers by that prin- authority over decisions concerning military into the teaching profession; cipal, a new principal, of State rules to children’s education to principals, we need to move it into the private sec- try and allow him to get his hands teachers, parents and local commu- tor. We need to look at ways by which around the problems of discipline and nities, where in my opinion it belongs. we put safe schools as a priority and despair and a system that was failing. That is the only way we can strengthen have a national dialogue on more of Two years later the school was turned our public school system, and I think our guns in society penetrating more of around in large measure because we this will be an extraordinarily valuable our schools, more of our hatred in soci- granted at the State level the flexi- tool for advancing the quality of edu- ety penetrating our schools. bility to allow that school to deal with cation across the Nation. Let us rise to James Madison’s call the difficulties it was confronting, and Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 a school that was hopeless, maybe even minutes to the gentleman from Indiana for a national dialogue, and let us ad- dress all these education issues in a hapless, was turning around the lives (Mr. ROEMER). fair and bipartisan and thorough way of poor and disadvantaged children. Mr. ROEMER. Mr. Speaker, I thank It is my belief that the flexibility my friend and my ranking member, the in the future. Mr. GOODLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield granted in this act, in the programs gentleman from Missouri (Mr. CLAY) such time as he may consume to the that it governs, is the beginning of for the time, and I appreciate his greater flexibility that we can grant to friendship while we have disagreed on gentleman from Georgia (Mr. ISAKSON), our newest member on the committee educators that deal with the most pre- the policy of this legislation. cious asset we have and hopefully will I rose to speak on the rule, Mr. and an outstanding Member. Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. Speaker, I con- be the foundation upon what national Speaker, so I will not get into the spe- dialogue we do have on many other cifics and the minutiae and the detail sider it a fortunate privilege for me to have been elected to this House in a areas where this Congress and this of the legislation that I have offered country must focus on our greatest with my good friend from Delaware special election, even more fortunate to have met the two principal cospon- asset and resource of all, and that is (Mr. CASTLE). I did want to thank two the children of the parents of the additional people. I want to thank Gov- sors in my first committee meeting in education and for that to have dealt United States of America. ernor Frank O’Bannon, who worked Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 with the Ed-Flex bill, and I obviously this issue very, very hard for our dele- minutes to the gentleman from New stand in support of the conference re- gation in the State of Indiana and with Jersey (Mr. PAYNE). his colleagues at the National Gov- port and in support of the initiative, (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given ernors’ Association, and I also want to but in particular to address the ques- permission to revise and extend his re- thank Gina Mahony, who without good tion of the national dialogue. marks.) staff, we do not go as far as we would I would like to share for just a Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, the bill be- like and we are not as important as we minute what a great first step I think fore us today boasts better flexibility think as a Member of Congress, where this Congress is taking, but I would while allocating Federal funds in we have and are blessed with great like to share it not from the perspec- school districts, but I have to say a staff in this body, and I wanted to tive of a Congressman who stands and number of times, as I have done in the thank her for her help. thinks he knows a lot about a subject, past in reference to Ed-Flex, if we want I also want to talk about the larger but rather from one who just fortu- to give States the flexibility they de- picture of education. It has been very nately, the last act I did in Georgia be- sire, we need to get in return some difficult, Mr. Speaker, to penetrate fore I left to come here was a submis- type of assurance that funds will still through the press, through the stories sion of the $5 billion state education go to low income Title I children as of impeachment and now war, about budget for the State of Georgia, 97.2 Title I was created to do. some of the successes we have had in percent of which was State tax dollars Title I funds are supposed to go to bipartisan ways on education. We have and local government tax dollars, but children in disadvantaged school dis- written a bipartisan bill on charter 2.8 percent of which was money, much tricts or children who are disadvan- schools and public choice, which is of it covered by the flexibility we are taged. This bill will give school dis- helping. We have written and passed a now granting in terms of regulations tricts and States the right to take bill on alternative route certification and rules within seven categorical pro- Title I funds and spread them among to get more people in mid careers into grams. other students in the school that are the teaching profession. That is help- Giving flexibility and the ability to not necessarily disadvantaged. This di- ing. We passed a down payment on waive Federal and state standards on lutes the entire purpose of Title I, and teacher ratio last year, 30,000 of the the spending of this money with ac- it will leave students who are poor and 100,000 teachers, and we need to empha- countability to ensure that after 2 indeed in need of special attention size quality of those teachers. That is years there must be improvement and without the help they need. helping. And now today we have edu- cannot be a decline is a great gift to The final version of the bill will en- cation flexibility, which will soon pass. the people in public education, our sure schools with poverty levels of April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2215 above 75 percent are served Title 1 We know the Federal Government they continuously tell me in regards to funds first, and it retains language contributes less than 7 percent to our programs that they are in charge of from the House bill that allows a larger overall budget for schools, but it is our implementing is to give us some flexi- number of schools to receive Title I responsibility here in this Chamber to bility so we can implement some cre- funds only if the number of children ensure that this funding has the great- ative and innovative ideas that work at living in poverty is at most 10 percent est possible impact, and Ed-Flex, this the local level. That is what this legis- below the districtwide poverty level. bill, does just that. By handing control lation will give them. This seems the least we can do to pro- back to local educators, Ed-Flex gives I think the other provision, impor- tect the children who are most in need schools the flexibility to navigate the tant provision in this legislation, is of Title I funds. mire of federally imposed and often equally as important, and that is the But I was supportive of even stronger conflicting program requirements. accountability provisions that exist. measures to assure that those students Our good friend, the gentleman from That is what we policymakers need so were being served during the House Delaware (Mr. CASTLE), traveled to when we go home and face the people consideration of the Ed-Flex bill, and I Florida on his own time this past that we represent and look them in the continue to believe that language ad- month to visit with educators, to visit eyes we can tell them that their money dressing targeting in Title I schoolwide with school board members, to visit is being wisely spent. programs must be included in this bill. with parents and students in a panel we One of the other issues that the ad- The absence of such language is one of set up, and there was over 3 hours of ministrators and educators and parents the reasons that I cannot support the discussion and debate. continuously tell us is, yes, we like the final version of this bill we are asked One of the things that became most flexibility; in fact, heap on all the ac- to vote on today. clear from each of those who contrib- countability on us, but do not Additionally, as the gentleman from uted to the dialogue was please unleash underfund the programs that we are California (Mr. GEORGE MILLER) has us from the shackles of mandates from being asked to implement. Give us the stated, much of the language in the the Federal Government. We want to resources we need to make the changes House bill that improved the reporting teach. We want to be face-to-face with that are necessary to improve quality and accountability measures of those students. We want to make a dif- education at the local level. states and school districts that are ference. We want to seek alternatives. The Committee on Education and the given Ed-Flex authority has been re- We want to do things that will enable Workforce just this last Monday had a moved from the final version of this us to bring children up in the 21st Cen- field hearing in Chicago with the gen- bill. The absence of strong account- tury with the tools they need to be suc- tleman from Illinois (Mr. HASTERT), ability language will leave us in the cessful. where we met with Paul Vallas, chief dark about how effective Ed-Flex has Regrettably, in Washington, every- executive officer of Chicago Public been, and I know no one wants to re- body here in this city thinks they have schools, and others in charge of the re- visit Ed-Flex issues, preferably during got a better idea of how to mandate forms happening at the Chicago public the reauthorization of Elementary and just a little opportunity for the kids school system. That was something Secondary Education Act, with little back home. that he emphasized time and time or no information about how it works My father is a principal and a Marine again, is that give us flexibility, give and who it is working for. But it looks and a person who loves this country. us all the accountability as well, but like that will be the case because with- He was often spending hours at his also make sure that the programs are out accountability and without tar- desk just trying to read the books that funded that we need to succeed. geting for schoolwide programs, I con- they were sending from the DOE down That is going to be the true mark of tinue to oppose this bill, because it is to the Department of Education in Tal- whether or not we succeed in this ses- not, in my opinion, in the best interest lahassee. He would read all these vol- sion. The hallmark of the 106th session of people that Title I was supposed to umes of books, and he was conflicted should not just be how much we can in- serve, those who are disadvantaged, about what to do, how to teach, how to crease defense spending but whether or and with the lack of accountability we give guidance to teachers in his school. not we are going to increase the com- are moving in the dark as we move to- So I rise in very strong support of mitment of education reform and the wards more legislation. this measure. I know it will result in quality of education for our children. efficiencies, in greater improvement in That is the test that we face in this b 1130 the school system, in higher academic session of Congress. Mr. GOODLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield achievements, because we will unleash Let us hope that, working together 21⁄2 minutes to the gentleman from the potential of teachers who best in a bipartisan spirit, we are going to Florida (Mr. FOLEY), and I want to take know how to solve the academic dilem- rise and meet that test and not fail it, this opportunity to thank his father mas of their students. for the sake of our children. publicly, since I never wrote a thank Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 you note, for the fine golf match we minutes to the gentleman from Wis- minutes to the gentleman from Cali- had when I visited Florida a couple of consin (Mr. KIND). fornia (Mr. GEORGE MILLER). years ago. (Mr. KIND asked and was given per- (Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California Mr. FOLEY. Mr. Speaker, I want to mission to revise and extend his re- asked and was given permission to re- thank the gentleman from Pennsyl- marks.) vise and extend his remarks.) vania (Mr. GOODLING) for yielding me Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. this time. gentleman from Missouri (Mr. CLAY), Mr. Speaker, I think it comes down to Mr. Speaker, while the gentleman the ranking member, for yielding me this: We ran a pilot project on edu- brings up the subject of my father, I this time. cational flexibility with 12 different am the proud son of an educator, a pub- Mr. Speaker, first of all I want to States and when we got back the re- lic school teacher and a public school commend my good friends, the gen- sults of that pilot project, what we principal. So I have grown up in a tleman from Delaware (Mr. CASTLE) found was that essentially 9 or 10 of home where education came first, and and the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. those States gave us back educational dealing in the public setting, public ROEMER) for the bipartisan spirit in babble about what they were going to education was vitally important. So I which they approached this legislation. do with this money and how they were suggest, as we look at the Education It is a good peace of legislation. going to be accountable for the money Flexibility Partnership Act of 1999, ca- As a member of the Committee on in terms of the performance of their pably brought to this floor by the gen- Education and the Workforce, I am students, in terms of how well their tleman from Pennsylvania (Chairman proud to stand here on the floor in sup- students were able to improve their GOODLING), we see an issue now that port of the legislation. As I travel mathematics scores, their reading ca- can give local schools, local officials, around my district in western Wis- pabilities and their critical thinking. the tools they need to educate our stu- consin meeting with the educators and We got back educational babble dents. parents, one of the constant refrains about realizing the potential of the H2216 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 educational atmosphere to enhance the have been stripped away from this leg- ers, parents and administrators know what's environment, to improve the capabili- islation. I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on this. best for our kids. ties of the students to perform better. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance But remember that this isn't the only prob- Babble. of my time. lem facing American schools. You don't have One State, the State of Texas, came Mr. GOODLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield to look any further than the TV screen in the back to us and said, in exchange for myself such time as I may consume. wake of yesterday's tragedy to know that flexibility our goal in the State of Mr. Speaker, I too want to join my schools have other problems to deal with. Texas over the next 5 years, in a nu- colleagues in indicating to the people Particularly in states like California, schools merical sense, is to have 90 percent of of Colorado who are going through a are struggling to keep up with the demands of our students pass the Texas State As- very, very difficult time, and many of educating a student population with growing sessment, and to go beyond that, to those young men and young women needs. And they're doing it with a level of fed- have 90 percent of our Hispanic stu- will have that scar with them for years eral support that hasn't kept up with these dents, 90 percent of our African-Amer- to come, that our thoughts and our trends. ican students, 90 percent of our poor prayers in the Congress of the United In particular, schools are bursting at the students, pass the Texas State Assess- States are certainly with them. seams. Kids are going to school in portables ment. That is how we wish to be meas- Some years ago, the State of Penn- and rooms that used to be closets. They're ured, and we put into the State law and sylvania introduced a program called going to school in split schedules, they're into our agreement with the Federal Communities that Care. They gave an going to school on different year-around plans, Government that that is our goal. opportunity to local school districts to they're taking double lunchesÐall in order to I do not know whether Texas will join in that effort if they wished. Com- keep them from overflowing our buildings. make it or not, and I am not here to munities that Care is a research-based I've introduced HR 415, The Expand and micromanage the system to tell them prevention program that identifies and Rebuild America's Schools Act. It enables how to make it, but at least they came seeks to reduce the risk factors that local communities to raise the bond money forward and set down on the table a nu- make children vulnerable to crime. I they needÐif and when the voters approveÐ merical means by which they were pre- am very proud of one of several of the to build new schools and classrooms. My fellow colleagues, Ed Flex is great. But pared to be measured. They also told us districts in my district that took ad- all the educational flexibility in the world does that they would be using the same as- vantage of this opportunity. no good in a school with no place to put it to sessment from year-to-year. I, at one point, was the president of use. So as we prepare to give this bill our final This bill does not require the same the school board, and the Dallastown stamp of approval, let us not forget that this is assessment from year-to-year. Numer- area school district joined in this ef- just a beginning. We have so much more work ical goals, this bill does not require nu- fort. They joined with the Healthy to do. York County Coalition, which is an af- merical goals. There is no requirement Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I rise here that States make the effort to filiate of the York Health Systems, be- today to congratulate the managers of this bill. close the gap between minority stu- cause that system had determined that This a very important step in the process to dents and majority students, and yet in the greatest health problems that we move educational control back to the local the most recent assessment we have re- faced in the area were those dealing level. After all, a government that governs ceived, after pouring billions of dollars with violence. closest to the people governs best, and this into this program, the gap between One of the things that the bill promotes this principle. Hispanic and white students, the gap Dallastown area school district did is I do, however, want to express my dis- between African-American and white started tracing early in the elementary appointment that language that would have al- students, continues to increase, con- career of a student just exactly what lowed school districts to use class-size reduc- tinues to increase, but there is no re- their attendance factors show. It be- tion funds to cover their special-education quirement here or accountability for came very evident to them that as budget shortfalls was removed from the H.R. school districts to try and to close that these early childhood children, in ele- 800 conference report. This was an important gap. mentary school, were missing more and piece of the education flexibility bill and it There is no accountability here that more school, there certainly had to be would have been a great benefit to schools we have an assessment system so we a reason and a cause. struggling to fund their special-education can measure that over the life of this One of the things that they did was budgets. program. I think it is important to un- assign a high school mentor to each of Mr. Speaker, the state of Wisconsin is expe- derstand that that is the difference these children that were having dif- riencing a huge special-education shortfall. In about why we support or oppose this ficulty in elementary school, and in 90 the name of special-education, the federal legislation, that this legislation con- percent of those cases those mentors government has put in place unfunded man- tinues to put the Federal Government became very, very positive role models ages that are crippling schools in Wisconsin in the position of being the enabler, for those children. The whole effort and throughout the country. being the enabler of States not having was to steer them away from violence, For example, I have spoken with Mr. Tom to be accountable, not having to be ac- to keep them in school and to do well Everett, the Janesville, Wisconsin school su- countable for the performance of all in school, just a program that is work- perintendent back in the First District about his students, not the average student, not ing and a program that, of course, I special education budget shortfall. Dr. Everett some students but all students, so then think will be duplicated and replicated explained that the Janesville School system we can measure whether or not we as and is being replicated all over the has a $191,000 special-education budget the investors of the public money, country. shortfall. Average class-size in the Janesville some $60 billion to $70 billion over the Early intervention is very, very im- School system for grades K±3 is between 18± next 5 years, whether or not we are get- portant and those signs show up very, 20 students. Janesville doesn't have a prob- ting a return on our investment that very early in a child’s life in elemen- lem with overcrowding. Had the special-edu- the public is in fact entitled to. tary school. We need to deal with those cation provision been included in the con- We cannot assure the public that we problems early on to prevent what we ference report, Dr. Everett would have been can get that return on the investment have seen happen yesterday and what able to use the $187,000 allocated to his and therefore I will vote ‘‘no″ on this is happening across the country on an school system under the President's class-size conference report. all too regular basis. reduction to cover their special-education Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Ms. SANCHEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in shortfall. In fact, it would have covered the self such time as I may consume. support of H.R. 800, the Education Flexibility shortfall almost completely. Mr. Speaker, let me say that I once Partnership Act of 1999. But on behalf of the Mr. Speaker, I will vote in favor of this legis- again urge all Members to vote against students, parents and educators of my district lation because it will promote flexibility at both this legislation for two reasons. One, in Orange County, California, I'd like to remind the state and federal level, and it will provide that it fails to contain minimum ac- you of a few things. the opportunity for schools administrators to countability provisions and, two, that Yes, the ``Ed Flex'' bill returns the decision- ``think outside the box'' and design systems the basic protections for spending Fed- making power to our local school districts. And that truly focus on improving student perform- eral money in the poorest districts that's why I support this bill, because teach- ance. This is a very good bill. However, the April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2217 special-education language would have made Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Dunn Klink Rodriguez Edwards Knollenberg Roemer it an even better piece of legislation. support of our Nation's children. Our children Ehlers Kolbe Rogan Ms. HOOLEY of Oregon. Mr. Speaker, are this country's most precious resource and Ehrlich Kuykendall Rogers today I am glad to support the conference re- we must place them at the front of our agen- Emerson LaFalce Rohrabacher port for the Education Flexibility Act of 1999. da. H.R. 800, the Education Flexibility Partner- English LaHood Ros-Lehtinen Eshoo Lampson Rothman As one of the twelve pilot states, Oregon ship Act of 1999 will grant states greater flexi- Etheridge Largent Roukema has been able to utilize this program to avoid bility in using federal education funds. Evans Larson Royce bureaucratic hurdles and simplify efforts to re- The goals of ``Ed Flex'' are very simple. Everett Latham Ryan (WI) Ewing LaTourette Ryun (KS) form our school system. H.R. 800 will allow schools to best meet the Farr Lazio Sabo The Ed-Flex program has provided new op- needs of their individual students by allowing Fletcher Leach Sanchez portunities to create partnerships between school districts to spend federal education dol- Foley Levin Sanders community colleges and high schools through- lars as they see fit. This legislation will get our Forbes Lewis (CA) Sandlin Ford Lewis (KY) Sanford out my state. education system back to the basics by send- Fossella Linder Sawyer Rather than creating two separate and du- ing dollars back to the classroom, and encour- Fowler Lipinski Scarborough plicative programs, community colleges and aging parental involvement. Frank (MA) LoBiondo Schaffer high schools have worked together to improve Franks (NJ) Lofgren Sensenbrenner Mr. Speaker, the fact is, Washington doesn't Frelinghuysen Lowey Sessions their professional technical education pro- know best how to educate our children, par- Frost Lucas (KY) Shadegg grams. ents and local school boards do. H.R. 800 will Gallegly Lucas (OK) Shaw This flexibility has resulted in an increased send money where it belongs, back to our Ganske Luther Shays Gejdenson Maloney (CT) Sherman number of students graduating from high local communities. Federal dollars should be Gekas Maloney (NY) Sherwood school. helping students and schools, not hindering Gephardt Manzullo Shimkus The Act also allows for flexibility in regula- them. Gibbons Mascara Shows tions and requirements so that schools can Gilchrest Matsui Shuster A child's educational success is crucial to Gillmor McCarthy (MO) Simpson maximize efforts to produce results. their future and the future of our Nation. I urge Gilman McCollum Sisisky The Oregon Department of Education has my colleagues to support the Ed Flex Con- Gonzalez McCrery Skeen been able to utilize the program to simplify its ference Report and support our children. Goode McGovern Skelton planning and application process. Goodlatte McHugh Slaughter Mr. GOODLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield Goodling McInnis Smith (NJ) This has allowed local school districts the back the balance of my time. Gordon McIntosh Smith (TX) ability to develop a single plan that meets The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Goss McIntyre Smith (WA) state and federal planning requirements, con- Graham McKeon Snyder MICA). Without objection, the previous Granger McNulty Souder solidate applications for federal funds, and re- question is ordered on the conference Green (TX) Meehan Spence quest waivers of both federal and state re- report. Green (WI) Metcalf Spratt quirements. There was no objection. Greenwood Mica Stabenow For these reasons, I urge my colleagues on Gutknecht Millender- Stearns The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Hall (OH) McDonald Stenholm both sides of the aisle to support this report. question is on the conference report. Hall (TX) Miller (FL) Strickland Mr. MCKEON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong The question was taken; and the Hansen Miller, Gary Stump support of the conference report accom- Hastert Minge Stupak Speaker pro tempore announced that Hastings (WA) Moakley Sununu panying the Education Flexibility Partnership the ayes appeared to have it. Hayes Mollohan Sweeney Act, otherwise known as Ed-Flex. Mr. GOODLING. Mr. Speaker, I ob- Hayworth Moore Talent I am pleased to see that the House and ject to the vote on the ground that a Hefley Moran (KS) Tancredo Senate conferees were able to quickly reach Herger Moran (VA) Tanner quorum is not present and make the Hill (IN) Morella Tauscher an agreement on this very important legisla- point of order that a quorum is not Hill (MT) Murtha Tauzin tion. present. Hilleary Myrick Taylor (MS) Hinojosa Napolitano Taylor (NC) Already, our states and school districts are The SPEAKER pro tempore. Evi- implementing reform plans that would be Hobson Neal Terry dently a quorum is not present. Hoeffel Nethercutt Thomas aided by providing them with Ed-Flex waiver The Sergeant at Arms will notify ab- Hoekstra Ney Thornberry authority. sent Members. Holden Northup Thune Our states want it. Recently, all of our gov- Holt Norwood Thurman The vote was taken by electronic de- Hooley Oberstar Tiahrt ernorsÐRepublican and Democrat alikeÐre- vice, and there were—yeas 368, nays 57, Horn Ortiz Toomey cently came to Washington and asked for not voting 9, as follows: Hostettler Ose Towns quick passage of this legislation. Houghton Oxley Traficant Additionally, when I was home over Easter [Roll No. 94] Hoyer Packard Turner YEAS—368 Hulshof Pallone Udall (NM) recess, I met with my local school super- Hunter Pascrell Upton intendents. Every one of them expressed sup- Abercrombie Blumenauer Collins Hutchinson Paul Visclosky port for this legislation, because it provides Ackerman Blunt Combest Hyde Pease Walden Aderholt Boehlert Condit Inslee Peterson (MN) Walsh them with the latitude they desire in order to Allen Boehner Cook Isakson Peterson (PA) Wamp ensure our children go to the best and safest Andrews Bonilla Cooksey Istook Petri Watkins schools possible. Archer Bono Costello Jackson-Lee Phelps Watts (OK) Armey Boswell Cox Through the passage of this conference (TX) Pickering Waxman Bachus Boucher Cramer Jefferson Pickett Weiner agreement, this Congress furthers its efforts to Baird Boyd Crane Jenkins Pitts Weldon (FL) return dollars and control to the classroom. Baker Brady (TX) Cubin John Pombo Weldon (PA) The states currently participating under this Baldacci Brown (CA) Cunningham Johnson (CT) Pomeroy Weller Baldwin Brown (OH) Danner Johnson, E. B. Porter Wexler program have shown remarkable achieve- Ballenger Bryant Davis (FL) Johnson, Sam Portman Weygand ment. Now, with this legislation, all of our Barcia Burr Davis (VA) Jones (NC) Price (NC) Whitfield States will be able to have more flexibility to Barr Burton Deal Jones (OH) Pryce (OH) Wicker Barrett (NE) Buyer DeFazio cut redtape so that they can implement the ef- Kanjorski Quinn Wilson Barrett (WI) Callahan DeGette Kaptur Radanovich Wise fective programs and reform efforts that are Bartlett Calvert Delahunt Kasich Rahall Wolf being held back by Federal requirements and Barton Camp DeLauro Kelly Ramstad Wu Bass Campbell DeLay Kildee Rangel Wynn regulations. Bateman Canady DeMint It is too important for this Congress to ig- Kind (WI) Regula Young (AK) Bentsen Cannon Deutsch King (NY) Reyes Young (FL) nore the successes of the Ed-Flex program. Bereuter Capps Diaz-Balart Kingston Reynolds Even more important, we must not ignore the Berkley Capuano Dickey Kleczka Riley Berman Cardin Dicks needs of our state and local education leaders Berry Castle Dixon NAYS—57 to pass this bill. Our children are just too im- Biggert Chabot Doggett Becerra Carson Coyne portant. Bilbray Chambliss Dooley Bonior Clay Crowley Again, I rise in support of the conference re- Bilirakis Chenoweth Doolittle Borski Clayton Cummings Bishop Clement Doyle port and urge all my colleagues to support its Brady (PA) Clyburn Davis (IL) Blagojevich Coble Dreier Brown (FL) Conyers Dingell passage. Bliley Coburn Duncan H2218 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 Engel Martinez Pelosi printed in the bill. Each section of the com- fact of life. They are something we ac- Fattah McDermott Rivers mittee amendment in the nature of a sub- Filner McKinney Roybal-Allard cept and work through. Thankfully, stitute shall be considered as read. During most are not devastating occurrences. Gutierrez Meek (FL) Rush consideration of the bill for amendment, the Hastings (FL) Meeks (NY) Scott We clean up, rather than rebuild. How- chairman of the Committee of the Whole Hilliard Menendez Serrano ever, we cannot overlook the fact that Hinchey Miller, George Stark may accord priority in recognition on the Jackson (IL) Mink Thompson (MS) basis of whether the Member offering an the average annual cost from earth- Kennedy Nadler Tierney amendment has caused it to be printed in the quakes in the United States is about Kilpatrick Obey Velazquez portion of the Congressional Record des- $4.4 billion. Of course, the toll imposed Kucinich Olver Vento ignated for that purpose in clause 8 of the by a major earthquake can be much Lee Owens Waters rule XVIII. Amendments so printed shall be Lewis (GA) Pastor Watt (NC) greater. Markey Payne Woolsey considered as read. The chairman of the In California, we have suffered two Committee of the Whole may: (1) postpone major quakes in the past decade. In NOT VOTING—9 until a time during further consideration in 1999, the Loma Prieta earthquake in Lantos Salmon Smith (MI) the Committee of the Whole a request for a the San Francisco area cost $6 billion, McCarthy (NY) Saxton Thompson (CA) recorded vote on any amendment; and (2) re- and then in 1994 in Los Angeles what Nussle Schakowsky Udall (CO) duce to five minutes the minimum time for was known as the Northridge earth- b 1207 electronic voting on any postponed question that follows another electronic vote without quake, which I felt and was horrible, Messrs. HILLIARD, GUTIERREZ, intervening business, provided that the min- cost $40 billion. Of course, major earth- MARTINEZ, CROWLEY, RUSH, Ms. imum time for electronic voting on the first quakes cost a lot more than dollars and BROWN of Florida, and Ms. PELOSI in any series of questions shall be 15 min- cents. changed their votes from ‘‘yea’’ to utes. At the conclusion of consideration of In both cases, both of those earth- ‘‘nay.’’ the bill for amendment the Committee shall quakes in California in the last decade, rise and report the bill to the House with the Loma Prieta and the Northridge Mr. DEUTSCH changed his vote from such amendments as may have been adopted. ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ quakes, people were killed and lives Any Member may demand a separate vote in were very, very disrupted. An earth- So the conference report was agreed the House on any amendment adopted in the quake can wreak havoc on a commu- to. Committee of the Whole to the bill or to the nity. During the 1987 earthquake in The result of the vote was announced committee amendment in the nature of a Whittier, an area that I used to rep- as above recorded. substitute. The previous question shall be resent, I saw firsthand how A motion to reconsider was laid on considered as ordered on the bill and amend- unreinforced buildings can fail. the table. ments thereto to final passage without inter- vening motion except one motion to recom- Mr. Speaker, I am happy to have the Stated for: mit with or without instructions. attention of my California colleagues Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. who are in the back, and I know this is rollcall No. 94, I was stuck in the No. 4 eleva- EWING). The gentleman from California of great importance to them. tor in the Cannon House Office Building. Had (Mr. DREIER) is recognized for 1 hour. During that 1987 earthquake in Whit- I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, for pur- tier, I saw how unreinforced buildings Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, poses of debate only, I yield the cus- can fail. I saw how faults can act in a during rollcall vote No. 94 on April 20, 1999. tomary 30 minutes to my good friend, random manner and cause complete I was unavoidably detained. Had I been the gentleman from Dayton, Ohio (Mr. devastation to one block while leaving present, I would have voted ``yea.'' HALL), pending which I yield myself untouched another block that is right Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York. Mr. Speak- such time as I may consume. During nearby. er, I was absent for rollcall vote No. 94. Had consideration of this resolution, all b 1215 I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on time yielded will be for the purposes of Mr. Speaker, the Boy Scout motto is the Conference Report to H.R. 800Ðthe Edu- debate only. cation Flexibility Act. ‘‘Be Prepared.’’ This legislation is (Mr. DREIER asked and was given crafted in that spirit. H.R. 1184 author- f permission to revise and extend his re- izes the National Earthquake Hazards marks.) EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS REDUC- Reduction Program, the Advanced Na- Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, House tional Seismic Research and Moni- TION AUTHORIZATION ACT OF Resolution 142 is an open rule pro- 1999 toring System, and the Network for viding for the consideration of H.R. Earthquake Engineering Simulation. Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, by direc- 1184, the Earthquake Hazards Reduc- These programs will modernize the ex- tion of the Committee on Rules, I call tion Authorization Act of 1999. isting seismic network, which is both up House Resolution 142 and ask for its The purpose of the bill is to reauthor- outdated and disjointed, and inter- immediate consideration. ize the Federal government’s earth- connect earthquake engineering re- The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- quake research and hazard mitigation search facilities. lows: programs. The rule provides for the We all know that we cannot stop H. RES. 142 customary 1 hour general debate, earthquakes from happening. However, Resolved, That at any time after the adop- equally divided and controlled by the we can plan for them and improve our tion of this resolution the Speaker may, pur- chairman and ranking minority mem- readiness. We can improve our detec- suant to clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the ber of the Committee on Science. tion and warning systems and build House resolved into the Committee of the The rule waives clause 4(a) of rule roads and buildings to better serve so Whole House on the state of the Union for XIII requiring a 3-day layover of the that we can survive them. In short, we consideration of the bill (H.R. 1184) to au- committee report against consider- can be better prepared. This bipartisan thorize appropriations for carrying out the ation of the bill because the report legislation clearly moves us in that di- Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 could not be filed in the House until 2 for fiscal years 2000 and 2001, and for other rection. purposes. The first reading of the bill shall days ago. I would like to commend the gen- be dispensed with. Points of order against The rule makes in order the amend- tleman from Wisconsin (Mr. SENSEN- consideration of the bill for failure to com- ment in the nature of a substitute rec- BRENNER), chairman of the Committee ply with clause 4(a) of rule XIII are waived. ommended by the Committee on on Science, the members of his com- General debate shall be confined to the bill Science as an original bill for the pur- mittee for their efforts. and shall not exceed one hour equally di- pose of amendment which will be open The payoff will be in lives saved, vided and controlled by the chairman and to amendment by section. The rule fur- homes and businesses protected, and ranking minority member of the Committee ther encourages priority recognition of communities preserved. We cannot af- on Science. After general debate the bill Members who preprinted their amend- ford to do anything less for the people shall be considered for amendment under the five-minute rule. It shall be in order to con- ments in the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, of California or the 39 other States sider as an original bill for the purpose of and allows the Chair to postpone votes. that are inclined towards earthquakes. amendment under the five-minute rule the Mr. Speaker, in my State of Cali- Therefore, I urge my colleagues to amendment in the nature of a substitute rec- fornia and in too many other regions of support both this open rule and the un- ommended by the Committee on Science now the United States, earthquakes are a derlying bill. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2219 Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of I look forward to seeing bipartisan Emergency Management Agency esti- my time. movement on this very important mates the annual loss resulting from Mr. HALL of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I measure, and I would like to congratu- earthquakes is $4.4 billion. The yield myself such time as I may con- late the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Northridge earthquake of 1994 alone re- sume. SMITH) who has done a great deal of sulted in damages of $40 billion. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the work on this. Still, to date we have been fortunate gentleman from California (Mr. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of that an earthquake with the destruc- DREIER), the chairman of the Com- my time. tive force of the Tangshan, China event mittee on Rules, for yielding me the Mr. HALL of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I of 1976 or the Kobe, Japan event of 1995 time. have no requests for time, and I yield has not struck a large U.S. city. But if This is an open rule. It will allow full back the balance of my time. history is any guide, the U.S. will be and fair debate on H.R. 1184. As the Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, as I said, hit by violent shocks sometime in the gentleman from California (Mr. I urge support for both the rule and the not too distant future. Indeed, major DREIER) has described, this rule pro- bill itself. earthquakes have been recorded vides for 1 hour of general debate to be Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance throughout our Nation’s history: in equally divided and controlled by the of my time, and I move the previous southern Missouri in 1811 and 1812, chairman and the ranking minority question on the resolution. southern California in 1857, Hawaii in member of the Committee on Science. The previous question was ordered. 1868, South Carolina in 1886, Alaska in The rule permits amendments under The resolution was agreed to. 1899, and northern California in 1906. the 5-minute rule, which is the normal A motion to reconsider was laid on The same geologic processes that led amendment process in the House. All the table. to these cataclysmic events are still at Members on both sides of the aisle will The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. work today. That we know. What we do have the opportunity to offer germane EWING). Pursuant to House Resolution not know is when and where these amendments. 142 and rule XVIII, the Chair declares forces will be unleashed. According to the National Earth- the House in the Committee of the Earthquakes may be inevitable, but quake Information Center, about 12,000 Whole House on the State of the Union catastrophic losses of life and property to 14,000 earthquakes take place each for the consideration of the bill, H.R. need not be if we use science to help year. That is 35 each day. Of these, we 1184. communities prepare. The provisions in can expect about 18 major earthquakes The Chair designates the gentleman H.R. 1184 do just that. Four agencies participate in NEHRP: in a year. from Illinois (Mr. LAHOOD) as chairman the Federal Emergency Management Earthquakes can cause enormous loss of the Committee of the Whole, and re- Agency, the U.S. Geological Survey, of life, injury, and destruction. They quests the gentleman from Texas (Mr. the National Science Foundation, and can occur almost anywhere at any SESSIONS) to assume the chair tempo- the National Institute of Standards time. They cannot be prevented. How- rarily. ever, damage, destruction, and loss of and Technology. b 1220 For fiscal year 2000, H.R. 1184 author- life can be significantly reduced if we izes $99.6 million for the base activities are prepared. IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE in these agencies, including specific au- That is why this bill is important. Accordingly, the House resolved thorizations for the U.S. Geological This bill establishes a system to orga- itself into the Committee of the Whole Survey for the Global Seismic Net- nize earthquake monitoring systems in House on the State of the Union for the work, the Real-Time Seismic Warning consideration of the bill (H.R. 1184) to the United States. It makes other im- System pilot program, external re- authorize appropriations for carrying provements to help our Nation plan for search, and an advisory committee. out the Earthquake Hazards Reduction earthquakes. It authorizes funds for For fiscal year 2001, the bill authorizes Act of 1977 for fiscal years 2000 and 2001, the existing Federal programs that $102.6 million for these base earthquake and for other purposes, with Mr. SES- study and provide information about programs, an increase of 3 percent. earthquakes. SIONS (Chairman pro tempore) in the In addition, H.R. 1184 includes The rule waives the requirement for chair. multiyear authorizations for two new a 3-day layover of the committee re- The Clerk read the title of the bill. projects, each of which grew out of con- port. This is necessary because the re- The CHAIRMAN pro tempore. Pursu- gressional direction in the last NEHRP port was not filed until Monday. The ant to the rule, the bill is considered as bill. The Advanced National Seismic purpose of the requirement is to give having been read the first time. Research and Monitoring System will adequate time to all Members before a Under the rule, the gentleman from update the Nation’s existing seismic bill comes to the House floor. Because Wisconsin (Mr. SENSENBRENNER) and monitoring network, which is based on of the bipartisan support and the the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. 30-year-old technology. uncontroversial nature of the bill, EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON) each will con- The bill authorizes $170.8 million over waiving the requirement is appropriate trol 30 minutes. 5 years for the U.S. Geological Survey in this case. However, I hope that The Chair recognizes the gentleman for equipment, and a further $14.8 mil- waiving this rule does not become rou- from Wisconsin (Mr. SENSENBRENNER). lion over 2 years for the incremental tine. Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Chair- costs of system operation. This is an open rule. It was adopted man, I yield myself 5 minutes. The Network for Earthquake Engi- unanimously by the Committee on Mr. Chairman, I come before the neering Simulation will link more than Rules. I urge adoption of the rule. House today to urge its support for 30 earthquake engineering research fa- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of H.R. 1184, the Earthquake Hazards Re- cilities and upgrade and expand major my time. duction Act of 1999. earthquake testing facilities. H.R. 1184 Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I do not Mr. Chairman, it is a common com- provides the National Science Founda- have any requests for time, and I yield plaint that we cannot control the tion with a 5-year authorization total- myself such time as I may consume. weather, neither can we control earth- ing $81.8 million for this program. Mr. Speaker, I would like to say that quakes, nor after years of effort can we Finally, the bill authorizes a Sci- I mentioned the very distinguished even forecast them with any con- entific Earthquake Studies Advisory chairman of the Committee on Science, fidence. But we can prepare for them, Committee at the U.S. Geological Sur- and I am very pleased that this will be and that is the main purpose of the Na- vey, requires greater interagency co- very ably handled on the minority side tional Earthquake Hazard Reduction ordination in formulating the Pro- by my very good friend, the gentleman Program, known as NEHRP. gram’s budget, requests a report on from California (Mr. BROWN), who has According to the U.S. Geological Sur- how the Program meets the needs of been intimately involved in these vey, 39 States are subject to serious at-risk populations, and repeals obso- issues and has probably suffered earthquake risk, and 75 million people lete provisions of the statute. through a number of earthquakes him- live in urban areas with moderate to With earthquakes, it is not a ques- self. high earthquake risk. The Federal tion of if, but when the next one will H2220 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 strike. Through its emphasis on moni- vey, the National Seismic Foundation, Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance toring, research, and mitigation, H.R. and NIST are currently exploring. of my time. 1184 will help the Nation prepare for Advances such as early warning of Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Chair- the inevitable and save lives and prop- seismic events, more structurally man, I yield 6 minutes to the gen- erty. sound buildings, regional analysis of tleman from Michigan (Mr. SMITH). I would like to thank the gentleman seismic risk, mobile research centers, Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Chair- from Michigan (Mr. SMITH), the chair- and widespread use of the Internet and man, I thank the gentleman for yield- man of the Subcommittee on Basic Re- our other telecommunication capabili- ing me this time, and also thank him search, for drafting such a fine bill; the ties are going to make marked reduc- for his leadership on this legislation; of gentleman from California (Mr. tions in the impacts of not just earth- course, along with the gentleman from BROWN), the minority ranking member quakes, but almost all natural and California (Mr. BROWN) and the gentle- of the Committee on Science, for his man-made disasters. woman from Texas (Ms. EDDIE BERNICE continued support of the program; and But the story does not end there. JOHNSON). the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. While our increased understanding of Mr. Chairman, H.R. 1184 is legislation EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON) for her valued earthquake kinematics and the mitiga- to reauthorize what is called the Na- input in the consideration of this bill. tion procedures proves that we have tional Earthquake Hazard Reduction Mr. Chairman, H.R. 1184 represents made progress, there are still chal- Program, NEHRP. It is a bill I am the sensible, long-term investment lenges we must face and assessments pleased to sponsor on behalf of the that will pay for itself many times over that must be made periodically to Committee on Science. The National Earthquake Hazard Re- and save lives and reduce property make sure that we are doing every- duction Program, this NEHRP, has costs. I urge my colleagues to support thing that we can to ensure the safety long enjoyed strong bipartisan support it. and security of the American people. in the Committee on Science. The pri- Mr. Chairman, I insert the following There are still earthquake-prone mary purpose of NEHRP is simple: To for the RECORD: communities that have not adopted ap- save lives and to reduce property dam- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, propriate building codes. Monitoring in age. But while the goal may be stated COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE, earthquake-prone areas is still done simply, getting a grip on this problem Washington, DC, April 20, 1999. with less than state-of-the-art equip- Hon. DON YOUNG, of earthquakes poses a greater di- Chairman, Committee on Resources, ment, and disparities in earthquake lemma. Washington, DC. losses due to age and socioeconomic Since its inception in 1977, NEHRP DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: Thank you for your status and physical limitations still has done a credible job of contributing letter of April 16, regarding H.R. 1184, the exist. to our store of knowledge about the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1999. For these reasons and more, the I understand that your waiver of Resources causes and effects of earthquakes, and earthquake programs must continue to it has reduced our vulnerability to Committee jurisdiction should not be con- evolve to address these new challenges. strued to affect any future referrals of bills them through engineering research and dealing with the same subject matter. I also b 1230 new building designs. The program’s will support the Resources Committee re- I feel that the bill before us today monitoring component also holds the quest to be represented on any conference on will help us meet these new needs. promise of providing real-time warning H.R. 1184 or related bill. to citizens and a wealth of data to re- H.R. 1184 is scheduled for Floor consider- In addition to authorizing increased funding for these base NEHRP pro- searchers. ation on April 21 and I will include this let- Indeed, improving earthquake warn- ter as part of the floor proceedings. grams, the bill authorizes the Network ing by just a few seconds can mean the I, as well as my staff, look forward to for Earthquake Engineering Simula- difference between life and death. It working with you if H.R. 1184 should go to tion, an effort by the National Science can mean those few seconds where we conference and also, collaborating with you Foundation to modernize earthquake on any legislation on which we may share ju- might send a signal to shut off the gas risdiction in the future. engineering research facilities; the Ad- going through gas mains and many Sincerely, vanced Seismic Research and Moni- other areas which can significantly re- F. JAMES SENSENBRENNER, JR., toring System, which will enable the duce the damage of earthquakes. Chairman. Geological Survey to upgrade and ex- The National Earthquake Hazard Re- Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance pand our seismic monitoring networks duction Program also has an inter- of my time. to reflect the needs across the Nation, national and humanitarian aspect. Be- Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of and a study on elements of NEHRP cause of the almost tens of thousands Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself that address the needs of at-risk popu- of earthquakes around the world, all of such time as I may consume. lations. these countries look to our research Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong sup- Today’s bill will not solve all of these and information to help reduce their port of H.R. 1184, the reauthorization of challenges that remain, but it will damage to property and save lives. the National Earthquake Hazards Re- move us in the right direction. Many countries around the world con- duction Program, NEHRP. It has been In closing, Mr. Chairman, let me say tinually monitor and use the informa- over 20 years since the Congress first that while natural disasters are inevi- tion that will develop through the au- authorized the Earthquake Hazards Re- table, the extent of the damage is not. thorization in this bill. duction Act; and, during the inter- We must attack the problem from all The advanced national seismic re- vening two decades, the program has sides with renewed efforts to imple- search and monitoring system, author- made tremendous strides in combating ment seismically safe building stand- ized in this bill, is important. Not only these natural disasters. ards, to increase our pool of data on will it improve warning times, but the We now have maps that inform engi- natural disasters, to respond rapidly to data it collects will provide researchers neers, architects, and builders of seis- disasters when they strike, and, in gen- with information that will lead to safer mic hazards, model building codes, and eral, to understand the risks associated buildings and designs and a greater un- greater understanding of the science of with earthquakes in whatever form derstanding of how earthquakes propa- earthquake hazards and the response of they may manifest themselves. gate. buildings to seismic movement. Mr. Chairman, I commend the gen- The periodic nature of earthquakes In practical terms, federally funded tleman from Wisconsin (Mr. SENSEN- can often lead to complacency. Prob- research in geosciences, social BRENNER); the gentleman from Michi- ably that is human nature. But that sciences, and engineering has saved gan (Mr. SMITH), our subcommittee kind of complacency can carry great countless lives, in addition to saving chair, for their work; and certainly our risk. Let me just hold up this map a personal property and critical infra- leader, the gentleman from California minute, Mr. Chairman, to give my col- structures. I am certain that with con- (Mr. BROWN). leagues an idea. If we can see sort out tinued support we can make even I also note that this bill is the prod- the dark images of little spots across greater strides in the innovative areas uct of a bipartisan effort, and I urge this globe, tens of thousands of earth- that FEMA, the U.S. Geological Sur- passage of this bill, Mr. Chairman. quakes happen every year. In fact, in April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2221 the United States last year there were abilities, single parent households and infrastructure should be recognized as over 1,000 earthquakes. Some modest, the poor. part of the bill language and, as some very severe. There are risk factors that cannot be amended, is. Certainly the earthquake that struck determined by seismological or engi- Again, I wish to thank my colleagues Kobe, Japan in early 1995 caused nearly neering research and analysis. These on the committee for supporting the 6,000 deaths and over $100 billion in risks deal with the social culture and amendment and encourage all of my damages. And of course, more recently, the economic factors that are pre- colleagues in the House to support this the tragedy in Armenia, Colombia, in sented nationwide when there is a dis- bill. which well over 1,000 people lost their aster. I am aware that the National Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of lives I think are stern reminders of the Science Foundation, which is a part of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes destructive power of earthquakes. The NEHRP, supports social sciences re- to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Loma Prieta earthquake caused $6 bil- search, and I am aware how this re- WU). lion in damage, Northridge earthquake search relates to at-risk populations. Mr. WU. Mr. Chairman, I rise in caused $40 billion in damages, and pro- This would be addressed in our report. strong support today of H.R. 1184, the vide, I think, a glimpse of what could Not only will this report provide val- reauthorization of the National Earth- happen here if we are not adequately uable information on what has been ac- quake Hazard Reduction Program. I prepared. complished to date, it also will bring particularly applaud the farsightedness As the chairman of the committee, into focus what needs to be done in the of the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. future to reach those populations that SENSENBRENNER), the chairman of the SENSENBRENNER), noted in his state- incur more damage in disaster because Committee on Science, and the gen- ment, 39 States in this country are ex- of their age or their economic status or tleman from California (Mr. BROWN), posed to a significant earthquake risk, their physical limitations. the ranking member, in authorizing and about 75 million people live in Because disasters affect us all, this $168 million over the next 5 years for urban areas with a moderate to high bill is one that Congress, as a whole, expansion and modernization of the earthquake risk. Thankfully, in my should be very interested in and totally seismic monitoring infrastructure of home State of Michigan, earthquakes supportive of. I ask that everyone sup- the United States. are very rare, but even Michigan is vul- port H.R. 1184. Oregon is, unfortunately, at great nerable to earthquakes. Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of risk for earthquakes, and I am looking In closing, Mr. Chairman, I would Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes forward to the benefits that will flow again certainly like to thank the gen- to the gentleman from Connecticut from such a modernization effort in Or- tleman from Wisconsin (Mr. SENSEN- (Mr. LARSON). egon and nationwide. My amendment, BRENNER), the chairman, the gen- Mr. LARSON. Mr. Chairman, I thank which has been incorporated into the tleman from California (Mr. BROWN), the gentlewoman from Texas for yield- bill, will add an additional $2.8 million and the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. ing me this time, and I rise today to over 2 years to the seismic network to EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON), the ranking support this bill, the Earthquake Haz- procure two portable seismic networks. member of our Subcommittee on Basic ard Reduction Act. Seismologists routinely deploy tem- Research of the Committee on Science, A few weeks ago we approved this bill porary mobile networks to monitor for their assistance in preparing this unanimously in the Committee on aftershocks or to better understand the important bill and for their efforts in Science. This bill, as before mentioned impact of an earthquake in a par- bringing it to the floor, and I would by my colleagues, would reauthorize ticular region. The two networks sup- urge my colleagues on both sides of the nearly $40 million in funding over the ported by my amendment would be a aisle to support this bill. next 2 years for earthquake prepared- natural supplement to the permanent Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of ness and programs. monitoring networks. Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes I would also like to thank our es- The chairman has been conscientious to the gentlewoman from California teemed chairman, the gentleman from in authorizing the elements of a seis- (Ms. WOOLSEY). Wisconsin (Mr. SENSENBRENNER) for his mic monitoring system contained in a (Ms. WOOLSEY asked and was given help, and the venerable ranking mem- plan that will be forwarded to us short- permission to revise and extend her re- ber of our committee, the gentleman ly by the administration. I believe marks.) from California (Mr. GEORGE BROWN), these portable networks will also be Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Chairman, first and my colleagues, of course, who have part of that plan. let me indicate my very strong support sponsored and introduced this legisla- These portable networks are very for H.R. 1184, which will reauthorize tion, the gentleman from Michigan necessary to a comprehensive capa- the National Earthquake Hazard Re- (Mr. SMITH), and the gentlewoman from bility for post-earthquake monitoring. duction Program, NEHRP. Maryland (Mrs. MORELLA) for gra- I would hate to see any delay in devel- Since its inception in 1977, and par- ciously accepting two amendments I oping them, and I urge adoption of this ticularly in the last decade, NEHRP offered during the markup. amendment. has been successful in assessing how My amendments were aimed at mak- In closing, I would like to commend earthquakes affect us and what we can ing sure information generated under the chair and ranking member of the do to prepare for the next one. Too bad the program is localized and available Committee on Science and the chair they cannot prevent earthquakes from on the Internet, and specifically that and ranking member of the Sub- happening in the first place. the backbone of the Internet commu- committee on Basic Research for facili- NEHRP has been reaching out to nication system be considered part of tating bipartisan cooperation in this State and local officials, improving the Nation’s critical infrastructure. bill within the committee and here. building codes, and assessing the level The original law cites communication With that, Mr. Chairman, I urge pas- of seismic risk in different areas across facilities as lifeline, but not commu- sage of this bill. the country. This is a very important nications infrastructure. Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of program, especially in my Congres- Today, as we all know, there are Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield such time sional District, which has the San fiber-optic links dedicated solely to the as he may consume to the gentleman Andreas Fault running through it. transfer of information over the Inter- from California (Mr. BROWN). During the Committee on Science net. Data traffic is currently increas- Mr. BROWN of California. Mr. Chair- markup of this bill, I was pleased that ing about 10 times the rate of phone man, I thank the gentlewoman for my amendment to H.R. 1184 was unani- traffic, therefore creating this need. yielding me this time. I am enthusi- mously accepted and is in the bill We should also be concerned about astic about rising to support H.R. 1184 today. My amendment directs FEMA routers and servers managing and stor- and, of course, it has been a favorite to report on the element that addresses ing this traffic. Disaster recovery plans piece of legislation of mine for many the needs of at-risk populations. Spe- must account for restoring high-speed years. cifically, this includes the elderly, the links and for backing up critical data- I also note that one of our colleagues, non-English speaking, persons with dis- bases. This increasingly critical data the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. H2222 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 LARSON), has used, I think for the first and we set another record trade deficit, by the Department of Defense, which permits time on the floor, the description of an close to $20 billion. China and Japan points on the Earth's surface to be located to elderly member as being venerable. alone accounted for $10 billion in Feb- a precision of a millimeter, the network will Normally that is an ecclesiastical ruary of 1999. track the movement of 250 stations con- term, and this is not an ecclesiastical So it is just a simple, straightforward centrated along a corridor through the Los An- body, but I appreciate the intent. amendment and says any money ex- geles basin, but also extending south to the The point that I wanted to make, I pended under this, if they possibly Mexican border and east to the Colorado think most strongly, is that in the first could find it in their heart to buy River. Basically, the data derived from this ef- 22 years of the existence of this act we American, we encourage that. But if fort will not only improve general under- actually had a stable and declining they affix a fraudulent made-in-Amer- standing of large-scale tectonic processes re- funding for this program, much to my ica laden label, then they would have sponsible for earthquakes but will also provide regret. trouble with the further contract. indications where earthquakes might occur in b 1245 It is not a major thing, we passed it the near future. before, and I would appreciate the sup- Earthquakes are one of the most dev- In real terms, the amount authorized port for it. for the program decreased by 26 per- astating natural hazards known to man and Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of pose a severe threat to life and property in cent over that period of time. Consider Texas. Mr. Chairman, I have no objec- the fact that, as has already been men- many regions of our Nation and around the tion to this amendment; and I have no tioned, that in the 1989 Loma Prieta worldÐand in particular in my home state of further requests for time, so I yield earthquake alone, estimates of the cost California. The United States has a funda- back the balance of my time. of damage and business interruptions mental responsibility and self-interest in reduc- Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. Mr. were more than $10 billion. I think it ing the risks associated with earthquakes. Miti- Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. now becomes clear that the U.S. needs gation and finding new applications should 1184, a bill to reauthorize the National Earth- to invest more than it has to date in continue to be an integral factor in efforts to quake Hazards Reduction ProgramÐa multi- earthquake hazards reduction. lessen the terrible consequences of earth- I would like to congratulate the two agency effort to reduce the terrible effects of quakes on our populace. committees, Science and Resources, earthquakes on life and property. At the same time, we must continue to de- Of particular interest to the Resources Com- that enjoy joint jurisdiction over this velop a strong scientific understanding of mittee, the bill would authorize appropriations legislation for recognizing that this is where earthquakes will occur, why they occur, for FY 2000 and 2001 to the U.S. Geological an area and now is the time in which how big they can be, and to learn more about Survey (USGS) to carry out its responsibilities we should invest more heavily for the the effects that they will generate. Basic re- under the Act, including a related USGS grant benefit of all the people of this coun- search and monitoring have contributed signifi- program and another program to develop a try. cantly to our improved mitigation capacity. As has been mentioned, I was in- prototype real-time seismic warning system. Good science has also led to application and volved with the passage of the original Finally the bill would require the USGS Direc- informed decision-making. The USGS Earth- bill in 1977, which focused almost ex- tor to establish a Scientific Earthquake Studies quake Hazards Reduction Program addresses clusively on the research necessary for Advisory Committee. many of the more serious earthquake risks, earthquake prediction. We were moti- The Clinton Administration has testified in and I am pleased to support its reauthoriza- vated at the time by rumors that the strong support of reauthorization of the Na- tion. Chinese had developed novel ways of tional Earthquake Hazards Reduction Pro- I recommend an ``aye'' vote on its passage. predicting earthquakes, and we were gram. This program has made significant Mr. COOK. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support intrigued by the fact that they could progress and contributions in the reduction of of H.R. 1184, the National Earthquake Haz- be ahead of us in this regard. earthquake risks during its 23-year history. ards Reduction Program. In addition to author- It did not turn out to be true, but it While the Resources Committee's jurisdiction izing funding for basic earthquake programs, did lead us to some focus on the re- in this matter is limited to activities of the H.R. 1184 provides 5-year authorizations for a search necessary for prediction, which USGS, the effort to reduce earthquake risks is new programÐthe Advanced National Seismic is still of great interest but unlikely to shared among other federal agencies includ- Research and Monitoring System. H.R. 1184 bear the economic return that reducing ing the Federal Emergency Management authorizes USGS to spend $170.8 million over hazards would bear. Agency, the National Science Foundation, and the next 5 years to modernize the current anti- The current act which we are consid- the National Institute of Standards and Tech- quated system. ering still contains provisions for re- nology. As a native Californian, I am grateful The Utah Geological Survey estimates that search but has been broadened to in- to the fine work done by all of these agencies. my district, Salt Lake County, Utah is due for clude seismic safety standards, coordi- Under this critical program, USGS produces a magnitude 7 earthquake. The UGS esti- nation with State and local govern- earthquake hazard assessments and national mates that a major quake of this magnitude ments, dissemination of information, seismic hazard maps for earthquake loss re- could kill up to 7,600 people, injure 44,000 and public education and awareness. duction; provides timely and accurate notifica- more and cause nearly $20 billion in dam- And all of these features will add new tions of earthquakes and information on their ages. value to this important piece of legis- location, size, and damage potential, and car- With this new monitoring system we could lation. ries out studies and research on earthquake send out early warning of impending earth- Looking back at the evolution of the occurrence and effects. quakes that utilities could use to shut off act of 1977, I believe that with its re- For example, during 1999±2001, USGS will valves, and schools to rush our children to newed focus on mitigation and pre- develop more detailed, larger scale products safety. There also is additional money for the paredness, Congress is now on the right that depict variations in the expected ground University of Utah to continue their earthquake path to reducing the risk to life and shaking across the San Francisco Bay urban research on the Wasatch Front. The Wasatch property caused by earthquakes. area. The data compiled will enable local offi- Front is the newest range in the Rocky Moun- Mr. Chairman, I thank all of those cials and planners to see probabilities of tains and it is getting bigger. It was created by who have participated in bringing the earthquake occurrence, amplification or exten- earthquakes and it will continue to grow with bill to the floor, and I urge the passage sion of shaking caused by geologic deposits the help of earthquakes. Earthquakes occur of this important bill. and structures, and susceptibility of these de- regularly in my district and we need to be pre- Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of posits to liquefy and slide during an earth- pared for them. 80% of Utah's population re- Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield to the quake. sides on top of active earthquake faults. The gentleman from Ohio (Mr. TRAFICANT). In another major partnership authorized by University of Utah is one of our nation's lead- Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Chairman, I this program, the USGS, National Science ing earthquake research centers. This money support the legislation. There is some Foundation, National Aeronautics and Space will also be used to collect information needed money in here for procurement. I will Administration, and the Southern California to deploy resources after an earthquake. We offer a buy-American amendment. It Earthquake Center are installing a state-of- will be able to map the severity and location has been standard language. the-art geodetic network to monitor fault move- of an earthquake to know how and where to I remind the Congress that the last ments and Earth strain in Southern California. send emergency response teams. This bill is month quantified was February 1999 Utilizing a satellite navigation system operated a good investment in protecting our citizens April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2223 from a disaster that we know is coming. It tion Act of 1999; and $47,500,000 for fiscal year ‘‘(c) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— would be a disaster for the American people 2001, of which $3,600,000 shall be used for the ‘‘(1) EXPANSION AND MODERNIZATION.—In ad- for Congress to run away from their respon- Global Seismic Network and $100,000 shall be dition to amounts appropriated under section used for the Scientific Earthquake Studies Advi- 12(b), there are authorized to be appropriated to sibilities and not prepare our country for earth- sory Committee established under section 6 of the Secretary of the Interior, to be used by the quakes. the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Authoriza- Director of the United States Geological Survey I urge all my colleagues to support H.R. tion Act of 1999.’’ after ‘‘operated by the Agen- to establish the Advanced National Seismic Re- 1184. cy.’’; search and Monitoring System— Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Chair- (B) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of paragraph ‘‘(A) $33,500,000 for fiscal year 2000; man, I have no further requests for (1); ‘‘(B) $33,700,000 for fiscal year 2001; time, and I yield back the balance my (C) by striking the comma at the end of para- ‘‘(C) $35,100,000 for fiscal year 2002; graph (2) and inserting a semicolon; and ‘‘(D) $35,000,000 for fiscal year 2003; and time. (D) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- ‘‘(E) $33,500,000 for fiscal year 2004. The CHAIRMAN. All time for general lowing new paragraphs: ‘‘(2) OPERATION.—In addition to amounts ap- debate has expired. ‘‘(3) $9,000,000 of the amount authorized to be propriated under section 12(b), there are author- The committee amendment in the appropriated for fiscal year 2000; and ized to be appropriated to the Secretary of the nature of a substitute printed in the ‘‘(4) $9,500,000 of the amount authorized to be Interior, to be used by the Director of the United bill shall be considered by sections as appropriated for fiscal year 2001,’’. States Geological Survey to operate the Ad- an original bill for the purpose of (2) Section 2(a)(7) of the Act entitled ‘‘An Act vanced National Seismic Research and Moni- to authorize appropriations for carrying out the toring System— amendment, and pursuant to the rule, Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 for ‘‘(A) $4,500,000 for fiscal year 2000; and each section is considered read. fiscal years 1998 and 1999, and for other pur- ‘‘(B) $10,300,000 for fiscal year 2001.’’. During consideration of the bill for poses’’ is amended by inserting ‘‘, $1,600,000 for SEC. 5. NETWORK FOR EARTHQUAKE ENGINEER- amendment, the Chair may accord pri- fiscal year 2000, and $1,650,000 for fiscal year ING SIMULATION. ority in recognition to a Member offer- 2001’’ after ‘‘1998 and 1999’’. The Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of ing an amendment that he has printed (c) NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION.—Section 1977 (42 U.S.C. 7701 et seq.) is amended by add- 12(c) of the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act in the designated place in the CONGRES- ing at the end the following new section: of 1977 (42 U.S.C. 7706(c)) is amended— SIONAL RECORD. Those amendments ‘‘SEC. 14. NETWORK FOR EARTHQUAKE ENGI- (1) by striking ‘‘1998, and’’ and inserting NEERING SIMULATION. will be considered read. ‘‘1998,’’; and ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Director of the The Chairman of the Committee of (2) by striking the period at the end and in- National Science Foundation shall establish a the Whole may postpone a request for a serting ‘‘, and (5) $19,000,000 for engineering re- Network for Earthquake Engineering Simulation recorded vote on any amendment and search and $10,900,000 for geosciences research that will upgrade, link, and integrate a system may reduce to a minimum of 5 minutes for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2000. of geographically distributed experimental fa- the time for voting on any postponed There are authorized to be appropriated to the cilities for earthquake engineering testing of National Science Foundation $19,600,000 for en- full-sized structures and their components and question that immediately follows an- gineering research and $11,200,000 for geo- other vote, provided that the time for partial-scale physical models. The system shall sciences research for fiscal year 2001.’’. be integrated through networking software so voting on the first question shall be a (d) NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND that integrated models and databases can be minimum of 15 minutes. TECHNOLOGY.—Section 12(d) of the Earthquake used to create model-based simulation, and the Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Chair- Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 (42 U.S.C. components of the system shall be inter- man, I ask unanimous consent that the 7706(d)) is amended— connected with a computer network and allow committee amendment in the nature of (1) by striking ‘‘1998, and’’; and inserting for remote access, information sharing, and col- ‘‘1998,’’; and a substitute be printed in the RECORD laborative research. (2) by inserting ‘‘, $2,200,000 for fiscal year ‘‘(b) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—In and open to amendment at any point. 2000, and $2,265,000 for fiscal year 2001’’ after The CHAIRMAN. Is there objection addition to amounts appropriated under section ‘‘September 30, 1999’’. 12(c), there are authorized to be appropriated, to the request of the gentleman from SEC. 3. REPEALS. out of funds otherwise authorized to be appro- Wisconsin? Section 10 and subsections (e) and (f) of sec- priated to the National Science Foundation, There was no objection. tion 12 of the Earthquake Hazards Reduction $7,700,000 for fiscal year 2000 for the Network The text of the committee amend- Act of 1977 (42 U.S.C. 7705d and 7706 (e) and (f)) for Earthquake Engineering Simulation. In ad- ment in the nature of a substitute is as are repealed. dition to amounts appropriated under section follows: SEC. 4. ADVANCED NATIONAL SEISMIC RESEARCH 12(c), there are authorized to be appropriated to Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- AND MONITORING SYSTEM. the National Science Foundation for the Net- The Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of resentatives of the United States of America in work for Earthquake Engineering Simulation— 1977 (42 U.S.C. 7701 et seq.) is amended by add- Congress assembled, ‘‘(1) $28,200,000 for fiscal year 2001; ing at the end the following new section: ‘‘(2) $24,400,000 for fiscal year 2002; SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ‘‘SEC. 13. ADVANCED NATIONAL SEISMIC RE- ‘‘(3) $4,500,000 for fiscal year 2003; and This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Earthquake SEARCH AND MONITORING SYSTEM. ‘‘(4) $17,000,000 for fiscal year 2004.’’. Hazards Reduction Authorization Act of 1999’’. ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Director of the SEC. 6. SCIENTIFIC EARTHQUAKE STUDIES ADVI- SEC. 2. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. United States Geological Survey shall establish SORY COMMITTEE. (a) FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGEN- and operate an Advanced National Seismic Re- (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Director of the CY.—Section 12(a) of the Earthquake Hazards search and Monitoring System. The purpose of United States Geological Survey shall establish Reduction Act of 1977 (42 U.S.C. 7706(a)) is such system shall be to organize, modernize, a Scientific Earthquake Studies Advisory Com- amended— standardize, and stabilize the national, re- mittee. (1) by striking ‘‘(1) GENERAL.—’’ and all that gional, and urban seismic monitoring systems in (b) ORGANIZATION.—The Director shall estab- follows through ‘‘(7) There’’ and inserting the United States, including sensors, recorders, lish procedures for selection of individuals not ‘‘GENERAL.—There’’; and data analysis centers, into a coordinated employed by the Federal Government who are (2) by striking ‘‘1998, and’’ and inserting system that will measure and record the full qualified in the seismic sciences and other ap- ‘‘1998,’’; and range of frequencies and amplitudes exhibited propriate fields and may, pursuant to such pro- (3) by inserting ‘‘, $19,800,000 for the fiscal by seismic waves, in order to enhance earth- cedures, select up to ten individuals, one of year ending September 30, 2000, and $20,400,000 quake research and warning capabilities. whom shall be designated Chairman, to serve on for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2001’’ ‘‘(b) MANAGEMENT PLAN.—Not later than 120 the Advisory Committee. Selection of individuals after ‘‘September 30, 1999’’. days after the date of the enactment of the for the Advisory Committee shall be based solely (b) UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY.—(1) Earthquake Hazards Reduction Authorization on established records of distinguished service, Section 12(b) of the Earthquake Hazards Reduc- Act of 1999, the Director of the United States and the Director shall ensure that a reasonable tion Act of 1977 (42 U.S.C. 7706(b)) is amended— Geological Survey shall transmit to the Congress cross-section of views and expertise is rep- (A) by inserting ‘‘There are authorized to be a 5-year management plan for establishing and resented. In selecting individuals to serve on the appropriated to the Secretary of the Interior for operating the Advanced National Seismic Re- Advisory Committee, the Director shall seek and purposes of carrying out, through the Director search and Monitoring System. The plan shall give due consideration to recommendations from of the United States Geological Survey, the re- include annual cost estimates for both mod- the National Academy of Sciences, professional sponsibilities that may be assigned to the Direc- ernization and operation, milestones, standards, societies, and other appropriate organizations. tor under this Act $46,100,000 for fiscal year and performance goals, as well as plans for se- (c) MEETINGS.—The Advisory Committee shall 2000, of which $3,500,000 shall be used for the curing the participation of all existing networks meet at such times and places as may be des- Global Seismic Network and $100,000 shall be in the Advanced National Seismic Research and ignated by the Chairman in consultation with used for the Scientific Earthquake Studies Advi- Monitoring System and for establishing new, or the Director. sory Committee established under section 6 of enhancing existing, partnerships to leverage re- (d) DUTIES.—The Advisory Committee shall the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Authoriza- sources. advise the Director on matters relating to the H2224 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 United States Geological Survey’s participation The CHAIRMAN. Is there objection The CHAIRMAN. Under the rule, the in the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction to the request of the gentleman from Committee rises. Program, including the United States Geological Ohio? Accordingly, the Committee rose; Survey’s roles, goals, and objectives within that There was no objection. and the Speaker pro tempore (Mr. Program, its capabilities and research needs, The text of the amendment is as fol- BONILLA) having assumed the chair, guidance on achieving major objectives, and es- lows: tablishing and measuring performance goals. Mr. LAHOOD, Chairman of the Com- The Advisory Committee shall issue an annual Amendment offered by Mr. TRAFICANT: mittee of the Whole House on the State At the end of the bill add the following new report to the Director for submission to Congress of the Union, reported that that Com- sections: on or before September 30 of each year. The re- mittee, having had under consideration port shall describe the Advisory Committee’s ac- SEC. . COMPLIANCE WITH BUY AMERICAN ACT. No funds authorized pursuant to this Act the bill (H.R. 1184) to authorize appro- tivities and address policy issues or matters that may be expended by an entity unless the en- priations for carrying out the Earth- affect the United States Geological Survey’s par- tity agrees that in expending the assistance quake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 ticipation in the National Earthquake Hazards the entity will comply with sections 2 Reduction Program. for fiscal years 2000 and 2001, and for through 4 of the Act of March 3, 1933 (41 SEC. 7. BUDGET COORDINATION. other purposes, pursuant to House Res- U.S.C. 10a–10c, popularly known as the ‘‘Buy olution 142, he reported the bill back to Section 5 of the Earthquake Hazards Reduc- American Act’’). the House with an amendment adopted tion Act of 1977 (42 U.S.C. 7704) is amended— SEC. . SENSE OF CONGRESS; REQUIREMENT RE- (1) in subsection (b)(1)— GARDING NOTICE. by the Committee of the Whole. (A) by striking subparagraph (A) and redesig- (a) PURCHASE OF AMERICAN-MADE EQUIP- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under nating subparagraphs (B) through (F) as sub- MENT AND PRODUCTS.—In the case of any the rule, the previous question is or- paragraphs (A) through (E), respectively; and equipment or products that may be author- dered. (B) by moving subparagraph (E), as so redes- ized to be purchased with financial assist- ignated by subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, Is a separate vote demanded on the ance provided under this Act, it is the sense amendment to the committee amend- so as to appear immediately after subparagraph of the Congress that entities receiving such (D), as so redesignated; and assistance should, in expending the assist- ment in the nature of a substitute (2) by adding at the end the following new ance, purchase only American-made equip- adopted by the Committee of the subsection: ment and products. Whole? If not, the question is on the ‘‘(c) BUDGET COORDINATION.— (b) NOTICE TO RECIPIENTS OF ASSISTANCE.— committee amendment in the nature of ‘‘(1) GUIDANCE.—The Agency shall each year In providing financial assistance under this a substitute. provide guidance to the other Program agencies Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall concerning the preparation of requests for ap- The committee amendment in the provide to each recipient of the assistance a nature of a substitute amendment was propriations for activities related to the Pro- notice describing the statement made in sub- gram, and shall prepare, in conjunction with section (a) by the Congress. agreed to. the other Program agencies, an annual Program SEC. . PROHIBITION OF CONTRACTS. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The budget to be submitted to the Office of Manage- If it has been finally determined by a court question is on the engrossment and ment and Budget. or Federal agency that any person inten- third reading of the bill. ‘‘(2) REPORTS.—Each Program agency shall tionally affixed a label bearing a ‘‘Made in The bill was ordered to be engrossed include with its annual request for appropria- America’’ inscription, or any inscription tions submitted to the Office of Management and read a third time, and was read the with the same meaning, to any product sold third time. and Budget a report that— in or shipped to the United States that is not ‘‘(A) identifies each element of the proposed made in the United States, such person shall The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Program activities of the agency; be ineligible to receive any contract or sub- question is on the passage of the bill. ‘‘(B) specifies how each of these activities con- contract made with funds provided pursuant The question was taken; and the tributes to the Program; and to this Act, pursuant to the debarment, sus- Speaker pro tempore announced that ‘‘(C) states the portion of its request for ap- pension, and ineligibility procedures de- propriations allocated to each element of the the ayes appeared to have it. scribed in section 9.400 through 9.409 of title Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speak- Program.’’. 48, Code of Federal Regulations. SEC. 8. REPORT ON AT-RISK POPULATIONS. er, I object to the vote on the ground Not later than one year after the date of the Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Chairman, the that a quorum is not present and make enactment of this Act, and after a period for amendment has been explained in the the point of order that a quorum is not public comment, the Director of the Federal general debate time. It is a present. Emergency Management Agency shall transmit straighforward, buy-American amend- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Evi- to the Congress a report describing the elements ment. It has passed on several other dently a quorum is not present. of the Program that specifically address the pieces of legislation. I encourage the The Sergeant at Arms will notify ab- needs of at-risk populations, including the el- committee to accept it. sent Members. derly, persons with disabilities, non-English- Mr. Chairman, I yield to the gen- The vote was taken by electronic de- speaking families, single-parent households, and tleman from Wisconsin (Mr. SENSEN- the poor. Such report shall also identify addi- vice, and there were—yeas 414, nays 3, BRENNER). not voting 16, as follows: tional actions that could be taken to address Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Chair- those needs, and make recommendations for any man, I thank the gentleman for yield- [Roll No. 95] additional legislative authority required to take YEAS—414 such actions. ing. Abercrombie Bilbray Campbell SEC. 9. PUBLIC ACCESS TO EARTHQUAKE INFOR- We are pleased to accept this con- Ackerman Bilirakis Canady MATION. structive amendment. Aderholt Bishop Cannon Section 5(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Earthquake Haz- Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Chairman, I Allen Blagojevich Capps ards Reduction Act of 1977 (42 U.S.C. yield to the gentlewoman from Texas Andrews Bliley Capuano 7704(b)(2)(A)(ii)) is amended by inserting ‘‘, and (Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON). Archer Blumenauer Cardin development of means of increasing public ac- Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Armey Blunt Carson cess to available locality-specific information Texas. Mr. Chairman, I have no objec- Bachus Boehlert Castle that may assist the public in preparing for or re- Baird Boehner Chabot tion to the amendment. Baker Bonilla Chambliss sponding to earthquakes’’ after ‘‘and the gen- Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Chairman, I Baldacci Bonior Clay eral public’’. urge an ‘‘aye’’ vote, and I yield back Baldwin Bono Clayton SEC. 10. LIFELINES. the balance of my time. Ballenger Borski Clement Barcia Boswell Clyburn Section 4(6) of the Earthquake Hazards Re- The CHAIRMAN. The question is on duction Act of 1977 (42 U.S.C. 7703(6)) is amend- Barr Boucher Coble ed by inserting ‘‘and infrastructure’’ after the amendment offered by the gen- Barrett (NE) Boyd Coburn Barrett (WI) Brady (PA) Collins ‘‘communication facilities’’. tleman from Ohio (Mr. TRAFICANT). The amendment was agreed to. Bartlett Brady (TX) Combest The CHAIRMAN. Are there any The CHAIRMAN. Are there any other Barton Brown (CA) Condit amendments to the bill? Bass Brown (FL) Conyers amendments? Bateman Brown (OH) Cook AMENDMENT OFFERED BY MR. TRAFICANT If not, the question is on the com- Becerra Bryant Cooksey Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Chairman, I mittee amendment in the nature of a Bentsen Burr Costello offer an amendment, and I ask unani- Bereuter Burton Cox substitute, as amended. Berkley Buyer Coyne mous consent that the amendment be The committee amendment in the Berman Callahan Cramer considered as read and printed in the nature of a substitute, as amended, was Berry Calvert Crane RECORD. agreed to. Biggert Camp Crowley April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2225 Cubin Isakson Ose Tiahrt Walden Wexler the House for 1 minute and to revise Cummings Istook Packard Tierney Walsh Weygand Cunningham Jackson (IL) Pallone Toomey Wamp Whitfield and extend her remarks.) Danner Jackson-Lee Pascrell Towns Waters Wicker Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Davis (FL) (TX) Pastor Traficant Watkins Wilson Speaker, as we have heard my col- Davis (IL) Jefferson Payne Turner Watt (NC) Wise leagues rising to the Floor of the Davis (VA) Jenkins Pease Udall (CO) Watts (OK) Wolf DeFazio John Pelosi Udall (NM) Waxman Woolsey House, I, too, stand with a heavy heart DeGette Johnson (CT) Peterson (MN) Upton Weiner Wu to offer my sympathy and concern to Delahunt Johnson, E. B. Peterson (PA) Velazquez Weldon (FL) Wynn the families of the deceased, to the DeLauro Johnson, Sam Petri Vento Weldon (PA) Young (AK) children, to the students, to all who DeLay Jones (NC) Phelps Visclosky Weller Jones (OH) have been impacted by yesterday’s DeMint Pickering NAYS—3 Deutsch Kanjorski Pickett tragic incident in Littleton, Colorado. Diaz-Balart Kaptur Pitts Duncan Paul Sanford We are shocked by the sheer random- Dickey Kasich Pombo ness of it. Dicks Kelly Pomeroy NOT VOTING—16 Dingell Kennedy Porter Chenoweth Metcalf Radanovich We realize that our schools in Amer- Dixon Kildee Portman Deal Miller, Gary Saxton ica should be safe places for our chil- Doggett Kilpatrick Price (NC) Gekas Nethercutt Souder dren to learn, and we are disturbed Dooley Kind (WI) Pryce (OH) Hastings (FL) Nussle Young (FL) that these shootings were out of re- Doolittle King (NY) Quinn Klink Owens Doyle Kingston Rahall Lantos Oxley venge, and because someone made fun Dreier Kleczka Ramstad of these young people. Dunn Knollenberg Rangel b 1315 Let us now not point the finger of Edwards Kolbe Regula blame, but let the people of America Ehlers Kucinich Reyes Mr. DUNCAN changed his vote from Ehrlich Kuykendall Reynolds ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ like and organizations like the Na- Emerson LaFalce Riley So the bill was passed. tional Rifle Association, children’s ad- Engel LaHood Rivers The result of the vote was announced vocacy groups, churches, synagogues, English Lampson Rodriguez Eshoo Largent Roemer as above recorded. and parishes, let us look to solutions Etheridge Larson Rogan A motion to reconsider was laid on such as more health services for juve- Evans Latham Rogers the table. niles. Two-thirds of our children in Everett LaTourette Rohrabacher Stated for: America are denied real mental health Ewing Lazio Ros-Lehtinen Farr Leach Rothman Mr. GARY MILLER of California. Mr. Speak- counseling services when they need it. Fattah Lee Roukema er, on rollcall No. 95, I attempted to return Let us, on Friday, April 23, 1999, Chil- Filner Levin Roybal-Allard from lunch to vote; however, there was an ac- dren’s Memorial Day, commemorate Fletcher Lewis (CA) Royce the thousands of children and youth Foley Lewis (GA) Rush cident and I arrived one minute after the vote Forbes Lewis (KY) Ryan (WI) was taken. This was unavoidable and beyond who are killed by violence. Ford Linder Ryun (KS) my control. Had I been present, I would have As one who works with the Congres- Fossella Lipinski Sabo voted ``yea.'' sional Children’s Caucus and chairs it, Fowler LoBiondo Salmon I ask that all of the caucuses in this Frank (MA) Lofgren Sanchez Mr. GEKAS. Mr. Speaker, today, April 21, Franks (NJ) Lowey Sanders 1999, I was unavoidably detained during roll- House that are concerned about chil- Frelinghuysen Lucas (KY) Sandlin call No. 95, and thus my vote on the passage dren gather for one meeting to begin a Frost Lucas (OK) Sawyer of H.R. 1184 was not recorded. Had I been real agenda that deals with safety in Gallegly Luther Scarborough schools, getting mental health services Ganske Maloney (CT) Schaffer present, I would have voted ``yea'' in support Gejdenson Maloney (NY) Schakowsky of the legislation. to our children, counseling to the fami- Gephardt Manzullo Scott f lies, and stop the blame game. Gibbons Markey Sensenbrenner This is an American crisis. We must Gilchrest Martinez Serrano Gillmor Mascara Sessions GENERAL LEAVE heal our Nation. To the people of Gilman Matsui Shadegg Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speak- Littleton, Colorado, my prayers are Gonzalez McCarthy (MO) Shaw er, I ask unanimous consent that all with you. Goode McCarthy (NY) Shays Mr. Speaker, I stand today with a heavy Goodlatte McCollum Sherman Members may have 5 legislative days Goodling McCrery Sherwood within which to revise and extend their heart to talk about the tragic incidents of yes- Gordon McDermott Shimkus remarks on H.R. 1184, the bill just terday in Littleton, Colorado. First of all, I Goss McGovern Shows would like to extend my deepest sympathy to Graham McHugh Shuster passed. Granger McInnis Simpson The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. the families of the victims of yesterday's hor- Green (TX) McIntosh Sisisky LAHOOD). Is there objection to the re- rific shootings. Green (WI) McIntyre Skeen quest of the gentleman from Wis- Along with being shocked by the sheer ran- Greenwood McKeon Skelton domness and senselessness of the violence Gutierrez McKinney Slaughter consin? Gutknecht McNulty Smith (MI) There was no objection. yesterday, I am dismayed by the string of vio- Hall (OH) Meehan Smith (NJ) lent incidents that have occurred in our Hall (TX) Meek (FL) Smith (TX) f schools within the past 18 months. Hansen Meeks (NY) Smith (WA) The statistics on adolescent death trends Hastings (WA) Menendez Snyder REMOVAL OF NAME OF MEMBER Hayes Mica Spence AS COSPONSOR OF H.R. 850 are startling: homicide deaths for teenagers Hayworth Millender- Spratt between 15±19 accounted for 85 percent or Hefley McDonald Stabenow Mr. HOLDEN. Mr. Speaker, I ask 2,457 deaths by firearms and suicide rates Herger Miller (FL) Stark unanimous consent that my name be have increased by more than 300 percent in Hill (IN) Miller, George Stearns removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 850, the Hill (MT) Minge Stenholm the last three decades. In yesterday's shoot- Hilleary Mink Strickland Security and Freedom Through ings, more than 20 people were killed includ- Hilliard Moakley Stump Encryption Act. ing the two suspects who killed themselves. Hinchey Mollohan Stupak My name was erroneously added as a Hinojosa Moore Sununu Schools should be safe and secure places Hobson Moran (KS) Sweeney cosponsor to this legislation. for all students, teachers and staff members. Hoeffel Moran (VA) Talent The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there All children should be able to go to and from Hoekstra Morella Tancredo objection to the request of the gen- school without fear for their safety. Holden Murtha Tanner tleman from Pennsylvania? Holt Myrick Tauscher According to news reports, these young Hooley Nadler Tauzin There was no objection. suspects were outcasts in the school commu- Horn Napolitano Taylor (MS) f nity. During the shooting, the suspects report- Hostettler Neal Taylor (NC) edly said that they were ``out for revenge'' for Houghton Ney Terry VIOLENCE AMONG OUR YOUTH, Hoyer Northup Thomas having been made fun of last year. This is Hulshof Norwood Thompson (CA) AND THE INCIDENT IN LITTLE- truly a cry for help that was not heard in time. Hunter Oberstar Thompson (MS) TON, COLORADO This incident underscores the urgent need Hutchinson Obey Thornberry Hyde Olver Thune (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked for mental health services to address the Inslee Ortiz Thurman and was given permission to address needs of young people like the suspects from H2226 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 yesterday. Without concerted efforts to ad- ing Act, a measure that will ensure combined financial activities. There- dress the mental health disorders that affect that HCFA reports the correct amount fore, Airbus remains a financial mys- our children, we may witness more terrifying Medicare reimburses hospitals for inpa- tery. violence in our schools. tient services. The Medicare Truth in Also, France still has not completed Friday, April 23, 1999 is Children's Memorial Billing Act, in addition to requiring the privatization of its aerospace firm, Day to commemorate the thousands of chil- HCFA to report the actual amount it Aerospatiale. Given France’s long his- dren and youth who are killed by violence reimburses hospitals for inpatient serv- tory of substantial support to each year. On that day, the governors of ices, will require that HCFA add a line Aerospatiale, it is hard to believe that every state have been asked to fly the Chil- to all Medicare summary statements the French government will give up dren's Memorial Flag. disclosing the amount equal to the dif- complete control of the company any As chair of the Children's Caucus, I would ference between the amount of total in- time soon. like to urge my Colleagues to remember Fri- patient charges incurred and the Perhaps most importantly, the Euro- day as a national day to honor children whose amount Medicare reimbursed the hos- pean Commission has the ability to lives have been cut short by violence. I also pital for those charges. save Airbus from bankruptcy if the ask that we pray for the families who have It is a simple fix to a problem that I need ever arises. Therefore, Airbus, due been devastated by the violence of Monday. believe should be resolved in the very to its government backing, is a com- f near future. pany that cannot fail. This gives Air- SPECIAL ORDERS The initial level of support that the bus a tremendous advantage because it Medicare Truth in Billing Act has re- has the luxury of making its business The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. ceived has been tremendous. The meas- decisions with very little risk com- LAHOOD). Under the Speaker’s an- ure has been endorsed by the American pared to Boeing, which must defend its nounced policy of January 6, 1999, and Hospital Association. In addition, nu- business decisions to questioning under a previous order of the House, merous State hospital associations, stockholders, not supportive govern- the following Members will be recog- staff and hospital administrators in my ment officials. nized for 5 minutes each. district and throughout the country Airbus contends that it has earned f have contacted my office to express its increased market share against MEDICARE TRUTH IN BILLING ACT their overwhelming support for the Boeing by simply building the type of OF 1999 bill. Furthermore, seniors in my dis- aircraft the airline industry wants to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a trict, during my most recent round of buy. It is important to note, however, previous order of the House, the gen- town meetings, were very supportive of that Airbus’ success was achieved with significant governmental assistance. tleman from Oklahoma (Mr. LUCAS) is the measure. recognized for 5 minutes. I hope that my colleagues in the Because Airbus does not publish finan- Mr. LUCAS of Oklahoma. Mr. Speak- House on both sides of the aisle will cial statements, it is difficult to know er, I rise today on behalf of hospitals join me in working with the House exactly how much government support and Medicare beneficiaries across this leadership, the Committee on Ways and it has received over the course of the country who have a vested interest in Means and its Subcommittee on years. However, it is known that the changing the way the Health Care Fi- Health, HCFA, and most importantly, largest amount of financial support nance Administration, HCFA, and its the hospitals and seniors to ensure was provided in the 1980s when Airbus financial intermediaries itemize the that the changes set forth in the Medi- launched major development programs explanation of Medicare benefits and care Truth in Billing Act will become for new aircraft such as the A–320, the Medicare summary notices, both of law. A–330 and the A–340. Therefore, Airbus which are statements each Medicare f was able to make new and different beneficiary receives from HCFA for types of aircraft which helped attract AIRBUS, THE EUROPEAN AIR- services rendered them that they are new customers only because of in- CRAFT MANUFACTURER, A COM- reimbursed by Medicare. creased, direct governmental aid. Unfortunately for hospitals and PANY THAT CANNOT FAIL Although most of the government aid Medicare beneficiaries, these state- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a was in the form of repayable loans, it ments all too often contain inaccurate previous order of the House, the gen- was still a subsidy because it would and misleading information; specifi- tleman from Illinois (Mr. LIPINSKI) is have cost Airbus much more to raise cally, information that overstates the recognized for 5 minutes. money on the private market. It would amount that Medicare reimburses hos- Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise be nearly impossible for a private com- pitals for inpatient services, and under- this afternoon to bring an important pany to obtain aircraft development states a hospital’s contribution to fi- trade issue to the attention of my col- funds at a government borrowing rate. nancing any shortfall in Medicare re- leagues. Within the past 2 years, It is true that Airbus must repay the imbursements for such services; infor- Boeing’s share of the aircraft market government aid with interest, but only mation that clouds the truth for Medi- has fallen from 70 percent to 50 per- as aircraft are sold. Therefore, there is care beneficiaries instead of clarifying cent. Boeing is losing market shares to no risk for Airbus when it develops new the truth. Airbus, the European aircraft manufac- products, because if customers do not At a time when hospitals’ margins turer. buy their new product, Airbus does not are shrinking due to changes in Medi- Airbus was created in the early 1970s have to repay the loans. care reimbursement rates, at a time for the sole purpose of maintaining and Again, Airbus, due to its government when hospitals have been plagued by fostering a European role in the pro- backing, is a company that cannot fail. the inappropriate use of the False duction of large commercial jet air- It is no wonder that Boeing continues Claims Act and at a time when the craft. It is a combination of the major to lose market shares to Airbus. Airbus President in his fiscal year 2000 budget aerospace companies of France, Ger- enjoys a tremendous competitive ad- has proposed further cuts in Medicare, many, the United Kingdom and Spain. vantage because of the substantial and it is about time that hospitals be given Airbus, which is 60 percent owned by direct government aid it receives from the credit they deserve for financing private companies, is not the property four European nations. part of the inpatient expenses as a re- of the four European nations. However, Airbus is no longer a young company sult of Medicare’s underpayment. it is still hard to view Airbus as a pri- trying to enter the aircraft market. It Moreover, at a time when seniors are vate business just like any other busi- is number two in the market and gain- barraged by vague billing information, ness. ing on Boeing each and every day, yet it is about time that they be given the First of all, Airbus does not operate Airbus still relies on substantial gov- full truth regarding the amount Medi- as a public corporation but, rather, it ernment support. This is not right. We care reimburses hospitals for services has special legal status under French should not sit idly by as Boeing con- provided them. law. This special status allows member tinues to lose out simply because it I am happy to announce that I have companies to pool resources without does not enjoy the same protectionist introduced the Truth in Medicare Bill- having to disclose specifics about their treatment as Airbus. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2227 The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a nance. The desperate cries of the Arme- If there is one lesson of the 20th cen- previous order of the House, the gen- nian people as their villages were pil- tury, it is that these heinous acts tleman from Arizona (Mr. SHADEGG) is laged and burned, as their family mem- against humanity will continue if we recognized for 5 minutes. bers and community leaders were mur- allow ourselves to forget history. We (Mr. SHADEGG addressed the House. dered before the eyes of their children, must all commit ourselves to never for- His remarks will appear hereafter in as children were separated from their get. That is why I am proud to join my the Extensions of Remarks.) parents, as they were driven from their colleagues, the gentleman from Cali- f homes and forcefully marched into war fornia (Mr. RADANOVICH) and the gen- camps and exiled, as the land worked tleman from Michigan (Mr. BONIOR), on The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a by Armenian hands for generations was their bill to officially observe the Ar- previous order of the House, the gentle- taken by force, the cries of these Arme- menian Genocide, to have the United woman from the District of Columbia nians are echoed in today’s headlines States officially recognize this period (Ms. NORTON) is recognized for 5 min- and broadcast from the Balkans. of history as the Armenian Genocide, utes. In 1915, at the start of the systematic and to have the United States press the (Ms. NORTON addressed the House. and premeditated genocide of the Ar- Turkish government to acknowledge Her remarks will appear hereafter in menian people by the young Turk gov- the Armenian Genocide. the Extensions of Remarks.) ernment of the Ottoman Empire, there Yet, in the shadow of Kosovo, our Na- f were no television broadcasts from the tion and other nations still resist ac- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a field to let the world see what was hap- knowledging the Armenian Genocide. previous order of the House, the gen- pening. There was no NATO to punish Last May, the French National Assem- tleman from Michigan (Mr. STUPAK) is the Turks for their actions against a bly passed a bill to publicly recognize recognized for 5 minutes. defenseless civilian population, and the Armenian Genocide of 1915. This (Mr. STUPAK addressed the House. there was no resolve on the part of the spring the French Senate and the gov- His remarks will appear hereafter in international community to return Ar- ernment of France, under pressure the Extensions of Remarks.) menians to their homeland. from Turkey, are in a turmoil over In the end, 1.5 million people perished whether to approve this legislation. In f at the hands of the Turks between 1915 the United States, we find the govern- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a and 1923, through direct killings, star- ment of Turkey attempting to influ- previous order of the House, the gen- vation, torture and forced death ence our universities, to pretend these tleman from Missouri (Mr. HULSHOF) is marches. Another million fled into per- acts of genocide against the Armenian recognized for 5 minutes. manent exile from their ancestral people did not happen, and we find U.S. (Mr. HULSHOF addressed the House. homes. An ancient civilization was ex- strategic interests in arms sales to His remarks will appear hereafter in punged from its homeland of 2,500 Turkey are more influential in setting the Extensions of Remarks.) years. our foreign policy priorities than ac- f Mr. Speaker, scarcely 250 days away knowledging the truth about acts that The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a from the start of the 21st century, we took place 84 years ago. previous order of the House, the gen- remain a world of generations haunted That is because in 84 years, the truth tleman from Illinois (Mr. RUSH) is rec- by the ghosts of the victims of geno- of the Armenian genocide is still pow- ognized for 5 minutes. cide, from the Armenians at the begin- erful and still resonates in current ning of the century to the ethnic events, and that is why it must be offi- (Mr. RUSH addressed the House. His cleansing of Kosovar Albanians. cially acknowledged, why it must be remarks will appear hereafter in the b 1330 taught in our schools, remembered in Extensions of Remarks.) our houses of worship and honored in f In Worcester, Massachusetts, which our communities. Now, more than ever, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a it is my honor to represent, Mayor we must recognize, acknowledge, com- previous order of the House, the gen- Raymond Mariano has designated April memorate, mourn and remember the tleman from South Carolina (Mr. 24th as Armenian Martyrs Day, for Armenian Genocide. To do less is to DEMINT) is recognized for 5 minutes. that is really what we are talking doom future generations to repeat and about: A century of martyrs. It is im- (Mr. DEMINT addressed the House. relive these horrors. His remarks will appear hereafter in portant to remind the current genera- Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the the Extensions of Remarks.) tion and future generation that the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. PORTER) seeds of the Holocaust and the seeds of f and the gentleman from New Jersey ethnic cleansing were planted by the (Mr. PALLONE) in particular for their The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Turks in their genocide against the Ar- leadership on this issue, and I hope previous order of the House, the gen- menian people at the beginning of the that this government will do the right tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. MEE- 21st century. When Raphael Lemkin thing. HAN) is recognized for 5 minutes. coined the word ‘‘genocide’’ in 1944, he f (Mr. MEEHAN addressed the House. cited the 1915 annihilation of the Arme- His remarks will appear hereafter in nians as an example of genocide. NATIONAL DISCUSSION CALLED the Extensions of Remarks.) In Worcester, we are blessed with a FOR CONCERNING CAUSES AND f number of survivors whose lives not SOLUTIONS FOR VIOLENCE only teach us the lessons of history, AMONG NATION’S YOUTH ARMENIAN GENOCIDE but also about the resiliency and dig- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a nity of the human spirit. I would like previous order of the House, the gen- previous order of the House, the gen- to name but a few of them today: tleman from Tennessee (Mr. DUNCAN) is tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Marion Der Kazarian, Nevart recognized for 5 minutes. MCGOVERN) is recognized for 5 minutes. Kinosian, Sara Sahakian, Almas Mr. DUNCAN. Mr. Speaker, everyone Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, every Boghosian, Sarah Bulbulian, Aghavni was horrified by these terrible shoot- year it is a solemn moment when we Garabedian, Mary Kalashian, John ings in Littleton, Colorado yesterday. gather on the floor of the U.S. House of Kasparian, Ovsanna Nordigian, George This is one of the worst tragedies that Representatives to remember and com- Ogden, Raffi Samkiranian, Hrant has ever occurred in this Nation. There memorate the victims and the sur- Yaghmourian and Nouemzar Sarkisian. is nothing worse that can happen to vivors of the Armenian genocide, but Along with all of the other members parents than to outlive one of their this year the unspeakable crimes of the Armenian-American community children, and certainly, the sympathies against humanity and genocidal acts in Worcester in the Third Congres- of all of us go out to the families who perpetrated by the Turkish Ottoman sional District of Massachusetts, they lost loved ones in Colorado yesterday. Empire against the Armenian people enrich the life of our communities and Many years ago I taught American carry an even more profound reso- society. government and journalism at T.C. H2228 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 Williams High School here in Alexan- Then, after I came to Congress, I re- Little did anyone know that April 24, dria, Virginia. I go to 75 or 80 schools member reading in one of the Wash- 1915, would signify the beginning of a each year and have 15 or 20 school ington papers a few years ago that two Turkish campaign to eliminate the Ar- groups visit me here in Washington, as leading criminologists have studied menian people, eliminate them from well as speaking to many, many youth 11,000 felony cases from across the the face of the Earth. Over the fol- groups through the year. I am around country and they found that the big- lowing 8 years, 1.5 million Armenians thousands of teenagers each year. So gest single factor in serious crime, bar perished and more than 500,000 were ex- this tragedy has really been on my none, nothing else was even close, was iled from their homes. Armenian civili- mind last night and today. father-absent households. zation, one of the oldest civilizations, I remember several months ago, after So I rise today to make a plea for fa- virtually ceased to exist. Of course, one of these other school shootings, I thers to stay with their children. This that was the Turkish plan. Unfortu- was driving to the airport here in is so very important, and there are so nately the Armenian Genocide is not as Washington to go home to Tennessee. many young people growing up in this well-known in history as it deserves to The national head of the YMCA was on country today without the love or the be. the CBS national radio news. He said discipline or the encouragement or the Little attention was paid to this something that I have never forgotten. support or the combination of all of tragic episode in history by the vic- He said that our children are being ne- those things that they really need. If torious allied powers at the end of glected today in this country as never the families keep breaking up at such a World War I, or by historians. So much before in our history. tremendous rate in this country, we of it had faded into our painful memo- I am a father too. In our quest to get are going to see problems continue to ries, and many people are beginning to ahead, almost all of us in our quest to grow and grow and horrible events such forget what occurred in those terrible get ahead and to make more money as we saw in Littleton yesterday. times. Even worse, as time passes by and really to feel better about our- Yet, there is a government role, be- and people are distracted and distanced selves, we are not spending nearly cause in 1950 the government at all lev- from the atrocities, naysayers and re- enough time with our children. els, the Federal Government took visionists may prevail. No one can ever fully explain these about 4 percent of the income of the In fact, some might say it is a waste shootings that occurred yesterday. I average family, the State and local of time to continue fighting to get rec- am sure there are many reasons for governments took another 4 percent, ognition for this, the first genocide of these horrible events. There is far too and many mothers had the privilege of the 20th century. Mr. Speaker, I much violence on television and in the staying home with their children. And strongly disagree. This fight is not a movies. There is too much warped, now, government at all levels takes waste of time. I believe it is a battle weird stuff on the Internet. I know we about 40 percent of the income of the worth fighting, one where we have al- are supposed to worship the computer average family and regulatory costs ready made great strides. We are mak- today, but much of what is on the take another 10 percent, and so many, ing great leaps forward in educating Internet is harmful, especially to chil- as FRED THOMPSON said one time, Sen- people as to what really occurred to dren, and parents should realize that. ator FRED THOMPSON said, one spouse the Armenians at the hands of the But probably the thing that concerns works to support the family while the Ottoman Turks, and also what is really me the most is the trend toward mega other spouse works to support the gov- happening with the widespread net- schools, bigger and bigger schools. I ernment. Many mothers who would work of denials since the genocide. read not long ago that the largest high like to stay home with their children Still, because of the failure of some school in New York City had 3,500 stu- do not have that choice or that option. dents, and then they broke it up or di- nations to acknowledge this horrible So if we could decrease the cost and tragedy, the Turkish crimes have re- vided it up into 5 different high schools size of our government, it would help and most of the drug and discipline mained unpunished. An international more families stay together because court has yet to condemn the holo- problems became much, much better. most families break up in arguments When students have to go to huge high caust of an entire Nation. This impu- over finances. nity has permitted the Turks to repeat schools such as the one in Littleton When we put all of this together, it is yesterday, most young people are not similar crimes against the Greek in- hard to explain, but we need to have a habitants of Asia Minor, the Syrian or- able to make a sports team or be a national discussion, Mr. Speaker, cheerleader or be president of a group. thodox people and, recently, the people about the causes of events such as what living in Cyprus. Most students are just numbers and happened in Littleton yesterday, and Fortunately, despite this unspeak- feel anonymous. Most can handle this we need to do everything we possibly able tragedy committed 84 years ago, okay, but some unfortunately resort to can to see that nothing like that ever Armenians today remain a proud, dig- weird, warped or at times even crimi- happens again in this country. nified and compassionate people. De- nal behavior to get noticed or a des- f perate cry for attention. Young people spite the unmerciful efforts of the who feel good about themselves would IN COMMEMORATION OF THE 84TH Turks, Armenian civilization lives on never do anything even remotely close ANNIVERSARY OF THE ARME- and thrives today. to the horrible events that occurred in NIAN GENOCIDE It lives on in the Independent Repub- Littleton yesterday. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a lic of Armenia, and it lives on in com- I think another thing that has caused previous order of the House, the gentle- munities throughout America, particu- many serious problems is the breakup woman from California (Ms. WOOLSEY) larly in my home State of California. of the family. Before coming to Con- is recognized for 5 minutes. In fact, every proud Armenian is the gress, I spent 71⁄2 years as a criminal Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise product of generations of perseverance, court judge in Tennessee, trying felony today, as I have for the past 6 years, to courage and hope, hope always for a criminal cases. I have always remem- acknowledge the atrocities suffered by better tomorrow. bered that the first day I was judge the Armenian people at the hands of So today, we honor the innocent Ar- they told me that 98 percent of the de- the Ottoman Turks over 84 years ago. menians who tragically lost their lives. fendants in felony cases came from This Saturday, April 24, will mark the Today we acknowledge that the Otto- broken homes. I know that many, 84th anniversary of the Armenian man Turks committed genocide many wonderful people, many success- Genocide, the very first genocide of the against the Armenian people. ful people have come from broken 20th century. On that date, more than Mr. Speaker, I look forward to the homes. But I read thousands of reports 200 Armenian religious, political and day when the world says in one united over those years which said, the de- intellectual leaders were massacred in voice, we remember Armenian geno- fendant’s father left home when defend- Turkey. It is important that we take cide, and it will never be repeated. ant was two and never returned; de- this time to remember one of the Until that day comes, I will continue fendant’s father left home to get pack greatest tragedies that humankind has to remind the House of Representatives of cigarettes and never came back. ever witnessed. that it is our responsibility to learn April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2229 from the past, and it is our responsi- Neither are the 2 million Cambodians There was no objection. bility to prevent any such atrocity in murdered by Pol Pot. The 1.5 million f the future. Armenians killed by the Turkish gov- CALLING FOR SIGNIFICANT RE- f ernment and others, and the deep scars left upon those who survived, deserve FORMS IN AMERICA’S SANC- PROTECTING THE MEMORY OF our vigil, because too many want us to TIONS POLICIES THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE forget. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Even in our country, on the situation previous order of the House, the gen- previous order of the House, the gen- in civil rights, where black citizens tleman from California (Mr. DOOLEY) is tleman from California (Mr. HORN) is were beaten in the South and other recognized for 5 minutes. recognized for 5 minutes. parts of the United States, and we Mr. DOOLEY of California. Mr. Mr. HORN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the passed laws to overcome that, even this Speaker, I rise today to be an advocate gentleman from California (Mr. RADAN- generation of young high school people for the United States making signifi- OVICH) and the gentleman from Michi- does not know what this Nation went cant reforms in our sanctions policy. It gan (Mr. BONIOR) for their work to in- through and does not know what other is becoming increasingly apparent that troduce the resolution this week which nations have gone through. an increasing share of our gross domes- will ensure that the United States of Documenting the horrors of the geno- tic product and indeed the growth of America continues to play an active cide cannot stop those who would deny our economy is becoming related to role in protecting the memory of the it, any more than the extensive docu- trade. Armenian Genocide that began 85 years mentation of the Holocaust has It is obvious, I think, too, to most ago. stopped individuals from denying that Americans when we look at the fact As we so unfortunately see in Kosovo abominable period. However, we cannot that only 4 percent of the world’s popu- today, documenting the horrors of begin the fight against ignorance if we lation live inside our borders, with 96 genocide, or ethnic cleansing as they do not preserve the records of those percent living outside our borders, that call it, as it is called and it is supposed crimes as they were committed. this country has to adopt policies to to be an euphemism I am sure for the The Armenian genocide marked the ensure that we will have the greatest murderers, it is vital to get these beginning of a barbaric practice in the access to these markets, because that records if we are ever to stop such ac- 20th century, and is it not ironic that is where the interests of increased job tions from occurring again on this we are ending the 20th century and opportunities that are so important to Earth. those practices still exist in the the working men and women of this The resolution that is being intro- Balkans, as vis-a-vis Serbia and its country as well as the market opportu- duced calls upon the President of the neighbors? By remembering, if we can nities for the businesses lie. United States to collect and house all help prevent future actions and punish I have beside me here a chart which relevant U.S. records relating to the the guilty in the future, this will be a really demonstrates one of the reasons Armenian Genocide and provide them noble cause. and makes one of the most compelling to Congress, the U.S. Holocaust Memo- I recall the Armenians in my own arguments for sanctions reform. We rial Museum, and the Armenian Geno- county when I grew up in San Benito currently impose some form of sanc- cide Museum in Yerevan, Armenia. County and in Long Beach, and some of tions on over 75 countries. The most It is necessary to do this because the men and women who were maybe distressing aspect of this is the fact there are many who live in denial. small children, and their parents got that it is costing our economy up to $15 Sadly, among those who live in denial them through the Turkish lines and to $20 billion a year in lost imports, are those in the government of Turkey, they escaped death. As with other im- and that means we have $200,000 fewer 85 years later, that somehow continue migrants, including my father, the Ar- jobs, high-paying jobs in this country to deny what we know from repeated menians, the Jews, the Cambodians, because of the sanctions we have im- testimony of thousands of immigrants, and we have 50,000 in Long Beach, Cali- posed. and we knew at the time from report- fornia, from Cambodia, they know I have introduced a piece of legisla- ers and others. what freedom means. They know what tion with my colleague, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Crane). It is a bipar- b 1345 the United States means. I will never forget a dinner when tisan piece of legislation that is asking The Turkish government continues Governor George Deukmejian, a child us to adopt a new policy to ensure that to deny what occurred at the beginning of Armenian parents who had escaped, we will use sanctions only as a last re- of this century, just as there are some had many of his Armenian friends and sort. misguided people who still deny the supporters at that dinner. Tears It does not say that Congress and Jewish Holocaust, where 6 million peo- streamed down all of our eyes. These this country cannot impose unilateral ple were murdered by the Nazi Ger- people were in their seventies and their economic sanctions, but it does require mans, and probably some are still de- eighties, and they knew those horrors. that before we do so we have to do an nying the murderous efforts of Pol Pot They knew the haven that America analysis and make sure that when we in Cambodia, where he and his gang of was, a haven of freedom. Some have impose a sanction, that it will indeed ideologues murdered 2 million Cam- called it the city on the Hill. What it achieve the objective of mitigation of bodians. means is this is a place where we would the behavior of a country which we are The innocent civilians in the not tolerate that. targeting. Balkans, the innocent civilians in But we thought other countries It also goes further, to say to Mem- South Asia, the innocent civilians in would not tolerate that, and yet that is bers of Congress that we need to have a the Middle East and in Germany, all of exactly what happened. They killed study to analyze what will be the cost those are why we should talk about people with whom they disagreed, to our economy, what will be the cost their problems and their genocide on whether it be for religion, whether it in terms of jobs lost, what will be the the appropriate occasions. be the color of their skin. This must cost to our economy in terms of mar- No one can take for granted the abil- not happen, and the world should do kets lost to U.S. companies by the im- ity of some people to clearly look at something about it. position of that sanction? the facts and still deny that the facts f I am confident that once Members of do not exist. Each year we join the Congress have that information in world commemoration of the Armenian REMOVAL OF NAME OF MEMBER front of them, they are going to realize genocide because it must not be forgot- AS COSPONSOR OF H.R. 987 that the policy and the utilization of ten. Time, distance, current events fre- Mr. MARTINEZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask unilateral economic sanctions is a pol- quently cloud the past and reduce hor- unanimous consent to have my name icy that harms the interests of the rible events to little more than a foot- removed as cosponsor of H.R. 987. working men and women, as well as the note in history. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there businesses in this country. The Armenian genocide is not a foot- objection to the request of the gen- A group of us who work closely with note. Neither is the Jewish Holocaust. tleman from California? the New Democrat Coalition have made H2230 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 this one of our highest priorities, and Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I GUN SAFETY we are also expanding our effort to deal rise this afternoon in remembrance of a with some issues which are important dark period in American history, or ac- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a to the technology sector. tually in history, period. That point is previous order of the House, the gen- It is clear when we look at the fact the Armenian genocide. tleman from Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER) is recognized for 5 minutes. that the United States has almost re- When most people hear the word mained an island of prosperity and eco- ‘‘genocide’’ they immediately think of Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, my nomic growth in the midst of a world Hitler. They think of the persecution concern as a Member of Congress is which is suffering from financial crisis, of the Jews during World War II. Most that the Federal Government does ev- that in large part that is due because individuals are unaware that the first erything it can to be a full partner in of the fact that the United States has genocide of the 21st century occurred promoting the livability of our commu- the relative advantage internationally during World War I and was per- nities, because at the end of the day, in the development of new technology. petrated by the Ottoman Empire what our families care about is that Yet, we have some sanctions and against the Armenian people. their children are safe when they go some export restrictions in place which Concerned that the Armenians would out the door to go to school in the jeopardize our opportunity to continue move to establish their own govern- morning, that the families are eco- to have this advantage internationally. ment, the Ottoman Empire embarked nomically secure and healthy. Of those It is time for us to relax some of our on a reign of terror that resulted in the factors, the most important, I am sure, restrictions on the export of tech- massacre of over 1.5 million Arme- is the safety of those families. nology, and particularly restrictions nians. This atrocious crime began on We have had within the last 24 hours on encryption technology. April 15, 1915, when the Ottoman Em- another tragic reminder that handgun Unfortunately, we have a policy that pire arrested, exiled, and eventually and firearm violence continues to be restricts the sale of some of our com- killed hundreds of Armenian religious, either the first or second leading cause puters embedded with an encryption political, and intellectual leaders. of death and injury to America’s chil- technology that is using a technology Once they had eliminated the Arme- dren. It does not have to be this way. A that is over 10 years old. The fact that nian people’s leadership, they turned few weeks ago I was honored to host a we have a policy in place now that will their attention to the Armenians serv- forum on this topic with several distin- preclude U.S. companies from mar- ing in the Ottoman army. These sol- guished scholars who discussed ideas keting some of their computers and diers were disarmed and placed in labor with Members of Congress of things we other technology internationally be- camps, where they were either starved can do to reduce firearm violence with cause of our restrictions on encryption, or executed. our children. how ludicrous this is witnessed by the The Armenian people, lacking polit- For instance, we have the oppor- fact that anyone in the world today ical leadership and deprived of young, tunity to make firearms safer. All we can go to the Internet and download able-bodied men who could fight need here in Congress is the will to encryption that is far more powerful against the Ottoman onslaught, were change Federal policy so that gun man- than that we are imposing upon or re- then deported from every region of ufacturers meet consumer safety stricting our companies from selling Turkish Armenia. The images of standards for their products. that product overseas. That just does human suffering from the Armenian not make sense any longer. genocide are graphic, and are as haunt- b 1400 We also have a policy in place in this ing as the pictures of the Holocaust. country where we restrict the speed of Why, then, it must be asked, are so It is a shame and a national disgrace computers and microprocessors that we many people unaware of the Armenian that toy guns currently have higher can export outside of our borders. That genocide? I believe the answer is found consumer product safety standards might have made sense 10 years ago or in the international community’s re- than real guns. It is outrageous in even 5 years ago, when we were worried sponse to this disturbing event. America that we cannot adopt the sim- about jeopardizing the national secu- ple suggestion to require an indicator rity of this country by giving powerful At the end of World War I, those re- sponsible for ordering and imple- that will tell somebody whether or not computers and putting them in the a gun is loaded or require, for a few hands of some of the people who menting the Armenian genocide were never brought to justice, and the world cents or maybe a couple of dollars, a threaten world peace. device that will not let a gun fire if the But unfortunately, we have main- casually forgot about the pain and suf- fering of the Armenian people. clip has been removed, or requiring a tained an old policy that has not kept trigger lock on a gun. pace with the advancements in tech- This proved to be a grave mistake. nology. Back 20 years ago when we had Just a few years later in a speech on It is sad that, given the tragic nature our Cray supercomputers, that were the eve of World War II, Hitler justified of gun injuries and violence, that there certainly so powerful and so important his brutal tactics with the infamous is not a single source of information in that we needed to have responsible re- statement, ‘‘Who today remembers the the entire United States Government strictions on them, today we have extermination of the Armenians?’’ Six to help us understand the pattern, to reached the point where there is going years later, 6 million Jews had been isolate the patterns and types of vio- to be a computer sold today, or in this exterminated by the Nazis. Never had, lence and be able to do something next 6 months, with a chip developed as the phrase goes, ‘‘Those who forget about it. It is not the case in other by Intel which will have the capacity the past will be destined to repeat it,’’ parts of American society. to perform the number of operations been more applicable. There are regulations that will in per second, and that chip alone will ex- If the international community had fact make a difference to disrupt this ceed the restrictions we have in place. spoken out against this merciless pattern of violence. We have dem- It is time for us to make some re- slaughtering of the Armenian people onstrated that by taking away the sponsible reforms in encryption policy, instead of ignoring it, the horrors of right to own guns from people who our restrictions on computer tech- the Holocaust might never have taken have demonstrated that they are not nology, and the overall reform of our place. responsible gun owners; that we can sanctions policy. As we commemorate the 84th anni- make a difference in how those guns f versary of the Armenian genocide, I be- are used. We have shown that there are lieve it is time to give this event its consistent areas of support to expand IN REMEMBRANCE OF THE rightful place in history. So let us pay that pattern of denial to people who ARMENIAN GENOCIDE homage to those who fell victim to have consistently shown patterns of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a their Ottoman oppressors, and tell the violent and reckless behavior. The vast previous order of the House, the gen- story of the forgotten genocide, for the majority of the American public sup- tleman from Michigan (Mr. KNOLLEN- sake of the Armenian heritage. It is a ports it. The majority of gun owners BERG) is recognized for 5 minutes. story that must be heard. support it. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2231 It is time for us to take that simple continued dedication to these vitally We must call this what it was, geno- step to reduce unnecessary gun vio- important issues. cide, and we must never forget that it lence. It is time for the Federal Gov- I would also like to recognize the happened. Congress has consistently ernment to step forward and stop pur- gentleman from California (Mr. RADAN- demanded recognition of the historic chasing firearms for our use that do OVICH) and the gentleman from Michi- fact of the Armenian genocide. not have smart gun technology that gan (Mr. BONIOR) for introducing a res- The modern German government, al- ensures that that gun that we give to a olution calling for a collection of all though not itself responsible for the law enforcement officer cannot be used U.S. records relating to the Armenian horrors of the Holocaust, has taken re- against him or her, to personalize the genocide. sponsibility for and apologized for it. weapon. Similarly, we would not think Mr. Speaker, I wish, as every Member Yet, Mr. Speaker, the Turkish govern- of having an automobile that did not does, that this special order did not ment continues to deny that the Arme- have a key that personalized its use, so have to take place. We would like to nian genocide even happened. This, un- we should do the same with firearms. believe that such a tragedy could never fortunately, is consistent with the There are other important areas that have happened in the modern world be- Turkish government’s position that it, we have tried to bring before people in cause it is painful to accept that man today, has no problem concerning the this Chamber. Law enforcement wants is capable of committing and toler- rights of its Kurdish population. us to help them tackle the all-too-fre- ating such atrocities. Armenia and Armenians will remain quent problems of firearm violence. Unfortunately, we have seen over and vigilant to ensure that this tragic his- Fifteen States have child access pro- over the tragic results of hatred and ig- tory is not repeated. The United States tection laws which make it harder for norance: the Holocaust, the Rwandan should do all that it can in this regard children to gain access to guns. genocide, and today the ethnic cleans- as well, including a clear message We have had the tragic example of ing in the former Yugoslavia. Far too about the historic fact of the Armenian Jonesboro, Arkansas where the chil- often the so-called civilized nations of genocide. We do Turkey no favors by dren’s first stop was at a home that the world have turned a blind eye. enabling her self-delusion, and we used safe storage of the weapons. I cannot stand here at this moment make ourselves hypocrites when we fail There, even using a blowtorch, they and talk about genocide without men- to sound the alarm on what is hap- were unable to get access to weapons. tioning a genocide which is happening pening in Turkey today. Armenia, Mr. Speaker, has made They went to the next home, and there right now before our eyes. Today the amazing progress in rebuilding a soci- the weapons were open and accessible. United States is not sitting by and simply watching this happen, unlike ety and a nation, a triumph of the The rest is tragic history. human spirit in the face of dramatic The horror that we witnessed yester- its reaction to the Armenian genocide obstacles. Armenia is committed to de- day in Colorado is part of a larger pat- 84 years ago. The United States is em- barking on a new phase of foreign pol- mocracy, market economics and the tern. How many more examples are we rule of law. We must continue to take going to have to witness before we icy. This is perhaps, Mr. Speaker, the a strong stand in Congress in support come to our senses on the floor of this of these principles and respect for Chamber and take simple steps? first time in all of human history that the greatest power in the world is not human rights, and I am proud to stand There is no one single solution to with Armenia in so doing. solve the epidemic of gun violence, but using its power with the aim of advanc- ing itself and its own interests, but Mr. MCKEON. Mr. Speaker, I join many of we have the responsibility to under- my colleagues today in remembering and ac- with the intent of protecting and de- take these simple, common sense steps. knowledging the atrocities endured by the fending a group of oppressed people. I pray the Republican leadership will people of Armenia earlier this century. allow us to vote on some of them in the The American people can be proud that Eighty-four years ago, on the night of April course of this session. we are finally using every effort to stop 24, 1915, the Turkish government placed hun- f the ethnic cleansing of innocent peo- dreds of the most prominent public figures in ple. These efforts were not made in the GENERAL LEAVE the Armenian community under arrest. They past, resulting in the genocides of the were apprehended and sent to prison. In the Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I ask Holocaust Rwanda, and Armenia. They end, most of these cultural leaders and schol- unanimous consent that all Members are, thank God, being made today. ars were executed. The most disturbing part is may have 5 legislative days within Today, I come to the House floor to that these deaths were only the beginning as which to revise and extend their re- commemorate a very specific genocide an attempted extinction of an entire civilization marks on the subject of my special which began on April 24, 1915. On that was to shortly follow. For this reason, April 24 order. date, over 200 Armenian religious, po- is commemorated as the date of the beginning The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. litical, and intellectual leaders were of the Armenian Genocide. SIMPSON). Is there objection to the re- arrested in Istanbul and killed, mark- The atrocities committed against the Arme- quest of the gentleman from Illinois? ing the beginning of an 8-year cam- nian people during this time can be cat- There was no objection. paign which resulted in the destruction egorized as a genocide because such an or- f of the ethnic Armenian community ganized killing of a people would require the which had previously lived in Anatolia central planning and resources only a govern- 84TH COMMEMORATION OF and Western Armenia. Between 1915 ARMENIAN GENOCIDE ment is capable of implementing. The Arme- and 1923, approximately 1.5 million Ar- nian Genocide was centrally planned and ad- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a menians were killed and more than ministered by the Ottoman Empire against the previous order of the House, the gen- 500,000 were exiled. entire Armenian population under its rule. It tleman from Illinois (Mr. PORTER) is The U.S. Government was aware of was carried out during World War I between recognized for 5 minutes. what was happening during these trag- the years 1915 and 1918. The Armenian peo- Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, today I ic years. U.S. Ambassador to the Otto- ple were subjected to deportation, torture, come to the floor to again commemo- man Empire, Henry Morgenthau, Sr. massacre, and starvation. Hundreds of thou- rate the anniversary of one of the dark- sent back graphic descriptions of death sands of Armenians were forcibly moved from est stains on the history of modern civ- marches and mass killings, as did other Armenia and sent to the desert to die of thirst ilization, the genocide of the Armenian Western diplomats. Although the U.S. and starvation. Others were methodically mas- people by the Ottoman Turkish Em- and others voiced concerns about the sacred throughout the region. pire. atrocities and sent humanitarian as- Most estimates illustrate that one and a half I greatly appreciate the strong sup- sistance, little was actually done to million Armenians perished between 1915 and port of so many of our colleagues in stop the massacres. 1923. There were an estimated two million Ar- this effort, especially the gentleman The Armenian genocide was the first menians living in the Ottoman Empire prior to from New Jersey (Mr. PALLONE), my genocide of the modern age and has World War I, and more than one million Arme- fellow cochairman of the Armenian been recognized as a precursor of subse- nians were deported in 1915. Hundreds of Issues Caucus. I commend him for ar- quent attempts to destroy a race thousands more were either killed or died of ranging this special order and for his through an official systematic effort. hunger or exhaustion. H2232 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 Even after the systematic and deliberate ac- as targets. The fate that has befallen them all to the 12th District. These survivors suffered tions of the Ottoman empire and the millions demonstrates the universality of the lesson of terrible atrocities and upheaval. They have of Armenian lives that were taken, there still their suffering. If the international community never forgotten their ordeal, and through them remains a denial on the part of the Turkish ignores the massacre of minorities, its per- we hear their history. These survivors are an government that this genocide actually oc- petrators will be emboldened. Though nothing important link to a past that we cannot ignore. curred. This is a mistake. This is wrong. can compensate the Armenians for the losses Many in the Armenian community in my dis- Our world today is filled with nations fighting of the genocide, the sacrifice they made ear- trict attend St. Gregory's Armenian Apostolic against one another. The lives of thousands of lier this century helped change the world's Church in Granite City, Illinois. St. Gregory's men, women, and children are taken every consciousness. I pray that we have learned has a strong tradition of preserving Armenian day from these conflicts. If we hope to ever from the hard lesson taught us by the Arme- heritage and remembering the atrocities of the stop these merciless killings and ensure that nians and their sufferings. Days of commemo- Genocide of 1915±1923. lives can be saved, it is imperative that we ac- ration are meant to honor those who have I would like to mention that I am a cospon- knowledge the perilous acts of our past. We gone before us, and hopefully the lessons sor of Rep. RADANOVICH and BONIOR's resolu- can learn from our history and make sure that learned will provide some solace to the griev- tion which affirms the U.S. record on the Ar- it never repeats itself. ing on this sacred day. menian Genocide. This important resolution Today, I join my colleagues in condemning Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to calls on the President to collect and house all the atrocities committed against the Arme- commemorate the 84th anniversary of the Ar- relevant U.S. records on the Armenian Geno- nians and continue to emphasize our need to menian Genocide that took place in Turkey cide and provide them to the House Inter- prevent similar tragedies from developing. We between 1915 and 1923. This antecedent for national Relations Committee, the United must recognize and openly acknowledge the all subsequent 20th-century genocides began States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the atrocities committed against humanity before on April 24, 1915, when the rulers of the Otto- Armenian Genocide Museum in Yerevan, Ar- we are able to prevent them from happening man Empire began the systematic and ruth- menia. The legacy of the genocide must be again in the future. less extermination of the Armenian minority in remembered. I am proud to have been able to participate Turkey. By the end of the Terror, more than Each year, my colleagues and I take to this in this special tribute to the Armenian commu- 1.5 million Armenian men, women, and chil- floor to pay tribute to the victims of a terrible nity. dren had been massacred and more than half crime against humanity. This is just one way Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, a million others had been expelled from the in which the Congress can continue to pay once again I rise, along with my colleagues, in homeland that their forbearers had inhabited recognition to those who were killed during solemn commemoration of the events of April for three millennia. this terrible episode in Armenia's history. It is 24th, 1915. On that day, a group of leaders of Last weekend I traveled to the Kosovo war my sincere hope that we and future genera- the Armenian community in Turkey was mur- zone with other members of a bipartisan, bi- tions will never forget these atrocities. dered. That fateful day marked the beginning. cameral Congressional Delegation. The official Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to By 1923, about a million and a half Armenians briefings were important and informative; but share my thoughts on one of the most atro- had been killed and 500,000 more had been the visit to a refugee camp was staggering. I cious events in human historyÐthe genocide deported. The Armenian community of the saw whole landscapes of misery, broad vistas of the Armenian people. I would like to thank Ottoman Empire was uprooted, as this bloody of suffering, vast panoramas of despair and Mr. PORTER of Illinois and Mr. PALLONE of New century witnessed its first genocide. destruction. Yet I heard very little. The silence Jersey, the co-chairs of the Congressional Many survivors came to the United States to was deafening. It was the sound of deep sad- Caucus on Armenian issues, for holding this rebuild their lives. As a community and as in- ness. I was in Macedonia, but I suspect that special order. dividuals, they attained remarkable successes, the scenes I was witnessing are reminiscent of contributing greatly to their new homeland and It shames and saddens me to say that the the Anatolian plateau circa 1920, when the Ar- human race is no stranger to genocideÐthe consolidating Armenians' longstanding reputa- menian population was experiencing a demo- tion for resourcefulness and resilience. But great purges in Russia, during which Stalin graphic disaster of Biblical proportions. methodically killed millions of Russians; the they never forgot their roots or their ancient As we enter the Third Millennium of the holocaust, in which 6 million Jews were sys- homeland or the terrible wrong done to them. Christian Era, it behooves us to remember. If temically slaughtered by the Nazis; and less Our remarks today demonstrate our solidarity we ignore the lessons of the Armenian Geno- well known, but certainly just as significant, with them as they grieve over their losses, cide, then we are destined to continue our the Armenian genocide in which 1.5 million Ar- even while contemplating how much Armenia stumblings through the long, dark tunnel of menians were exterminated by the Ottoman and Armenians have accomplished in this cen- endless ethnic-cleansings, genocides, and hol- Turks. tury. ocausts. Let us, then, remember to remember. Every commemoration of the Armenian Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to I feel a special kinship to the Armenian peo- Genocide is somber. But 1999's ceremonies remember and commemorate the Armenian ple. As many of you know, I am a Greek- are especially so. After all these years, after genocide of 1915 through 1923. Each year, American, and my ancestors, too, suffered at all the invocations and prayers, after all the we pause from our legislative schedule to pay the hands of the Ottoman Turks. memorials, it is horrifying to realize that the tribute to those killed in the terrible Armenian In fact, every March, I conduct a special century is ending as it began. Once again, a Genocide, which began in 1915 under the order in this Chamber to commemorate Greek government is using all its instruments of war Ottoman Empire. We take time to remember Independence Day. On that day, one hundred against a civilian population solely because of those who were forcibly removed from their and seventy-eight years ago, the Greeks its ethnic and religious affiliation. In Kosovo, homeland and relocated, killed or imprisoned mounted a revolution which eventually freed marauding soldiers and paramilitary groups solely for their Armenian heritage. One reason them from the tyranny of the Ottoman Empire. are terrorizing and killing men, women and we do this is to draw importance to the event Unfortunately, the Armenians were not as children, in the implementation of a deliberate so it never happens again. Unfortunately, we fortunate as their Greek brothers and sisters. policy devised by truly evil people, led by are in the midst of another ethnic cleansing in This atrocity lasted from 1915 till 1923. In the Slobodan Milosevic. The twisted drive for ``pu- the Balkans. end, one and one half million Armenians had rity'' is bad enough when reflecting the sincere One and one half million people perished been systematically eliminated and hundreds convictions of intolerant and unenlightened during the Armenian genocide. Virtually the of thousands were driven from their homes by masses of people; but it is somehow even entire Armenian population was eliminated the Ottoman Turks. They were people like you more awful when stirred and manipulated by from the Ottoman Empire in the eight years of and me. People with families and friends, cynical politicians, determined to hang on to the Armenian Genocide. This terrible point in hopes and dreams, and they were all de- power and willing to employ literally any history marked the first genocide of the 20th stroyed by the Ottoman Turks. meansÐeven the most unconscionably sav- Century. It is a sad and shameful period in Today, I want to acknowledge this dark mo- ageÐto do so. The worst instincts of the history. We must remember it, and work to- ment in history and remember the Armenian human heart are claiming new victims, despite ward preventing such terrible atrocities in the people who tragically lost their lives. We in our earnest pledges that such atrocities would future. Congress must always remember tumultuous never happen again. In my district in Southwestern Illinois, there moments in history where people suffered be- In this century, Armenian Christians, Euro- is a significant population of Armenian-Ameri- cause they were different. pean Jews, and Muslims in the former Yugo- cans. I would like to pay special tribute to Of course, we all want to forget these hor- slaviaÐamong othersÐhave been singled out those survivors who eventually made their way rific tragedies in our history and bury them in April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2233 the past. However, it is only through the pain- people, Hitler is reported to have said, ``who statement that for the first time charged an- ful process of acknowledging and remem- remembers the Armenians?'' other nation with committing ``a crime against bering that we can keep similar dark moments This day is set aside to remind us that those humanity,'' war criminals were never brought from happening in the future. who forget history are doomed to repeat it. As to justice. In years to come, firsthand sources In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask we speak, in Yugoslavia, Serbian President indicate that Hitler proclaimed, ``Who, after all, that we take a moment to reflect upon the Slobodan Milosevic is engaged in gross viola- speaks today of the annihilation of the Arme- hardships endured by the Armenians. In the tions of the human rights of ethnic Albanians nians;'' thus allowing him to believe that his face of adversity the Armenian people have in Kosovo. The images splashed across our ``Final Solution'' could not only begin but also persevered. The survivors of the genocide and television screens and newspapers of ethnic would be forgotten. their descendants have made great contribu- cleansing, forced deportations, and random It brings me great sadness to remark on tions to every country in which they have set- executions there are horrors for which the Ar- these terrible events not only because of the tledÐincluding the United States, where Ar- menian genocide was a tragic precedent. tragedy itself but also because we are seeing menians have made their mark in business, Today, we honor the memory of the victims history repeat itself in Kosovo. Genocides the professions and our cultural life. of the Armenian genocide, and vow once occur when humanity ignores the cries of Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise more that genocide will not go unnoticed and those being exterminated and forgets to hold today to observe one of the most tragic events unmourned. We gather today to reaffirm our those responsible accountable. We cannot in our history, the Armenian Genocide, which unwavering commitment to fight all crimes and should not let that happen again. took place during the final years of the Otto- against humanity. man Empire. Each year on April 24th, the Ar- Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York. I rise today As we in Congress grapple with the prob- menian community, along with their friends to join my colleagues in paying homage to the lems of today, I ask that we learn from the ter- and supporters around the world gather in re- countless number of Armenians who were de- rible events of yesteryear and move to edu- membrance of the 1.5 million Armenians who prived of their freedom and senselessly killed cate today's generation about the lessons we lost their lives. because of their religious or political beliefs. have learned. The fact that the United States The facts on the Armenian genocide are The Armenian Genocide that occurred be- still hasn't even formally recognized the Arme- well documented. By the direction of the Otto- tween 1915±1923 represents a disgraceful pe- nian Genocide remains a stain on our heritage man Government, thousands of Armenian citi- riod in world history that should not be ignored and the values we hold dear to us. It is for this zens were ruthlessly killed in their eastern or distorted. reason that I am proud to be an original co- Anatolian villages. Hundreds of thousands Armenians have endured many hardships sponsor of the ``U.S. Record on the Armenian more were forcibly deported to Syria and then and unwarranted treatment by foreign coun- Genocide Resolution'' that will be introduced marched into the desert and abandoned with- tries throughout their history. This was most this week. This resolution directs the President out water, food, or shelter. This tragedy of his- prevalent during the late 19th and early 20th to provide a complete collection of all United tory has left deep scars in the hearts and century when Armenians were persecuted by States records related to the Armenian Geno- minds of its survivors and their descendants. Ottoman and Russian leaders for attempting cide to document and affirm the United States In remembrance of one of the twentieth cen- to reform their political system. The Ottoman record of protest and recognition of this crime tury's darkest chapters, we must make a com- government, in particular, was responsible for against humanity. Co-sponsoring this resolu- mitment to ourselves and to our children that causing the death of more than 1 million Ar- tion is a small step but an important one. such atrocities will not be allowed to repeat menians between 1915 and 1923. As dis- In closing, I would like to thank Representa- themselves ever again. graceful as these acts were, the Armenian tives PALLONE and PORTER for their ongoing Following the war, hundreds of displaced people persevered and eventually seceded support of Armenian issues and for organizing Armenians came to the United States to re- from the USSR to become an independent this special order remembering the people and build their shattered lives. Their contribution, state. In 1992 they became a member of the events surrounding the Armenian Genocide. I as well as that of their descendants, has United Nations and in 1995 held their first am proud of my Armenian heritage and the greatly enriched American society. It is my open legislative elections as an independent contributions of so many Armenians to our hope that the memories of the past will serve country. great nation. It is my sincere hope that we not to remind us of the importance of tolerance Although Armenia has made great strides to forget this tragedy and that we learn from it so and respect for the diversity of our people. become an independent state, the scars of that we never repeat its course. Mr. WAXMAN. Mr. Speaker, I want to ex- their past remain. The senseless acts of vio- press my appreciation to Mr. PALLONE and Mr. lence inflicted upon their ancestors deserve Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise PORTER for organizing this special order today historical recognition. It is important to ensure today on this somber occasion to pay tribute to commemorate the Armenian genocide. This that future generations are made aware of the to the victims of the Armenian Genocide, and year, as NATO fights ethnic cleansing in countless number of Armenians who were to remind our nation and the world about one Kosovo, it is especially important for us to re- killed because of their religious and political of the greatest tragedies and darkest moments member the Armenian genocide, and to re- affiliation. of the 20th Century. member our promise of ``never again.'' With similar acts of human rights violations On April 24, 1915, the Armenian Genocide On April 24, 1915, more than two hundred occurring in the Balkans and elsewhere, the began. Within the next eight years, 1.5 million Armenian religious, political, and intellectual world should never forget the atrocities that Armenians had been massacred and 500,000 leaders were arrested and killed. From 1915 occurred in Armenia. more had been deported during the final years to 1923, 11¤2 million people lost their lives in Ms. ESHOO. Mr. Speaker, I am once again of the Ottoman Empire. They were denied the slaughter. Another half million lost their rising to honor the anniversary of the 1915 Ar- their freedom, deprived of their possessions, homes and property, and watched as the sym- menian Genocide to remember the 1.5 million and systematically massacred. bols of their religion and culture were de- Armenian men, women, and children who stroyed. were killed, and the additional 500,000 Arme- For those who have spent years attempting Anyone who has studied or discussed these nians who were forcibly deported by the Otto- to refute the facts or minimize the extent of tragic events 84 years agoÐnot to mention man Empire during an eight-year reign of bru- this tragedy, the facts are indisputable. The the preposterous historical revisionism that still tal repression. Armenian Genocide is a fact, a disturbing fact. exist to this dayÐcan fully understand how im- As history reveals, a group of Armenian Those who deny it are guilty of historical sabo- portant this tribute is to the Armenian commu- leaders were forcibly taken into Turkey on tage, and just as guilty as those who continue nity in this country, some of whom still live April 15, 1915, and subsequently murdered. to deny that six million Jews were murdered with the memories of the horror. Over the next eight years, Armenians were during the Holocaust in Europe. I am certain Regrettably, the world's inaction in the face deprived of their homes, their humanity, and that years from now some will also deny the of these atrocities sent a message that human ultimately their lives. In addition, post-World human tragedy and ethnic cleansing taking rights violations would be tolerated. The line War I did not see those who were responsible place in Kosovo today. from Armenia to Auschwitz is direct. When come to justice. Although the Allied Powers, Many survivors of the Armenian Genocide contemplating the destruction of the Jewish England, France, and Russia, jointly issued a came to America in search of freedom. Their H2234 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 stories, passed from one generation to the but it was far from the last. The Armenian today to acknowledge that the genocide ever next, serve as a record of the horrors faced by Genocide was followed by the Holocaust, Sta- occurred. The disaster we commemorate millions. Their stories will help in our efforts to lin's purges, ethnic cleansing in Kosovo, and today has sadly been repeated often through- ensure that history is not distorted and that fu- other acts of mass murder around the world. out the century. Today we sometimes refer to ture generations are fully aware of what truly Adolf Hitler himself said that the world's in- it as ethnic cleansing, but it all adds up to the happened. difference to the slaughter in Armenia indi- same resultÐmass murder. We see this terror On this solemn day, I commend Armenian cated that there would be no global outcry if continue throughout the world today. In Soma- Americans for their contributions to our nation he undertook the mass murder of Jews and lia, Hutus systematically murdered hundreds and join with them in paying tribute to the vic- other he considered less than human. And he of thousands of Tutsis, and afterward received tims of the Armenian Genocide. was right. It was only after the Holocaust that refugee assistance from the United Nations Mrs. KELLY. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to the cry ``never again'' arose throughout the once the Tutsis gained control. The massacre stand and join with my colleagues in com- world. But it was too late for millions of vic- of Christians and other peoples in Somalia by memorating the 84th anniversary of the Arme- tims. Too late for the six million Jews. Too late Muslims goes practically unnoticed by the nian Genocide. I would like to thank the other for the 1.5 million Armenians. world. members of the Congressional Caucus on Ar- Today we recall the Armenian Genocide Today we must make sure that we never menian Issues, and particularly the co-chair- and we mourn its victims. We also pledge that forget the Armenian Genocide, and work to men Mr. PORTER and Mr. PALLONE, for their we shall do everything we can to protect the ensure that individuals who commit these tireless efforts in organizing this fitting tribute. Armenian nation against further aggression; in atrocities are brought to justice. 84 years ago Saturday, April 24, 1915, the the Republic of Armenia, in Nagorno- Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise to nightmare in Armenia began. Hundreds of Ar- Karabagh, or anywhere else. address the Houston on this very sad day. In menian religious, political, and educational Unfortunately, there are some who still think Colorado, parents are grieving their murdered leaders were arrested, exiled, or murdered. it is acceptable to block the delivery of U.S. sons and daughters. In the Balkans, Albanian These events marked the beginning of the humanitarian assistance around the world. De- refugees are running for their lives, having systematic persecution of the Armenian peo- spite overwhelming international condemna- been kicked out of their homes by Serbian ple by the Ottoman Empire, and also launched tion. Azerbaijan continues its blockade of U.S. thugs who rape, torture, and kill their former the first genocide of the 20th century. Over the humanitarian assistance to Armenia. neighbors. In central Africa, civil wars are It is tragic that Azerbaijan's tactics have de- next eight years, 1.5 million Armenians were rocking the Cargo furthering the horror started nied food and medicine to innocent men, put to death and 500,000 more were exiled there by the genocidal murders of Hutus and women, and children in Armenia and Nagorno- from their homes. These atrocities are among Tutsis. In China, North Korea and Cuba, com- Karabagh, and created thousands of refugees. the most cruel and inhumane acts that have munist dictators continue to deny their citizens The U.S. must stand firm against Azerbaijan's ever been recorded. basic human rights and imprison anyone who brazen violations of international law until it As we reflect today on the horrors that were dissents. ends this immoral blockade. We must make initiated 84 years ago, I cannot help but be That is the world today. But I rise, joining clear that warfare and blockades aimed at ci- disturbed by those who wish to deny that my colleagues, to remind the world of a geno- vilians are unacceptable as means for resolv- these deeds occurred. Despite the over- cide that happened 84 years ago in the part ing disputes. whelming evidence to the contraryÐeye- Mr. Speaker, after the Genocide, the Arme- of the world we now call Turkey. On April 24, witness accounts, official archives, photo- nian people wiped away their tears and cried 1915 more than 200 Armenian religious, polit- graphic evidence, diplomatic reports, and testi- out, ``Let us always remember the atrocities ical and intellectual leaders from Constanti- mony of survivorsÐthey reject the claim that that have taken the lives of our parents and nopleÐwhat is IstanbulÐwere arrested and genocide, or any other crime for that matter, our children and our neighbors.'' sent into exile. By silencing the leading rep- was perpetrated against Armenians. Well, His- As the Armenian-American author William resentatives of the Armenian people, the gov- tory tells a different story. Saroyan wrote, ``Go ahead, destroy this ernment of the Ottoman Empire was able to Let me read a quote from Henry Morgen- race.* * * Send them from their homes into proceed with its premeditated and methodical thau, Sr., U.S. Ambassador to the Ottoman the desert.* * * Burn their homes and church- extermination of the Armenian people. Be- Empire at the time: ``When the Turkish authori- es. Then see if they will not laugh again, see tween 1915 and 1923, more than 1.5 million ties gave the orders for these deportations, if they will not sing and pray again. For, when Armenian men, women and children were de- they were merely giving the death warrant to two of them meet anywhere in the world, see ported, forced into slave labor concentration a whole race; they understood this well, and, if they will not create a New Armenia.'' camps, tortured, and murdered. The goal of in their conversations with me, they made no I rise today to remember those cries and to this atrocity was to remove all traces of the Ar- particular attempt to conceal the fact.* ** '' make sure that they were not uttered in vain. menian people and their rich heritage from The world knows the truth about this tragic The Armenian nation lives. We must do every- Anatolia. episode in human affairs. We will not allow thing we can to ensure that it is never imper- At the time, the world had not coined such those who wish to rewrite History to absolve iled again. terms as concentration camps, genocide, eth- themselves from responsibility for their ac- Mr. GEKAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise somberly to nic cleansing or holocaust. It is tragic that in tions. This evening's event here in the House remember and commemorate the tragedy of this century we have had to come up with new of Representatives is testament to that fact. the Armenian Genocide. words to describe Man's inhumanity to Man. We can only hope that the recognition and During the final years of the Ottoman Em- And it is tragic that as we end this century, condemnation of this, and other instances of pire, from 1915±1923, 1.5 million Armenians history is repeating itself as Serbs in Yugo- genocide, will prevent a similar instance from had been massacred and 500,000 more were slavia unleash their cruelty upon the Kosovar happening again as we move into the 21st forcibly removed from their native land. April people. Century. I would like to once again thank the 24 is the day which is annually remembered It is vital that we remember the countless organizers of this event and I would like to by not only the world's Armenian community, victims of the Turkish genocide against the Ar- once again reaffirm my sincere thanks for but by people all over the world who hold menians. We honor the memory of those killed being given the opportunity to participate in basic human rights sacred. On this day in and the bravery of those who, having been this solemn remembrance. 1915, hundreds of Armenian leaders and intel- forced out of their homes and off their land, Ms. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, April 24th marks lectuals were arrested in Constantinople and traveled throughout the world and re-estab- the 84th anniversary of the Armenian Geno- killed. Additionally, thousands more were mur- lished themselves in distant lands far from cide, an act of mass murder that took 1.5 mil- dered in the streets. The attempt at systematic home. lion Armenian lives and led to the exile of the extermination of the Armenian people was We remember, Mr. Speaker. We remember Armenian nation from its historic homeland. conducted over the next eight years. and we speak here today so that History will It is of vital importance that we never forget The lack of an international response to this record that 80 years later, the victims of this what happened to the Armenian people. In- disaster is frightening. Hitler saw this as proof genocide are not forgotten. It is important that deed the only thing we can do for the victims that he could carry out the holocaust with no people like Mr. Slobodan Milosevic and other is to remember, and we forget at our own consequences, and, like tyrants afterward, tyrants around the world realize that we do not peril. used the Armenian Genocide as a blueprint forget and we will not let the world forget the The Armenian Genocide, which began 15 for his campaign of terror. evils they perpetrate against their own people. years after the start of the twentieth century, Unfortunately, the Turkish government, de- Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise along was the first act of genocide of this century, spite overwhelming evidence, refuses even with many of my colleagues, to commemorate April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2235 the Armenian Genocide of 1915±1923. Many tinued until 1923, although the memories of We must not sit idly by and be spectators to of us here are already quite familiar with the this campaign of terror still haunt us today. the same kind of violence that killed so many details: on April 24, 1915, 84 years ago this From 1915±1923, the Armenian population Armenians; we must not watch as innocent week, over two hundred Armenian religious, was expelled from their homeland. One and a Kosovars are brutalized not for what they have political, and intellectual leaders were exe- half million Armenians lost their lives and over done, but simply for who they are. Ethnic cuted by the Turkish government. This mass 500,000 surviving refugees rebuilt their lives cleansing is genocide and cannot be ignored execution was not an isolated incident, but outside of Armenia, many of them coming to by a just and compassionate country. We owe rather was the beginning of a systematic cam- the United States to build their new homes. it to the victims of past genocides to stamp out paign perpetrated by the Ottoman Turk gov- The Armenian-American population, many of this form of inhumanity. ernment. These executions had also been pre- whom reside in my district, have prospered in It is an honor and privilege to represent a ceded by a historic pattern of persecution offi- the United States and contributed to our cul- large and active Armenian population, many cially sanctioned by the Ottoman Sultan. To tural enrichment, enhanced our diversity and who have family members who were per- Armenians around the world, April 24th marks become strong members of our society. secuted by their Ottoman Turkish rulers. the start of an organized campaign by the Despite the calculated effort to banish the Michigan's Armenian-American community has government of Ottoman Turkey to completely Armenian people from their land and eradicate done much to further our state's commercial, eliminate the Armenian population from the Armenian culture and tradition, today the Re- political, and intellectual growth, just as it has Ottoman Empire. During the following eight public of Armenia is striving to establish a done in communities across the country. And years, from 1915±1923, 1.5 million Armenians strong and progressive nation committed to so I also rise today to honor the triumph of the lost their lives, whether directly or indirectly at establishing democratic institutions and ideals. Armenian people, who have endured adversity the hands of the Ottoman government. The Armenian government has launched a and bettered our country. I stand here before my colleagues to also program of industrial reform, privatized agricul- But again, Mr. Speaker, it is also my hoe praise the efforts that we make today to end tural land, and made substantial progress in that in honoring the victims of the past, we persecution and genocide around the world. I small-enterprise privatization. Armenia has learn one fundamental lesson from their expe- rise not as a Democrat or a Republican, but also made an effort to take steps to resolve rience: Never Again! as a human being, honoring the memory of the Karabagh conflict and moved to stabilize Mr. MARTINEZ. Mr. Speaker, I join my col- those massacred, so that this will never hap- its economy based upon free market prin- leagues today in commemorating the 84th an- pen again. It is our responsibility and obliga- ciples. I am proud we are here today to dem- niversary of the Armenian genocide. tion as humans to acknowledge these tragic onstrate American solidarity in our support of We observe the Armenian genocide today events in history and to ensure that the Armenian efforts to achieve a bright future. so as not to forget. We remember the horrific conflagration that engulfed the lives of 1.5 mil- memories of those massacred are honored As we acknowledge the 84th anniversary of lion innocent Armenian men, women, and chil- and respected for all time. In that light, we the Armenian genocide, we join with our Ar- dren so that governments around the world must not allow the Turkish government's deni- menian friends in remembering those who lost will know that they will be held accountable for als of the Armenian genocide to go unan- their lives as a result of this terrible tragedy. While we reflect upon the past and commit their bloody deeds by the consciousness of swered. Explaining away the Genocide as a ourselves to learning from the history of this mankind. In one of the darkest chapters of the series of internal conflicts during and after humanitarian disaster, we also look forward to 20th century, the government of the Ottoman WW I that caused the unfortunate death of a brighter future for Armenia. We look forward Empire systematically implemented a policy of many Armenian people, not only insults the to a time in which Armenia will, we hope, grow extermination against its Armenian population memories of the victims and survivors, but prosperous, achieve economic strength, and, through ruthless marches of forced starvation also offends our own sensibilities. It is there- above all, enjoy peace. and endless waves of bloody massacres. fore our responsibility to ensure that events Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, in a dark time Over 8 decades have now come and gone such as the Armenian Genocide are not for- in Europe, a nation slowly collapsed. At this since the tragic event unfolded and, yet, the gotten and NEVER repeated. As a Congress- tumultuous time of great societal trans- Turkish Government continues to deny the un- man, a Jew, and as a person, I stand here formations, uncertain futures, and with govern- deniable. The Armenian genocide is a histor- today to honor the memory of those who have mental change looming on the horizon, lead- ical fact that has been indelibly etched in the been massacred by totalitarian governments ers fell back on the one proven weapon that annals of history. If cannot be erased from our throughout history. In fact, there are many assured their personal survival. It is a weapon collective memory. comparisons between the suffering of the Ar- that feeds upon fear, desperation, and hatred. To heal the open wounds of the past, the menian people and the Jewish people. Quite It transforms the average citizen into a zealot, Turkish Government has a moral obligation to simply, just as we pledge to never forget the no longer willing to listen to reason. This acknowledge and recognize the Armenian tragedy of the Holocaust, we must also not let weapon is, of course, nationalism. It's result is genocide. Turkey must come to terms with its the Armenian Genocide go unacknowledged, ethnic strife and senseless genocide, com- past. It must also come to terms with its as that would be the equivalent of forgetting. mitted in the name of false believes preached present actions against the Republic of Arme- The obvious lesson in this is that we must not by immoral, irresponsible, reprehensible lead- nia. ever turn our backs to the suffering of any ers. The government of Turkey should imme- people. In fact, I think this lesson resonates Today I rise not to speak of the present, but diately lift its illegal blockade of Armenia, loudly in our actions today in Kosovo. in memory of the victims of the past, who suf- which it has had in place since 1993. Turkey Lastly, I want to thank my colleagues, Con- fered needlessly in the flames of vicious, de- must also stop obstructing the delivery of gressmen JOHN PORTER and FRANK PALLONE, structive nationalism. On April 24, 1915, the United States humanitarian assistance to Ar- for leading this effort in the House of Rep- leaders of the Ottoman government tragically menia. This is not only unconscionable but it resentatives. Their combined leadership on chose to systematically exterminate an entire also damages American-Turkish relations. Tur- the Armenian Issues Caucus makes us all race of people. We gather in solemn remem- key is indeed an important ally of the United proud to work together on this issue of con- brance of the results of that decision, remem- States. However, until Turkey faces up to its cern to all human beings. bering the loss of one-and-a-half million Arme- past and stops its silent but destructive cam- Mr. MARKEY. Mr. Speaker, I join Armenians nians. paign against the Republic of Armenia, Amer- throughout the United States and around the The story of the Armenian genocide is in ican-Turkish relations will continue to be world on this solemn day of remembrance itself appalling. it is against everything our strained. commemorating the genocide of innocent Ar- governmentÐand indeed all governments who Mr. MOAKLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to menian people perpetrated during the waning strive for justiceÐstands for; it represents the join with my colleagues in remembering the days of the Ottoman Empire. On this day, the most wicked side of humanity. What makes Armenian people who lost their lives in one of 84th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide the Armenian story even more unfortunate is history's greatest atrocities, the Armenian committed in Ottoman Turkey from 1915 to history has repeated itself in all corners of the genocide. Today, the importance of such a 1923, it is crucial that we recall the horrific world, and lessons that should have been commemoration could not be more timely, as events of this dark chapter in world history learned long ago have been ignored. our brave troops in Yugoslavia struggle to stop and dedicate ourselves to preventing such We must not forget the Armenian genocide, another similar atrocity. As new reports of eth- atrocities in the future. the holocaust, Rwanda, or Bosnia. Today, on nic cleansing, torture and rape continue to History shows that in 1915 the systematic this grim anniversary, we must remember why arise in the Balkans, I believe it is especially massacre of Armenian political, religious, and our armed forces fight in the skies over Yugo- important that the United States officially rec- intellectual figures began. This slaughter con- slavia. ognize this horrible episode. H2236 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 Mr. Speaker, despite attempts to minimize genocide and then to provide this collection to We also remember this day because it is a its effect, the Armenian Genocide is a histor- the House International Relations Committee, time for us to celebrate the contribution of the ical fact. This was an episode so terrible that the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, here in Armenian community in AmericaÐincluding our ambassador to the Ottoman Empire at the Washington, DC, and the Armenian Genocide hundreds of thousands in CaliforniaÐto the time, Henry Morgenthau, commented, ``The Museum in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. richness of our character and culture. The great massacres and persecutions of the past In so doing, we reaffirm the principled stand strength they have displayed in overcoming seem almost insignificant when compared to taken by U.S. diplomats, religious leaders, and tragedy to flourish in this country is an exam- the sufferings of the Armenian race in 1915.'' government officials during the years of the ple for all of us. Their success is moving testi- On April 24, 1915, Turkish officials arrested Genocide, and in the years since that terrible mony to the truth that tyranny and evil cannot and exiled more than 200 Armenian political, tragedy. extinguish the vitality of the human spirit. intellectual and religious leaders. This sym- Our archives contain extensive documenta- Surrounded by countries hostile to them, to bolic cleansing of Armenian leaders began a tion of the widespread opposition to Ottoman this day the Armenian struggle continues. But reign of terror against the Armenian people Turkey's brutal massacres and deportations. now with an independent Armenian state, the that lasted for the next 8 years, and resulted They contain, as well, records of the unprece- United States has the opportunity to contribute in the death of more than 1.5 million Arme- dented efforts of the American people to bring to a true memorial to the past by strength- nians. In the assault, another 500,000 Arme- relief to the survivors of this, the century's first ening Armenia's emerging democracy. We nians were exiled from their homes. genocide. As many in this Chamber know, the must do all we can through aid and trade to Acts of deportations, torture, enslavement United States led the international humani- support Armenia's efforts to construct an open and mass executions obliterated the Armenian tarian campaign to aid those who escaped the political and economic system. population and changed the world forever. Genocide, the countless thousands who found Adolf Hitler, the architect of the Nazi Holo- These mass exterminations and incidents of refuge in the camps and orphanages estab- caust, once remarked ``Who remembers the ethnic cleansing are the first examples of lished through the generosity of the American Armenians?'' The answer is, we do. And we genocide this century, and have often been re- people. will continue to remember the victims of the ferred to as the precursor to the Nazi Holo- In introducing this legislation, we also take a 1915±23 genocide because, in the words of caust. stand against those who would, in a cold polit- the philosopher George Santayana, ``Those Mr. Speaker, the accounts by survivors of ical calculation, deny genocide, past or who cannot remember the past are con- this incident are chillingly similar to those we present. By affirming the U.S. historical record demned to repeat it.'' are currently hearing from those lucky enough of the Armenian Genocide, we challenge this Mr. LEVINJ. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to join to escape Milosevic's terror in Yugoslavia. It is denial and reinforce our national resolve to with my colleagues in Congress, Armenian amazing how often history will repeat itself, prevent future genocide. Americans in my district, and Armenians all Please add your name today as a cospon- and how often we don't listen to the past. The over the world as we commemorate the 84th sor of this legislation and join with me at the memory of the Armenian Genocide, no matter anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Armenian National Committee's Genocide Ob- Between 1894 and 1923, approximately 2 how cruel and brutal, must serve as a lesson servance being held this evening in the Ray- million Armenians were massacred, per- to us all to never ignore such actions. We owe burn House Office Building. secuted, or exiled by the Ottoman Empire. that to the Armenian people who showed such Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, this Saturday, Today, fewer than 80,000 declared Armenians bravery in a time of great pain and tragedy. April 24, marks the 84th anniversary of the be- remain in Turkey. The Eastern provinces, the Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, on this occasion ginning of the Armenian genocide. I rise today Armenian heartland, are virtually without Ar- each year we remember the terrible events to commemorate this terrible chapter in human menians. There are still Armenian refugees that took place in Ottoman Turkey 84 years history, and to help ensure it will be forgotten. and internally displaced persons in Russia, an ago. On April 24, 1915, the Turkish government issue not well-known internationally. They face While the rise of independent Armenia just began to arrest Armenian community and po- extreme difficulties and hardship. 8 years ago serves as a clear symbol of the litical leaders. Many were executed without The years since the Armenian Genocide Armenian nation's will to survive, the tragic ever being charged with crimes. Soon there- have magnified its tragedy, not diminished it. events that occurred over 80 years ago should after the government deported most Arme- It is true for the hundreds of thousands who not be forgottenÐand have not been forgot- nians from Turkish Armenia, ordering that they lost their lives as well as their families for ten. resettle in what is now Syria. Many deportees whom the void can never be filled. Beginning in 1915, the decaying Ottoman never reached that destination. From 1915 to It also has been true for all the world. The Empire, in a final struggle against its own dis- 1918, more than a million Armenians died of Holocaust of the 1930's and 1940's has been integration, engaged in a genocidal campaign starvation or disease on long marches, or followed by a number of genocides in the last of executions and attacks against many of its were massacred outright by Turkish forces. three decades. The failure of the Turkish gov- ethnic Armenian residents in a vain effort to From 1918 to 1923, Armenians continued to ernment to acknowledge the sinful acts of its turn the tide of the First World War. suffer at the hands of the Turkish military, predecessors sent the wrong message to the Those attacks, while failing to turn the tide which eventually removed all remaining Arme- rulers of Cambodia, Rwanda and Yugoslavia. of war, resulted in the loss of tens of thou- nians from Turkey. It is especially poignant at this time to observe sands of lives of innocent men, women and We mark this anniversary of the start of the and remember the Genocide against the Ar- children. Armenian genocide because this tragedy for menian people in 1915 as the world watches This special order today honors those vic- the Armenian people was a tragedy for all hu- man's inhumanity to men, women and children tims and commemorates their untimely deaths. manity. It is our duty to remember, to speak in Kosovo in 1999. Mr. Speaker, as I have said on earlier occa- out and to teach future generations about the The failure of countries of the world to take sions, I am hopeful that, as we today honor horrors of genocide and the oppression and prompt notice of these modern atrocities the memory of those who lost their lives long terrible suffering endured by the Armenian should remind all of us of the failure of other before the Armenian nation regained its inde- people. nations to promptly acknowledge the mas- pendence, we can nonetheless look forward to We should not be alone in commemorating sacre of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire. that day when the new, independent Republic these horrific events. We will know that hu- There is more that the United States can do of Armenia and its people will live in peace manity has progressed when it is not just the to ensure that history does not forget the Ar- with their neighborsÐa peace that will never survivors who honor the dead but also when menian genocide. Along with Representatives see Armenian men, women and children sub- those whose ancestors perpetrated the horrors BONIOR and RADANOVICH, I will shortly join as jected to the horrors and atrocities their ances- acknowledge their terrible responsibility and an original cosponsor of the ``United States tors experienced over 80 years ago. honor as well the memory of genocide's vic- Record on the Armenian Genocide Resolu- Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise tims. tion.'' This legislation calls on the President to today to announce that later this week I will be Sadly, we cannot say that such atrocities collect all U.S. records on the Armenian Geno- joined by my colleagues Mr. ROGAN, Mr. are history. We have only to recall the ``killing cide and provide them to the House Inter- BONIOR, Mr. PALLONE and a bipartisan group fields'' of Cambodia, mass ethnic killings in national Relations Committee, the United of legislators in introducing legislation to affirm Bosnia and Rwanda, and ``ethnic cleansing'' in States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the the U.S. historical record on the Armenian Kosovo to see that the threat of genocide per- Armenian Genocide Museum in Yerevan, Ar- Genocide. sists. We must renew our commitment never menia. We take this step to bring together in a col- to remain indifferent in the face of such as- It is the duty of all of us to join Armenian lection all the U.S. records on the Armenian saults on humanity. Americans in remembering the Armenian April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2237 genocide. We have been fighting this battle for the United States government has long re- ler led throughout Europe against the Jews. formal acknowledgment by the Turkish gov- fused to recognize the Armenian extermi- Two of my grandparents were killed in the ernment for many years. We must not give in nations and expulsions as a genocide. Make Holocaust. My father survived the extermi- until the battle is won. no mistake: this persecution was not the acci- nation of his village by the Nazis and my Mr. DOOLEY of California. Mr. Speaker, I dental and unfortunate by-product of a period mother spent the war fleeing the Nazis by rise today to join my colleagues in commemo- of upheaval and chaos. From 1915 through going deeper and deeper into Russia. I was rating the 84th anniversary of the Armenian 1923, the Young Turk government of the Otto- born in a displaced-persons camp in Germany genocide. man Empire attempted to erase all trace of the after World War II. Like the Holocaust, the Armenian genocide Armenian people and culture from Turkey. In Today, we look across the world and see stands as a historical example of the human order to achieve this goal, government forces history repeating itself in the most horrific suffering which persecution and intolerance engaged in direct killing, starvation, torture, terms. We are in the midst of a battle in the have brought far too often this century. and forced death marches. The term ``geno- Balkans to confront the genocide being carried One and one-half million Armenian people cide'' constitutes the only means sufficient to out by Yugoslavian President Slobodan were massacred by the Ottoman Turkish Em- describe such an outrage, and the suffering of Milosevic. pire between 1915 and 1923. More than the Armenian people dictates that we acknowl- However, even the most terrible events can 500,000 Armenians were exiled from a home- edge the Armenian genocide as such. have a ray of hope for the survivors. We can land that their ancestors had occupied for While paying tribute to the victims of the Ar- look at Armenia today and see that a people more than 3,000 years. A race of people was menian genocide, however, we must not for- can indeed be restored after suffering such a nearly eliminated. get to celebrate the fortitude and persistence devastating blow. After the genocide, the Ar- However great the loss of human life and of the Armenian people who have survived menians were oppressed for decades by the homeland that occurred during the genocide, a and thrived in spite of this persecution. The Soviet Union, but they persevered. Finally, in greater tragedy would be to forget the Arme- United States has a large Armenian-American 1991, the Armenian people voted for, and nian genocide took place. As recent events in population which has made significant and achieved, their independence. Their young re- the Balkans illustrate, to ignore the horror of positive contributions to their communities and public was the first of the former Soviet repub- such events almost assures their repetition in to this nation as a whole. The Republic of Ar- lics to achieve economic growth. This is a the future. Adolf Hitler, in preparing his geno- menia struggled through the turmoil of the dis- proud people, and with good reason. They are cide plans for the Jews, predicted that no one solution of the Soviet Union to emerge as a survivorsÐsurvivors who look to a brighter fu- would remember the atrocities he was about force for democracy and a strong civil society ture, but who will never forget what happened. to unleash. After all, he asked, ``Who remem- in that region. The Armenian people have As you can see by the outpouring in Congress bers the Armenians?'' transformed tragedy into triumph, and I salute today, Mr. Speaker, we won't forget either. Our statements today are intended to pre- the power of their spirit. Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Mr. Speaker, it is with serve the memory of the Armenian loss, and As many of my colleagues may recognize, a great sense of honor, compassion and re- to remind the world that the Turkish govern- this anniversary becomes particularly poignant solve that I rise to speak on the floor of our ment still refuses to acknowledge the Arme- in light of the ongoing crisis in the Balkans United States House of Representatives on nian genocide. The truth of this tragedy can today. I am reminded of the words of Presi- behalf of the 1.5 million Armenian victims of never, and should never be denied. The ethnic dent Theodore Roosevelt, who observed, the 1915 genocide. As a member of the Con- Albanian refugees of Kosovo attest to the suf- ``* * * the Armenian genocide was the great- gressional Armenian Caucus, I am deeply fering which accompanies forced exile. est crime of the war, and the failure to act honored to represent a large Armenian com- This 84th anniversary also brings to mind against Turkey is to condone it * * * the fail- munity located in the city of Montebello in my the current suffering of the Armenian people, ure to deal radically with the Turkish horror 34th Congressional District. who are still immersed in tragedy and vio- means that all talk of guaranteeing the future Together with my colleagues, I share a lence. The unrest between Armenia and Azer- peace of the world is mischievous nonsense.'' heartfelt compassion for the tremendous suf- baijan continues in Nagorno-Karabakh. Thou- Sadly, these words are all too applicable to fering visited upon the Armenian populations sands of innocent people have already per- the situation we now face in Kosovo and Ser- as a result of the systematic and deliberate ished in this dispute, and still many more have bia. campaign of genocide by the rulers of the been displaced and are homeless. Hitler, when outlining the strategy that cul- Ottoman Turkish Empire during the period of In the face of this difficult situation comes minated in the ``Final Solution,'' reportedly re- 1915 to 1923. Let no succeeding generation an opportunity for reconciliation. Now is the marked: ``Who today remembers the extermi- forget these unspeakable atrocities, nor seek time for Armenia and its neighbors, including nation of the Armenians?'' Today, let us all to deny the terrible truth of its occurrence. Turkey, to come together, to work toward prove Hitler wrong by not only remembering The United States Archives are replete with building relationships that will ensure lasting and mourning the Armenian genocide, but material documenting the Ottoman Turkish peace. also by continuing our efforts on behalf of the government's premeditated exterminations, in- Meanwhile, in America, the Armenian-Amer- Kosovar people to ensure that such a tragedy cluding the executions of the Armenian leader- ican community continues to thrive and to pro- can never again be visited upon any people in ship in Istanbul and other Armenian centers, vide assistance and solidarity to its country- this world. and the male population conscripted into the men and women abroad. Now numbering Mr. GEJDENSON. Mr. Speaker, I stand with Ottoman Army. The surviving women, children nearly 1 million, the Armenian-American com- my colleagues today to remember the Arme- and elderly were sent on horrific death munity is bound together by strong nian genocide which occurred between 1915 marches through the Syrian Desert and sub- generational and family ties, an enduring work and 1923. jected to rape, torture and mutilation along the ethic, and a proud sense of ethnic heritage. Eighty four years ago the Ottoman Empire way. Today we recall the tragedy of their past, not began a systematic eight-year purge of Arme- Mr. Speaker, the Armenian-American com- to place blame, but to answer a fundamental nians within its borders. Ultimately, 1.5 million munities throughout the United States, as well question, ``Who remembers the Armenians?' men, women and children were executed. In as all people of goodwill, stand firm in our re- Let us take this opportunity today to con- addition, 500,000 Armenians were forced to solve not to let the world forget the Armenian template the Armenian genocide, and with the leave their homes and seek refuge in other genocide of 1915. In solidarity with the count- global community standing as witnesses, af- countries. Many of those refugees came to the less victims of the Jewish Holocaust, the Cam- firm that we do remember them. United States. In the decades since, these im- bodian genocide and the present massacres Mr. WEYGAND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in migrants have made innumerable contributions being committed in Kosovo, we must contin- somber recognition of the beginning of the Ar- to American society. ually recognize these crimes against humanity menian genocide. This horrific tragedy claimed This first genocide of this century of geno- and reaffirm the American people's commit- the lives of over one million Armenians in a cides demonstrates the depths of brutality and ment to steadfastly oppose the use of geno- nine-year campaign of systematic persecution, evil that humanity can reach. By remembering cide anywhere in the world. expulsion, and violence, and displaced at least it, we remember how important it is to work to It is altogether fitting that on this last anni- a further 500,000 Armenians from their historic prevent such evil from recurring. versary of the Armenian genocide of 1915 in homeland in eastern Turkey. I have a special connection to the fate that this 20th century, and in recognition of the Few Americans are aware that the Holo- befell the Armenians, as my family has also atrocities being committed in the Balkans caust of World War II was in fact the second fallen victim to ruthless genocide. My family today, to restate from this same floor of the genocide of this century; for political reasons, was nearly destroyed by the genocide that Hit- House, the truly memorable words of our late H2238 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 colleague, the Honorable Les Aspin, then count the persecution they faced from the camp, Houston gave the order to ad- chairman of the House Armed Services Com- Ottoman Empire and the stories of the night of vance, and the Texans did not hesitate. mittee on April 28, 1992: April 24, 1915, the night the genocide began. I say ‘‘Texans,’’ Mr. Speaker, because We look back in order to memorialize In observance of this date, we must remem- that force was made up of a lot of new those who died under Ottoman rule, to re- ber the hard lessons learned from this tragedy immigrants to Texas from the United state that they shall not have died so that we will never forget our duty to fight States. Texas has always been an im- unmourned and unnoticed, to shout that mil- against human rights abuses, ``ethnic cleans- migrant State. lions of us, Armenians and non-Armenians When within 70 yards the word ‘‘fire’’ alike, will never forget. ing,'' genocide and other crimes against hu- We look forward to declare that this must manity. was given, the Texan shouts of ‘‘Re- never happen again, that the deaths of one As we support the brave men and women member the Alamo’’ and ‘‘Remember and a half million people must serve as a per- fighting to stop the genocide of ethnic Alba- Goliad’’ rang along the entire line. petual warning to the world, alerting us to nian's in Kosovo, we see that genocide is not Within a short time 700 Mexican sol- the threat of evil and uniting us to combat simply a sad chapter in history. The lessons of diers were slain, with another 730 anyone who might again think of commit- the Armenian genocide are ever salient. In the taken as prisoners. The whole battle ting wholesale murder. Kosovo case, our country's message must be lasted less than 30 minutes. Mr. Speaker, in remembrance of those Ar- clear. When a leader decides to erase a race From that point on, Texas was firmly menian leaders executed during the genocide of people from the earth, we will react with all established in the community of na- of 1915, I am honored to recognize some of due force and determination to make sure that tions, seeking recognition. For 10 years the outstanding Armenian-American leaders of leader fails. she would remain an independent na- today, who have contributed so much to the The blood of genocide victims stains not tion, until President James K. Polk betterment of our nation, our beloved state of only the hands of the perpetrators, but also signed the treaty admitting Texas to California and our communities in the 34th those who do nothing to stop it. We can not the United States in 1845. Congressional District. wash our hands of this tragedy. We must re- A panel on the side of the monument In particular, I wish to honor the Most Rev- member the crimes of the past and work to at the San Jacinto battleground today erend Archbishop Lapajian, and the Reverend end all types of genocide. This includes dedi- underscores the importance of the bat- Babouchian, Pastor of the Holy Cross Arme- cating ourselves to ending the ethnic cleans- tle after more than a century and a nian Apostolic Cathedral in Montebello, Cali- ing in Kosovo. half of reflection: ‘‘Measured by its re- fornia for their faithful spiritual guidance. Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, we must And, it is appropriate to recognize two sults, San Jacinto was one of the most never forget what happened to the Ar- former Armenian-American elected officials decisive battles of the world.’’ menians 84 years ago, just as we must who made an enormous contribution to the The freedom of Texas from Mexico State of California and the communities of the never overlook the human rights viola- won here led to annexation and to the 34th Congressional District, the Honorable tions which are happening today in all Mexican War in 1845, resulting in the George Deukmejian, who served as a Member corners of the world. acquisition by the United States of the of the State Assembly, state Senator, Attorney f States of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, California, Utah, and parts of General and Governor of California; and the SAN JACINTO DAY Honorable Walter J. Karabian, who served as Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas, and Okla- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Majority Leader of the California State Assem- homa. previous order of the House, the gen- bly. Their exemplary service has been a bea- Now, Mr. Speaker, at one time or an- tleman from Texas (Mr. GREEN) is rec- con of hope to all that wish to realize the other I am sure, coming from Texas, we ognized for 5 minutes. American dream of opportunity and success. claimed all those States as part of Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I In addition, I am pleased to recognize the Texas, but they really were not. Al- service of the Honorable Tom Malkasian, City rise today to continue with a series of most one-third of the present area of Treasurer of the city of Montebello, and mem- speeches designed to explain to my col- the American Nation, nearly a million ber of the board of the Armenian Mesrobian leagues the history of my home State square miles, changed sovereignty School. of Texas. starting with the battle of San Jacinto. I have also recently had the privilege to visit On March 2 of this year I spoke to The San Jacinto battlefield was in several worthy leaders and institutions of the this body of the brave actions taken by the 29th Congressional District until Armenian community in my district including 54 men who signed the Texas Declara- 1996 when the Federal courts changed Raffi Chalian, President of the Armenian Na- tion of Independence, a document mod- our lines, and now it is in the 25th Con- tional Committee; David Ghoogasian, Principal eled after the one signed almost 60 gressional District. of the Armenian Mesrobian School; Anita years earlier by our Founding Fathers. This major event in our history is re- Haddad, Co-Chairwoman of the Armenian Re- I also spoke to my colleagues of the membered not only as a battle for lief Society; Manouk Zeitounian, leader of the brave sacrifices of the defenders of the Texas independence, but is a victory Homenetmen Athletics and Boy Scouts; Jo- Alamo and of the massacre of Texas over freedom and dictatorship. Mr. seph Gharibian, Member of the Board of Rep- forces at Goliad. Six weeks later, on Speaker, I hope the House and all of resentatives of the Holy Cross Armenian Ap- the banks of San Jacinto River, ap- America will join those of us from ostolic Cathedral; and most significantly, Lucy proximately 750 Texans under General Texas in celebrating that victory for Der Minassian, Co-Chairwoman of the Arme- Sam Houston assembled, determined to freedom. nian Relief Society, and herself a survior of avenge their brothers. Mr. Speaker, I include the following the Armenian genocide of 1915. On the morning of April 20, 1836, over for the RECORD: Mr. Speaker, in closing let every American 1,500 Mexican soldiers under General [From the Houston Chronicle, Apr. 21, 1999] Santa Ana approached the Texans’ po- stand with our Armenian brothers and sisters SAN JACINTO noting this anniversary throughout the world, sition. Driving off by fire from the fa- mous ‘‘Twin Sisters’’ cannon, he fell A DAY TO REMEMBER GREAT, UNVARNISHED together with the victims of torture and geno- HISTORY OF TEXAS cide whenever and wherever it occurs, to back to regroup. The Texans, inspired by their initial ‘‘Measured by its results, San Jacinto was honor their precious memory, in compassion one of the decisive battles of the world.’’ for their terrible suffering, and with unflinching success, were champing at the bit. ‘‘So begins the simple inscription at the resolve to never, never forget. Houston, however, held them back, and base of the towering San Jacinto Monument. Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. Speaker, today, we sol- sent his most trusted spy, Erastus The obelisk, visible from the modern glass emnly observe the Armenian genocide, a trag- ‘‘Deaf’’ Smith, with a few men to burn castles of downtown Houston, holds its head edy that took place nearly 84 years ago. Vince’s Bridge, thus cutting off the high over a few quiet, lowland acres at the The courage and strength of the survivors path of retreat for the Mexican Army. confluence of Buffalo Bayou and the San and the memory of those who perished are an Mr. Speaker, Vince’s Bridge is in the Jacinto River. There fate and the future 29th Congressional District that I am noisily and auspiciously crossed paths and inspiration to all of us to stand up here today. swords on this date in 1836. It is our task to make sure that the Armenian proud to represent. ‘‘The freedom of Texas from Mexico,’’ the genocide will never be forgotten. On the 21st, today’s anniversary, inscription continues, ‘‘won here led to an- Over 6 million people of Armenian descent though, Houston was ready to strike. nexation and to the Mexican War, resulting live in this country. Many of them can still re- With the Mexican Army still in its in the acquisition by the United States of April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2239 Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Cali- FAIR TRADE LAW ENFORCEMENT The reforms in my bill are fully con- fornia, Utah, and parts of Colorado, Wyo- ACT OF 1999 sistent with WTO rules and fall into ming, Kansas and Oklahoma. Almost one- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a three categories: One, amendments to third of the present area of the American na- the safeguard law; two, amendments to tion, nearly a million square miles, changed previous order of the House, the gen- sovereignty.’’ tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. the antidumping and countervailing That is more than worthy of note and re- ENGLISH) is recognized for 5 minutes. duty laws; and, three, provisions estab- membrance. Mr. ENGLISH. Mr. Speaker, the lishing a steel import notification pro- But, even unvarnished, Texas history is a headlines are very grim today. We are gram. magnificent story in and of itself. And that facing in America a record trade def- The safeguard amendments update is too often lost in these days of headline icit, one that threatens to cut the eco- the remedy in section 201 of the Trade news and semi-literacy and our natural pre- nomic growth rate of this country. Act of 1974 to make it more effective occupation with the present. This is in the context of an inter- for U.S. industries trying to deal with When Gen. Sam Houston and Gen. Antonio damage in import surges. In particular, Lopez de Santa Ana, and their respective ar- national economic malaise in which mies, met on the field that day, the combat unfair trade practices and naked mer- the amendments conform some of sec- lasted but 18 minutes—the killing went on cantilism have proliferated on the part tion 201’s unnecessarily stringent for more than two hours. Knowing and un- of our trading partners. standards to the more appropriate derstanding the reasons why, indeed the rea- What America needs, Mr. Speaker, is standards in the WTO safeguards agree- sons there was a battle in the first place, not only a stronger trade policy but ment. ought to be at least as much a part of mod- stronger legal protections put in place The antidumping and countervailing ern Texans’ knowledge base as, say, what the to guarantee a level playing field in duty law amendments would amend weather might be tomorrow. this challenging international environ- Title VII of the Tariff Act of 1930 in But, sadly, it far too often is not. Yes, we light of some of the new global eco- remember the Alamo, but too few of us these ment. days can remember and recount exactly why. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to intro- nomic realities and conditions to which And so, we pick a day of anniversary, a day duce, on behalf of myself and six bipar- those laws must now respond. Some of of remembrance to give more than just a tisan cosponsors, the Fair Trade Law these changes reverse flawed court de- passing thought to what and why and how Enhancement Act of 1999. This bill cisions that have limited the laws’ re- what we see before us, both the good and the takes a broad approach to trade law re- medial reach in a manner never con- bad, came to be. form and includes important necessary templated by Congress. Again, the pri- We observe San Jacinto Day with good changes to the antidumping and coun- mary focus of these reforms is to elimi- cause here in Texas, our Texas. tervailing duty laws. These reforms are nate unnecessary obstacles American essential if we are going to keep the manufacturers and farmers face in se- CEREMONIES TO MARK BATTLE OF SAN JACINTO trade laws effective and relevant to curing relief under current law, and to Chief Justice Tom Phillips of the Texas current conditions in a newly turbu- assure through WTO-consistent means Supreme Court will deliver the keynoted ad- that U.S. firms and workers can face dress today during a ceremony marking the lent global economy. anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto. America’s trade laws have long been their foreign competitors on a level The 10:30 a.m. ceremony at the San Jacinto critically important to U.S. jobs in playing field. Monument is to honor the Texans who died both the manufacturing and agricul- Having effective and up-to-date trade April 21, 1836, when a small force led by Sam tural sectors. These laws form the last laws in place is important to inter- Houston surprised and defeated a larger line of defense for U.S. industries, nationally competitive U.S. farm and Mexican force led by Gen. Antonio Lopez de which must operate on market-based manufacturing industries, especially Santa Anna. principles even though their foreign the steel industry, where international The Mexican leader fled during the battle competitors frequently do not, against trade has been more heavily distorted but was captured a short time later, leading by subsidies, closed markets carteliza- to Texas’ independence from Mexico. injury caused by unfairly traded im- Today’s ceremony also will salute the 30th ports. tion and dumping than any other eco- anniversary of the modern-day Texas Army, The basic covenant at the heart of nomic sector. which appears in costume at such events and U.S. trade policy holds that while For these reasons, Mr. Speaker, I performs cannon and musket salutes. America maintains an open market to urge my colleagues to join me in sup- Musical entertainment will be provided by fairly traded goods of any origin, our porting the Fair Trade Law Enforce- the Skylarks and by K.R. Woods and the Fa- trade laws will ensure that our indus- ment Act of 1999. These fundamental thers of Texas. A barbecue also is planned, tries and workers will not be subject to reforms will help keep a credible and for which tickets are $10. Admission to the injury from unfairly traded imports. effective deterrent against unfair trade ceremony is free. in place into the next millennium, and On Saturday, the San Jacinto Volunteers b 1430 they deserve enthusiastic support from will present their ninth annual re-enactment Unfortunately, American industry of the Battle of San Jacinto. The living his- friends of America’s manufacturers and tory camp will feature Texan and Mexican and our working men and women have farmers and workers all over. armies beginning at 10 a.m., with uniformed suffered because we have failed to up- f characters demonstrating camp cooking, date these laws even as the world econ- candle and soap making, weapons and other omy continues to change. The trade CONDOLENCES EXTENDED TO PEO- activities from the Texas Revolution era. laws must now be strengthened to pre- PLE OF LITTLETON, COLORADO A narrated ‘‘battle’’ is set for 3:30 p.m. vent unfairly traded imports from un- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. with cannons booming, muskets firing and dermining our manufacturing and agri- SIMPSON). Under a previous order of the battle drums echoing to signal the clash of cultural base. House, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Texan and Mexican cavalry and infantry. The last general reform of the U.S. The day concludes with a re-enactment of HINOJOSA) is recognized for 5 minutes. Santa Anna’s surrender to Houston and a trade laws, unconnected to any par- Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, I am ceremony honoring those who died in the ticular trade agreement, occurred more profoundly shocked and saddened by battle 163 years ago. than a decade ago. In that time, the yesterday’s school tragedy in Little- The San Jacinto Battleground is on Texas problems to which these laws must re- ton, Colorado, where two students 134, or Battleground Road, north of Texas spond have changed considerably, as opened fire on their classmates and 225. For more information call 281–479–2431. underscored by the recent Asian and then turned their guns on themselves. Russian economic disasters and the The most common question we ask f steel trade crisis that has ensued. It ourselves in a situation like this is The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a has become painfully clear, for exam- ‘‘why?’’ Well, we do not know yet all previous order of the House, the gen- ple, that the current trade laws are not the ‘‘hows’’ or ‘‘whys’’ of this tragedy, tleman from Arkansas (Mr. HUTCH- capable of responding to the kinds of and we may never understand it. What INSON) is recognized for 5 minutes. sudden import surges, causing dra- we can do, without question and hesi- (Mr. HUTCHINSON addressed the matic and rapid injury, which now tation, is extend our thoughts and House. His remarks will apper here- seem to be part of the international prayers to the families who have lost after in the Extensions of Remarks.) economic scene. their loved ones, to the parents who H2240 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 have lost their beloved children, to the we, as Members of Congress, continue schools safe and to ensure that our Na- wounded children and their families, to officially recognize the genocide be- tion’s classrooms are places for learn- and to the people of the community of cause it is an important part of our ing and for nurturing the full potential Littleton, Colorado. world history, just as historically im- of our young people. Mr. Speaker, I can empathize with portant as World War II, and a prelude Mr. Speaker, I hope that as a Nation what the people of Littleton are going to the Holocaust that followed. It is a we will respond to this incident by through. There was an incident of shame and an outrage that the Geno- looking beyond our prejudices and po- senseless school violence in my own cide is still not recognized by many, litical leanings. My concern is that the south Texas congressional district a many nations. violence that took place in Colorado little over 1 year ago. On January 13, Mr. Speaker, it is also important has deeper implications for our future 1998, two masked gunmen, armed with that we continue to mark this event on than we can fully fathom at this mo- automatic assault rifles, stormed into an annual basis. Although most of the ment. I fear it goes deeper than obser- a building at South Texas Community survivors of the Genocide are unfortu- vations about a decline in our values or College and opened fire where students nately no longer with us, their rel- moral decay as a society. were registering for class. Two stu- atives continue to remember and to Ultimately, this tragedy will chal- dents were seriously wounded and one mourn them to this day. I am proud lenge us to carefully explore our under- security guard died in that shooting. that the State of New York is one of standing of rights and freedoms, In McAllen, Texas, this was certainly the few States which has offered a whether it is access to the Internet or not something that we ever imagined human right/genocide curricula for access to guns. Moreover, it will chal- possible on a community college cam- teachers and students to use at their lenge us to place an even greater pri- pus. Shock and grief swept across our discretion, which includes the Arme- ority on the quality of our lives and community in the immediate after- nian Genocide. I was a sponsor of that the lives of our children. math of the violent incident. To this curricula, and I believe educational f day, it remains a shock and a horror. programs such as this allow our chil- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a In the days ahead, it is important dren to learn more about the tragic previous order of the House, the gentle- that we do all we can to hammer home events such as the Armenian Genocide, woman from California (Ms. ESHOO) is to our children and to young adults hopefully ensuring a peaceful existence recognized for 5 minutes. that violence is wrong. As a member of for future generations. (Ms. ESHOO addressed the House. the House Committee on Education Mr. Speaker, we cannot forget that Her remarks will appear hereafter in and the Workforce, school safety is an the persecution and mistreatment of the Extensions of Remarks.) issue that I take very seriously. In the Armenian people continues today fact, it is the number one educational in Nagorno-Karabagh. Since 1988, fight- f concern of hundreds of my constituents ing there has left more than 1,500 Ar- COMMEMORATION OF THE I surveyed earlier this year. menians dead and uprooted hundreds ARMENIAN GENOCIDE Today, Mr. Speaker, as we struggle more, forcing them to flee to other to understand this tragedy, our hearts parts of this unstable region. As a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a go out to the people of Littleton, Colo- member of the Congressional Armenian previous order of the House, the gentle- rado. On behalf of every man, woman Caucus, I will work to end the repres- woman from New York (Mrs. MALONEY and child of Texas’s 15th Congressional sion of the Armenian people in of New York) is recognized for 5 min- District, please accept our deep condo- Nagorno-Karabagh and will continue to utes. lences and sympathy. support their efforts to ensure a stable Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Mr. f future for their people. Speaker, as a proud member of the f Congressional Caucus on Armenian COMMEMORATING THE ARMENIAN Issues, and the representative of a GENOCIDE COLUMBINE HIGH SCHOOL large and vibrant community of Arme- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a SHOOTING nian Americans, I rise today to join my previous order of the House, the gen- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a colleagues in the sad remembrance of tleman from New York (Mr. CROWLEY) previous order of the House, the gen- the Armenian Genocide. is recognized for 5 minutes. tleman from Colorado (Mr. UDALL) is First, I would like to commend the Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise recognized for 5 minutes. gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. today to join my colleagues in remem- Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speak- PALLONE) and the gentleman from Illi- brance of the victims of the Armenian er, as a Coloradoan and as an Amer- nois (Mr. PORTER), cochairs of the Cau- Genocide. I would like to thank the co- ican, I am profoundly shocked and sad- cus, for all of their hard work on this chairs of the Armenian Caucus, the dened by the shootings at Columbine issue and other issues of human rights. gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. High School in Littleton, Colorado, April 24, 1999 marks the 84th anniver- FRANK PALLONE) and the gentleman yesterday. My thoughts and prayers go sary of the beginning of the Armenian from Illinois (Mr. JOHN PORTER) for ar- out to the families who have been vic- Genocide. It was on that day in 1915 ranging this important special order in tims of this terrible crime. that over 200 Armenian religious, polit- observance of this tragic event. I can hardly imagine the horror and ical and intellectual leaders were ar- During the second half of the nine- pain experienced by the families who rested and murdered in central Turkey. teenth century, between the years 1915 lost loved ones in this tragedy, and as This date marks the beginning of an and 1923, the Armenian population of the father of two school aged children, organized campaign by the young Turk the Ottoman Empire became a target I am deeply distressed by the prospect government to eliminate the Arme- of heightened persecution by the Otto- that our schools have become places nians from the Ottoman Empire. Over man Turks. These persecutions cul- where this kind of violence can take the next 8 years, 1.5 million Armenians minated in a 3-decade period during place. died at the hands of the Turks, and a which more than 1.5 million Armenians Today, however, is not a time to rush half million more were deported. were systematically uprooted from to judgment about the causes or cures As the United States Ambassador to their homelands of 3,000 years and for this tragedy. I do believe, however, the Ottoman Empire, Henry Morgen- eliminated through massacres and de- that parents, community leaders and thau, Sr. has written, and I quote, portation. policymakers at all levels, including ‘‘When the Turkish authorities gave Mr. Speaker, this historic event can school boards, State legislators and our the orders for these deportations, they no longer be denied. Vast amounts of national government need to come to- were merely giving the death warrant documentation exist in the United gether in coming weeks and reflect to a whole race. They understood this States archives, as well as in the public upon this tragedy. We need a fuller dis- well and made no particular attempt to domain, which lend proof that the hor- cussion of the values we share as Amer- conceal the fact.’’ rific event surrounding this period did icans, and we need to work more ac- As a supporter of human rights, I am in fact take place. It is important that tively than ever before to make our dismayed that the Turkish government April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2241 is still refusing to acknowledge what The timing of this special order also source, in the manufacture of that and happened and, instead, is attempting to is important because tomorrow is related industries, that has created rewrite history. Earth Day. Earth Day is a curious hundreds of thousands of jobs. And yet In a sense, even more appalling than event, curious because we will not hear here the Vice President is essentially Turkey’s denial is the willingness of as much talk about protecting the en- lauding the elimination of the internal some officials in our own government vironment, which all Americans sup- combustion engine. to join in rewriting the history of the port, as we will about what the Federal We will conduct further discussions Armenian Genocide. It is vital that we Government and Federal bureaucrats on this in the weeks ahead. do not let political agendas get in the can do to curtail individuals’ rights to f way of doing what is right. use private property. Mr. Speaker, the issues surrounding What makes Earth Day more curious TIME HAS COME FOR THE UNITED the Armenian genocide should not go is that the first such celebration took STATES AND IRAN TO HAVE DI- unresolved. I call upon the United place in the 100th anniversary of com- RECT COMMUNICATION States Government to demand com- munist revolutionary Vladimir Lenin’s The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a plete accountability by the Turkish birthday. previous order of the House, the gen- Government for the Armenian genocide One thing we have come to expect is tleman from Ohio (Mr. NEY) is recog- of 1915–1923. that AL GORE will use Earth Day to nized for 5 minutes. To heal the wounds of the past, the criticize Republicans for not micro- Mr. NEY. Mr. Speaker, Bruce Turkish Government must first recog- managing every river, wetland, and es- Langden was a hostage in Iran with the nize the responsibility of its country’s tuary across America from Wash- takeover of the embassy; and as he has leaders at that time for the catas- ington, D.C. stated many times in the past couple of trophe. Nothing we can do or say will AL GORE’s extreme views on the envi- years, it is time for the two countries bring those who perished back to life, ronment have not been given the atten- to talk. but we can require them and bring ev- tion they deserve, despite the fact that It has now been 20 years since the erlasting meaning by teaching the les- he has written an entire book explain- United States and Iran have had any sons of the Armenian genocide to fu- ing them. That book is entitled ‘‘Earth direct communications with each ture generations. in the Balance,’’ and I would encourage other. Official exchanges have all been The noted philosopher George Santa- all of my colleagues to buy a copy and indirect via the Swiss. Its embassy in yana has said, ‘‘Those who cannot re- to read it. I think it will be most in- Tehran today officially represents the member the past are condemned to re- structive. Let me just cite a couple of American interests there. But these peat it.’’ We should heed this wise prin- things out of the book in the limited have been very rare and limited ciple and do all we can to ensure that time I have: amounts of contact. those that died, the people of the Ar- ‘‘The 20th century has not been kind On the face of it, that fact makes lit- menian genocide, that these people are to the constant human striving for a tle sense, for either country to not not forgotten. sense of purpose in life. Two world talk, given the way the interests of the f wars, the Holocaust, the invention of United States and Iran in that part of nuclear weapons, and now the global the world overlap. We cannot ignore VICE-PRESIDENT GORE’S VIEWS environmental crisis have led many of the reality of Iran. Neither can Iran ig- ON ENVIRONMENT us to wonder if survival, much less en- nore the reality of America’s strategic The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a lightened, joyous and hopeful living, is interests and military presence today previous order of the House, the gen- possible. We retreat into the seductive in the Persian Gulf. tleman from California (Mr. DOO- tools and technologies of industrial We have some obvious shared inter- LITTLE) is recognized for 5 minutes. civilization, but that only creates new ests. An improved situation in the Mid- Mr. DOOLITTLE. Mr. Speaker, today problems as we become increasingly east is good for the world and good for marks the first in a series of special or- isolated from one another and discon- us and good for Iran. We obviously also ders members of the Conservative Ac- nected from our roots.’’ share interests of better control of tion Team and Western Caucus hope to Does any reasonable person really sit traffic in narcotics in the region and hold on the record of Vice President AL here and wonder if survival is even pos- freedom of navigation in the Persian GORE. sible? I mean, this is unimaginable. Gulf for everyone. For the past 61⁄2 years AL GORE has And to compare this threat that he But the absence of dialogue with Iran been Bill Clinton’s point man on the sees to the two world wars or to the inevitably impacts even more broadly environment and on a number of key Holocaust? And yet we live in a time of on our strategic interest throughout issues. He has been particularly aggres- unimagined prosperity and a time the region. More specifically, Mr. sive in attacking the work of congres- when people in many ways are more Speaker, it complicates our relation- sional Republicans, often portraying well off than ever. I just think this is ship with the Central Asian states that the positions of congressional Repub- an interesting observation, to see that evolved out of the former Soviet Union, licans as being very extreme and very someone of this high office actually with whom Iran has had historic cul- anti-people, if you will. holds this kind of view which is so far tural and strategic interests. The members of the Conservative Ac- out of the mainstream. It also denies contact in commerce tion Team believe it is important for The Vice President made a statement between the two countries, which can the American people to understand about the future of cars, and that is in benefit many of the Iranian people and why AL GORE finds our record of cut- the book and I will quote within that. also the American people. It leaves the ting taxes, balancing the budget, elimi- Mr. Speaker, I will end on this note: vast oil and gas sector of Iran, in seri- nating wasteful government, and re- Within the context of the Strategic En- ous need of infrastructure moderniza- storing commonsense environmental vironment Initiative, which I under- tion and expansion, open to European policies so contemptible, and to do this stand to be a proposal the Vice Presi- interests but not to the Americans. we think we must look at what AL dent has worked on, it sought to be It also postpones the time when we GORE actually stands for. able to establish a coordinated global inevitably will need to accept the re- Today we will examine the Vice program to accomplish the strategic ality of Iran’s naval presence in the President’s views on the environment. goal of completely eliminating the in- Gulf and the need for Iran to be in- This examination is important be- ternal combustion engine over, say, a cluded in essential long-term, multilat- cause, upon being elected, Bill Clinton 25-year period. eral security arrangements in those ceded control of his administration’s Let me just observe, the internal waters. environmental policy to AL GORE. In combustion engine has been a great It denies us conduct with the emerg- fact, GORE was given the authority to blessing to Americans and to people ing generation of future leaders in that select the EPA Administrator and around the world. I have never really country, particularly amongst the other high-ranking environmental pol- heard of an adequate replacement for young people. Some 50 percent of Iran’s icy positions. it. And it has certainly been the population are under the age of 25, and H2242 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 the educational exchanges between the Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. which means only us, the U.S., placing two countries would be of benefit to ev- Speaker, one of the most important export restrictions on our companies erybody. issues we face as a country and will doing business with other countries, Now, we never are going to be able to continually face is the issue of eco- does not get us there because those communicate by saying, ‘‘These are nomic growth, basic prosperity, cre- other countries have dozens of other the four points that we are unhappy ating an economy where all of our con- options. They can go to other countries with with Iran,’’ and Iran saying to the stituents can have good jobs that last and get their goods and services else- United States, ‘‘These are the four and enable them to take care of them- where, and all that happens is that we points we are unhappy with.’’ I think selves and their family. lose market share and those policies we simply have to agree to begin to We must always be thinking of ways that we are concerned about do not talk and to communicate. to increase economic growth, to in- change. Now, regrettably, the Tehran govern- crease economic prosperity to provide Economic sanctions, in order for ment continues to assert that it is not those jobs. I think that is one of those them to work, must be multilateral in open to dialogue except under condi- basic and fundamental services that I order for them to have full impact. I tions that make dialogue impossible; think of myself providing for the peo- brought a chart with me today to show in other words, no dialogue from gov- ple I represent in the 9th District of my colleagues, in red, the countries ernment to government. And it is clear the State of Washington, is to try to that we have placed some sort of eco- that the continuing political con- help do what we can to encourage a nomic restriction on. In other words, frontation in Iran between conserv- strong economy, and one of the corner- these are countries that there are some ative elements and those preaching stones of a strong economy is exports. sort of restrictions on U.S. companies moderation makes overtures towards In order to create a possibility for exporting to them. These are markets the U.S. unlikely soon. economic growth, we have to have a that we are shutting off or reducing ac- We also have our own amounts of ar- strong export market, and a few basic cess to for U.S. companies. guments in our democracy here about facts make this point clear. Ninety-six b 1445 whether we should or should not com- percent of the world’s population lives Mr. Speaker, the important point mune. I am sure other Members of Con- outside of the United States. But de- here is it just does not work. If it gress would take a different point of spite the fact we only make up 4 per- worked, if we could actually change view, Mr. Speaker, from what I am say- cent of the world’s population, we con- human rights policy, change democ- ing today. sume 20 percent of the world’s goods racy policy, change economic repres- But on our part, I think we need to and services and products. sion through a policy of unilateral eco- make it clear that we are ready to So we can basically look at those fig- nomic sanctions, certainly it would be communicate and agree to talk with ures and realize that if we are going to worth doing it, but it does not work. each other. One immediate way to sig- have economic growth, it is probably We need to reexamine that policy. nal that interest would be for us to fa- going to have to occur outside of the Mr. Speaker, we have a bill in the cilitate the license that would be need- United States. We are going to have to House to do that sponsored by the gen- ed under our current trade embargo for do something to get access to that 96 tleman from California (Mr. DOOLEY), the sale of up to 500,000 tons of Amer- percent of the world that does not live who spoke earlier on this issue. I think ican agricultural commodities that here. it is critical that we support that. American and Iranian private interests There is massive potential for growth On technology, we restrict it for a seek to complete. According to Sec- in those markets for all of our prod- slightly different reason. We restrict it retary of Agriculture Glickman, the re- ucts. Technology products, goods, serv- for national security concerns. Per- quest remains under review. ices, you name it, exports are an in- fectly valid concerns, but the question Former Secretary of State Cyrus credible possibility for growth. Cur- is: Do our restrictions on encryption Vance, in a speech at the Asia Society rently we have a number of policies in software and computers actually help in New York, urged the reestablish- the U.S. that restrict the ability of national security? I would argue, first, ment of relations between the two those exports to grow, and that is what that they do not and, second, that they countries. Looking down the road, a re- I want to address the House about actually hurt our national security in- stored relationship between Iran and today. terests. the United States would find special Now, there are some very good rea- This technology is not something we strength in one important factor. The sons for why these restrictions on ex- can put our arms around. It is growing U.S. today is the second largest Per- ports exist. Unfortunately, as times so fast and in so many countries other sian-speaking country in the world. have changed, those reasons are no than the U.S. We are not the only ones Some million and a half Iranian longer valid, so it is very important making encryption software in com- Americans now live here in the United that we reexamine our policy of re- puters. Other countries are doing it. States. Many had fled the country or stricting exports. And there are two Therefore, these countries that we emigrated since the Iranian revolution. that I want to touch on today. One is want to restrict access to will get ac- Like the many other ethnic minorities unilateral economic sanctions, and the cess to it anyway. All we will do is hurt who make up our country, that is a second is restrictions that we police on our own companies and hurt their abil- special strength for the long term. the exportation of certain tech- ity to grow. Families should be able to go back and nologies, certain software and certain This is not a choice between com- forth. Iranians should be able to visit computers. merce and national security. In fact, I their families here. When we look at the issue of unilat- would argue that our national security So I conclude, Mr. Speaker, by just eral economic sanctions, it is impor- could be best enhanced by opening up saying that the time has come to at tant to first look at why we do it. We these markets to our U.S. technology least begin to agree to communicate so do it because we want to change the companies so that U.S. technology that differences that we have can be policies of other countries, policies companies can continue to be the lead- brought to the table, and I think it will that we are absolutely right in con- ers in technology and, therefore, share make for a better world and a better demning and wanting to change, poli- that technology with our national se- Mideast and more of a resolve to have cies such as restrictions on religious curity interests. We are not going to be peace on our planet. freedoms, restrictions on democratic able to get the sort of interplay back f freedoms, restrictions on economic and forth between the private sector freedoms, and basic human rights con- and our defense companies if Germany U.S. POLICIES RESTRICT GROWTH cerns. or Canada or any number of other OF CERTAIN EXPORTS Unilateral economic sanctions are countries suddenly is out in front of us The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a perceived as one way to get other coun- in technology. We will lose our na- previous order of the House, the gen- tries to change those policies. But the tional security edge. tleman from Washington (Mr. SMITH) is problem is we live in a global economy, So, paradoxically, the policy of re- recognized for 5 minutes. and in a global economy a unilateral, stricting the ability of our technology April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2243 companies to have access to other mar- trying to bomb Milosevic into compli- other 500,000 had gone into exile. At the kets for goods like computers and ance. I believe a fiercely enforced em- end of 1923, all of the Armenian resi- encryption software winds up harming bargo might have been a better first dents of Anatolia and western Armenia our national security policies. step. An effort to induce Milosevic to had been either killed or deported. The world has changed. It is global, step aside by telling him he would have The genocide was criticized at the and technology is very accessible. We been forcibly pursued and taken and time by U.S. Ambassador Henry Mor- need to reexamine old policies that no tried as a war criminal would have also genthau, who accused the Turkish au- longer accomplish what they set out to been worth trying. But NATO and the thorities of, quote, giving the death do. Clinton administration chose another warrant to a whole race, unquote. The f course that has led to where we are founder of the modern Turkish Nation, today. Kemal Ataturk, condemned the crimes ADMINISTRATION SHOULD CALL Even though the results are so far perpetrated by his predecessors, and ON OUTSIDE COUNSEL TO HELP not what we would like to see, we are yet this forthright and sober analysis DEVELOP BALKAN STRATEGY committed to the effort and cannot has been spurned by Turkey and the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a back off. We must win, not only for the United States during the last decade. previous order of the House, the gen- sake of the refugees and for stability in The intransigence of this and prior tleman from Virginia (Mr. WOLF) is Eastern Europe, but now for the credi- administrations to recognizing and recognized for 5 minutes. bility of both the U.S. and NATO. If commemorating the Armenian Geno- Mr. WOLF. Mr. Speaker, I rise to ex- credibility is lost, will there not follow cide demonstrates our continued dif- press concern over the conditions in a host of other tyrants eager to chal- ficulty in reconciling the lessons of the Balkans. I am particularly con- lenge the will of the free world in pur- history with real politic policies; that cerned with the continued deteriora- suit of their own gain? is, those who fail to learn the lessons of tion in the lives of ethnic Albanian ref- Today I call on President Clinton to history are condemned to repeat them. ugees ripped from their homes in assemble a group of American leaders We have seen continually in this cen- Kosovo at the direction of Serbia Presi- knowledgeable of and with proven abil- tury the abject failure to learn and dent Milosevic. I have been concerned ity in foreign affairs, diplomacy, war- apply this basic principle. The Arme- enough to visit this troubled region fare and statecraft to provide counsel nian Genocide has been followed by the twice in the past 2 months. I watched and direction to the Balkan effort Holocaust against the Jews and mass conditions get worse and worse and which now seems to be stalled. I hope killings in Kurdistan, Rwanda, Burundi worse. Reports indicate that half a mil- he considers men and women of high and the Balkans. Many of these situa- lion refugees have fled Kosovo for Al- stature and achievement such as tions are ongoing, and in most cases bania, Macedonia, Montenegro, with George Shultz, Warren Christopher, there seems little apparent sense of ur- many more than that uprooted and Zbigniew Brzezinski, Senator Sam gency or moral imperative to resolve hiding in terror in Kosovo. And the free Nunn, Casper Weinberger, Bob them. Commemoration of the Armenian world has found no way to stem this Zoellick, Morton Abramowitz, William Genocide is important. It is important fall into despair for over a million men, Perry, Frank Carlucci, Max not only for its acknowledgment of the women and children. Kampelman, Paul Wolfowitz, Lee Ham- suffering of the Armenian people, but Relief efforts are underway to help ilton, Robert Hunter, James Baker, also for establishing a historical truth. the refugees. Mr. Speaker, while it may Lawrence Eagleburger, Jeane Kirk- It also demonstrates that events in Ar- be too late and too little, help is begin- patrick, former Admiral William menia, Nazi Europe and elsewhere ning to be provided. But nothing has Crowe, former General Schwarzkopf worked to date to overturn the root should be seen not as isolated inci- and former General Colin Powell. dents, but as part of a historical con- cause. Milosevic has campaigned to These would be men and women who drive ethnic Albanians out of Kosovo in tinuum showing that the human com- would sit at the table with their Presi- munity still suffers from its basic in- a manner so evil that fear will linger in dent not to criticize what has or not their hearts forever. ability to resolve its problems, to re- been done, but to suggest a workable solve them peacefully and with mutual NATO and Clinton administration ef- plan for the future. They would offer forts thus far have not stopped the bru- respect. privileged counsel to the President I hope that today’s remarks by Mem- tality. Despite daily briefings to the rather than critical critique to the bers concerned about Armenia will help contrary, bombing in Serbia is just not press. They would help define an ac- to renew our commitment and that all going that well. At the rate things are ceptable way to end the Balkan strat- of the American people will oppose any going, it may take a long time to stop egy. and all instances of genocide. Milosevic, and the refugees do not have All Americans want to bring peace to f forever. For too many, time has al- the Balkans and help the refugees from ready run out. The Clinton administra- Kosovo. Mr. President, I call on you TURKISH GOVERNMENT CON- tion has so many times ruled out the and I urge you to call on some of the TINUES TO DENY ARMENIAN use of ground troops that Milosevic best people in America to help show GENOCIDE may have been emboldened by what he the way, and please, please do it soon. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a perceives as a lack of commitment by f previous order of the House, the gentle- the other side to win. I fear that the woman from Michigan (Ms. STABENOW) COMMEMORATING THE ARMENIAN Clinton administration has no clear is recognized for 5 minutes. strategy or idea as to what it will take GENOCIDE Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, today to win in the Balkans. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a I join with my colleagues to commemo- Last Friday I called the White House previous order of the House, the gentle- rate this day, April 24, as the day of the and spoke with someone on the Na- woman from Maryland (Mrs. MORELLA) Armenian genocide carried out by the tional Security Council about this is recognized for 5 minutes. young Turk government of the Otto- issue. I asked if they had sought out- Mrs. MORELLA. Mr. Speaker, I am man Empire in 1915. It was on that day side thinking from knowledgeable and pleased to join with some of my col- in 1915 when 300 Armenian leaders, previously experienced people, such as leagues who have been here today to writers and thinkers were rounded up, Warren Christopher, George Shultz, commemorate the Armenian genocide. deported and killed, and 5000 of the Larry Eagleburger and others, includ- This observance takes place every poorest Armenians were killed in their ing battle-proven former military com- April, for it was in that month in 1915 homes. Between 1894 and 1921 there manders. I was told they had not, but that more than 200 Armenian religious, were 1.5 million Armenians in the Otto- this idea might be an idea they would political and intellectual leaders were man Empire that were killed, and entertain. To my knowledge they have arrested in Constantinople and mur- 500,000 were deported. not followed up. dered. Over the next 8 years persecu- This Armenian genocide was carried I personally would have chosen a dif- tion of Armenians intensified. By 1923 out in a tragically inhumane and sys- ferent plan than the current effort of more than 1.5 million had died and an- tematic fashion. First, Armenians in H2244 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 the army were disarmed, placed into The eyewitness accounts of this trag- nonviolence. Demonstrating and teach- labor battalions and then killed. Next, edy come not from the history books ing our children that violence is wrong Armenian political and intellectual but from my own hometown. Today, should be a part of our daily lives. leaders were rounded up and killed as nearly one-quarter of a million Arme- Each day in the United States five well. Finally, the remaining Armenians nians reside in the Los Angeles area, a infants and children die from abuse and were called from their homes and majority in my hometown of Glendale, neglect and seven teens are murdered. marched to concentration camps in the California. This is the largest con- In fact, more children lose their lives desert where they were left to starve to centration of Armenian Americans out- to criminal violence in the United death or were placed on barges and side the Republic of Armenia. I have States than in any of the 26 industri- sunk in the Black Sea. During that been blessed with their friendship. alized nations of the world. Many time Turks who protected Armenians Armenian Americans have served our would be shocked at these statistics. were killed. country faithfully as members of the The Children’s Memorial Flag To this day, Mr. Speaker, the Turk- armed services, as public officials, as Project was created to raise awareness ish government denies that there was business and community leaders. Their about the violence towards children in an Armenian genocide and claims that story is the story of America, one of our country and to organize commu- Armenians were only removed from the hard work, dedication, commitment to nity and national prevention strate- eastern war zone. America has bene- faith and to family. I have heard their gies. It is with pride that I say that fited in countless ways from the sur- story. I have heard it from survivors of this project was originated in 1996 in vivors of the genocide who have come the genocide and from their descend- the district which I represent, the 9th to the United States with their fami- ants. Congressional District of California. lies and now their descendants. As a My good friend Gregory Krikorian In the past 5 years alone we have lost representative from Michigan, we have has told me the story of his grand- more than 140 children in Alameda been blessed by the contributions of mother, Yegnar Atamian, who after County to preventable violence. Each the Armenian community in our cities witnessing the brutal death of her fa- time a child is killed, we fly the Chil- and counties across Michigan. ther, the capture and slaughter of her dren’s Memorial Flag at half-staff. The Today I call on the Republic of Tur- brothers, the rape of her mother and Child Welfare League of America has key to stop being the only country in sisters, endured her own deportation adopted Alameda County’s Children’s the world to deny the Armenian geno- through the deserts of Syria. Her faith Memorial Flag and promotes it nation- cide. It is time to admit what hap- and her will to live somehow guided ally. pened. The Republic of Turkey must her to America. Last year 33 states participated on show goodwill as well by allowing She is not alone. Last year, I spoke Children’s Memorial Day, the fourth American aid to present-day Arme- of the tragedy witnessed by another Friday in the month of April, which is nians to pass through to their citizens constituent, Haig Baronian. As a child, both Child Abuse Month and Crime unhampered. he watched his own mother dragged Prevention Month. This year we antici- This is a day to remember, a day to away, never to be seen again. pate 20 States flying the flag at half- pause in prayer and a day to com- In the memory of their families and mast, with 13 others memorializing the memorate our desire and commitment in reverence to our founding principles children by other means. for this not to happen again. of liberty at all costs, we must not let Soon my friend and our Bay Area col- f these images be erased from history. league, the gentleman from California HONORING THE MEMORY OF THE We must work together today to put to (Mr. STARK), will introduce legislation ARMENIAN GENOCIDE rest the painful memories of these and that would adopt the Children’s Memo- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a so many Armenians who were forced to rial Flag and establish the fourth Fri- previous order of the House, the gen- begin their lives anew, far from their day in April as National Day of Observ- tleman from California (Mr. ROGAN) is homeland. We must properly acknowl- ance. I ask my colleagues to cosponsor recognized for 5 minutes. edge the past. and support this legislation, and honor Mr. ROGAN. Mr. Speaker, imagine an I urge my colleagues to join me in the memory of children lost to violence entire village, 10,000 people, drowned at supporting our efforts to commemorate in our country on this Friday, April once. Imagine watching as your fathers the genocide against Armenia. Let us 23rd. I will continue to work to estab- and brothers are burned to death. join together to close the gaping wound lish this day as a remembrance to Imagine watching men in your commu- history has scored on the body of hu- honor children by flying the Children’s nity tied to horses and dragged away. manity. Let us give the martyrs of the Memorial Flag at half-mast, and I urge Or watching children see their mothers Armenian people the eternal rest they my colleagues to join with me in this and sisters raped and then beaten and have been seeking for nearly a century. effort. dragged away. Imagine, if you will, f Ms. BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise on behalf of one of our society's most valuable smiling soldiers posing alongside the ALAMEDA COUNTY CHILDREN’S and most vulnerable groups of citizens: our corpses of those who were just mo- MEMORIAL DAY AND FLAG Children. ments before family, friends and neigh- PROJECT bors. Imagine if all this happened in For more than a decade, April has been front of your eyes, and then as you The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month. grew old, history and indeed nations of NEY). Under a previous order of the The U.S. Department of Health and Human the world choose to ignore it all. House, the gentlewoman from Cali- Services reported that nearly one million chil- Mr. Speaker, these memories were fornia (Ms. LEE) is recognized for 5 dren were abused and neglected in 1997. not imagined, they were witnessed by minutes. Child abuse is society's concern. Prevention thousands. Today these memories live Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to of child abuse demands that everyoneÐFed- in the hearts and minds of many of my ask that my colleagues join me in sup- eral, State and local government as well as friends and thousands of my constitu- porting a Children’s Memorial Flag community service providers, teachers, busi- ents. It is our duty not to let these Project and establishing a National nesses, families, friends and neighbors must memories fade. Children’s Memorial Day to remember work as a unit to protect our children. all of the children who die by violence This Friday is Children's Memorial Day; a b 1500 in our country. As I speak today, my day set aside to memorialize the thousands of Mr. Speaker, I rise to support legisla- thoughts and prayers go out to the children and youth killed each year as a result tion that will forever recognize the Littleton, Colorado, community and of child abuse. I challenge each Member of atrocities committed against the Ar- the families of the students and faculty Congress to help expand awareness and en- menian people at the hands of the members who were tragically murdered courage prevention efforts for this nationwide Ottoman Turks between 1915 and 1923. yesterday. problem. In eight short years, more than 1.5 mil- Not only during January, when we Violence against our children must end. Pre- lion husbands, wives and children suf- celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s venting child abuse is everybody's business. fered and died. birthday, should we discuss and teach Make it yours. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2245 MANY ARMENIAN SURVIVORS tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Those who say we should pursue vic- CAME TO THE UNITED STATES CAPUANO) is recognized for 5 minutes. tory by any means necessary and at all SEEKING A NEW BEGINNING (Mr. CAPUANO addressed the House. costs fail to answer the question, what The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a His remarks will appear hereafter in would victory be if in the process it previous order of the House, the gen- the Extensions of Remarks.) brought us a bitterly hostile Russia, tleman from New York (Mr. SWEENEY) f made even more dangerous than the is recognized for 5 minutes. WE MUST EXAMINE THE KOSOVO old Soviet Union by the volatile com- Mr. SWEENEY. Mr. Speaker, it is CRISIS IN LIGHT OF OUR VITAL bination of loose nukes and a restive with great pride that I rise before the NATIONAL INTERESTS military? Do we strengthen our na- House today, taking this opportunity tional security by potentially undoing to speak out about one of the 20th cen- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a all the good work that we have done tury’s earliest atrocities and worst previous order of the House, the gen- since the fall of the Berlin Wall in get- atrocities. I do so because this subject tleman from Ohio (Mr. KASICH) is rec- ting Russia to be a responsible power? is close to my heart. ognized for 5 minutes. The issue of the refugees is, of Mr. Speaker, I am the son of a second Mr. KASICH. Mr. Speaker, as we ap- course, a terribly, terribly important generation Armenian American. My proach the NATO summit in Wash- issue and cannot be dodged by anyone own grandfather, a native Armenian, ington this weekend, I would hope that in the debate on Kosovo. I am deeply witnessed the bloodshed firsthand when this will be a somber occasion for seri- moved by their plight. The United on April 24, 1915, 254 Armenian intellec- ous reflection about the issues of war States has a moral obligation to get and peace that confront us. tuals were arrested in Istanbul and Milosevic to withdraw his forces from It seems clear that the crisis in taken to the provinces in the interior Kosovo, help return the refugees in an Kosovo is nearing a decision point. of Turkey, where many of them were There are reportedly some in the ad- orderly manner and generally assist in later massacred. ministration and in other NATO gov- reconstruction. My grandfather often told my sisters Just as surely, we need to help Alba- ernments who are contemplating the and I how he had witnessed the execu- nia and Macedonia get up on their feet commitment of ground forces to secure tion of his own uncle and his teacher in economically, but we must ask our- Kosovo. Before we consider such a step, a one room classroom as a child. In selves whether military escalation is and before our country even thinks of total, approximately 1.5 million Arme- the best way to achieve those goals in putting more Americans in harm’s nians were killed in a 28-year period. light of our moral reasoning, which This does not include the half a million way, it is essential that we stop, pause for reflection and examine the Kosovo teaches us to preserve human life and or more who were forced to leave their limit material destruction as best we homes and flee to foreign countries crisis in light of our vital national in- terests, our humanitarian obligations can. like our own. The problem is now bigger than and our enduring need for a more Together with Armenians all over Kosovo, and America should actively the world and people of conscience, I peaceful and stable world. It would be a grave error to replace encourage the mediation of a settle- would like to honor those that lost ment before this crisis flashes over into their homes, their freedom and their no long-term policy, which is what I believe the administration has exe- a wider conflict. Rambouillet was al- lives. Many Armenian survivors came most destined to fail because it re- to the United States seeking a new be- cuted thus far, with the wrong long- term policy. We need to carefully draw quired the acceptance by both parties ginning, among them my grandfather, of a draft document with no sub- who was a recipient of the Russian up a strategic road map of the Balkans, a road map that gets us as quickly as stantive changes allowed. The adminis- Medal of Honor during World War II as tration’s absolute requirement for a a demolition specialist. He was award- possible to our desired outcome. The fundamental question we must NATO implementation force and the ed this honor for his incredible valor in answer is whether our military inter- probability of independence for Kosovo the midst of this premeditated geno- vention in a centuries-old civil war in after 3 years were conditions of Ram- cide. In fact, my grandfather went back the Balkans is likely to be either re- bouillet that neither Yugoslavia or any to his own country to fight the Turks, solved on our terms or be successful other sovereign country was likely to to fight the Turks to stop the mas- over the long term. Make no mistake accept. sacres of his family and his friends. A realistic mediation needs the ef- It is important that we do not forget about it, this is a centuries-old conflict dating to 1389. If it could be accom- forts of neutral parties to develop a about these atrocities. Mr. Speaker, I flexible framework to get the parties am very proud of my Armenian herit- plished, intervention on the ground might be worth doing, assuming cas- to say yes. To the objection that medi- age, and I believe my Armenian grand- ation will never work, I say that judg- father, if he were still alive today, ualties could be minimized, but I have come to the conclusion that military ment is overly pessimistic. We will would be proud to know that he has never know unless we try. Rather than such strong defenders of Armenians in escalation is neither in the national in- terest nor can it achieve a stable long- seeking opportunities to escalate the the United States Congress, and I military campaign, we should be seek- thank my colleagues who have risen term peace in the region. Those who have called for ground ing opportunities for peace. It is strate- today to support this recognition. troops have not specified the goal. Is it gically wise to involve the Russians, f to take Kosovo, fortify it and occupy it not only because of their influence The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a for years, perhaps decades, against the with Serbia but because we must tan- previous order of the House, the gen- threat of Serbian guerilla warfare? Or gibly show Boris Yeltsin and other tleman from Vermont (Mr. SANDERS) is should the goal be to conquer all of democratic forces in Russia that they recognized for 5 minutes. Serbia, with incalculable consequences will be rewarded, not spurned, for their (Mr. SANDERS addressed the House. to wider Balkan stability, our relation- efforts on behalf of peace. His remarks will appear hereafter in ship with Russia and our ability to re- A too rigid rejection of Russian peace the Extensions of Remarks.) spond on short notice to other regional overtures, by contrast, would simply f flash points around the world? strengthen extremists in Russia. Other The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Do those who advocate such a course countries such as Sweden and the previous order of the House, the gen- understand that it may take months to Ukraine should be encouraged to take tleman from Indiana (Mr. MCINTOSH) is properly build up such an invasion part, and we must consult actively recognized for 5 minutes. force? How much more misery and dev- with countries in the region. From (Mr. MCINTOSH addressed the House. astation will have occurred by then? In Italy and Bulgaria to Greece and to His remarks will appear hereafter in this particular conflict, does Turkey, they will have to live with any the Extensions of Remarks.) ratcheting up the violence serve our settlement in the Balkans for decades f national interests or, for that matter, to come. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a the interests of refugees and innocent I do not underestimate the difficul- previous order of the House, the gen- civilians? ties involved, but should Milosevic H2246 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 balk, we will retain the ability to apply because regional instability will not tred can only lead to more division and military pressure and continue to solve itself. But we must choose our hatred, as the genocide proved. Hope- apply military pressure from the air. tools very carefully, for the stakes do fully, the work of the caucus and of the Once a settlement is reached, an inter- not allow failure. Power is a finite others committed to the same cause national force may be necessary to as- quantity. If we wantonly expend it all will help ensure that an atrocity such sist the refugee return and to oversee over the world for every thinkable as the genocide will never happen reconstruction. We should be more cause, we diminish ourselves. America again. Kishar paree and flexible about the makeup of this force should carefully husband its military Shnorhagalootyoon. I thank you for than we have been in the past. Rather power. We should act militarily only in your time. than making its composition a non- the cases of clear national interests f negotiable end in itself, we should bear and always keep an eye on the stra- in mind that the international force is tegic end game: Protecting the Amer- MEMORIALIZING THE ARMENIAN the means to an end. That means to an ican people and using our power effec- GENOCIDE end is peace and stability in Kosovo, tively where it will provide greater sta- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a where ethnic Albanians can live in bility and security for the world. safety and with autonomy. A mediated settlement of the Kosovo previous order of the House, the gen- tleman from New York (Mr. MCNULTY) b 1515 crisis may not be politically popular at the moment, but it may look consider- is recognized for 5 minutes. World War I began in the Balkans be- ably wiser to us and our children in the Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I join cause a great power, Austria-Hungary, future. with my many colleagues today in re- scoffed at the idea that Russia would membering the victims of the Arme- f intervene on the behalf of its Serbian nian Genocide. But rather than repeat ally. The world has turned over many 84TH ANNIVERSARY OF ARMENIAN what has already been said, let me say times since 1914, but it could be an GENOCIDE a few words about the very positive equally grave mistake to assume that The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. spirit of the Armenian people, because the Russians will remain passive in- NEY). Under a previous order of the they endured a great deal before, dur- definitely. They have already sent House, the gentleman from Massachu- ing and after the genocide, and they truck columns carrying relief supplies setts (Mr. TIERNEY) is recognized for 5 were under the totalitarian dictator- to Yugoslavia, and there is public agi- minutes. ship of the Soviet Union for many dec- tation in Russia to send military Mr. TIERNEY. Mr. Speaker, I want ades. equipment. to commend the thoughtful remarks of That all ended in 1991, and I was This situation is far too dangerous my colleague, the gentleman from Ohio there to see it. I was one of the four for the U.S. public debate to get car- (Mr. KASICH), the chairman of the Com- international observers from the ried away by amateur generals in and mittee on the Budget, before I begin United States Congress to monitor out of public office. Many of these peo- my remarks. that independence referendum. I went ple insist that the Russians are too On this 84th anniversary of the Arme- to the communities in the northern weak to do anything about it, precisely nian Genocide, we take a moment to part of Armenia, and I watched in awe the error the Austrians made in 1914. remind ourselves anew of the atrocities as 95 percent of all of the people over There is a better way. Who doubts that that people are capable of committing the age of 18 went out and voted in that Theodore Roosevelt, one of our great- against others. The Armenian Genocide referendum. And of course, the thought est Presidents, knew the national in- of 1915 to 1923 ranks among the most did not escape me how great it would terests and acted vigorously in its be- tragic episodes of the 20th century. It be if we could get that kind of partici- half. Of course he did. But he also knew serves as a constant reminder for us to pation in our own democratic govern- when military action brought no ad- ment here in the United States of vantage and actually weakened a Na- be on guard against the oppression of America. But, as always, sometimes we tion, when a source of regional insta- any people, particularly based on their take things for granted. bility arose, such as the war between race or religion. Too often during this But the Armenian people had been Russia and Japan, his every instinct century, the world has stood silent denied for so many years, they were so was to be an honest broker and medi- while whole races and religions were excited about this new opportunity, al- ate peace. His efforts were rewarded attacked and nearly annihilated. This most everyone was out in the streets, with the Nobel Prize. cannot be allowed to happen again. While we are now a party to the Particularly as we face revived and and that number, I am sure, Mr. Speak- Kosovo dispute, we should be seen as a brutal ethnic hatred in Kosovo, we er, was not inflated because as best I supportive element in such a solution. must take this opportunity to reaffirm could determine it, no one was in their Americans need the moral courage to our commitment to the achievement of homes. They were all out into the lead in peace as well as war. I have liberty and peace worldwide. streets going to the polling places. I urged the President to use the occasion I would also like to take a moment, watched people stand in line literally of NATO’s 50th anniversary summit to thinking about the individuals who for hours to get into these small poll- call for a special meeting of the group lost their lives during that Armenian ing places and vote. of eight nations, the so-called G–8, to genocide. One-and-a-half million inno- Then, after they voted, the other in- begin a formal effort to achieve a cent Armenians had their lives snuffed teresting thing was that they did not peaceful settlement. This G–8 meeting out mercilessly. When we try to con- go home, because they had brought lit- should help initiate a framework for a template the idea of one-and-a-half tle covered dishes with them, and all of diplomatic solution of the crisis, and million lives, it is a staggering num- these little polling places across the begin to put into place the foundation ber, almost incomprehensible. But we country, they would have little ban- for economic assistance to this region. must remember the victims of the quets afterwards to celebrate what had Delegations from Ukraine and other af- genocide as they were. Not numbers, just happened. fected regional countries should also be but mothers and fathers, sons, daugh- What a great thrill it was to be with invited to participate in the G–8 ses- ters, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, them the next day in the streets of sion. cousins and friends. Each and every Yerevan when they were celebrating I emphasize that this is not a pan- victim had hopes, dreams and a life the great victory, because 98 percent of acea. It is only the beginning of a long that deserved to be lived to the fullest. the people who voted, of course, voted and difficult process, but it is a step It is our duty to remember them today in favor of independence. It was a great our country should not be afraid to and everyday. thrill to be there with them when they take. The fact that negotiation is a As a member of the Congressional danced and sang and shouted, Getze long-term process should be no obsta- Armenian Caucus, we work every day Haiastan, long live free and inde- cle to our trying to achieve it. with many of our colleagues to bring pendent Armenia. That should be the The United States can and should re- peace and stability to Armenia and its cry of all freedom-loving people main strongly engaged internationally, neighboring countries. Division and ha- throughout the world today. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2247 The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Country B: The government contin- Mr. COBURN. One cannot tell which previous order of the House, the gentle- ued restrictions on freedom of speech is which from these excerpts from the woman from Indiana (Ms. CARSON) is and of the press. Human Rights Report. recognized for 5 minutes. Country A: Discrimination and vio- Mr. GUTKNECHT. This is a non- (Ms. CARSON addressed the House. lence against women remained a seri- partisan group in the State Depart- Her remarks will appear hereafter in ous problem. Discrimination against ment? the Extensions of Remarks.) religious and ethnic minorities wors- Mr. COBURN. This is a nonpartisan f ened during the year. group. This does not have anything to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Country B: Discrimination against do with Republicans or Democrats. previous order of the House, the gentle- women, minorities and the disabled, vi- This has to do with our international olence against women, including coer- relations and our assessment of human woman from Oregon (Ms. HOOLEY) is recognized for 5 minutes. cive family planning practices, which rights status, and we do this on every (Ms. HOOLEY addressed the House. included forced abortion and forced country that we deal with, it is re- Her remarks will appear hereafter in sterilization, prostitution, trafficking quired by law, and here is the assess- the Extensions of Remarks.) in women and children and abuse of ment for those two countries. children are all problems. f b 1530 Country A: The government infringed The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a on freedom of worship by minority reli- It blows the mind to think that we previous order of the House, the gen- gions and restricted freedom of move- have the same evaluation by the U.S. tleman from California (Mr. BERMAN) is ment. State Department, and one country we recognized for 5 minutes. Country B: Serious human rights are trying to befriend and economi- (Mr. BERMAN addressed the House. abuses persisted in minority areas cally aid, and the other country we are His remarks will appear hereafter in where restrictions on religion and bombing today. the Extensions of Remarks.) other fundamental freedoms intensi- THE BUDGET f fied. Mr. COBURN. What I really want to talk about today is the budget, the HONESTY IN GOVERNMENT, PRES- Country A: Police committed numer- money. The U.S. Congress for the last ERVATION OF SOCIAL SECURITY, ous serious and systematic human 45 to 50 years has been dishonest with AND RELATED ISSUES rights abuses. Country B: Security police and per- the American public about the budget. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under sonnel were responsible for numerous I am in my third and final term as a the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- human rights abuses. Member of the House from Oklahoma. I uary 6, 1999, the gentleman from Okla- Country A is a constitutional repub- am a practicing physician. I have con- homa (Mr. COBURN) is recognized for 60 lic; country B is an authoritarian tinued to practice medicine since I minutes as the designee of the major- state. have been in the House. I delivered 97 ity leader. Let me describe these two countries. babies last year as a Member of Con- Mr. COBURN. Mr. Speaker, I am This is Yugoslavia. We are presently gress. It is the thing I do that I think going to have several Members of Con- bombing it as we speak. This is China. keeps my perspective the same as those gress join me today, and we are going We presently give them Most Favored people that I represent. to talk about several issues, but I Nation’s status. The President just I heard in the State of the Union, and wanted to start out on this one, and I spent a week in association with trying I also would tell the Members that I want to apologize to the people who are to establish World Trade Organization am not partisan; my district is mainly seeing this over C–SPAN in that they status. There is something wrong with Democrats, and I am reelected as a Re- cannot read it. But I think it shows a our foreign policy when we take two publican because I am seen as non- tremendous disparity in our foreign countries who have equal human rights partisan. policy that most of us do not under- abuses, one we are trying to make a But I want to share some of the stand, and I think we are not very well friend and do things for economically; things that the President said in his educated on it as a Nation. the other we are bombing. Very, very State of the Union, and then I want to So I want to take some information difficult for us to understand. show the Members that the govern- that is provided by our State Depart- As we bring about this discussion of ment is complicit in being less than ment. This is the latest year’s report the bombing and the war, the only rea- honest with the American public about on two separate countries that we have son I want to bring it up is because of where our financial situation is, what dealings with presently. This is the re- how it is going to impact what the the risk of that is to us for the future, port straight from the U.S. State De- major topic is that I want to talk what the risk is for our children and partment’s 1998 Human Rights Prac- about, and that is honesty in govern- grandchildren, and that we tend to tices Report. ment and the preservation of the So- minimize, and we talk out of two sets Country A: The government’s human cial Security system and the utiliza- of books. rights record worsened significantly tion of Social Security funds for Social The first principle that I want to during the last year. There were prob- Security and not something else. I make sure that we understand is the lems in many areas, including would like to yield to my friend from only time the Federal Government extrajudicial killings, disappearances, Minnesota (Mr. GUTKNECHT). really has a surplus is when the debt torture, brutal beatings, arbitrary ar- Mr. GUTKNECHT. Mr. Speaker, for goes down for our children. rests and arbitrary detentions. the benefit of Members like myself who We currently have almost $6 trillion Country B: This government’s human were not listening carefully at the be- of debt that my grandchildren, and I rights record deteriorated sharply be- ginning of your presentation, it sound- have two of them, they are going to ginning in the final months of 1998 with ed as if you were quoting from some help repay that debt. That is because a crackdown against organized polit- magazine or document. Where did the we have used a double accounting ical dissent. Abuses included instances gentleman get the quotes he was talk- standard. We do not speak as a body of extrajudicial killings, torture, and ing about? truthfully to the American public mistreatment of prisoners, forced con- Mr. COBURN. This is from the about our accounting system or our fessions, arbitrary arrests and deten- United States Department of State Re- deficits and our surplus, and neither tion, lengthy incommunicado deten- port on Human Rights Practices for does the executive branch. tion, and denial of due process. 1998. This is our government’s own I want to use a couple of points to Country A: The government infringes evaluation of these two countries. bring that out, and then I really want on the citizen’s right to privacy. Mr. GUTKNECHT. Mr. Speaker, one to try to make sure that the American Country B: The government infringes of the countries was Serbia and the public knows where we are in the social on the citizen’s right to privacy. other was China? security trust fund, how we solve that Country A: The government severely Mr. COBURN. Correct. problem, and what a surplus is and restricts freedom of speech and of the Mr. GUTKNECHT. It is hard to tell what a surplus is not. Because we con- press. which was which from the comments? tinually hear today that we are in a H2248 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 surplus. We are not in a surplus. We do trates the exact point that the gen- all this, what we will find is we are not have a budget surplus associated tleman is getting at, which is the yel- going to have to go to the taxpayer or with this government. low here basically is what we borrow in to our general revenue. We are going to At the State of the Union speech, I total from each of my three young boys start having to cut a whole lot of other want to give the Members some quotes each year. I have a 6-year-old, a 5-year- spending to keep a balanced budget, if that I heard. I hope that Members will old, a 3-year old, and a 6-month-old. in fact we are going to be able to pay be patient to understand why this is The yellow number, for instance, what we owe for my generation, the important. This is not about Demo- back here in 1994, we borrowed $293. baby-boomers. crats and Republicans, it is about re- The deficit was $203. In 1995 it was—— I was born in 1948. I am the prover- turning the people’s House to the peo- Mr. COBURN. If I can interrupt the bial baby-boomer. There are going to ple by truthfully speaking about what gentleman, the difference between be a whole lot fewer people working our situation is, so they can in fact what we borrowed and what the deficit when I get ready to draw social secu- have confidence that we are going to was is what we stole from social secu- rity than were working when I started deal properly with it, rather than tell- rity. paying into it. Consequently, we can ing a little white lie about what the Mr. SANFORD. That is exactly right. see out here at the year 2035, $850 bil- situation is, and the public knowing Mr. COBURN. The spin on programs lion a year is going to be required in that we cannot be trusted to deal prop- other than social security. additional revenues for us to just meet erly with it. Mr. SANFORD. Yes. So basically $100 the payments of the baby-boomers, just President Clinton said this in the billion, to keep the math simple, got to meet the needs. State of the Union speech this year: borrowed here, and 277 versus 164, again We have a couple of ways that we can For the first time in three decade, the a difference of about $100 billion that deal with that. budget is balanced. From a deficit of was borrowed in 1995. In 1996, $261 was Mr. SANFORD. As the gentleman is $290 billion in 1992, we had a surplus of what we borrowed, and 107, a little pulling that chart up, Mr. Speaker, $70 billion last year. more than that. We could round it out what I think is interesting about what That is not true. We actually, and I to be in the neighborhood of $100 bil- the gentleman was getting at, again, is want to show that, if we had a surplus lion. this whole notion that we have said we last year in 1998, how come the debt Then going back to the number that are going to have surpluses basically as went up $200 billion? How come our the gentleman just talked about, which far as the eye can see. children owe $200 billion more this year I think is interesting, because this is Last year, as the gentleman men- than they did last year, if in fact we this $70 billion surplus, and yet we bor- tioned earlier, the surplus was $70 bil- had a surplus? We did not. We borrowed row over $100 billion. So the gentleman lion, but we borrowed $100 billion to $200 billion, almost, in terms to fund is exactly right, common sense and get there. Next year they are talking and run the Federal Government above regular language and regular account- about a surplus of again around $80 bil- what we actually took in. ing back home would say what we are lion, but borrowing $130 to get there; It is true, some of that we borrowed running right now is not exactly what the year after that, a surplus of about from the social security trust fund, but the rest of America would call a sur- $100 billion, but again, borrowing $100 any time we put an IOU to the social plus. billion to get there. security trust fund, we are recognizing Mr. COBURN. Let us spend a little Mr. COBURN. The point we are say- a liability that our children are going time and tell why it is important that ing is we do not truly have a surplus to have to pay back. we start being honest with the Amer- until we quit borrowing money exter- We also are going to have to pay in- ican public. nal to the United States. Until our terest, so it is like borrowing from our Even with the latest numbers that debt stops rising we have not achieved retirement account to pay off the debt, most people in America have read with a surplus, and it is not proper to tell and then saying we do not have a debt social security’s outflow-inflow chang- the American people that our books anymore, because we have a debt. If we ing by 1 year to the year 2014, what we are balanced until we quit adding to allowed public companies to raid their can see is the bars in black represent the debt for our children and grand- retirement programs, we would put the more money coming into social secu- children. people who made that decision in jail, rity than we are paying out. We have three options when we get to because we have said that they cannot We can see until the year 2014 we are the year 2014 at that time. We can, one, touch retirement funds. They are pro- going to be doing okay. We are going to save 100 percent of the social security jected and protected for the purpose have more money coming into social surplus, transition to a system with a that they will be there in the future. security than we are actually going to portion of that in individual accounts, If we look at this chart, the politi- pay out, so there is cash there that the so that what we invest in social secu- cians in 1997 said we had about a $20 Federal Government has. rity we get a decent return on. Right billion deficit. But the debt rose from It is smart to borrow that and pay off now the average over the past 30 years $5,200,000,000,000 to $5,325,000,000,000. In external debt. I do not deny that that has been about 1.2 percent on our in- 1998, voila, we have a surplus, the first is a smart thing to do. But it does not vestment. We could have had it in a time since 1969, but look what hap- lower the total debt that our children passbook savings and done three times pened to the debt. The debt rose. How and grandchildren are going to have to better. can we have a surplus? pay back. It is an untruthful statement Number two, we can repay the money This is a politician’s surplus. This is to say that it lowers our debt. It does taken from the trust fund by raising the difference between what we took in not. It just lowers that portion of the everybody’s income taxes, and it is im- in social security and what we paid out debt that the public holds, that Japan portant to understand what that does. and we did not spend, of that dif- holds, that Switzerland holds, that That lowers the standard of living for ference. If we took in $10 and we spent Germany holds. It just lowers that per- our children and our grandchildren, be- $6, then we had a $4 difference and we centage and shifts more IOUs to the so- cause the politicians in Washington are calling that a surplus, where we cial security system. have not had the courage to be honest still owe the social security system $10. What is important about fixing social and not spend money that belongs to So it is important for the American security, and fixing it on the basis that the social security system. Or we can public to understand what a surplus is. we are going to start being truthful delay the benefit structure. We can say Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman about the surplus, we are going to be we are going to wait until we are a cer- from South Carolina (Mr. SANFORD). truthful about the surplus in the social tain age, or we can cut the benefits. Mr. SANFORD. Mr. Speaker, I thank security account, which is totally dif- There are only three things that we the gentleman for yielding to me. ferent than the surplus for the Federal can do to fix social security. There are If we might, just in comparing our Government, is that look what happens not more than three things to do. We respective charts, because I want to after the year 2014. have to do one of those three things. show this thing off, staff has been kind If we take all money that comes from We can deny, the politicians can deny enough to put this together, it illus- social security, starting in 2014, plus this as a problem, because they are April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2249 really more interested in getting re- about the debt, is the debt is growing rate of growth in Federal spending by elected; or they can say, we have a at $275 million a day right now. Right more than half. As a result, at least we problem with social security and it is now the national debt is growing at are headed in the right direction. okay to talk about that, because I do $275 million a day. But I think the point of this discus- not have one senior citizen in my coun- b 1545 sion today is there is so much more to ties, and that is 18 of them in Okla- be done. I do want to say at least a homa, who want their grandchildren to That is a number that I cannot com- good thing about the budget that we lose an opportunity because the politi- prehend, let alone billions. If we divide recently passed, I think there are four cians in Washington have not done the it up to individuals, look what the indi- important points that need to be made right thing. They would much rather viduals now owe. In 1997 every man, about the budget resolution that just sacrifice dollars for their grand- woman, and child in this country was passed this House, and in fact passed children. responsible for $19,898; 1998, $20,123; the House and the Senate in the form We have an obligation before us. We 1999, at the end of this fiscal year, they of a joint budget resolution. are at a turning point. The first turn- will be responsible for $20,693. But first and foremost, every penny ing point is being honest with the That does not include the interest of Social Security taxes for the first American people about the budget, not that is being charged on that every time is going to be reserved for Social letting the politicians’ lingo, because year, which is now, I guess, the largest Security. Secondly, we preserve the it sounds better, it is easier, and we or fast becoming the largest compo- spirit of the balanced budget agree- will not be subject to criticism if we nent of the Federal budget at about 17 ment of 1997 in saying that we do in- are a little bit untruthful. It is the old or 18 percent of the money that we col- tend to keep those spending caps. question about, a half truth is a full lectively spend of the tax dollars that Third, we actually begin to pay down lie. My daddy taught me that from the come in. some of the debt that is owed to the time I was 2 years old. And a surplus is Mr. GUTKNECHT. Mr. Speaker, if public. a half truth. It is a surplus in social se- the gentleman will yield, I wonder if We are not talking about the overall curity. the gentleman from South Carolina debt because we have got this big prob- We have to do one of these three (Mr. SANFORD) would put that chart up lem with Social Security. Frankly, the things. I notice that the gentleman again. only thing that Social Security sur- from Michigan (Mr. HOEKSTRA) has The gentleman from Michigan (Mr. pluses can go to is buying government joined us. I wanted to welcome him and HOEKSTRA) did not come in in the class bonds. That may be something that we thank him for being here to discuss of 1994, but the rest of the three of us want to look at as we go forward. this issue with us. did. I might just say that I almost wish But, finally, and I think this is im- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman that the gentleman from Oklahoma portant as well, we make room for from Michigan (Mr. HOEKSTRA). (Mr. COBURN) had not promised to limit some tax relief for working families. Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, I himself to three terms, and I believe Americans today are paying the high- thank my colleague, the gentleman the gentleman from South Carolina est total tax rate that Americans have from Oklahoma, for yielding to me. (Mr. SANFORD) did the same. We des- The options that the gentleman lays paid since World War II. perately need people like them in the So we do believe that if we can exer- out are probably the range of options Congress because they have been valu- cise the fiscal discipline that we need that we have, although under option able Members and people who have to exercise over the next several years, one, we probably have a number of dif- been willing to take the tough votes to ferent alternatives for how we would we can actually begin to strengthen make the progress. reform and strengthen the foundation Social Security, have honest budget I want to point out I think whenever for social security. surpluses, and provide tax relief for the we are talking about the budget or I hope that that is the option that American families if we are willing to this Congress pursues and pursues ag- making any kind of long-term plans, continue to apply the kind of fiscal re- gressively, because if we begin in 1999 we have sort of got to look at where we sponsibility that we have had for the to take a look, a serious look at re- are and where we are going. I think the last 4 years. form, and if we implement reform in important thing about this chart, it Mr. COBURN. Mr. Speaker, let me this Congress, that gives us, then, you really points out two things. show my colleagues how that plays know, we have a time window then of First of all, we still have got a prob- out. Down here is the President and 14 or 15 years to get ready before we hit lem. But I think it also points out that Vice-President Gore’s budget as sub- that wall in 2014. That is a much better we have made significant progress. I mitted to the House and the Senate. option than the number two, which is think the voters back in 1994 said Here is the budget that was passed, raising taxes. enough is enough and they said let us that passed the House. In terms of the Or we end up cutting a bunch of serv- send a whole new team to Washington effect, the zero line is right here. This ices in the other area of the govern- that really is committed to balancing is real surplus. This is honest account- ment, but I do not think that will ever the budget, fiscal responsibility, and ing. This is not playing games. I would happen, or to change the fundamental what I call generational fairness, be- remind people, this is not my opinion, structure of social security by delaying cause at the end of the day what we are this is Congressional Budget Office and the retirement age or cutting benefits talking about is being fair to the next OMB numbers. All right, so they are and those types of things. generation. not my numbers. So the opportunity, and really, the But I want to point out, though, that If we restrain spending, as the gen- thing that we have to take a look at in at least we are moving in the right di- tleman from Minnesota (Mr. GUT- this Congress is reforming social secu- rection as it relates to the deficits, no KNECHT) just discussed, where we stay rity along the lines that our colleague matter how we measure them, because within the budget caps that were is developing a plan on, but that is the in 1994 we were looking at deficits of agreed to in 1997 and that we get our mandate that is in front of us. over $200 billion, and actually we were hands off Social Security, what we see Mr. COBURN. It is interesting to talking over $300 billion if we included is that somewhere right after the year note, as this deficit, this amount of the Social Security Trust Fund money. 2000 we start running a real surplus. As money that we are going to have to In fact, the Congressional Budget Of- a matter of fact, there are people who take from the general fund comes up, fice told us in the spring of 1995, based are projecting this year that because what we are going to do is we are ei- on the President’s budget recommenda- the economy is so good, and because ther going to raise taxes or we are tions, that that deficit was going to one is paying so much in taxes and going to raise FICA taxes to take care grow from about $225 billion to about that we have restrained spending, that of this, it is estimated a 25 percent $690 billion. we may have a $6 billion or $7 billion FICA tax instead of the 12.5 percent Some of us said that that is not the true surplus, real honest non-Wash- FICA tax. direction that the American people ington-based surplus this year. The other thing to note, so every- want to us go. We got busy. We elimi- But if we do not restrain spending, body can really understand this idea nated 400 programs. We have cut the and we increase taxes as the President H2250 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 has suggested and we increase pro- about is trying to restrain the growth graphics of the Social Security system, grams and we increase spending, look and spending in Washington as opposed and if one happens to be 65 right now, what happens. Under his plan there is to cutting. There is not any cutting one will have a life expectancy of about no real surplus till 2004. All this in the that is going on here, but an attempt 82.5 years. If one earned the average red below the line and all this in the to restrain the growth. The reason that wage in 1998, one will have to live 5.1 green below the line goes to our chil- I think that is so important is well il- years past one’s life expectancy ever to dren in debt. Everything above the lustrated with the second chart, which get the money that one puts into So- line, the little bit of red there and the shows that basically Washington has cial Security back, let alone get any whole bunch of green there, reduces the been getting a lot more of a pay raise earnings off of it. debt. So we do have a way to take this than folks back home. If one is 54 right now, one’s average burden of lack of opportunity for our If we look at each year, the purple life expectancy is 82.9. One will have to children away from the future, and line is the degree to which spending live to 99.1 years to just get even with that is restraining spending. has been going up in Washington one’s money. Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, if the versus the orange, I guess that is or- The third age group, 44, one’s life ex- gentleman will yield, I think this is a ange, orange line showing the rate at pectancy is 83.3 years. One is going to point that I do not think we can drive which growth or incomes have been have to have to live to 102 to ever get home often enough. There are those going up at home. All we are trying to one’s money back that one put in, let back in our districts who talk about do is keep the two equal. In other alone any benefit off that money. cutting spending. We have not cut words, if Washington is getting a pay If one happens to be 34 years of age, spending. raise, it ought to be equal with what one is going to have to live an extra Mr. COBURN. That is right. folks are doing back home, not above 16.7 years past one’s life expectancy Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, what that. ever to get one’s money back. we have done is we have slowed the Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, if the There is something fundamentally growth of Federal Government. So my gentleman will yield for a minute, unfair about making our grandchildren colleagues know spending has not been when we are talking about a Wash- drop their living standard to pay for cut. What we have done over the last 3 ington pay raise, we are not talking their retirement when we can do it an- or 4 years, and what we did in the about what they pay Members of Con- other way and still provide every ben- balanced budget agreement of 1997, gress versus what people back home efit that has ever been promised to which we continue in this budget are getting. anybody that is on Social Security or agreement that we just passed a couple Mr. SANFORD. Mr. Speaker, we are who is going to be on Social Security. of weeks ago, is we agreed to live with- talking about how much goes through So it is not an impossible problem, in the caps that restrain the growth of this place, which is $1.7 trillion. but it is a problem that the politicians new spending that we would incor- Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, we are use to drive wedges between candidates porate here in Washington. talking about the money that Wash- when our real job up here ought to be So we said, government, we are going ington believes we ought to spend, in- solving the problems for the American to allow it to get bigger, we are just stead of the American people spending, public, not trying to make political not going to grow it quite as fast. By on a variety of programs and services. hype. just slowing the growth of government Mr. COBURN. So even with the hard So I think this is one of the most re- and sticking to that plan, we achieve work we have done in trying to re- vealing things. It is unfair to our chil- real surpluses, and we achieve a signifi- strain spending since the three of us dren and our grandchildren to ask cant surplus over the years beyond 2000 came to Congress, the gentleman from them to pay into something that they and allow some room for some of that Minnesota (Mr. GUTKNECHT), the gen- know they are never going to get the money to go back to the American peo- tleman from South Carolina (Mr. SAN- return back. ple. FORD), and myself, Federal Government The polling data, which I hate polling Mr. COBURN. Mr. Speaker, let me spending has still, including this budg- data but I like this one, more young make a little correction. We hope to et that we just passed, risen 20 percent. people believe in UFOs than believe achieve real surpluses if the tendency Over $300 billion a year, us fighting that they are going to get their money of Washington is restrained to throw with all our energy to try to limit back out of Social Security. And they money at everything, and so that is our spending, it has still gone up by that. are right, because they are not going to job. So it is very important that this con- get their money out of Social Security We are going to be talking here in a cept of restraining spending be helped. the way the system is set up today. little bit about how what the President I want to get back to Social Security Mr. SANFORD. Mr. Speaker, if the has put us into in terms of Kosovo is just for a minute, if we can, because gentleman will yield, it is funny what going to affect all these numbers. It is the other thing that is important, and those numbers translate into, because I important that we have a discussion we talked about what is going to hap- had seen recent numbers that showed about that and how it is going to im- pen, is Social Security taxes. If we just for a young person born in 1970, making pact us. let the tax rate rise on one’s working $24,000 a year, which is average income, The gentleman from South Carolina wages, remember, this hurts middle in- assuming they never made a pay raise, (Mr. SANFORD) actually has a chart come and lower income more than it in other words they never had an in- that shows what has happened. hurts anybody because there is a max- crease in their pay over the course of Mr. SANFORD. Mr. Speaker, if the imum limit at which one pays Social their lives, they kept earning that gentleman will yield, I just want to fol- Security taxes on. So what happens is $24,000 a year, what they could expect low up what the gentleman from Michi- the rate is going to go from this 12.5 to get returned to them on their Social gan (Mr. HOEKSTRA) is suggesting. percent to a rate of almost 20 percent Security was 0.4 percent if they were I have got friends back home that as we get out into the next millen- male. That is not 1 percent, that is said, ‘‘MARK, are you all a bunch of nium, the next century. four-tenths of a percent. If they are fe- green-eye-shade-covered accountant So if we take the fact that right now male, it is 0.7, seven-tenths of a per- types in Washington, or are you not we are paying 12.5 percent, and we are cent. the guys that are cutting spending in going to take and almost double that Mr. COBURN. Mr. Speaker, reclaim- Washington, taking stuff away from rate of taxes on our children so that we ing my time, it is important that we people?’’ Again, as the gentleman from double the amount of money that is explain what that means because a lot Michigan (Mr. HOEKSTRA) just pointed coming out of their paycheck every of people at home may not. That means out, no. In other words, that may be month, we can see very easily what we if one had $100, one would get 40 cents the rap that at times people send in are going to do is lower their standard for it if one were a male. If one had $100 this direction, but reality is very, very of living. So it is a real problem. It is invested and one were a female, one different. a problem we have to address. would get 70 cents for it. That is, if we look at this one-way One other thing that I think is im- If one puts it in a CD or even a pass- upward curve, what we are talking portant is, if we look at the demo- book savings, one gets $3.50 on it. So April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2251 one gets four to five to six to even al- So the idea that there is some se- Had the politicians done what they most nine times, if one is a man, more crecy about this is true. If the Amer- said they were going to do starting in money investing the same amount of ican public actually recognizes the 1938 with Social Security, what we money into a passbook savings account amount of money withdrawn from would find out is the amazing principle that is guaranteed by the Federal Gov- their paycheck, and paid also addition- the gentleman is about to talk about. ernment to $100,000, than one would by ally by their employer, and that that Mr. SANFORD. This just goes back paying one’s Social Security money. money is really theirs that they cannot to what we were talking about, which Mr. SANFORD. Mr. Speaker, the have because Washington is consuming is the very poor rate of return that same study, if one were black, one it, the participation rate and the rec- could be projected for future retirees in would actually earn a negative rate of ognition of the value of what they are the current system. That is not to say return on the investment because of getting would rise in terms of their ac- that Social Security has not done a lot the shorter life expectancy with black knowledgment of it, and we would see of good for my mom or my grandmom. males. much more activity on the part of the It is simply a question of the demo- So this translates into real money regular citizen to help us try to change graphics that are coming our way that over a person’s retirement, because the mindset of spending more of their the gentleman outlined earlier. that difference that the gentleman money. That translates to a real squeeze in from Oklahoma pointed out, the dif- One final point I would make is that the system and a real squeeze in terms ference between $3.50 or $4 of earnings all through this we have shown this of the rate of return that a young on $1 versus 70 cents or 40 cents can graph that depicts the rise in spending. worker can expect to get out of the make a big difference over time. And the question that I continue to be current system. Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, if the asked, and the question that I ask to One of the things I most frequently gentleman will yield. people in my district, is how many peo- hear from folks back home is, ‘‘You Mr. COBURN. I am happy to yield to ple believe that the Federal Govern- know, MARK, if you all would just keep the gentleman from Michigan. ment is efficient? They kind of snicker. your hands off my Social Security Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, I That is not to say we do not have money, I would have been fine.’’ And think the other thing that is important some great Federal employees, but bu- we actually looked into that, and it when the gentleman is talking about reaucratic run programs typically are turns out they are right. explaining this, the numbers, when one not very efficient. There are exceptions Because if the surpluses that had takes a look at one’s check stub and it to that. But the fact is that we have al- come along in past years, and again we says the FICA and the Social Security lowed growth while we are sitting here missed the number 1937 in the upper and one sees the 6.25 percent, recognize scraping our fingernails against the left-hand corner, but in 1937 there was that one’s employer matches that dol- chalkboard trying to hold down growth a surplus of $766 million in the Social lar for dollar. in the Federal Government. We have Security System. If instead of that One of the bills that I have intro- still allowed a $300 billion increase over money being borrowed and spent on duced says that at the end of the year the last 5 years in terms of budgets. other things in government, if that had when one gets one’s W–2, that the W–2 This counts the fact that we have not ought to state clearly what one has really squeezed any efficiency into this gone into a real account and it had paid in FICA taxes and what one’s em- government yet. We have just trimmed grown and compounded over time, and ployer has paid in matching FICA some of the programs. again this is not a hypothetical num- taxes, because really it is all one’s in- But there are many gains that can be ber, if it simply had been invested in come. That is paid specifically on how made in efficiency. There is over 100,000 the stock market, and I am not saying much one makes. If the employer did IRS employees. How many people in we should put all of Social Security not have to be paying that in taxes to this country are spending tons of money in the stock market, I am not the Federal Government, that could be money having their taxes prepared? saying anything like that, just using a part of one’s wage. How many of them understand how to this as an example of the power of com- It is a hidden tax on each and every fill out their taxes? There are produc- pound interest, if that money had sim- American. Again it is one of these tive jobs for everybody that works at ply gone into the S&P 500, it would ways, secret ways that a time back the IRS somewhere else in the econ- today be worth $1.17 trillion. they went to Washington and they said omy today. And if we take and drop If we follow this argument out, in how can we get some more money 90,000 or 95,000 people out of the Inter- 1938 our surplus was $365 million in So- without letting the American people nal Revenue Service and put them into cial Security. If we had put that in the know how much we are really taxing productive jobs elsewhere, and we have S&P 500, let it grow and compound over them? They said, well, there is the em- simplified the Tax Code where we know time, today that would be worth $485 ployee’s share. Let us create a match- what we will pay and we do not have to billion. ing employer’s share. It never gets re- have 90,000 additional people to collect In 1939, our surplus for Social Secu- ported anywhere. the money, we get benefits both ways. rity was $590 million. If we had in- vested that money in the S&P 500, and b 1600 We save money paying our taxes and the government spends less money col- simply let it grow and compound over It never gets reported anywhere, but lecting. time, today that would be worth $680 it clearly is income. It is revenue that So there are just hundreds and hun- billion. an employer receives that, if they did dreds of things we can do, but we do When we add all these up, we are not have to pay it in taxes to the Fed- not have the political power to do it looking, between the years 1938 and eral Government, they could pay it to yet and it is because America is not 1942 alone, if Washington had kept its the employee. Then when an individual awake. They were awake a little bit in hands off the money, we would have $4 gets a .004 return on that, he or she is 1994, and they fell back asleep because trillion in the bank, which would be not only getting a .004 return on the they were disappointed because they solving the whole problem we are here money that the employee had set aside; felt all politicians were the same. I am discussing in the place. it is the same return that the money here to tell them that we are not. Again, I am not saying this to sug- that is being set aside by the employer There are those who want to change gest that we should put all Social Se- is earning. And that is not right. things. We want Americans to send curity money in the stock market. Mr. COBURN. There is an interesting people here, I certainly want them to Mr. COBURN. What the gentleman is case law on this. There was a company, send people here who are willing to saying is, if we had had a 12 percent I will not mention their name, that had make the sacrifices and the political rate of return rather than 6/10ths of 1 several thousand employees in the sacrifice to do some of the changes. percent of real rate of return, we would State of Colorado who decided to do I think the gentleman from South not have a problem with Social Secu- that on their paycheck stubs, and the Carolina (Mr. SANFORD) had a very in- rity. IRS and the Social Security System teresting chart, and this has to do, and Mr. SANFORD. Right. took them to court and made them I will let him introduce it, but I want Mr. COBURN. And the other answer stop and they won. to give it a little preview. to that is, when are we going to start? H2252 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 And we have to start now. Now is the need to understand where we are, of that 12.5 percent in their own per- opportunity. The American public is where we have been and where we need sonalized retirement account. awake and knows that there is a prob- to go. I think in terms of generational I hope that is the direction this lem with Social Security. It is time to fairness we need to talk to all those group and this Congress is going to go. be totally honest about that regardless groups. But I always ask them, what- Mr. SANFORD. If the gentleman will of what the political costs are. We were ever age group I am speaking with, and yield, one of the reasons I think the sent here to solve problems, not to pro- it is particularly true of the younger gentleman’s point is so interesting is tect ourselves politically. people, how many of them would put the Supreme Court decision of 1960, Mr. SANFORD. That is right. 12.5 percent of their income, because which was Fleming v. Nestor. And, ba- Mr. COBURN. And if we start today that is, in effect, what people put into sically, what it said is that none of us by preserving what money there is, and Social Security right now, how many have any legal claim whatsoever to our allowing it to earn a rate of interest of them would put 12.5 percent of their own Social Security money. that is comparable with other invest- income into a retirement plan which, So this whole issue of private prop- ments that we can have in a retirement over the last 20 years, has had an aver- erty rights, the issue of owning our program, and we can do that, and we age rate of real rate of return of 1.9 own account, seeing a monthly state- can do that without putting it in the percent. ment, knowing to the penny how much stock market, then we will start on the None of them. Absolutely none of is there, I think, is very, very impor- road to making it healthy again. them. In fact, it is a tribute to our tant. The other point that I would make is American educational system because Mr. COBURN. I want to discuss just that had we done what the gentleman our kids in high school and college one more little learning model that we can learn from the past. One of the suggested just for those 6 years, just today are smart enough to figure out ways Social Security got in trouble is those 6 years and not done it for any of that is not a very good rate of return the rest, we would have $4 trillion called political expediency. 1.9 percent. And I must apologize to If I want seniors to vote for me, I earning about $300 billion a year, which them, because I was not quite as famil- give them more benefits. But I do not is more than what we are going to pay iar with the numbers. Actually, for ever tell them that the cost for that out in Social Security this year. And those younger people, people who are benefit is, number one, we cannot af- we would not be having to pay a penny in high school and college and younger ford it; and, number two, if we are real- in Social Security taxes. In other workers perhaps under the age of 30, it ly going to pay for it, it will cost their words, the power of compound interest, is not a 1.9 percent rate of return on grandchildren and their children a had we saved the money instead of their money, it is actually a negative whole lot of money. And what has hap- spending it, we could lower everybody’s rate of return on their money. pened over the past 40 years, as things Social Security taxes now. And at some point I think we have to have been added in terms of Social Se- So we have to move to that, and we be honest with all those generations, curity, as benefits have changed and have to create that opportunity for our and I say it from this perspective. I was have been raised, the politicians did children. born in 1951. And, actually, there were not have the courage to say, wait a The gentleman from Minnesota. more kids born in 1951 than any other minute, from an extrapolation and a Mr. GUTKNECHT. I thank the gen- year. I represent the peak of the baby demographics standpoint, this does not tleman for yielding. I was not listening boomers. My parents are both living. work. Well, we will ignore that; that as carefully as I should to our col- The last thing we are ever going to do can be somebody else’s problem down league’s presentation about the magic is pull the rug out from under our par- of compound interest because I was vis- the road. ents. We cannot do that. Medicare, So- Well, we are at that point. We are iting with our former colleague, also a cial Security, my parents depend on it down the road. We have not in the past classmate of 1994, Mr. Neumann from and lots of people’s parents depend on done the responsible thing to make Wisconsin, who is here with us today. Medicare and Social Security. sure Social Security was viable. The And we are delighted to have him back As a baby boomer, though, I recog- only thing we can take from that is in Washington because he was one of nize that we represent such a huge glut learn from it and not make the same the people who really was a trailblazer that it is going to take some Herculean mistakes. in terms of balancing the budget, pay- efforts on the part of our kids to keep So the integrity of being honest ing down debt, and actually becoming this thing afloat. So we are going to about the problems in Social Security, honest with the way we account for So- have to make some adjustments. And I the commitment to making sure that cial Security. am one who says that baby boomers those that are dependent on it today I want to come back to a couple of ought to be able and ought to be will- and in the future will have, that are points that the gentleman from South ing, in order to save the system for our the two principles that we have to fol- Carolina (Mr. SANFORD) raised, and I kids, to take some modest changes. low as we try to solve this problem. think they are very important points, I do not know if any of my colleagues And the number one portion of that is the first of which is, and many Ameri- agree with this, but I think, on behalf to try to keep the Social Security cans do not know this, that one of the of our generation, I would be willing to money out of the hands of spending in most brilliant Americans, one of the work another year, maybe another 2 the U.S. Congress. most brilliant people of the 20th cen- years. I would be willing to adjust the Mr. HOEKSTRA. If the gentleman tury, was, arguably, Albert Einstein. I way the cost of living adjustments will yield, I think the reason that we think most people would agree with works. I would be willing to make some are now in the Social Security debate that. And he was the one who was once rather significant adjustments, if only, is because of the progress that we have asked what the most powerful force in and this is a big if, if I and younger made in the last 3 or 4 years, where, the universe was. And he said, some- generations could have an opportunity relatively speaking, we are near or at a what in jest, the magic of compound to at least take a portion of that 12.5 surplus. This year we may have an ac- interest. So when we have one of the percent tax that we pay on Social Se- tual surplus, disregarding the inflow most brilliant men of the 20th century curity and be able to put that into into the Social Security Trust Fund. talking about the magic of compound some kind of a personalized retirement interest, it adds even more credibility. account. b 1615 I have been giving this presentation Because I am nervous about letting Now is the time to have that debate. on Social Security in my town hall the Federal Government invest in the And as we said in our budget, the first meetings, and I talk about stock market. And many seniors that I thing we want to do is to set aside all generational fairness. I have talked to have talked to are very nervous about of the Social Security dollars so that seniors, and I give the presentation to having the Federal Government invest we can have a meaningful debate on high school kids, and I give the presen- directly in the stock market. Alan Social Security reform, we can have a tation to baby boomers, rotary clubs, Greenspan has argued that. But I do meaningful debate on Medicare reform. wherever I can get a chance to talk think we ought to set up a system that I mean, we see it every day. There about this, because I do think people allows individuals to invest a portion are all kinds of suggestions out there April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2253 about how we should take this ‘‘sur- talked about so that Washington hears. Because right now, basically, our ob- plus’’ and how we should spend it. And I know what that answer is in the ligation to NATO is to pick up between as my colleague from South Carolina American public. It is the same every- 22 and 25 percent of the cost. Some of has said, what that means is, if we got where. ‘‘Get your hands off my Social us believe that is still a little bit steep. a surplus, there are all kinds of ideas Security money. Make the hard choices But right now we are flying 75 percent how people are now suggesting that somewhere else.’’ of the sorties, we are delivering 90 per- this surplus stays here in Washington Mr. HOEKSTRA. I think the other in- cent of the ordnance, and I suspect and we spend it rather than securing teresting question is not only to ask is when the accounting is done, we are our future for the next generation or this more important than Social Secu- shouldering about 75 to 90 percent of paying down the debt or reducing the rity, it is if we are risking young men the cost of this operation. taxes. It seems like there are a lot of and young women’s lives in Kosovo, is And those are legitimate questions people who believe Washington should there no place else in the budget that and I think we, as representatives of be first in line and we ought to accel- we could find $6 billion? Is the only the people of the United States, have a erate now that growth in spending, and thing to say it is an emergency, not right to ask those questions and de- that is the wrong thing to do. say everything else is as equal of a pri- mand honest answers. Mr. COBURN. Mr. Speaker, let me go ority? Mr. COBURN. Mr. Speaker, I want to into one area so that we are completely I think as we have taken a look at all close this out. One of my heroes is Mar- honest with the American public. of this, we spend $1.7 trillion per year. tin Luther King. And I have said this The President has sent the House and We all know that there is lots of bu- many times on this floor, but I do not the Senate a supplemental bill. There reaucracy, there is lots of red tape. think it could be said often enough, his is great debate on what the deficit is in There are other places where, if we last major speech that he made was at terms of the need of our military, espe- really went after it, we could find the the National Cathedral here in Wash- cially now when we are now exposed on dollars to fund this without raiding So- ington; and in that speech he said, one front and potentially exposed on cial Security and be able to do Kosovo ‘‘Cowardice asks the question, is it ex- another front. There is no question and just say for those Members that pedient? And vanity asks the question, that we have underfunded the require- believe it, this mission in Kosovo is so is it popular? But conscience asks the ments to have a readiness capable mili- important we are willing to reduce question, is it right?’’ tary. There is some debate about the spending in some other areas because It is popular to not talk about the money. this is a new priority. problems we have with Social Security. But the American public needs to Mr. GUTKNECHT. Mr. Speaker, I It is politically very expedient not to make known to this body and to the want to follow up on that because I be honest about the budget. But it is Senate that if in fact they do not want think sometimes that does get lost in not right. And until this body, all sides Social Security money used to pay for this whole debate. of the body, until the executive branch that, they better let their representa- This budget we are talking about this starts becoming honest and accurate tives know it, because that is exactly year is $1,700 billion. Even $6 billion, with the words they use about our what is going to happen. which I think is a little bit pricey for budget and our situation with Social The group of gentlemen that are with what we hope to achieve in Kosovo, but Security, we are not going to solve the me have routinely fought to pay for ev- that is a separate debate, even that, problems. erything that we do up here by cutting though, represents a relatively small We have to ask the right questions. some program somewhere else. I do not percent and about one-half of 1 percent And the first question we have to ask believe that is going to happen this of the total Federal budget. So the idea is, ‘‘is it right?’’ time, and it is not ever going to happen that we cannot find the money with f until we continue to contrast that offsets somewhere else in the budget, I when we spend money, that we are not think outside of this Capitol and out- REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- willing to have the courage to cut side of the circle here in Washington, I VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF spending somewhere else. think most people do not believe that. H.R. 999, BEACHES ENVIRON- Where are we getting the money? We But I want to come back to another MENTAL ASSESSMENT, CLEANUP are stealing it from Social Security. point, and really it does come back to AND HEALTH ACT OF 1999 We should not run from that issue. We in terms of our cost for defense in these Mr. REYNOLDS, from the Com- should talk about that issue. And as we special supplemental appropriations mittee on Rules, submitted a privi- talk about it, I believe the public will and I think it is an important one. I leged report (Rept. No. 106–103) on the demand on the body politic in this think the American people need to resolution (H. Res. 145) providing for country to do the sharpening and cut know that over the last 40 years, up consideration of the bill (H.R. 999) to the fat and promote the efficiency that until the last 8 years, the United amend the Federal Water Pollution we need. States had deployed troops around the Control Act to improve the quality of Mr. SANFORD. Mr. Speaker, if the world 8 times, but in the last 8 years, coastal recreation waters, and for gentleman would further yield, Mad- we have deployed troops 33 times. And other purposes, which was reported to eleine Albright came and testified be- I think sometimes we have to ask, is the House Calendar and ordered to be fore one of the committees that I am all of this really that necessary? Is it printed. on, the Committee on International worthwhile? I mean, this is an enor- f Relations, today, and she testified be- mous expense to the taxpayers. fore the Senate yesterday. And on this I think there is another question that DEMOCRATS CELEBRATE EARTH very point, I think her reply was inter- needs to be asked before we vote on the DAY esting, because when asked, should we supplemental, and that is about burden The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. offset the proposed supplemental for sharing. When President Bush decided NEY). Under the Speaker’s announced Kosovo, the answer was no, because if that we had to stand up to Saddam policy of January 6, 1999, the gen- we did that it would mean money could Hussein, he went to our allies and he tleman from New Jersey (Mr. PALLONE) come out of USAID, the State Depart- got them to pony up. And the net was is recognized for 60 minutes as the des- ment and a host of other priorities, as the war in the desert actually made ignee of the minority leader. she put it, here in Washington. money for us. We actually came out Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, this The simple question the people need ahead on the Desert Storm operation. year the Democrats are celebrating to ask back home is, is USAID and I think it is time for us to be brutally Earth Day, which is tomorrow, by con- State Department spending a higher honest with our allies in Europe, that tinuing our efforts to leave a real envi- priority for them or is the money going if they want us to help participate in a ronmental legacy for this year and fu- to their Social Security a higher pri- war that is really much more impor- ture years, for this generation and for ority, is a question that needs to be tant to Europe than it is to people of the next generation. And we are prov- asked. the United States, then there ought to ing that environmental protection and Mr. COBURN. Absolutely. And it be a better cost sharing, a burden shar- economic competitiveness are not mu- needs to be raised and continue to be ing. tually exclusive. In fact, they will be H2254 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 even more compatible as technology istration established tough new clean Let me explain that the traditional continues to advance and as we head air standards to protect our Nation’s practice, and this was off the coast of into the next millennium under a children from asthma and other ill- my district, was to dispose of contami- Democratic administration. nesses. nated dredge spoils at an ocean dump On the other hand, my colleagues on This year the Clinton-Gore adminis- site about 6 miles off the coast of my the other side, the Republicans, and tration’s Lands Legacy Initiative will district, 6 miles really off the coast of particularly the Republican leadership, protect, enhance, and expand our na- where I live in my town, literally in will once again try to look green for a tional parks, forests, and wildlife ref- our backyard. We felt that this prac- day on Earth Day. They will tout their uges. The initiative will also set aside tice was unacceptable not only to our one or two token environmental bills. $150 million for urban parks. area but for the environment in gen- I already heard the gentleman from Now, while the Republicans were eral, because of the impact on the the Committee on Rules, I believe, re- busy gutting the environment, the ocean of that contaminated dredge ma- port one of those bills which is ready Democrats also enacted legislation to terial. for tomorrow. They are going to tout protect children’s health, fully funded Well, the result, though, was that be- these one or two token environmental right-to-know and water monitoring cause the Port could not be dredged be- bills that actually are far weaker than initiatives, and issued a directive ex- cause the material could not be dis- Democratic alternatives. tending the moratorium on offshore oil posed of because of the objections to Let us really compare our agendas. drilling. Vice President GORE, I should the contaminants in the disposed Already this year the Republicans have add, spearheaded a nationwide Smart dredge materials, that dredging was defeated the defense of the environ- Growth Initiative to build livable not taking place, and there was a po- ment amendment, designed to hold Re- American communities as a foundation tential impact on the Port of New York publicans accountable for back-door for continued economic competitive- and New Jersey in terms of jobs if ship- attempts to roll back 25 years of envi- ness in the 21st century. ping moved out or commercial cargo ronmental protection. The Republican Mr. Speaker, speaking on the subject could not come in. budget also would drastically cut envi- of economic competitiveness, as I said Well, there was a struggle. The indus- ronmental funding by $5.3 billion over at the outset, Democrats have contin- try and the labor people struggled for the next 5 years. And the American ually proven that we can protect the many years because of these delays. people can do the math, they can see environment without harming the Both sides threatened litigation. But through the Republican Party’s empty economy. In fact, many environmental all of a sudden Vice President GORE Earth Day gestures. improvement efforts actually create came along and he brought everyone to For Earth Day last year, the Repub- jobs. Jobs and the environment, job the table. He brought the environ- licans held a rally, and Newt Gingrich, creation and environmental protection mentalists who did not want the toxic the then Speaker, visited a zoo. How- go together, and we have proved that dredge spoils dumped in the ocean. He ever, the Republican majority spent as Democrats. brought the industrial representatives the rest of the year gutting environ- Brownfields development, for exam- who wanted to be able to ship their mental programs in the budget and ple, conserves resources by turning goods in and out of the New York/New loading up appropriation bills with abandoned waste sites into productive Jersey Harbor. And he brought the anti-environmental riders. These riders industrial property, instead of using labor representatives who were con- attempted to construct roads through pristine land and encouraging urban cerned about the jobs. national parks and forests, delay the sprawl. This creates jobs in the con- release of important environmental struction industry. But the Repub- b 1630 standards, allow the dumping of PCBs licans have repeatedly held funding for into other nations’ rivers, and increase Brownfields cleanups and they hold it He brought them all to the table, and haze in our national parks. hostage to their sham of an environ- he was critical. He was critical in In fact, last year was a record year, mental agenda. They refuse to do it. brokering an agreement to close the with over 40 anti-environmental riders. Let me talk about energy efficiency mud dump site, the toxic waste site in In 1995 the Republicans’ inability to and renewable energy programs pro- the ocean, and simultaneously allow give up on these kind of riders resulted moted by the administration that save critical dredging projects at the port to in a government shutdown. And during energy and money and simultaneously move forward. So now we have major the 104th Congress, the Republicans in- improve environmental protection. De- funding to do the dredging, we have troduced the dirty water bill, which velopment of newer, more efficient and closed the ocean dumping site so that would have significantly lowered treat- renewable technologies also creates the environment is no longer threat- ment standards for nearly 7,000 toxic jobs, and such efforts also enhance our ened, and we are developing beneficial pollutants, allowed more sewage to be competitiveness both domestically and reuse alternatives for the dredged ma- dumped in the ocean, and exposed internationally. terial which allows the material to be much of our remaining wetlands to pol- The administration’s Smart Growth used for other purposes, perhaps on lution or development. They also pro- Initiative I mentioned serves as an- land, and doing all this essentially pro- posed changes to Superfund that would other example of providing tools to motes the port’s viability, allows the have let major Fortune 500 companies protect the environment and pre- commercial shipping to increase, al- off the hook for hazardous waste pollu- serving economic competitiveness and, lows the environment to be protected tion they caused. So do not let them yes, creating new jobs. An example of and allows even more jobs to be created fool my colleagues, not even for a day. the administration’s success in pre- in the port. Meanwhile, the Democrats and the serving the environment and pro- I use that as an example because I Clinton-Gore administration have been tecting our economic security can best want to stress on the eve of Earth Day working hard to strengthen health, be found in my own backyard in New the leadership that the President and safety, and environmental protection Jersey, in my district. Let me give my Vice President GORE have taken not across the Nation, and will continue to colleague this example. only on environmental issues but in an do so into the next century. The Port of New York and New Jer- effort to try to deal with environ- Together, the Democrats in Congress sey generates $4.6 billion in annual rev- mental concerns in a way that also and the administration have worked to enue for the New Jersey and New York protects jobs and leads us toward a new preserve precious land, fight water pol- region and supports over 160,000 jobs. technology and a new future where the lution, improve air quality, and protect Maintaining the port’s depth, the environment and industry and jobs all communities and children. President depth, if you will, for the ships to come basically work together for growth and Clinton and Vice President GORE have in, is critical to the region’s economy. for a good environment. completed twice as many Superfund But the Port of New York and New Jer- There are a lot of other examples I cleanups in the last 5 years as in the sey requests for dredging permits were could use like that to show how the en- previous 12 years of Republican admin- continually delayed over objections of vironment and jobs and the economy istration, and the Clinton-Gore admin- the disposal of dredge materials. can work together. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2255 The reason I mentioned it in part is rible crisis yesterday, and none of us been active in restoring and preserving because I think it is wrong for the Re- here today, and I think all of us are roadless and wilderness areas across publican leadership on the other side of saddened by that, and we are not about the Nation, and we have done all this the aisle to make these sort of stealth to get into a partisan fight, but I think while the Federal budget has been attacks on the environment that they it is obvious to me that on the day be- brought into balance and largely while have been making for the last few fore Earth Day we should take the the majority party here in the Con- years since they have been in the ma- floor to talk about the record of the gress has fought against our environ- jority here in the House as well as in Democratic Party in the Congress, the mental protection efforts. the Senate, and I think that they do record of the Vice President and the So I think the Vice President, cer- not understand that by trying to break President. tainly Vice President GORE, must be down the last 25 years or 26 years of en- I am proud to be a Democrat because given a large share of the credit for vironmental protection that has been a of our consistent record over the years this administration’s successes. hallmark of the Democratic years in in support of environmental legisla- I know from my State of Washington Congress since the first Earth Day, tion. I can remember when I was a how involved and constructive the Vice that by making these stealth attacks staffer working in the other body when President has been in helping us ad- and trying to break down the legisla- the Clean Water Act was passed, the dress some of our toughest environ- tion, the laws that protect the environ- Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species mental challenges in the last 6 years. ment, that they are very much out of Act was enacted, and it is interesting. He was there with President Clinton at touch with the American people and As my colleagues know, there were the Forest Summit in early 1993, one of what the American people want. some Presidents in the past like Rich- the first acts of the Clinton-Gore ad- Mr. Speaker, the American people ard Nixon who signed some of these im- ministration, helping to balance the understand that you can have a good portant legislative vehicles into law, need to protect habitat for endangered environment and good jobs, and they and there was broad bipartisan support species and the need to sustain a way want us here in this Congress, together in the 1970s here in this Congress for of life in the timber communities in our State. The Vice President’s leader- with Vice President GORE and Presi- improving the environment. dent Clinton, to promote that agenda. So I hope that today we will remem- ship was critically important at that So I just want to say one last thing, ber that this is the 29th celebration of time in assembling the Northwest For- and then I would like to yield to one of Earth Day. The first one was April 22, est Plan which has been a great suc- my colleagues. 1970, and it is appropriate to call atten- cess. He was there for us when we need- On this Earth Day I am proposing a tion here in the House of Representa- ed help in approving several habitat challenge to the Republicans. First, I tives to the progress that has been conservation plans in Washington challenge them not to do anything on made in those past three decades, and State which have become blueprints for the environment; in other words, try to certainly to the progress we have made balancing the requirements of pro- do something progressive. I also chal- during the 1990’s to the initiative of the tecting critical habitat and providing certainty for people and businesses who lenge them not to gut the environment Clinton- GORE administration, and that by sneaking harmful riders into the ap- is why a lot of us were concerned when make their living off the land, and he propriations bills. That appropriations we saw in the Roll Call this week that is still there today helping Washington process is about to begin, Mr. Speaker. the majority leader of the majority and three other West Coast States ad- I challenge them not to sneak the party had decided that he was going to dress the new challenge of the salmon listings. harmful riders into the appropriations form a truth squad to talk about the I asked the Vice President and the bills this year. I also challenge my col- Vice President’s record on the environ- President if they would not add $100 leagues on the other side not to cater ment. million in the budget for a west coast to corporate interests and not to slash Mr. Speaker, if it is a truth squad, it salmon recovery initiative, and that is going to be a very positive report funds for important environmental money was added, and we are very then, because I do not think there has health and safety programs. Rather much appreciative of it. I also asked been a public official in my career that than just making a little show tomor- the Vice President if he could help us has done more during their term of of- row on Earth Day with one or two bills with a conservation reserve enhance- fice to work on environmental issues that are not very meaningful, I would ment program between the Department than Vice President GORE . challenge the Republicans to join us in of Agriculture and the State of Wash- Now under this administration we creating a real environmental legacy ington, and he intervened to help make have made great progress in protecting for our children by passing the admin- sure that that happened, sent Sec- the environment, toughening enforce- istration’s livable communities and retary Glickman again out to our ment of clean air and clean water laws, lands legacy initiatives on a broadly State to work with us on these impor- improving the safety of our drinking bipartisan basis. tant issues. And let us say that on the eve of water and the food we eat, and, as my Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield Earth Day 1999, let us once again talk colleagues know, a couple years ago we to my friend from California (Mr. had a terrible disaster in the State of about truth. The truth is the health of GEORGE MILLER). our environment is in jeopardy at the Washington related to E. coli, and, as Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. hands of the Republican majority in my colleagues know, I came back here, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gen- this Congress, and the truth is that I talked to Secretary Glickman. We tleman for yielding, and I want to build Democrats and President Clinton and wanted to make certain that we got just for a minute on the remarks that Vice President GORE are the true pro- tougher standards for our meat pack- he said. tectors of the environment. ing plants in order to protect our kids I do not know where this attack or Mr. Speaker, with that I yield to the from E. coli. Frankly, I was shocked in the truth squad comes with respect to gentleman from Washington (Mr. the Committee on Appropriations when the Vice President, but clearly his DICKS), who is here with some others to one of my colleagues got up to offer a record is unparalleled not only in get- join me this evening. limitation to stop those regulations ting our country to address and be Mr. DICKS. Mr. Speaker, I want to from going into effect, and it was en- aware of problems concerning the envi- compliment my colleague, the gen- acted at the Committee on Appropria- ronment, but as a troubleshooter and tleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pallone), tions level and then later was dropped. as a problem solver. for his outstanding leadership and his And I was glad that it was dropped here We all remember the Forest Summit. record as a Member of this Congress in on the floor of the House because it Prior to that in the previous adminis- support of the environment. would not have strengthened these tration all we had was a train wreck All of us are saddened today of course safety regulations, it would have in where nothing was being done, more by the events yesterday out near Den- fact weakened them. And so we were and more people were losing their job, ver, Colorado. Our sympathies go out glad that that was prevented. it looked like more and more endan- to the families and to the school- Also, this administration, and I can gered species were going to be threat- children who suffered through that ter- talk to my colleagues about this, has ened, and nothing was being done. And H2256 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 as a result of the Vice President and probably been the strongest advocate joined with the Democrats, the gen- President Clinton’s work and your for protecting the environment that tleman from New York (Mr. BOEH- work and others, we have started to there is in the Congress. And his point LERT), the gentleman from Maryland work our way out of that problem. We about the northwest timber situation (Mr. GILCHREST) and people of that na- have started to put new jobs back into was so absolutely on point. We were en- ture who have joined with us on the the forest, we are starting to recon- joying, there were zero sales coming off important environmental issues and, struct some of the damage that has the Federal timber lands. frankly, I think we have a majority, a been done in the past, we have worked Now, as my colleagues know, there significant majority in this House in out habitat conservation areas. But are some people in my district who favor of protecting the environment. that is true in the Everglades under were not thrilled about the levels that So I think we should make this an the leadership of the Vice President. we got to, but at least we got some- issue that is bipartisan, that we work That is true on the Conference on the thing going, and at the same time the together on, not trying to go out and Oceans. That is true in Lake Tahoe. Vice President worked to get 1.2 billion scapegoat, take partisan advantage. These huge natural assets, wonderful over 5 years to help all these commu- There is plenty of time for politics ecological environmental assets that nities in northern California, in Or- when we get to the year 2000. I think are the jewels in this Nation, the for- egon, in Washington State that had we have to do the people’s business ests of the Pacific Northwest, the been affected by this and helped them now, work on legislation, develop a Tongass, the rain forest in Alaska, the diversify their economies, helped them record, and we can all go home and run Everglades, the southern Utah wilder- get into other new businesses. again in 2000 on the basis of getting ness areas, Lake Tahoe I have already So it was not just leaving these peo- something done rather than playing mentioned, Monterey Bay Sanctuary; ple out there. They resolved the prob- political games. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, let me these are areas where we had nothing lem and then helped the communities thank the gentleman from Washington but controversy before, nothing but deal with the transitional period. (Mr. DICKS) for his remarks. Just brief- controversy and arguments and at the Mr. Speaker, that is why I think that ly, if I could support some of the things same time having the ecosystems dete- instead of attacking the Vice Presi- the gentleman said. riorate and go downhill. dent, we should be praising the Vice I was listening to what the gen- This administration, under the lead- President for that kind of a problem- tleman said about the Republicans, and ership of the Vice President, stepped in solving, constructive, sensible ap- it is true there are some Republicans and started to get communities to proach to dealing with environmental on the other side, and historically we work together so we see in the most re- issues. have had Richard Nixon supporting cent and dramatic listing of the salm- b 1645 most of the environmental legislation on, we see the City of Seattle, we see in the seventies, signing the law; Teddy the Governor of Washington, the Gov- I have known this man. He was in my class. We came to Congress together. Roosevelt with the conservation move- ernor of Oregon, the Mayor of Port- ment. I just do not understand why the land, people talking about making this He deeply cares about these issues, and I will say this, there is nobody who is Republican leadership now and for the an event that they can work with, that last 4 or 5 years has taken this track of they can help bring economic activity more informed. He does his homework. He looks into these matters in great basically trying to tear down every to the area and save the environment major environmental legislation; and at the same time. detail, whether it is national security issues, environmental issues or eco- now, as the gentleman has said, based That has been the thinking of this on this article in Roll Call, literally Vice President, that the environment nomic issues. The other point my colleague makes discussing coming to the floor to at- could be a win-win. He has also told tack the Vice President rather than to America about the markets that are that is so important here is that the economy today in the United States is do something constructive. available in trade on environmental I just wanted to say, I was listening as good as it gets. As the gentleman equipment to help clean up the envi- to what the gentleman from California from New Jersey (Mr. PALLONE) said, ronment in other countries. He has (Mr. GEORGE MILLER) said about the here we are, we have decided as a coun- pushed to open those markets, billions Vice President bringing people to- of dollars in business that is available try we are going to protect the envi- gether, developing a consensus, giving for companies in the United States. ronment, that Earth Day means some- people a seat at the table. It was amaz- So I think that, as the gentleman thing to us, and we still have the low- ing, when we had this whole battle over points out, and I will have more to say est unemployment, the lowest infla- the Port Authority, how true that was. about those who would attack them tion. Until he came in, everybody was at and what their record would be on the The Vice President has been in odds; everybody was fighting. Nobody environment, but my colleague makes charge of doing a lot of work on rein- wanted to do anything. Nobody even an incredibly important point, that he venting government to try to deal with wanted to sit down. We could not even has been a troubleshooter and he has regulations that are unnecessary and get people to sit down at a table and brought communities together, he has to help in those respects. talk, but when he showed up and then given people a seat at the table where I do not think the House floor should took the initiative from there, all of a they never had one before, and as a re- be used to go out and attack people, es- sudden people were willing to listen, sult of that in a number of these in- pecially when we have an agenda. We and they ended up standing on a stage stances we are working out a con- have to get down and get busy now and together signing an agreement that I sensus, we are working out a consensus start dealing with Medicare. We have never thought was possible. He man- on California water, a consensus on the to get busy on education. We have to aged to achieve that. Everglades, a consensus on the marine get busy on Social Security. We have I just wanted to say one more thing resources in this Nation because people to start passing the appropriations in that regard. The gentleman from have been given a stake in the out- bills. Washington (Mr. DICKS) pointed out comes of those arrangements. So for the majority to say they are how there are important issues here So I think you have raised a very, going to waste the time, I think, of the legislatively that can be dealt with in very important point about his role House getting into a partisan attack, it this same way. I will just use the ex- and his effectiveness over the last sev- just does not make any sense. We ample of the Clean Water Act. For the eral years. should be spending that time trying to last 5 years now, every effort that we Mr. DICKS. Mr. Speaker, I want to work together in a bipartisan way to have made to try to reauthorize the compliment the gentleman for his deal with these issues. Clean Water Act has failed because the statement, and I always appreciate One of those issues, by the way, is Republicans do not want to do it. The working with the gentleman from Cali- the environment. I will say this, one Republican leadership refuses to bring fornia (Mr. GEORGE MILLER), who prob- thing that I am pleased about is that it up. ably, as our ranking member on the there is a sensible group of people on Interestingly enough, I went to a Committee on Natural Resources, has the other side of the aisle who have New Jersey building trades meeting April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2257 earlier this week, and the number one attractive for all of Texas and all of the President’s leadership, that helped issue that the building trades were con- America to enjoy. this transportation bill not only to be cerned about was the Clean Water Act. It was the Clinton administration, a bill of rebuilding hard infrastructure They said we need the jobs that are the Clinton-Gore administration, that but also to focus on hike and bike created, because if we do not have the was most helpful in those efforts to trails. money and higher authorization levels recognize that our beaches, our water- I am very proud that we were able to for infrastructure needs, to build new front areas, are national treasures; and secure some of those resources so that sewage plants or other ways to deal therefore led the fight, along with inner city residents in Houston, Texas, with clean water that creates all kinds former Commissioner Gary Mauro, to and particularly in my district, will of jobs that we would like to have, excite the people of Texas to clean up have hike and bike trails constructed those needs are unmet. their beaches and to have the resources as we speak, to give them the oppor- There again is an example of how we to do so. tunity to experience the beauty of na- can do something to protect the envi- I remember very much joining with ture, along with our clean air, to walk ronment, clean up the water, and at members of this caucus and Members the trails, to see the trees, to enjoy the the same time create jobs. They recog- of this House to fight against elimi- birds. That is all at the leadership of nize it themselves. Labor recognizes it nating the Environmental Protection the Vice President. themselves. So this notion that some- Agency, which is something that had So I think it is extremely important how jobs and the environment and eco- been sought by those who did not see that we do more, and I join the gen- nomic growth do not go together is the value. Vice President GORE was out tleman from New Jersey (Mr. PALLONE) false. front in preserving the Environmental in welcoming the efforts of the Livable The kinds of things that AL GORE has Protection Agency. Communities Task Force. I am a mem- done to point out how we can bring How many of us remember growing ber of it. The legislation that they of- people together to achieve those goals up with brown water, or knowing what fered today, what a perfect example to together is a perfect example of why it can happen when one turns on their show our constituents that we can can be done if we just have a positive faucet and the water is not clean? work together on things that pain attitude. So I am very grateful that Texas has them: suburban sprawl, the difficulty Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentle- been the beneficiary of some of the val- of living in an urban area, everyone in woman from Texas (Ms. JACKSON-LEE). uable efforts by the administration to their cars, the lack of public transpor- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. clean up water, such as with new sew- tation. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from age resources. The City of Houston is I hope we can get that legislation New Jersey (Mr. PALLONE) for yielding in the process of a major overhaul of moving. I certainly am supporting it, and very much appreciate being able to its sewage wastewater system, some- certainly will be encouraging the City join two of the gentlemen from the thing that is extremely important, a of Houston to join in. I would simply West who know firsthand the impor- local issue that impacts our day-to-day say that it is of great desire that we do tance of preserving the environment. lives. something positive and not do some- Since I join them out West in Texas, a Particularly I think the Vice Presi- thing negative as it relates to the envi- State that appreciates open space, I dent has been a leader on tough limits ronment. That is why I am here today, too come to the floor to share the shin- on smog and soot, accelerating toxic to say let us move the engine of change ing examples that have benefited Texas waste cleanups, expanding the public’s for promoting the environment and not but as well the Nation. right to know about toxins released to listen to rumors about who has been If I might join my colleague, the gen- air, water and land. Talk to those who doing the best and who has not. The tleman from Washington (Mr. DICKS), suffer from asthma and other res- Vice President has been at the fore- in saying how sad I am that we have to piratory ailments and they will say front of these very important issues. even have this kind of debate in the who has been soft on the environment. Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. shadow of the tragedy that has befallen They will say how they are pushing for Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield? our friends in Colorado, and to their us to do more about the Clean Air Act, Mr. PALLONE. I yield to the gen- families and to the young people that how they are pushing to ensure that tleman from California. have been injured and those who have they do not have to walk around every Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. lost their lives. I clearly think that we day, whether it is in Houston, Texas, or Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman will have a time in the future to col- Washington, D.C., with the air inhaler from Texas (Ms. JACKSON-LEE) for her laborate on saving lives of young peo- because of the difficulties in breathing. remarks. She raises a number of very ple, ending the violence. So I think it is important to really important points. We have talked Tragically, the day before Earth Day take this day and highlight the needs about what the Vice President has we are here because we hear rumors of this Nation and really call a spade a done in the past, but also the fact that that some will come to the floor, my spade, or to call the facts. Let us call the Vice President has vision in talk- friends on the other side of the aisle, the roll on what the Vice President has ing about the future and clearly talk- and begin throwing dirt one day before been able to do. ing about issues in terms of livable Earth Day about who is better for the I will tell a personal story. Houston communities that all of our constitu- environment or who is not, or whose is known for its enormous geography, encies struggle with on a daily basis. position is contrary to that which pro- its wide spaces, enormous freeways and I represent a district on the east side motes economic development, pro- round-abouts and everybody in their of San Francisco Bay where people find motes economic stability, and I am cars, and that creates just a terrific themselves locked in on the Interstate saddened that we would do that. traffic jam; the frustration of the early 80, which runs through my district, at This is a day, of course, that I want morning traveler, the late evening 15 miles an hour on a good morning. to offer all of my sympathies to those traveler; and also its desire, although People have to get up at 4:00 in the families. we have still a long ways to go to pre- morning to commute long distances to I think it is important that we speak serve green space, to sort of encourage their work. more positively, and in speaking more people to get into green spaces so that The Vice President has asked that we positively, I think it is important to hopefully the air will be clean enough start to address these issues and start note the facts. In particular, let me for them to be outdoors. to use his influence to get people to ad- note the Vice President’s assistance We are a very warm city but we are dress these issues so that people can and support for some of the activities encouraging that, and in doing so we have a more livable community. That that we think are important in Texas. have a commitment to more hike and shows the kind of vision he has. I am reminded of the hard work of bike trails because we want people to I think also when we read in the former land Commissioner Gary get out in nature in the cities. We want newspaper that there is going to be an Mauro, who worked for some 12 years the inner city to be warmly receptive attack by the leadership, the Repub- in the State of Texas to promote clean- to families and children. So it was the lican leadership, on the Vice President, ing up beaches and keeping those areas Vice President’s leadership, along with maybe it is a compliment. Maybe we H2258 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 know a man by his enemies, because if going out to communities that have and has meant so much for this Nation, we look at the Republican leadership it great environmental strife, that have for the health of our water, the health is rather shocking. had all kinds of controversy, and he of our air and the health of our fami- Senator LOTT has a zero rating with has brought people together to try to lies and our communities. It is unfortu- the League of Conservation Voters. sit down and work those things out. nate. Senator NICKLES has a zero rating with Most recently in California where we I believe we are in the process of re- the League of Conservation Voters. Our had the headwaters forest deal, where storing that bipartisan environmental Speaker, the gentleman from Illinois we were going to lose some of the last coalition. More and more we see Demo- (Mr. HASTERT) has 17 percent; the gen- of the ancient grand redwoods in this crats and Republicans working to- tleman from Texas (Mr. ARMEY), the Nation on the face of this Earth, it was gether. But the Republican leadership Majority Leader ARMEY, 17 percent; the the involvement of the Vice President apparently still has not gotten the gentleman from Texas (Mr. DELAY) has and this administration that finally se- message, and somehow they want to 10 percent; Senator MURKOWSKI, Chair- cured a deal. I do not like all of it, but try to make mileage by attacking the man YOUNG, 3 percent. I will tell my colleagues, it secured a Vice President. It is a horrible mistake Maybe we know the Vice President’s deal by which we can protect those red- for them, and the biggest problem of it effectiveness. Maybe we know his vi- woods, we can allow some timber activ- is it simply has no credibility, it is not sion and maybe we know his record by ity to continue, and the economy in true, and their record does not allow those who would seek now to attack that area can continue. That had been them to speak with any credibility him and somehow try to diminish his years of controversy before the admin- about the environmental record of the stature in the environmental move- istration got involved. Vice President or anyone else in this ment, not only in this country but The same is true in California water, Nation. around the world. where the administration has brought Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I want We have to understand that just in people together to solve one of the to thank the gentleman, and particu- the last session, when we had the most difficult problems, the surviv- larly for this idea of what Vice Presi- McGovern amendment to restore State ability of San Francisco Bay, the sur- dent GORE and this administration park funding, 78 percent of the Repub- vivability of the San Francisco Bay have tried to do is to be people of ac- licans voted against it. The Waxman delta. In our huge, complex Federal tion. They think that we can accom- global climate change amendment, 88 and State water systems that are the plish some of these environmental percent of the Republicans voted no. cornerstone of our future economic goals and still save jobs and still have The amendment I offered to stop sub- growth in California, there has been economic growth. There are so many sidized road construction in the the involvement and the leadership of examples we can use of things that Tongass National Forest, 93 percent of the Vice President. need to be done in the future: Super- the Republicans voted no. The Everglades speaks for itself. The fund, clean water, brownfields, what- We used to have a coalition here, Everglades speaks for itself. Working ever, and they have the positive atti- Conservation in the United States. It with the Florida delegation, making tude. Now we have the Republicans on was a bipartisan coalition. Many peo- sure that the Corps of Engineers the other side just wanting to waste ple go back and properly give Teddy thought about the future as opposed to our time with all of these personal at- Roosevelt credit for starting that. It is the past, changed the manner in which tacks. interesting that Business Week, hardly the Kissimmee River flowed, the flow I yield to another gentleman from a voice of environmental activism, la- of the water through the Everglades, Washington (Mr. INSLEE). ments that the Republican Party tradi- Mr. INSLEE. Mr. Speaker, I appre- the cleaning up of the marine re- tion under Teddy Roosevelt of pro- ciate the gentleman yielding to me. sources, all with the leadership of the tecting land is being trashed, and it is It is a great opportunity to address Vice President working with local shameful. It is the leaders of that ef- on Earth Day an interesting thing, and communities. That has been the hall- fort who are now somehow going to at- I think it is interesting that we are mark. tack the environmental credentials of here today just before Earth Day. Finally today let me say, I know that the Vice President or say that he is I am told that some of my colleagues there are many on the other side that wrong-headed. across the aisle are going to have some want to attack the Vice President for occasion where they seek to attack b 1700 his positions on global warming. Today Vice President AL GORE on the envi- The fact is, through his efforts both I sat in my office with the CEO of an ronment, which seems to me a bit like in the House and in the Senate, and as energy company that is building a new attacking Mohammed Ali for not hav- the Vice President of the United generation of gas-fired turbines to re- ing a quick left hook. But nonetheless, States, he has led the efforts to clean place the old that will clean up the air, we are here to discuss an important up our air, to clean up our water, to will provide new jobs that did not exist issue. Maybe somebody has already clean up the toxic sites in this Nation; before, will provide a lower rate of en- said this, but sort of attacking the to clean up the Superfund sites that ergy because of the efficiency of these Vice President the day before Earth plague our communities, the new generators, and will allow us in Day on the environment, it is sort of brownfields campaign that he started California, he is one part of a large in- disappointing to me. This ought to be that allows us to take these toxic sites dustry that will allow us to start trad- Earth Day, not Dirt Day, and trying to and turn them into economic opportu- ing in the old polluting industries, get spread a little dirt is disappointing. nities, and as we have seen now in Palo higher efficiency, lower cost out of a Nonetheless, I want to add my voice Alto, California, in Richmond, Cali- new generation, because of the con- to those who say that we have someone fornia, in communities that now have cern. And they are willingly doing this. in leadership on environmental issues economic opportunities that did not They have investors, they are putting that are important to real people with exist there before that kind of program venture capital into this, putting real problems. I think when we test under the leadership of this adminis- money at risk to clean up the air, rec- anyone’s leadership, we ought to test it tration. ognizing and responding to the con- in five ways. I am going to give five So we know what the Republicans cerns about global warming. tests that we ought to test the Vice have been doing, and we know cer- So I want to thank the gentleman for President on. We ought to test whether tainly what the Republican leadership bringing this special order. I agree with his leadership has been real rather has been doing, and that is that they the gentleman from Washington that it than abstract; we ought to test wheth- have launched, the minute the Ging- is sad that we have to do this; it is sad er it has been practical rather than pie- rich revolution came to town, their that somehow some on the Republican in-the-sky; we ought to test on whether first effort was to launch an attack on side would believe that Earth Day it is based on optimism rather than the basic and fundamental environ- should be celebrated by attacking the pessimism; and we ought to test wheth- mental laws of this Nation. vice presidential environmental cre- er he is out front and not behind; and Now let us look at what the Vice dentials, his motives and his actions whether or not he is a fighter or he has President has been doing. He has been and his work that has been so sterling just given up. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2259 I want to test him on those five saying that our country is going to been on these environmental concerns issues. I want to start with whether he have the best technology in the world and just in general. is a realist instead of just in the ab- and we are going to make money off of Mr. Speaker, it is interesting. I have stract. I want to tell my colleagues this technology, and there is nothing been listening to what some of the that I think America, Mr. Speaker, is wrong with making money, we are speakers have been saying about dif- waking up to the fact that Vice Presi- going to have the most competitive, ferent programs where one can both dent AL GORE has come to address real, energy-efficient technology in the protect the environment and save jobs tangible, everyday concerns of com- world and it is going to be good for our and where the economy can grow, and muters and workers in my district in economy. That is optimism and that is I think it was the other gentleman north Seattle who are sitting in traffic, what we need when we talk about the from Washington (Mr. DICKS) that said wasting their time when they could be environment. that the problem with the Republican home with their children, sitting in The fourth issue, is he out front. Is leadership is that they do not want to traffic because we have not adopted the he up front or is he behind the parade? move forward on this agenda. public transportation solutions we I want to tell my colleagues a little A very good example of that, I think need and we have not fully come to story about AL GORE, those who hap- someone mentioned, is brownfields. I grips with creating livable commu- pen to be watching this on C–SPAN. We live in the most densely populated nities. There is no one, no one, myself ask ourselves, who was the first mem- State in the country. We have more included, who has been as vigorous an ber of this body to give a speech that Superfund sites and more hazardous advocate, Mr. Speaker, to say that our the American people could actually see waste sites that are not on the Super- communities should be armed with the unless they were lucky enough to get fund list, but still need to be cleaned tools to develop livable communities, one of these few seats up in the Cham- up, than any other State. Yet, at the to be able to do the land use planning ber, and it was AL GORE who gave the same time in our urban areas where a to stop urban sprawl. I point this out very first speech on C–SPAN because lot of these sites are located, if they because this is not an abstract issue of he was the fellow who fought to open could be cleaned up and used again for my constituents; it is whether they can up this Chamber to the American peo- commercial or industrial or other pur- get home at night to play catch with ple so that they could watch it at home poses, it would mean such an economic their kids. That is a real issue, and this on C–SPAN. He was way ahead of the boost to those communities because Vice President has been a realist, not curve, way ahead of the curve when a jobs would be created, new businesses an abstract, thinker. bunch of fuddy-duddies were around would be created, and Vice President Second, as he suggested, practical so- here saying we cannot let the Amer- GORE has been pushing forever since he lutions. Well, I want to tell my col- ican people know what we are doing. was the Vice President and when he leagues, we have a real challenge up in That is typical of his efforts to be out was in the Senate and the House that the Northwest right now on salmon front, and he is out front on the envi- we take the initiative on brownfields. issues. We are losing our salmon runs ronment too. Yet, this Republican leadership has and they are now on the endangered The fifth issue, is he a fighter or does continued to say, well, they do not species list, and we have real chal- he give up? I want to tell my col- want to deal with that, we have to deal lenges. This Vice President has not sat leagues that when some of my col- with Superfund in general; maybe we around in an ivory tower just sort of leagues on the other side of the aisle will take it up in the context of Super- abstractly thinking about this prob- came to try to weaken the Clean Air fund, and they never get to it. lem. He has rolled up his sleeves, he Act, came to try to weaken our safe So there are so many examples like has come to the Pacific Northwest food provisions which are really impor- this where we need to move in a posi- more than any Vice President in Amer- tant. We had E. coli deaths, kids dying tive way. As the gentleman said, Vice ican history, and he has gotten down of E. coli poisoning in my hometown a President GORE has been very opti- literally in the trenches and the few years ago, and incredibly, people in mistic and knows we can be positive streams to talk about how we are going this body wanted to, and still want to about these things, but we are con- to solve those salmon problems, how reduce some of our food protections in stantly stymied by the other side, so I we are going to improve habitat for our food inspection system, incredibly. want to thank the gentleman. salmon, how we are going to make sure Who stood up and said no to those ef- I yield to the gentlewoman from Illi- salmon can spawn. He is not in Wash- forts to reduce our food safety? Who nois, (Ms. SCHAKOWSKY). ington D.C.; he is in my district help- stood up and fought them tooth and Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I ing communities solve these salmon tongue and even said, even if you thank the gentleman for yielding his problems. I appreciate that, and so do threaten to shut down the Government time. the people of these communities. He is of the United States, I am not going to Tomorrow is Earth Day, and I re- practical. yield on that issue. It was AL GORE. He member well as a young mom in 1970 The third issue, is he an optimist or had a little help from President Bill when Earth Day was established, and is he one of those guys that sort of Clinton as well. at that time, we really had an environ- says, Chicken Little, the sky is falling. He was right, and the American peo- mental crisis. We had a desperate need Well, if we listen to what this Vice ple knew he was right, and even though for passage of legislation to guarantee President has been saying, for in- the folks on the other side of the aisle clean air and clean water. We had toxic stance, about the greenhouse gas prob- shut down the U.S. Government, he did waste sites that were crying out for lem, and everybody knows we have a not yield, he stood as a stone wall and something to be done. So Earth Day problem, CO2 emissions are going up said, you are not going to weaken the highlighted that. As a result, we did huge amounts, this is creating a green- environmental laws of this country, see the passage of this important legis- house effect, and people are fully famil- and America knew it and America said, lation. iar with that. But what I have heard in part; some people, including myself, We have made progress, and this is a this Vice President say, instead of to stand up for the environment. time to really celebrate that progress. wringing our hands and saying we are So, Mr. Speaker, I would like to sug- We now have Superfund legislation to going to be destroyed by this problem, gest that by any test of leadership we clean up toxic sites, the clean air and he has shown optimism which good have a Vice President who has been clean water legislation, and we have a leaders need to do. Because what he real, who has been practical, who has booming economy, and that is a sur- has said is, we are going to go out and been optimistic, who has been out prise to some, not to me and others on we are going to develop the tech- front, and who is a fighter, and it does our side of the aisle, but those are com- nologies, the alternate technology not get much better than that. patible concepts, that they go hand in sources that do not create these green- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I want hand, a booming economy and environ- house gases. That is optimism, and to thank the gentleman. I thought that mental protection. that is what leadership is. Without a test that the gentleman brought for- The environment really is a non- vision, people will perish. The good ward was really a good way to show partisan issue when one goes to a na- book was right. And having a vision how valuable the Vice President has tional park or one breathes clean air, H2260 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 regardless of whether one is a Demo- So as we look forward to Earth Day He has stood with us when we crat or a Republican, these issues are this year and we look forward to the blocked efforts to roll back 25 years of important. But unfortunately, over the 21st century, I think we can be happy work on cleaning up our rivers. He recent years, it has become just that, that we have someone who has been stood with us when we blocked efforts and it is so unfortunate, even today, our point person on the environment, that would have prohibited EPA from that it has been raised in a partisan who has been an advocate and a fight- doing more to clean up the air that we context. er, and has implemented already those all breathe. b 1715 programs that will make our air, our He stood with us on protecting chil- water, and our world safer for our fami- dren’s health from asthma caused by It does, however, give us the oppor- lies. airborne pollution, illness caused by tunity, as Democrats, to celebrate our Mr. PALLONE. I want to thank the food poisoning, and pesticide poisoning, Democratic administration and all gentlewoman. Mr. Speaker, I yield to permanent damage caused by toxic that it has done to fend off efforts to the gentleman from New York (Mr. wastes let loose in the environment. turn back the clock, if we look at what HINCHEY). The Vice President stood with us on all happened in 1995 when the Republicans Mr. HINCHEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank those issues. actually allowed corporate lobbyists to the gentleman for yielding to me. The American people want clean air draft attacks on environmental stand- Last year when the appropriation and water. They want freedom from ards. Or when the Republicans passed bills were folded into an omnibus bill, pollution and contamination. They bills that cut environmental funding the majority here added a long list of want protection of our beautiful public by 25 percent, or what I really want to anti-environmental riders. They could lands and forests, and they want pro- talk about for a minute is the regu- not get those proposals through on tection for our wildlife. AL GORE wants latory reform bill that would have ac- their own merits, but they tried to them, too, and he wants all of them to tually dismantled the food inspection hold funding for all Federal programs have them as well. He is willing to program. In my district lives a woman named and services hostage to those riders. stand up and fight for it to see that Nancy Donley, who, because of her own They figured that their opponents in they get it. personal tragic situation, that is, the Congress would be forced to swallow He has been a very big help by having death of her 6-year-old son Alex from them, and that the President would the courage to say no and to mean it. eating meat poisoned with E. Coli agree to accept them to keep other pro- I am looking forward to seeing what he bacteria, created an organization. She grams operating. can do when he gets the opportunity to turned her tragedy into an organiza- But the President did not accept say yes. tion that will now fight to make sure them. He insisted that they be taken Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I want that no other children die called STOP, out of the appropriations bill before he to thank the gentleman, and everyone Safe Tables Our Priority. would sign it. That surprised the peo- who participated in this special order As a result of working with this ad- ple who wrote the riders. this evening. It is the eve of Earth Day. ministration, and in particular Vice The factor they did not count on in Earth Day is tomorrow. I think there is President AL GORE, the food safety ini- their strategy was the Vice President a lot of talk up here about what the tiative was adopted. They were able to of the United States, AL GORE. The truth is. defeat the so-called regulatory reform President relies on AL GORE for advice The truth is that the health of our which would have dismantled the meat on environmental matters, and it was environment is in jeopardy at the and poultry inspection system in this AL GORE who said no, we cannot allow hands of the Republican majority in Nation, and actually pass new regula- these things to happen. We have to the Congress. The truth is that the tions that began in 1998, more sophisti- take a stand. We have to take a stand, Democrats and the Clinton-Gore ad- cated ways of inspection. so that the riders faded away. ministration are the true protectors of That inspection program was really Let me give some examples of what the environment for this Earth Day initiated in the Upton Sinclair days at AL GORE would not allow. He said no to and the Earth Days in the future. the beginning of the century and really proposals that would have blocked the f required updating, not dismantling. So EPA from conducting research or edu- ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER we now have a more sophisticated sys- cational activities on global warming, PRO TEMPORE tem that is being phased in over time. a gag rule to block even a discussion of It began in 1998, and the establishment what may be the most serious environ- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. of a food safety initiative. mental problem of our time. BASS). The Chair will remind all Mem- As part of that initiative I know that He said no to a proposal that would bers to address their remarks to the Nancy had, Nancy Donley, had Vice have blocked clean-up of toxic PCBs, Chair, and not to refer to residents of President AL GORE, at the announce- even in places where children could be the gallery. ment of what we call PulseNet, which affected. Members should also not make per- is a new program that we have to track The Vice President said no to pro- sonal references to Members of the food-borne illness outbreaks over the posals that would have blocked the Senate. Internet, so we are now able to link an EPA from reducing children’s exposure f outbreak of food poisoning in Maine to pesticides, and we now know that A TRIBUTE TO MAYOR RALPH J. with one that might happen in Mon- pesticides pose a much greater risk to PERK tana, and be able to see that it is from children than they do to others, much the same cause. more than we thought. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a In fact, there was a terrible outbreak He said no to proposals that would previous order of the House, the gen- of Listeria, which is a virulent form of have canceled environmental reviews tleman from Ohio (Mr. LATOURETTE) is foodborne illness, deli food, soft on timber sales, where logging could recognized for 5 minutes. cheeses, et cetera, last year that re- threaten wildlife. He said no to a pro- Mr. LATOURETTE. Mr. Speaker, to- sulted in major recalls across the coun- posal to build a road through the mid- night Cleveland, Ohio, is much poorer try of those foods, and has already dle of a migratory bird refuge, a place than it was yesterday because of the proven itself to save lives. that is supposed to be wilderness. passing of Mayor Ralph J. Perk. If we At the announcement of PulseNet, He said no to proposals that would were to ask residents of the city of our Vice President, AL GORE, was there have required uneconomical logging Cleveland about et cetera city’s recent to talk about it as an initiative that that would have permanent damage to history, they might point us to the would save lives. As we know, he has one of our most pristine forests. He bridge at State Route 21 over the Cuya- been the person who has figured out said no to proposals that would have hoga River as the point where 25 years how to use the most high-tech systems barred EPA from trying to improve air ago the Cuyahoga River caught on fire, to bring them down to protecting fami- quality in our national parks. Because or they might direct us to the factory lies and now protecting our food sup- AL GORE took a firm stand, those pro- where Mayor Perk, while attempting ply. posals were blocked. to show some blue collar voters that he April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2261 was proficient in the use of a blow very distinguished greater Clevelander, This policy of nation-building and in- torch, accidentally set his hair on fire. the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. DENNIS terference in a civil war totally con- But Clevelanders love to tell the KUCINICH), who then went on to serve tradicts the mission of European de- story about when Mayor Perk, a Re- as mayor of Cleveland, and now serves fense set out in the NATO charter. publican, was invited to a State dinner with us in the House. Without the Soviet enemy to justify by then President Richard Nixon, and I yield to my friend, the gentleman the European military machine, NATO it conflicted with his wife Lucy’s bowl- from Ohio (Mr. KUCINICH) for his had to find enemies and humanitarian ing night, so he was not able to be in thoughts and remembrances of Mayor missions to justify its existence. The attendance on that particular evening. Perk. centuries-old ethnic hatreds found in Mr. Speaker, Ralph Perk was vintage Mr. KUCINICH. I thank the gen- Yugoslavia and the militant leaders on Cleveland, and he will be greatly tleman for yielding to me, Mr. Speak- all sides have served this purpose well. missed. He is best known as Cleveland’s er. Working hard to justify NATO’s policy mayor, but he had a distinguished ca- Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman in this region has totally obscured any reer as a public servant. He began his from Ohio (Mr. LATOURETTE) also for objective analysis of the turmoil now political career in 1940 as a Republican the opportunity to share in this very raging. precinct committeeman, and was ap- important reflection on a former Some specific policy positions of pointed to the staff of the Ohio Attor- mayor of the city of Cleveland, Mayor NATO guaranteed that the ongoing ney General’s Office in 1950. He then Ralph J. Perk. strife would erupt into a full-fledged went on to represent the Broadway Ralph Perk leaves us at a time when and dangerous conflict. Once it was de- East 55th Street area of Cleveland as a the world could use the message of his termined in the early 1990s that out- councilman from 1953 to 1962. life, which was to unite people across siders would indict and try Yugo- He was then elected to county-wide racial and ethnic lines. For generations slavian war criminals, it was certain office, and served as the county auditor he led us in celebrating the beautiful that cooperation with western nego- for 9 years. When he was elected cultural mosaic that is our inheritance tiators would involve risks. Fighting to mayor, Mayor Perk had the distinction in greater Cleveland. He understood the end became a practical alternative of being the first Republican mayor of the beauty and the strength of each in- to a mock international trial. Forcing Cleveland since the 1930s. In fact, only dividual expressing his or her own a treaty settlement on Serbia where two Republicans have served as the uniqueness. Serbia would lose the sovereign terri- mayor of Cleveland in my lifetime, I shared with Ralph many a platform, tory of Kosovo guaranteed an esca- Ralph Perk and also our new Senator festooned with colorful flags, many an lation of the fighting and the forced re- from Ohio, GEORGE VOINOVICH. ethnic picnic, many polka-filled mo- moval of the Kosovars from their God love Ralph Perk, Mr. Speaker. ments. He had a great enthusiasm for homes. He was a Republican in the days when life. He was a wise and dedicated public b 1730 being a Republican was not very cool. servant who served Cleveland long and Ignoring the fact that more than His political base was found in Cleve- well as a city councilman, a county 500,000 Serbs were uprooted from Cro- land’s heavily Democratic ethnic com- auditor, and mayor. His greatest atia and Bosnia with the encourage- munities, which supported him regard- strength was his common touch, his ment of NATO intervention did great less of party label. He won folks over ability to stay close to the life of harm to the regional effort to reestab- with his heart and his ability to be just Cleveland’s neighborhoods. lish more stable borders. like everyone else, to connect with his Throughout his long life he never left The sympathy shown Albanian refu- fellow man without pretense. the city he loved, and because of his gees by our government and our media, If another mayor had turned down a dedication to Cleveland, his memory although justified, stirred the flames of State dinner at the White House be- will never leave us. My deepest sym- hatred by refusing to admit that over a cause of his wife’s bowling engagement, pathies go out to his dear wife, Lucy, half million Serbs suffered the same it would have been a serious breach of and to his children. fate and yet elicited no concern from etiquette. To Ralph Perk and the city I will miss Ralph, but I shall never be the internationalists bent on waging of Cleveland, it is a badge of honor. able to think of him without smiling war. No one is calling for the return of Mayor Perk served as mayor from about this engaging, energetic, pas- certain property and homes. 1972 to 1977, at a time when the city sionate public man and dear friend. Threatening a country to do what we was developing some financial difficul- f the outsiders tell them or their cities ties, but Ralph Perk was able to work will be bombed is hardly considered U.S. FOREIGN POLICY AND NATO’S with the Federal Government and the good diplomacy. Arguing that the INVOLVEMENT IN YUGOSLAVIA Nixon White House to secure funding Serbs must obey and give up what they AND KOSOVO to alleviate a number of those difficul- see as sovereign territory after suf- ties. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under fering much themselves as well as face He is credited with establishing a re- the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- war crimes trials run by the West gional sewer district, and he is also uary 6, 1999, the gentleman from Texas makes no sense. Anyone should have credited with paying off the bonds, (Mr. PAUL) is recognized for 60 minutes. been able to predict what the results using city funds to pay off the bonds of Mr. PAUL. Mr. Speaker, supporters would be. the financially strapped Cleveland of internationalism celebrated NATO’s The argument that, because of hu- Transit Authority to create what is 50th anniversary with the Senate’s 1998 manitarian concerns for the refugees, now the Greater Cleveland Regional overwhelming approval for expanding we were forced to act is not plausible. Transit Authority. NATO to include Eastern European Our efforts dramatically increased the Mr. Speaker, although it has been countries. This year’s official inclusion refugee problem. Milosevic, as he felt more than 20 years since Ralph Perk of Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Re- cornered by the Western threats, re- served as the mayor of our fair city, he public made all NATO’s supporters acted the only way he could to protect has never been nor will he ever be for- proud, indeed. But in reality, NATO what he considered Serbia, a position gotten. He was a true Cleveland origi- now is weaker and more chaotic than he defends with international law while nal, a man who loved his hometown ever. being supported by unified Serb people. with all of his heart and served it with In the effort to expand NATO and If it is the suffering and the refugees great spirit and dedication. He will be promote internationalism, we see in re- that truly motivate our actions, there sorely missed. action the rise of ugly nationalism. is no answer to the perplexing question Mayor Perk was reelected as mayor The U.S. and NATO policy of threats of why no action was taken to help the in both 1973 and 1975. In 1977, there was and intimidation to establish an auton- suffering in Rwanda, Sudan, East a nonpartisan primary and he was de- omous Kosovo without true independ- Timore, Tibet, Chechnya, Kurdish, feated by two other individuals. One ence from Serbia, and protected by Turkey, and for the Palestinians in was a Member who served in this NATO’s forces for the foreseeable fu- Israel. This is not a reason; it is an ex- House, Ed Feighan, and the other is my ture, has been a recipe for disaster. cuse. H2262 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 Instead, we give massive foreign aid ghan freedom fighters, which included cess, resulting injuries and damage im- to the likes of China and Russia, coun- Osama Bin Laden. Even in the current posed by us and others will be rectified tries that have trampled on the rights crisis in Yugoslavia, we have found with U.S. tax dollars in the form of of ethnic minorities. ourselves on both sides. more foreign aid, as we always do. Na- How many refugees, how many chil- The United States, along with the tion building and international social dren’s death has U.S. policy caused by United Nations, in 1992 supported an work has replaced national defense as our embargo and bombing for 9 years of arms embargo against Kosovo essen- the proper responsibility of our govern- a defenseless poverty-ridden Iraq. Just tially making it impossible for the ment. as our bombs in Iraq have caused un- Kosovars to defend themselves against What will the fate of NATO be in the told misery and death, so have our Serbia. Helping the Albanian Muslims coming years? Many are fretting that bombs in Serbia killed the innocent on is interpreted by some as token ap- NATO may dissolve over a poor show- both sides, solidified support for the peasement to the Arab oil countries ing in Yugoslavia, despite the 50th an- ruthless leaders, and spread the war. unhappy with the advantage the Serbs niversary hype and its recent expan- This policy of intervention is paid for got from the arms embargo. sion. Fortunately for those who cherish by the U.S. taxpayer and promoted ille- This balancing act between three vi- liberty and limited government, NATO gally by our President without con- cious warring factions was doomed to has a questionable future. gressional authority, as is required by fail and has only led to more insta- When our leaders sanctioned NATO the Constitution. bility and the spreading of the war in in 1949, there were many patriotic The United States Government has the region. Americans who questioned the wisdom in the past referred to the Kosovo Lib- Instead of pretending to be every- and the constitutionality of this orga- eration Army leaders as thugs, terror- thing to everyone, while shifting alli- nization. It was by its charter to be ists, Marxists, and drug dealers. This ances and blindly hoping for good to strictly a defensive organization de- current fight was initiated by Kosovo’s come of it, we should reconsider the ad- signed to defend Western Europe from desire for independence from Serbia. vice of the Founders and take seriously any Soviet threat. The NATO charter The KLA took on the Serbs, not the the strict restraints on waging war clearly recognized the Security Council other way around. Whether or not one placed in the Constitution. of the United Nations was responsible is sympathetic to Kosovo’s secession is Not much long-term good can come for the maintenance of international not relevant. I for one prefer many of a foreign policy designed to meddle peace and security. small independent governments and manipulate in places where we Likewise, the legislative history and pledged not to aggress against their have no business or authority. It can- congressional testimony maintained neighbors over the international spe- not help the cause of peace. NATO could not usurp from Congress cial interest authoritarianism of Unfortunately, our policies usually and the people the power to wage war. NATO, the CIA, and the United Na- backfire and do more harm than good. We have drifted a long way from that tions. When weaker nations are intimidated acknowledgment, and the fears ex- But my sympathies do not justify our by more powerful ones, striking back pressed by Robert Taft and others in taxing and sending young Americans to very often can be done only through 1949 were certainly justified. fight for Kosovo’s independence. It is terrorism, a problem that will continue United States and NATO, while delib- wrong legally and morally; and besides, to threaten all Americans as our lead- erately avoiding a U.N. vote on the the KLA is not likely to institute a ers incite those who oppose our aggres- issue, have initiated war against a sov- model nation respecting civil liberties sive stands throughout the world. of all its citizens. War has been used throughout his- ereign state in the middle of a civil The biggest irony of this entire mess tory to enhance the state against the war. A Civil War that caused thousands is to see the interventionists, whose people. Taxes, conscription and infla- of casualties and refugees on both sides goal is one world government, so deter- tion have been used as tools of the has been turned into a war with hun- mined to defend a questionable group state to pursue wars not popular with dreds of thousands of casualties and of local leaders, the KLA, bent on se- the people. Government size and au- refugees with NATO’s interference. The cession. This action will not go unno- thority always grows with war, as the not-so-idle U.S. threats cast at ticed and will provide the philosophic people are told that only the sacrifice Milosevic did not produce compliance. framework for the establishment of a of their liberties can save the nation. It only expanded the violence and the Palestinian state, Kurdistan, and inde- Propaganda and threats are used to co- bloodshed. pendent Tibet, and it will encourage erce the people into this careless giv- The foolishness of this policy has be- many other ethnic minorities to de- ing up of their liberties. come apparent, but Western leaders are mand independence. This has always been true with mili- quick to justify their warmongering. It Our policy of intervention in the in- tary wars, but the same can be said of was not peace or liberty or national se- ternal affairs of other nations, and the war mentality associated with the curity they sought as they sent the their border disputes is not one that war on drugs, the war on poverty, the bombs flying. It was to save face for comes from American tradition or con- war against illiteracy, or any other NATO. stitutional law. It is a policy based on war proposed by some social do-gooder Without the Soviets to worry about, our current leaders’ belief that we are or intentional mischief maker. NATO needed a mission, and stopping the policemen of the world, something But when a foreign war comes to our the evil Serbs fit the bill. It was con- we have earnestly and foolishly pur- shores in the form of terrorism, we can venient to ignore the evil Croates and sued since World War II and in a more be sure that our government will ex- the Kosovars, and it certainly was easy aggressive fashion since the demise of plain the need for further sacrifice of to forget the United Nations’, NATO’s, the Soviet Union. personal liberties to win this war and the United States’ policies over the Interventionism is done with a pre- against terrorism as well. Extensive past decade that contributed to the tense of wisdom believing we always preparations are already being made to mess in Yugoslavia. know the good guys from the bad guys fight urban and domestic violence, not It was soon apparent that bombing and that we will ignore the corporate by an enhanced local police force, but was no more a successful diplomatic and political special interests always by a national police force with mili- tool than were the threats of dire con- agitating for influence. Nothing could tary characteristics. sequences if the treaty, unfavorable to be further from the truth. Even the war against national disas- the Serbs, was not quickly signed by Instead of being lucky enough on oc- ters led by FEMA, usurps local author- Milosevic. This drew demands that pol- casions to pick the right side of a con- ity while imposing restraints on move- icy must be directed toward saving flict, we instead end up supporting ment and controlling recovery efforts NATO by expanding the war. NATO’s both sides of nearly every conflict. In that should be left to local police, pri- credibility was now at stake and how the 1980s, we helped arm, and allied vate insurance, and voluntary groups. could Europe, and the United States ourselves with, the Iraqis against Iran. Our overseas efforts to police the war machine, survive if NATO were to Also in the 1980s we supported the Af- world implies that with or without suc- disintegrate. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2263 Hopes as expressed by Ron Brown and those who seek only peace and free- their position on Vietnam, has never his corporate friends were not extin- dom. NATO no longer can hide its true been bashful about its bold authori- guished by the unfortunate and mys- intent behind an anti-communist com- tarian use of force to mold economic terious Air Force crash while on their mitment. conditions, welfare, housing, medical way to Bosnia to do business deals. No- Some have wondered how a 1960s gen- care, job discrimination, environment, body even bothers to find out what U.S. eration administration could be so wages and working conditions, com- policy condones business trips of our proned to war. The 1960s were known bined with a love for taxes and infla- corporate leaders in a war zone on an for their rebellion against the Vietnam tion to pay the bills. When in general Air Force aircraft. Corporate interests War and a preference for lovemaking the principle of government force to and the military-industrial complex and drugs over fighting, even Com- mold society is endorsed, using force to continues to play a role in our Yugo- munists. In recent months four sepa- punish Serbs is no great leap of faith, slavian war policy. Corporate America rate sovereign nations were bombed by and for the interventionists is entirely loves NATO. the United States. This has to be some consistent. Likewise, the intervention- Most politicians and the public do kind of a record. Bombing Belgrade on ists who justified unconstitutional not know what NATO’s real mission is, Easter has to tell us something about fighting in Vietnam, Panama, Nica- and today’s policy cannot be explained an administration that is still strange- ragua, Grenada, Libya and the Persian by reading its mission statement writ- ly seen by some as not having the de- Gulf, even if they despise the current ten in 1949. Certainly our vital inter- termination to fight a real war. There war in Yugoslavia, can easily justify ests and national security cannot jus- is a big difference between being anti- using government force when it pleases tify our escalation of the war in Yugo- war when one’s life is at risk as com- them and their home constituency. slavia. pared to when it is someone else’s. Philosophic interventionism is a The excuse that we are the only su- That may tell us something about politician’s dream. It allows arbitrary perpower is hardly a moral reason to character, but there is more to it than intervention, domestic or inter- national, and when political cir- justify bombing nations that are seen that. as uncooperative. Military strength Many who were opposed to the Per- cumstances demand opposition, it is gives neither a right to bully nor a mo- sian Gulf and Vietnam Wars are now easy to cite the Constitution which al- nopoly on wisdom. This strength too strongly supporting this so-called just ways and correctly rejects the use of often, when held by large political en- and humanitarian war to punish those government force, except for national tities, is used criminally to serve the who are said to be totally responsible self-defense and for the protection of powerful special interests. for the Yugoslavian refugee problem. life, liberty and property. Politicians love interventionism and The Persian Gulf and Yugoslavia ob- The fact that Serbia is not Communist pragmatism, the prevailing philosophy viously are much more economically in the sense of North Vietnam may of our age, a philosophy based on rel- intriguing than Rwanda and Sudan. play a part for some in making the de- There are clearly no business benefits ative ethics. No rigid adherence to law cision to support this war but not the for taking on the Chinese over its pol- or morality is required. Even the Con- war in Vietnam. But the Persian Gulf icy toward Tibet. Quite the contrary, stitution can be used in this delicate War was not at all about communism, we do business with China and sub- debate of just when and for whom we it was about oil. go to war. The trick is to grab the po- sidize her to boot. Some from the left, if strongly in- In spite of the powerful political and litical moral high ground while reject- clined toward internationalism, sup- industrial leaders’ support behind ing the entire moral foundation upon ported the Persian Gulf War, but for NATO, and the budgets of 19 Western which the law rests, natural rights, re- the most part the opposition came countries, NATO’s days appear num- jection of force and the requirement from those who chose not to support a bered. We shall not weep when NATO politicians be strictly bound by a con- goes the way of the Soviet Empire and president of the opposite party, while tract for which all of us take an oath the Warsaw Pact. Managing a war with today, supporting one’s own party’s po- to uphold. 19 vetoes makes it impossible for a co- sition to bomb the Serbs becomes po- What does this hodgepodge philos- herent strategy to evolve. Chaos, bick- litically correct. ophy here in the Congress mean for the The same can be said of those who ering, bureaucratic blundering, waste future of peace and prosperity in gen- are opposed to the Yugoslavian war. and political infighting will surely re- eral and NATO and the United Nations Where they supported the Persian Gulf sult. in particular? Pragmatism cannot pre- There is no natural tendency for big War, this administration has not gar- vail. Economically and socially it government to enjoy stability without nered their support for partisan rea- breeds instability, bankruptcy, eco- excessive and brute force, as was used sons. The principle of interventionism, nomic turmoil and factionalism here at in the Soviet system. But eventually constitutionality and morality have home. Internationally it will lead to the natural tendency towards insta- not been applied consistently to each the same results. bility, as occurred in the Soviet Em- war effort by either political party, and NATO’s days are surely numbered. pire, will bring about NATO’s well-de- there is a precise reason for this, over That is the message of the current served demise. NATO, especially since and above the petty partisanship of chaos in Yugoslavia. NATO may hold it has embarked on a new and dan- many. together in name only for a while, but The use of government force to mold gerous imperialistic mission, will find its effectiveness is gone forever. The personal behavior, manipulate the using brute force to impose its will on U.S. has the right to legally leave economy and interfere in the affairs of others is doomed to fail. NATO with a 1-year’s notice. That we It has been said that, in numbers, other nations is an acceptable practice ought to do, but we will not. We will there is strength. But in politics, it can endorsed by nearly everyone in Wash- continue to allow ourselves to bleed fi- also be said that, in numbers, there is ington regardless of party affiliation. nancially and literally for many years confusion as differences become mag- Once the principle of government force to come before it is recognized that nified. is acknowledged as legitimate, varying governance of diverse people is best Nationalism is alive and well even the when and to what degree becomes done by diverse and small govern- within the 19-member NATO group. the only issue. It is okay to fight Com- ments, not by a one-world government When nationalism is non-militaristic, munists overseas but not Serbs; it is dependent on the arbitrary use of force peace loving, and freedom oriented, it okay to fight Serbs but not Arabs. The determined by politically correct rea- is a force that will always undermine use of force becomes completely arbi- sons and manipulated by the powerful big government planners, whether trary and guided by the politician’s financial interests around the world. found in a Soviet system or a NATO/ good judgment. And when it pleases Our more immediate problem is the U.N. system. one group to use constitutional re- financing of the ongoing war in Yugo- straint, it does, but forgets about the slavia. On February 9 of this year I in- b 1745 restraints when it is not convenient. troduced legislation to deny funds to The smaller the unit of government, The 1960s crowd, although having a the President to wage war in Yugo- the better it is for the welfare of all reputation for being anti-war due to slavia. The Congress chose to ignore H2264 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 this suggestion and missed an oppor- This was a seminal day in a pattern The last act of a genocide is genocide tunity to prevent the fiasco now ongo- of oppression that began in the 1890s, denial. Because those who have com- ing in Yugoslavia. and at a level of oppression which be- mitted it wish to blot out even the The President, as so many other tween 1915 and 1923 caused the death of memory of those who they have killed. presidents have done since World War 1.5 million Armenians in mass execu- And it is, in fact, unfortunate that the II, took it upon himself to wage an ille- tions in forced marches, through dis- Turkish Government continues its gal war against Yugoslavia under ease, and through starvation, thus genocide denial, a genocide denial that NATO’s authority, and Congress again eliminating virtually the entire Arme- is not just passive, not just intran- chose to do nothing. By ignoring our nian population of Anatolia and West- sigent, but takes the form of trying to constitutional responsibility with re- ern Armenia. erase from the history books of others gards to war power, the Congress im- There were many contemporaries that which happened at the beginning plicitly endorsed the President’s par- who were there to see this first geno- of this century. ticipation in NATO’s illegal war cide. Perhaps no one speaks with the Today I was honored to meet with against Yugoslavia. We neither de- authority of our own ambassador to the new chancellor of UCLA, my alma clared war nor told the President to the Ottoman Empire, Ambassador mater. And I am proud of UCLA. I was cease and desist. Henry Morgantheau. I will probably a Bruin when Walton was on the bas- Now we have a third chance, and mispronounce our ambassador’s name, ketball court. And I was proud to meet maybe our last, before the war gets out so I will simply refer to him as our am- our new chancellor, who described of control. We are being asked to pro- bassador to the Ottoman Empire. He what is happening at UCLA. But the vide all necessary funding for the war. recounts in his statement, ‘‘When the proudest day for UCLA was when it re- Once we provide funds for the war, the Turkish authorities gave orders for jected a gift of over a million dollars Congress becomes an explicit partner these deportations, they were merely from the Turkish Government, rejected in this ill-conceived NATO-inspired giving the death warrant to a whole a gift of over a million dollars. intervention in the civil war of a sov- race. They understood this well, and in It is not in the nature of universities ereign nation, making Congress mor- their conversations with me made no to reject gifts, but this gift came with ally and legally culpable. particular attempt to conceal this strings attached. It was to fund a chair Appropriating funds to pursue this fact.’’ in Ottoman history with various war is not the way to peace. We have In the poignant passage in his book, strings and provisos that virtually en- been bombing, boycotting and killing Black Dog of Faith, Peter Balakian re- sured that the Turkish Government thousands in Iraq for 9 years with no lates the story of a genocide survivor. would control who sat in that chair. It end in sight. We have been in Bosnia After seeing the massacre of Arme- would not have been a chair for legiti- for 3 years, with no end in sight. And nians in her own village, her father be- mate inquiry into historical facts but once Congress endorses the war in headed and crucified on the door of rather a chair in genocide denial. And Yugoslavia with funding, it could take their home on one morning, the Arme- UCLA stood firm and rejected that gift a decade, billions of dollars, and much nian woman was forced to dance in the and said that the academic integrity of suffering on both sides, before we put it village square while being brutalized my alma mater and the academic in- to an end. and set on fire, as their children tegrity of all American universities is Bellicosity and jingoism associated clapped, and other images too horrific not for sale. with careless and illegal intervention to describe. The death march and the It is time for the American State De- can never replace a policy of peace and Euphrates so filled with blood and partment to show this same level of friendship whenever possible. And when corpses that no reasonable person courage and determination. It is time it is not, at least neutrality. NATO’s could see it and not be sick. for the State Department and the U.S. The first genocide of this century aggressive war of destruction and executive branch of Government not laid the foundation for the Holocaust, vengeance can only make the situation just to remember the day April 24 but the largest genocide and the most hor- to use the word that describes what worse. The sooner we disengage our- rific of this or any century. It was in- that day remembers. The word is selves from this ugly civil war, the bet- teresting that our ambassador to the ter. It is the right thing to do. Ottoman Empire happened to be an ‘‘genocide.’’ And it is time for the f American Jew who was told by Turkish State Department to recognize what authorities, ‘‘These people, these Ar- happened. COMMEMORATION OF THE REMEM- Clearly, at a time when the State De- menians, are Christians. Since you are BRANCE OF THE ARMENIAN partment is trying to rally our support a Jew, why don’t you let us do with the GENOCIDE to prevent mass murders in the Christians as we please?’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Well, whether it is in Anatolia or in Balkans, they should be honest as to BASS). Under the Speaker’s announced Europe or anywhere in the world, we what happened in Anatolia some 80- policy of January 6, 1999, the gen- cannot countenance genocide simply plus years ago. tleman from California (Mr. SHERMAN) by saying the victims are not of our re- PLAN NEEDED TO PROVIDE DIRECTIONAL SIGNS is recognized for 60 minutes. ligion or ethnic group. No wonder 30 AT U.S. CAPITOL COMPLEX Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I know years later Adolf Hitler uttered his in- Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I would I am the last Speaker before the staff famous statement about the Armenian now like to address a completely dif- goes home, and they will be gratified to Genocide. ferent subject and one that is not near- know that I will use roughly half the Eight days before the invasion of Po- ly so grave. allotted time. Even with half the allot- land, which would place 3 million Jews I had a chance to meet with the Ar- ted time, 30 minutes is quite long, per- under his control and which allowed chitect of the United States Capitol, haps too long to devote to a single sub- Hitler to send them to their deaths, he the man who keeps the facilities here ject, and that is why I wish to give, in told those in his inner circle who running, to talk to him about some of effect, three separate speeches. thought that the world might question the ways we could make this institu- The first speech I would like to give this policy, ‘‘Who today remembers the tion work better as a physical plant. is in commemoration of the remem- extermination of the Armenians?’’ Mr. Speaker, we get four to five mil- brance of the Armenian Genocide. Clearly, the impunity that the Turkish lion tourists every year. Now, that does April 24 is the day when Armenians and government felt that they had in anni- not cause us to rival Disneyland, al- those of good conscience around the hilating the Armenians emboldened though there are those who assert that world remember the genocide that took Hitler before the worst of the Holo- the U.S. Congress rivals Disneyland in place at the beginning of this century. caust. other respects, but it is indeed a large Because it was on April 24 that 200 Ar- number of people to accommodate. And menian religious, political, intellectual b 1800 yet, I will just illustrate the problem leaders were rounded up in Constanti- And that is why those of us of Jewish with a story that happened last year. nople, taken into the interior and exe- faith, Armenians, and everyone of good Some constituents of mine came and cuted. conscience must say, ‘‘never again.’’ visited the gallery, right up there. And April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2265 after watching their fill of Congres- And I am also happy to report to happening in committee hearing room sional pontificating, they decided to those who protect the entrance at the number 1 or number 2 or number 15 or walk back to my office in the Long- southeast corner of the Longworth number 22, so that every legislative as- worth building through the tunnels. building that I have the assurance of sistant in Sacramento can hear what is For it was winter and the tunnels were the Architect that a new series of signs going on in their Ways and Means Com- warm. And, as everyone knows, there will be put up there very soon so that mittee while at the same time being are a network of tunnels that connect they can do their job instead of telling able to prepare their member for what the Capitol with the House office build- people that they are in the Longworth is going to go on in their Appropria- ings. Well, they walked down into the Building and where the Rayburn Build- tions Committee. tunnels and they have not been heard ing is and where the Cannon Building Just as C-SPAN plays what is going from since. For that labyrinth, that is. on on the House floor, which is of occa- maze, lacks almost any sign to tell There is one other step that we could sional interest to the legislative assist- them where they are going. take. It has been analyzed by the con- ants, they could instead listen to what Now, as a serious matter, the absence sultants. I believe the consultants have is going on in an appropriations sub- of signage so far has not been respon- not embraced it, but it deserves some committee of direct relevance to the sible for somebody being lost to the additional attention. And that is the district that their Member represents. point where they were never heard idea of putting colored striping not in So I think that we can also rig up a from again, but it does imperil the effi- the beautiful buildings but in the I will system at virtually minimal cost so ciency not only of this House’s busi- use the term ‘‘ugly’’ tunnels that are that each of us in each office here in ness, the efficiency of those who come underneath this building. the Capitol could listen on a box to here to persuade us on various issues, I think my colleagues are well aware what is going on in the committee but it also impairs the efficiency of the that those tunnels are not in any way hearing room of our choice, listening Capitol Police that are here to protect aesthetic. They have open pipes and perhaps on one hour to what is going us. And last year the importance of dangling wires, and certainly colored on in the International Relations hear- that protection was illustrated. stripes on the ground would do nothing ing room and then turning a dial to lis- If we talk to any Capitol policeman to decrease their aesthetic appeal. But ten to what is going on in Ways and or Capitol police woman, if we talk to those colored lines could direct people Means. them for a while and ask them to let from one building to the other effec- But we do not have to stop at 1970s down their guard a little bit, they will tively and direct them to the Capitol technology. We could work our way up tell us they spend less than a third but building effectively. to 1980s technology. We could take close to a third of their time giving di- There is perhaps a plan to make those same 20 or 30 audio choices and rections. those tunnels a little bit more aesthet- put them on an 800 number. Or if we Well, that is not surprising. There ically consistent with the rest of the wanted to be cheap, we could put them are four to five million tourists here Capitol; and if that is the case, I would on a 900 number. But either way, we each year not to mention a few fresh- well understand why colored lines on can allow people all over the country men and sophomore Members of Con- the ground are inconsistent with that. to dial in and hear what is going on in gress who ourselves do not always But if the tunnels are going to remain this or that committee of the House of know the best way to get from one Representatives. the functional-only tunnels that they place to another. We need a plan to Today there their only alternative is are today, then nothing should be ruled provide signs throughout the Capitol to hire some expensive lobbyist to out as far as making them more usable complex. come monitor a committee or, alter- I am happy to report to the House and providing some direction to those natively, to fly to Washington so that that the architect has already signed a who use them. they could be there for a committee A second issue I would like to raise consulting contract, half of that con- hearing. tract is completed, for a plan to put would perhaps make it easier on Amer- Now, I know that C-SPAN covers signs virtually everywhere, literally icans by not requiring them to even what seems to be an interminable num- thousands of new directional signs so come to Washington at all, although it ber of committee hearings. But, in fact, that people who visit us will know is beautiful and I urge Americans to only two or three percent of the com- where they are and how to get to where come here to see their Government in mittee hearings are carried live and they are going. action, and that is an idea that has those interested in what is going on in I was told once, if we want to influ- been used in the California capitol in committee and subcommittee have to ence what happens in Washington, we Sacramento for over 20 years. be physically in the room to hear what need to hire an expensive lobbyist who Each of the hearing rooms for each of is going on. We could, through 1980s knows his way around the Capitol. I the committees here in Congress has a technology, provide that to every thought that meant understanding par- microphone system and anywhere in American everywhere in the country. liamentary procedure. But parliamen- that room we can hear whoever is And I know there are people who watch tary procedure is simple compared to speaking, and that means their voice is this floor on C-SPAN who would prefer the labyrinth of tunnels underneath going through a wire to the loud- to know what is going on in the com- this building, and knowing our way speakers. But, unfortunately, that wire mittee that is relevant to them. around Washington may very well only goes to loudspeakers in that hear- But we do not even have to stop at mean simply knowing how to get from ing room. 1980s technology. As we approach the one building to the other. As has been remarked on many occa- new century, we could even think of Thousands of directional signs sions, Congress in committee is Con- 1990s technology. At virtually no cost, throughout the buildings and tunnels gress at work. What goes on in com- we could put that same audio signal on will make it easier for people to do mittee is every bit as important as the Internet and anyone with a com- business whether they are here for a what goes on on this floor. And if my puter and a modem and 10 or 20 bucks day or whether they are just coming to speech lasts as long as it might, per- to provide their Internet service pro- Congress as freshmen or new staffers. I haps many would argue that what goes vider could listen anywhere in the will simply point out that the way on in committee is far more interesting country to what is going on in any they test the intelligence of rodents is than what is going on on the floor. committee room here in the House of they put them in a maze of tunnels and But, in any case, what goes on in Representatives. see how quickly they can figure out committee, whether it is a sub- This is the people’s House, but the their way around. committee or full committee, is of crit- people should not have to fly to Wash- I personally am not going to go one- ical importance. And yet in Sac- ington to hear what is going on. on-one against the more intelligence ramento, if we are anywhere in the Now, I realize that the system will white rats because, if my own experi- capitol complex, they have at their not be perfect. They will not nec- ence in the tunnels is any indication, I desk a box and they can simply turn a essarily be certain who is speaking am not certain that I would prevail. We 1970s technology dial on that box and when listening on a squawk box or lis- need these directional signs. listen through a speaker to what is tening on the Internet. But certainly H2266 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 this is an option that we should pro- cerns for now. But 6 months from now, extinguished, and I will point to our vide. And those who listen carefully a year from now, we must make it lack of success in sending a small force will hear who the chairman or chair clear to the Europeans that dialing 911 into Tehran to rescue our hostages. woman of a committee has recognized and reaching the Pentagon is not a Perhaps we should thank God that that and will be able to remember who is substitute for spending their own force never actually reached Tehran speaking. money for their own defense forces. because I am not sure that it would Mr. Speaker, I would now like to give The second observation I would like have been successful had it reached my third speech. And while I said that to make is that the vilification of that city. In fact, it was not successful I would use only half of the allotted Slobodan Milosevic is justified but may in even reaching the capital of Iran. hour, I fear that I may use perhaps impede our efforts because I do not So, sending in a small force risks the two-thirds of it. And I apologize to think, and I will get to this later, that annihilation of that force. Sending into those staff members who are extremely we can be certain of such total battle- Belgrade, that means all the way anxious to leave. field dominance that we can just send a through Serbia, a force capable of exer- telegram or a fax to Belgrade instruct- b 1815 cising dominion over that city would ing them what to do. Instead, I suspect probably involve a military campaign THE CONFLICT IN THE BALKANS that we will have to negotiate a com- involving thousands and thousands of But the third issue that I would like promise or a settlement with Mr. American casualties. So while it is glo- to address is the one that is on all of Milosevic, and while he is a mass mur- rious to beat our chests and to say that our minds, and that is the conflict in derer, the people of this country must the world must rid itself of Milosevic, the Balkans, and I have a few basic ob- be aware that Saddam Hussein is an and perhaps some day that will come, servations before I would like to give a even worse mass murderer and we had to make that an objective of our cur- more organized and cogent presen- to negotiate with Saddam, and the gov- rent campaign is to doom that cam- tation. ernment in Beijing has killed millions paign to failure and perhaps to ensnarl The first observation is that we are of Chinese, and we just welcomed their us in a ground campaign that would about to play host to the NATO min- prime minister. have very high casualties. isters. They are coming here to cele- Why must America do this? Why does I do want to point out that our ac- brate 50 years of NATO, but I fear that America do this? Why do we deal with tions in Kosovo are motivated by the what they are here to celebrate is 50 mass murderers? Why must we deal highest level of idealism, that we are years of us spending on our defense with Milosevic? willing to spend our treasure and, more budget enough money to protect them I would put forward that if we want importantly, to risk the lives of our and the peace of their continent while to hide from the truth, we could try to men and women to prevent atrocities Europe fails to spend enough on its convince ourselves that Milosevic is and to assure the Albanian Kosovars of own defense. the only malignancy on this planet and a chance to live in peace, security and Now when NATO was born 50 years that everywhere else governments are autonomy. Perhaps there is no more ago, the European economies were in free, people are safe, yet nothing could moral statement that can be made shambles, and the concept of burden be further from the truth. Half of the about America than that we are willing sharing was perhaps not applicable. people of this world are ruled by gov- to do that. But in any such great ideal- But today, as the alliance engages in ernments that have committed mass istic undertaking there is a risk that military affairs in the Balkans, the murder, and as long as the world is as the idealism that motivates the action most that can be said is the Europeans it is rather than as we would like to will cloud your judgment and have are helping us. pretend it is, like to deceive our chil- idealism cloud the effort to develop a Europe is the richest continent on dren and even our voting age citizens realistic strategy. Realism requires us the planet. Its gross domestic product into believing it is, as long as half the to remember some unpleasant facts. exceeds that of the United States. We world is governed by governments The first of these is that Kosovo is are told that the reason we are focus- guilty of mass murder, we will have to not the only place of mass murder, of ing on Kosovo is that this is desta- deal with those governments. tragedy and atrocity. It is not a place bilizing to the most powerful continent Third, I would like to observe an un- where we can spend our entire willing- on the planet, Europe, and yet some- fortunate tendency in the rhetoric sur- ness to work for humanitarian ideals, how the most this great colossus can rounding Kosovo, both rhetoric of our because in fact there are other victims provide is some assistance while a own State Department and rhetoric in of mass murder, perhaps also that North American country is required to London and in other European capitals. would be just as just for us to try to do the work. And we are even told that That rhetoric is to increase the objec- help as the Kosovars. we should be grateful that they are as- tives that we demand that we reach in I will point out that 800,000 members sisting our efforts to protect their con- Kosovo while at the same time, frank- of the Tutsi tribe were killed in Rwan- tinent. ly, our military campaign is not work- da, but that is pretty much passed, but Now is not the time for restructuring ing out as we planned. To increase the today there is massive tragedy, death the military relationships, but clearly objective while not achieving any of and atrocity in the Congo, in the time has come to end American ac- your objectives on the battlefield, or Myanmar, in East Timor, and espe- quiescence as the Europeans slash their any of your major objectives, is folly cially in southern Sudan where 2 mil- own defense budgets far below what and sets us up for defeat. We must in- lion people have been killed, and the they proved they could afford during stead recognize that we did not begin killing goes on every year. the 1980’s. If there is a peace dividend, these hostilities for the purpose of There are those that say we cannot it should be paid to the American tax- sending American troops into Belgrade stand by and watch atrocities in the payers who bore the lion’s share of the with an arrest warrant for Slobodan Balkans. We should not watch, but we economic burden of winning the Cold Milosevic and the British did not begin have demonstrated our capacity to War. It should not be reaped by a Euro- their effort alongside us for that pur- watch atrocity because for 10 years we pean continent which demanded pose either, and while those who are have ignored the atrocities in southern through its own inaction American watching action thrillers out of Holly- Sudan where 2 million people have protection. wood may believe that you can land been killed and where America has If we look at what is happening in one Jean Claude Van Dam and maybe a done almost nothing to help them. the Balkans, we see that America is Schwartzenegger or two, and rush into I would hope that our actions in now required to mobilize its reserves. the Presidential Palace in Belgrade, Kosovo are so successful that we are Certainly all of the European air forces extract Milosevic and fly him to the emboldened to provide some limited should have mobilized all of their re- Hague for trial, in fact the overthrow level of assistance, and I am not pro- serves before Europe asked us or NATO of Milosevic is probably not going to posing sending American Armed asked us to mobilize ours, and the im- occur, and to enter Belgrade means ei- Forces, but some limited level of as- portance of stopping the mass murder ther you enter us with a small force, sistance to those in southern Sudan in the Balkans may exceed these con- which would probably be completely who are trying to protect their lives April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2267 from a government more guilty of mass would be taken prisoner, et cetera, et sians, mindful of their own history, murder than the government in Bel- cetera. In fact, given the situation, mindful of the sacrifices of World War grade. militarily it would be wise for the I, believe that they have a definite A second fact that we are perhaps un- United States to define a more real- stake in what happens to Serbia. willing or at least reluctant to recog- istic objective. So we can and should involve Russia, nize is that our goal creating a multi- We should not give up on the idea and if Russia gets the credit for peace ethnic, autonomous Kosovo, multi- that the Albanian Kosovars need a that is two good things. It is peace and ethnic and harmonious may be beyond place to live in Kosovo where they are it is a Russian Government that can reach. Realistically it is unlikely that safe and where they can succeed with hold its head high against the Albanians and Serbs will live in Kosovo our aid in building a prosperous home- ultranationalists in Moscow and else- in harmony and peace in the absence of land, but this does not necessarily need where. an outside force. We should remember to be 100 percent of Kosovo in multi- Second, and this is controversial, we that it is not just the Serbs who have ethnic harmony, which is our stated need to signal that we are not demand- committed massive atrocities, but the objective. ing that Rambouillet, that the Ram- KLA that has committed atrocities on Let me talk for a moment about bouillet agreement, apply to all of a smaller scale as they have killed some of the strategies that we should Kosovo’s territory but, rather, that it Serb civilians, and we may have to set- at least explore to go along with those apply to only the lion’s share of that tle for a Kosovo in which part is inhab- that we are using. Today I had the op- territory. ited by Albanians, the lion’s share, and portunity in hearings to hear from and No one doubts that the Serbs, like part is inhabited by Serbs. The goal of question our Secretary of State Mad- the Albanian Kosovars, have rights in them living side by side is a noble and eleine Albright. Kosovo. The Serbs represent 10 percent idealistic goal, but one that a realist Mr. Speaker, if anyone saw me run- of the population, the Kosovars a little might say cannot be achieved any time ning into this hall it was so that I over 80 percent. Kosovo has been part soon. could make it here on time because we of Serbia for hundreds of years, and Finally, or another important fact to had a meeting, with several of my col- Kosovo is the religious and cultural point out, one that we are clouded in leagues, with Sandy Berger, who is the birthplace of the Serbian nation. In our judgment for not realizing, is that President’s national security advisor. fact, even the Rambouillet agreement this is not a battle between pure good The administration remains welded recognizes Serb rights in Kosovo by and pure evil. Yes, in an idealistic mel- to its existing policies. They are opti- stating that Kosovo should remain part odrama there is pure good and pure mistic that continued bombing will of Serbia. evil, yet that is not the case here. I lead to a collapse of the Milosevic ca- We should imagine an agreement have already mentioned that the KLA pacity to resist. If they are right, we that does not involve one peacekeeping has engaged in atrocities to try to will find out because nothing this Con- force but, rather, two geographically expel Serbs from Kosovo, far smaller in gress does, nothing the people of this separate peacekeeping forces. One of number, far less heinous a policy, but country do, will prevent a continued those forces should occupy 70, 80 per- murder is murder, and the KLA, who bombing campaign for at least several cent of Kosovo and should be led by are fighting more or less on our side, weeks, perhaps a month, before there is NATO. This force will provide the secu- fighting for the Kosovars, is an organi- even the possibility that anyone other rity necessary so that Albanian refu- zation with some ties to Iran, an orga- than the administration would cause in gees feel free to return, and on that 80 nization that Osama Bin Laden has any way a change in policy. percent of the territory they will build tried to assist and we are not certain of If during those weeks there are not lives more prosperous than the lives whether those entreaties and offers of signs and far greater signs than we they had before this conflict because assistance have been honored and an have seen so far of success, we do need they will enjoy not only American aid organization with ties to drug dealers. to look at other strategies. One of but, with a little common sense, we Until a few months ago, the official those strategies is being embraced by will allocate to them all of the former policy of our State Department was to the administration but only to a lim- Yugoslavia’s textile quota and other call the KLA a terrorist organization. ited extent, and that is to involve Rus- trade concessions, aid and trade. This Likewise, the Serbs are not just vic- sia in the peacemaking process. Russia would leave another 20 percent of timizers, but also victims. 180,000 Serbs is critical because Russia can persuade Kosovo that would be patrolled exclu- were ethnically cleansed from Croatia the Milosevic government to do things sively by Russian peacekeepers. just a few years ago, forced at the and to make concessions they would The final status of Kosovo could point of bayonet and gun to leave not make on their own. Russia is im- wait, but in this area Serbia would feel homes they had lived in for centuries. portant because they can provide a fig secure. In this area, the Serb popu- lation would feel very secure and, b leaf or political cover so that Milosevic 1830 can make any concessions that he de- frankly, in this area I am not certain I would point out that during that cides are in his interest to make but he that refugees would choose to return. ethnic cleansing, where Serbs were the needs a political excuse to make. This would allow the Serbs to notice victims, America did almost nothing. Finally, Russia is important to the that their friends, the Russians, were It is true, while there were a few Balkans because Russia could provide the force occupying the ancient site murders they did not reach the level of an essential part of the peacekeeping and origin of the Serbian orthodox mass murder that has been achieved in force, and I will get to some of the pos- church, the important monastery Kosovo, but still some murders and sibilities for a makeup of a peace- lands, at least those that are contig- 180,000 to 200,000 people ethnically keeping force later. Involving Russia in uous, and the battlefield of Kosovo cleansed, this was an atrocity. Yet at the Balkans may be more important Polje, where the Serbs fought the the time, the Croatians who were com- than anything that is happening in the Turks in the 14th century. mitting this atrocity were our allies Balkans. By letting the Serbs know that there with regard to bringing the Bosnian Ten years from now Kosovo may be will be no NATO occupation of this sec- conflict to a conclusion so America somewhat forgotten but Russia will re- tion of Kosovo, we leave them with a said virtually nothing and did abso- main a critical nuclear arms state, and reason to bargain. Otherwise, they lose lutely nothing. if we do not treat Russia with respect not one more square inch of territory Finally, blind idealism would say now the Russian people and the Rus- by losing this war than they would if that we should be increasing our objec- sian leadership will remember that in they agreed to our bargaining position. tives to reach pure justice for our the future. Giving them security in 20 percent of cause, and I have mentioned this ear- By way of historical footnote, I Kosovo gives them a reason to make lier, adding on to our objectives the should mention that 85 years ago Rus- concessions other than ending the idea that not only Kosovo but all of it sia mobilized its Army in support of bombing, and clearly ending the bomb- would be liberated and under total Serbia, and that led directly to World ing has not imperiled them to reach a NATO domination but that Milosevic War I. It is not surprising that the Rus- compromise with us so far. H2268 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999

It is true that the Serbs claim to demand the same level of safety for Mr. LIPINSKI, for 5 minutes, today. have monasteries virtually all over their soldiers. If all of the NATO troops Ms. NORTON, for 5 minutes, today. Kosovo, but I am confident that they need to be put at the rear, then our ef- Mr. STUPAK, for 5 minutes, today. would regard it as a compromise rather forts against Milosevic will be over. If Mr. RUSH, for 5 minutes, today. than a total defeat if they were allowed that happens, then every tyrant and Mr. MEEHAN, for 5 minutes, today. to see the Russians, rather than NATO, mass murderer in the world will feel Ms. WOOLSEY, for 5 minutes, today. who is bombing them, occupy the most that he can act with impunity. The Mr. TIERNEY, for 5 minutes, today. important sites, particularly in the far Vietnam syndrome and the Somalia Mr. DOOLEY of California, for 5 min- west and the far east of Kosovo. syndrome will return. utes, today. Finally, we need to look at other That is why we need at our disposal Mr. SMITH of Washington, for 5 min- mechanisms to either defeat the Serbs not only the KLA, and they are oper- utes, today. or perhaps more importantly to let the ating independently and they will get Mrs. MALONEY of New York, for 5 Serbs know that they may be defeated. light weapons with or without us, but minutes, today. Milosevic, I believe, is convinced that also another well-armed Albanian Mr. BLUMENAUER, for 5 minutes, he can continue to occupy Kosovo be- force. today. cause we will never send in ground In conclusion, the American people Ms. ESHOO, for 5 minutes, today. troops. His tanks will be there as long have shown their willingness to com- Ms. LEE, for 5 minutes, today. as they hide among civilians or dig in mit their treasure and more impor- Mr. GREEN of Texas, for 5 minutes, so that they cannot be destroyed by tantly the lives of our sons and daugh- today. our Apache helicopters. What Apache ters to preventing atrocity, amelio- Mr. SANDERS, for 5 minutes, today. helicopter is going to fire at a tank if rating tragedy. If we realistically de- Mr. CAPUANO, for 5 minutes, today. they put 10 or 20 unwilling Albanians fine our objectives and if we prepare to Ms. STABENOW, for 5 minutes, today. on top of it? So he can keep his tanks use all of the tools at our disposal, we Ms. CARSON, for 5 minutes, today. and his heavy armor and his artillery may secure a reasonable life for the Ms. HOOLEY of Oregon, for 5 minutes, in Kosovo unless a ground force, with Kosovars, and just as important we today. tanks and with heavy armor and will- may inspire the American people to use Mr. BERMAN, for 5 minutes, today. ing to take casualties, can be deployed limited realistic efforts to try to stop Mr. MCGOVERN, for 5 minutes, today. against him. the ongoing atrocities in Sudan and Mr. CROWLEY, for 5 minutes, today. When he sees us training an army of Myanmar, in the Congo and East (The following Members (at the re- Albanians to use American tanks and Timor and elsewhere. quest of Mr. LUCAS of Oklahoma) to re- American artillery and American If instead we fail, if we devote inad- vise and extend their remarks and in- heavy weapons, then he will know that equate resources to a pristine, perfect, clude extraneous material:) such an Army may soon be deployed no-compromise objective and fail to Mr. NEY, for 5 minutes, today. against him. At that point, a Russian achieve it, then this is going to be a Mr. ENGLISH, for 5 minutes, today. brokered compromise will begin to tragedy; first for those servicemen and Mr. HULSHOF, for 5 minutes, on April look far more appealing. women who die in an unsuccessful 22nd. We do not have to let the Albanians American effort. Mr. KASICH, for 5 minutes, today. take control of these weapons. They Mr. ROGAN, for 5 minutes, today. b can train on them during the day and 1845 Mr. EHRLICH, for 5 minutes, on April American soldiers can retain them at More importantly perhaps even than 28th. night. Therefore, we are not even tech- that, it will be a tragedy for the Mr. DOOLITTLE of California, for 5 nically violating any of the rules Kosovars who will be told that well, we minutes, today. against providing weapons to any of tried, but we did not use all of the op- Mr. DUNCAN, for 5 minutes, today. the residents or citizens of the former tions and we are too idealistic to make Mr. MCINTOSH, for 5 minutes, today. Yugoslavia since we are not giving compromises, and so you will live your (The following Members (at their own them any weapons; we are just giving life here in a refugee camp. request) to revise and extend their re- them training. If at some point in the Finally, if we use inadequate re- marks and include extraneous mate- future we decide to unleash them, we sources to try to achieve the absolute rial:) can give them the custody of those objective, it will be a tragedy for vic- Mr. HINOJOSA, for 5 minutes, today. weapons and heavy armored divisions tims of atrocities around the world, Mr. UDALL of Colorado, for 5 minutes, of Albanians with America’s best ar- both today and whatever atrocities are today. mored weapons can move in to Kosovo committed in the decades to come, by (The following Member (at his own along with the lightly armed KLA. tyrants who at that time would know request) to revise and extend his re- That is what it would take to dislodge that America had tried in Kosovo un- marks and include extraneous mate- Milosevic, a ground army with both successfully. rial:) heavy weapons and lightly armed mo- It will be a while before the adminis- Mr. KNOLLENBERG, for 5 minutes, bile soldiers and an army willing to tration is looking for new alternatives. today. take casualties. They are convinced that the current (The following Member (at his own I want to talk a little bit about the strategy will be successful, and I hope request) to revise and extend his re- other alternative, and that is sending that whatever comes out, it is good marks and include extraneous mate- in NATO ground troops. One alter- enough so that the administration can rial:) native is to send in NATO ground claim that it is a total victory and not Mr. SWEENEY, for 5 minutes, today. troops behind an Albanian Army, in a compromise. But we must begin to (The following Member (at his own support of it. Under those cir- look at other alternatives, and if, in a request) to revise and extend his re- cumstances, NATO might take only few weeks, we recognize that the cur- marks and include extraneous mate- slight casualties, but if instead NATO rent strategy has not been successful, rial:) has to defeat by itself the Serbian we must have the courage to use them. Mr. LATOURETTE, for 5 minutes, Army deployed in Kosovo, then NATO f today. will take casualties and then the dan- f ger is this: What if those casualties are SPECIAL ORDERS GRANTED too much for Americans to endure? By unanimous consent, permission to ADJOURNMENT What if those casualties are too much address the House, following the legis- Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move for the French to endure or the British lative program and any special orders that the House do now adjourn. or the Germans? heretofore entered, was granted to: The motion was agreed to; accord- The first NATO nation that cries The following Members (at the re- ingly (at 6 o’clock and 48 minutes uncle and demands that its soldiers be quest of Mr. MCNULTY) to revise and p.m.), the House adjourned until to- withdrawn or even moved to the rear extend their remarks and include ex- morrow, Thursday, April 22, 1999, at 10 will cause the other NATO countries to traneous material: a.m. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2269 EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, Fisheries off West Coast States and in the Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of ETC. Western Pacific; Pacific Coast Ground Fish- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ery; Trip Limit Adjustments [Docket No. ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Big Island Under clause 8 of rule XII, executive 981231333–8333–01; I.D. 032599A] received April Upper Reach Cape Fear River, North Caro- communications were taken from the 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to lina [CGD05–98–108] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received Speaker’s table and referred as follows: the Committee on Resources. April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); 1617. A communication from the President 1628. A letter from the Director, Torts to the Committee on Transportation and In- of the United States, transmitting a request Branch, Civil Division, Department of Jus- frastructure. for emergency FY 1999 supplementals for the tice, transmitting the Department’s final 1637. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Department of Defense, the Department of rule—Radiation Exposure Compensation Act: Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of State, and the U.S. Agency for International Evidentiary Requirements; Definitions; and Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Development; (H. Doc. No. 106–50); to the Number of Times Claims May Be Filed [A.G. ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Big Island Committee on Appropriations and ordered to Order No. 2213–99] (RIN: 1105–AA49) received Upper Reach Cape Fear River, North Caro- be printed. April 16, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. lina [CGD05–98–107] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received 1618. A letter from the Chairman, National 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on the Judici- April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Credit Union Administration, transmitting ary. to the Committee on Transportation and In- the 1998 Annual Report of the National Cred- 1629. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office frastructure. it Union Administration, pursuant to 12 of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1638. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office U.S.C. 1752a(d); to the Committee on Bank- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. ing and Financial Services. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ment’s final rule—Special Local Regula- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1619. A letter from the Acting Assistant Transportation, transmitting the Depart- General Counsel for Regulatory Law, Depart- tions; Air & Sea Show, Fort Lauderdale, Florida [CGD07–99–017] (RIN: 2115–AE46) re- ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Big Island ment of Energy, transmitting the Depart- Upper Reach Cape Fear River, North Caro- ment’s final rule—Acquisition Letter—re- ceived April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- lina [CGD05–98–105] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received ceived April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Commerce. tation and Infrastructure. 1630. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office to the Committee on Transportation and In- 1620. A letter from the Deputy Director, of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. frastructure. Regulations Policy and Management Staff, Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1639. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office Office of Policy, Food and Drug Administra- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. tion, transmitting the Administration’s final ment’s final rule—Special Local Regula- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of rule—Mutual Recognition of Pharmaceutical tions: St. Croix International Triathlon, St. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Good Manufacturing Practice Inspection Re- Croix, USVI [CGD07 99–016] (RIN: 2115–AE46) ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Big Island ports, Medical Device Quality System Audit received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Upper Reach Cape Fear River, North Caro- Reports, and Certain Medical Device Product 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- lina [CGD05–98–104] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received Evaluation Reports Between the United tation and Infrastructure. April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); States and the European Community; Cor- 1631. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office to the Committee on Transportation and In- rection [Docket No. 98N–0185] (RIN: 0910– of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. frastructure. 1640. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office ZA11) received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Commerce. ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulation; Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 1621. A letter from the Chairman, Council Fireworks Display, St. Helens, Oregon ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Atlantic In- of the District of Columbia, transmitting a [CGD13–98–037] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received tracoastal Waterway at Mile Hammock Bay; copy of D.C. Act 13–44, ‘‘Lease Approval April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Vicinity of Marine Corps Base Camp Technical Amendment Act of 1999’’ received to the Committee on Transportation and In- April 19, 1999, pursuant to D.C. Code section Lejeune, North Carolina [CGD05–98–091] frastructure. (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursu- 1–233(c)(1); to the Committee on Government 1632. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee Reform. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. 1622. A letter from the Chairman, Council on Transportation and Infrastructure. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1641. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office of the District of Columbia, transmitting a Transportation, transmitting the Depart- copy of D.C. Act 13–46, ‘‘Tax Conformity of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Temporary Act of 1999’’ received April 19, Fort Vancouver Celebrate Freedom Fire- 1999, pursuant to D.C. Code section 1– Transportation, transmitting the Depart- works Display [CGD13–98–036] (RIN: 2115– ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; West Point 233(c)(1); to the Committee on Government AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 Reform. Crab Carnival Fireworks Display, [CGD05–98– U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on 085] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, 1623. A letter from the Chairman, Council Transportation and Infrastructure. of the District of Columbia, transmitting a pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- 1633. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- copy of D.C. Act 13–45, ‘‘Motor Vehicle Ex- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. cessive Idling Fine Increase Temporary ture. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1642. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office Amendment Act of 1999’’ received April 19, Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. 1999, pursuant to D.C. Code section 1– ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Big Island Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 233(c)(1); to the Committee on Government Upper Reach Cape Fear River, North Caro- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Reform. lina [CGD05–98–112] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; Michelob 1624. A letter from the Chairman, Council April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Golf Championship Fireworks Display, of the District of Columbia, transmitting a to the Committee on Transportation and In- James River, Williamsburg, VA [CGD05–98– copy of D.C. Act 12–624, ‘‘Solid Waste Facil- frastructure. 080] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, ity Permit Amendment Act of 1998’’ received 1634. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- April 19, 1999, pursuant to D.C. Code section of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- 1–233(c)(1); to the Committee on Government Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of ture. Reform. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 1643. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 1625. A letter from the Chairman, Council ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Big Island of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. of the District of Columbia, transmitting a Upper Reach Cape Fear River, North Caro- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of copy of D.C. Act 13–53, ‘‘Community Develop- lina [CGD05–98–110] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ment Program Amendment Act of 1999’’ re- April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); ment’s final rule—Opening Night Fireworks, ceived April 19, 1999, pursuant to D.C. Code to the Committee on Transportation and In- Newport, RI [CGD01 98–182] (RIN: 2115–AA97) section 1–233(c)(1); to the Committee on Gov- frastructure. received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. ernment Reform. 1635. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- 1626. A letter from the Chairman, Council of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. tation and Infrastructure. of the District of Columbia, transmitting a Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1644. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office copy of D.C. Act 13–48, ‘‘Homestead Housing Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Preservation Amendment Act of 1999’’ re- ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Big Island Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of ceived April 19, 1999, pursuant to D.C. Code Upper Reach Cape Fear River, North Caro- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- section 1–233(c)(1); to the Committee on Gov- lina [CGD05–98–109] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; First Night ernment Reform. April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Gloucester Fireworks Display, Gloucester 1627. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- to the Committee on Transportation and In- Harbor, Gloucester, MA [CGD01–98–181] (RIN: fice of Sustainable Fisheries, National Oce- frastructure. 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursuant to anic and Atmospheric Administration, trans- 1636. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on mitting the Administration’s final rule— of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Transportation and Infrastructure. H2270 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999 1645. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 1654. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. on Transportation and Infrastructure. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1663. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; First Night ment’s final rule—Safety Zone: Italian Her- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Marblehead Fireworks Display, Marblehead itage Month Fireworks, Hudson River, Man- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Harbor, Marblehead, MA [CGD01–98–180] hattan, New York [CGD01–98–152] (RIN: 2115– ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursu- AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 Tennessee River mile 304.5 to 306 [COTP Pa- ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on ducah, KY Regulation 98–007] (RIN: 2115– on Transportation and Infrastructure. Transportation and Infrastructure. AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 1646. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 1655. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Transportation and Infrastructure. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1664. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. ment’s final rule—Security Zone: Presi- ment’s final rule—Safety Zone: Pier 60 Open- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of dential Visit, Newport, RI [CGD01 98–177] ing Day Fireworks, Hudson River, Manhat- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursu- tan, New York [CGD01–98–134] (RIN: 2115– ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 Mile 94.0 to Mile 96.0, Lower Mississippi on Transportation and Infrastructure. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on River, Above Head of Passes [COTP New Or- 1647. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office Transportation and Infrastructure. leans, LA Regulation 98–027] (RIN: 2115–AA97) of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. 1656. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of tation and Infrastructure. ment’s final rule—Security Zone; Presi- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 1665. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office dential Visit, Newport, RI [CGD01 98–176] ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations: of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursu- Port of San Juan, Puerto Rico [COTP San Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee Juan 98–073] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April Transportation, transmitting the Depart- on Transportation and Infrastructure. 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; 1648. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office the Committee on Transportation and Infra- Mile 94.0 to Mile 96.0, Lower Mississippi of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. structure. River, Above Head of Passes [COTP New Or- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1657. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office leans, LA Regulation 98–026] (RIN: 2115–AA97) Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. ment’s final rule—Children of Chernobyl, Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Hudson River, Manhattan, New York Transportation, transmitting the Depart- tation and Infrastructure. [CGD01–98–169] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations: 1666. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); San Juan, Puerto Rico [COTP San Juan 98– of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. to the Committee on Transportation and In- 072] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of frastructure. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 1649. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. ture. Mile 229.5 to Mile 230.5 Lower Mississippi Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1658. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office River, Above Head of Passes [COTP New Or- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. leans, LA Regulation 98–025] (RIN: 2115–AA97) ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; Explosive Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Load, Bath Iron Works, Bath, ME [CGD1–98– Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- 167] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; San Fran- tation and Infrastructure. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- cisco Bay, San Francisco, CA [COTP San 1667. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- Francisco Bay; 98–025] (RIN: 2115–AA97) re- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. ture. ceived April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1650. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. tation and Infrastructure. ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1659. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office Mile 94.0 to Mile 96.0, Lower Mississippi Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. River, Above Head of Passes [COTP New Or- ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; Tow Of The Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of leans, LA Regulation 98–024] (RIN: 2115–AA97) Decommissioned Battleship Massachusetts, Transportation, transmitting the Depart- received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Boston Harbor, Boston, MA [CGD01–98–166] ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; San Fran- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursu- cisco Bay, San Francisco, CA [COTP San tation and Infrastructure. ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee Francisco Bay; 98–024] (RIN: 2115–AA97) re- 1668. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office on Transportation and Infrastructure. ceived April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. 1651. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. tation and Infrastructure. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1660. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Mile 94.0 to Mile 95.0, Lower Mississippi ment’s final rule—Safety Zone: White and Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of River, Above Head of Passes [COTP New Or- Case Fireworks, Hudson River, Manhattan, Transportation, transmitting the Depart- leans, LA Regulation 98–021] (RIN: 2115–AA97) New York [CGD01–98–164] (RIN: 2115–AA97) ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; San Fran- received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. cisco Bay, San Francisco, CA [COTP San 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Francisco Bay; 98–023] (RIN: 2115–AA97) re- tation and Infrastructure. tation and Infrastructure. ceived April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 1669. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 1652. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. tation and Infrastructure. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1661. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; ment’s final rule—Safety Zone: Bras Across Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Miami, Florida [COTP MIAMI–98–074] (RIN: the Hudson, Hudson River, Albany, New Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 2115–AA97) Recieved April 9, 1999, pursuant to York [CGD01–98–160] (RIN: 2115–AA97) re- ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on ceived April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Ohio River mile 919.0 to 920.0 [COTP Padu- Transportation and Infrastructure. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- cah, KY Regulation 99–001] (RIN: 2115–AA97) 1670. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office tation and Infrastructure. received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. 1653. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. tation and Infrastructure. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1662. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; Transportation, transmitting the Depart- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Palm Beach County, Florida [COTP MIAMI– ment’s final rule—Safety Zone: Yankees Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 98–071] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, Celebration Fireworks, Hudson River, Man- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the hattan, New York [CGD01–98–159] (RIN: 2115– ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; Committee on Transportation and Infra- AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway mile 429 to structure. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on 431 [COTP Paducah, KY Regulation 98–006] 1671. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office Transportation and Infrastructure. (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursu- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2271 Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Act to improve the quality of coastal recre- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ation waters, and for other purposes (Rept. ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; Long Beach 106–103). Referred to the House Calendar. Palm Beach County, Florida [COTP MIAMI– Harbor, CA [COTP Los Angeles-Long Beach, f 98–069] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, CA; 98–006] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Committee on Transportation and Infra- Committee on Transportation and Infra- Under clause 2 of rule XII, public structure. structure. 1672. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office bills and resolutions of the following 1681. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office titles were introduced and severally re- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of ferred, as follows: Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- By Mr. HANSEN (for himself, Mr. ment’s final rule—Security Zone Regula- ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Houston Ship YOUNG of Alaska, Mr. HILL of Mon- tions; Bal Harbor, Florida [COTP MIAMI–98– Channel, Houston, TX [COTP Houston-Gal- tana, Mrs. CHENOWETH, Mr. RADANO- 067] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, veston 98–011] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received VICH, Mr. SALMON, Mr. STUMP, Mr. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); HEFLEY, Mr. GIBBONS, Mr. SHADEGG, mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- to the Committee on Transportation and In- Mr. SIMPSON, Mr. POMBO, Mr. ture. frastructure. HUNTER, Mr. HAYWORTH, Mr. CAL- 1673. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 1682. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office VERT, Mr. PETERSON of Pennsylvania, of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Mr. MCINNIS, and Mr. ROHRABACHER): Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of H.R. 1500. A bill to accelerate the Wilder- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ness designation process by establishing a ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; ment’s final rule—Safety Zone: Agana Bay, timetable for the completion of wilderness West Palm Beach, Florida [COTP MIAMI–98– Guam [COTP GUAM 98–004] (RIN: 2115–AA97) studies on Federal Lands; to the Committee 066] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. on Resources. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- By Mr. MCCOLLUM (for himself, Mr. mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- tation and Infrastructure. SCOTT, Mr. HYDE, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. ture. CHABOT, Mr. BARR of Georgia, Mr. 1674. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office 1683. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office GEKAS, Mr. COBLE, Mr. SMITH of of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Texas, Mr. CANADY of Florida, Mr. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of HUTCHINSON, Mr. MEEHAN, Mr. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ROTHman, Mr. WEINER, Ms. JACKSON- ment’s final rule—Safety Zone Regulations; ment’s final rule—Safety Zone: Waters in- LEE of Texas, Mr. WATT of North West Palm Beach, Florida [COTP MIAMI–98– side the Firing Dangerous Area as designated Carolina, Mr. DELAHUNT, Mr. 064] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, on NOAA Chart number 81054 [COTP GUAM 98–003] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, WEXLER, and Ms. LOFGREN): pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- H.R. 1501. A bill to provide grants to ensure mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transportation and Infra- increased accountability for juvenile offend- ture. ers; to the Committee on the Judiciary. 1675. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office structure. By Mr. BARCIA (for himself, Mr. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. 1684. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office BROWN of California, Mrs. MORELLA, Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. Ms. RIVERS, Mr. CAPUANO, Ms. EDDIE Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. ment’s final rule—Safety zone; Licking Transportation, transmitting the Depart- river, Campell County, Kentucky [COTP ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; Victoria COSTELLO, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, LOUSIVILLE 98–003] (RIN: 2115–AA97) re- Barge Canal [COTP Corpus Christi, Texas 98– Mr. WEINER, Mr. UDALL of Colorado, ceived April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 005] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April 9, 1999, Mr. GORDON, Mr. WU, and Mr. DOYLE): H.R. 1502. A bill to minimize the disruption 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- of Government and private sector operations tation and Infrastructure. mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- 1676. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office ture. caused by the Year 2000 computer problem; of Regulations & Administrative Law, De- 1685. A letter from the Chief, Office of Reg- to the Committee on Science. partment of Transportation, transmitting ulations & Administrative Law U.S. Coast By Mr. BARRETT of Nebraska (for the Department’s final rule—Safety Zone Guard Headquarters, Department of Trans- himself and Mr. POMEROY): H.R. 1503. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Cancellation; Santa Barbara, CA [COTP Los portation, transmitting the Department’s enue Code of 1986 to provide an exclusion for Angeles-Long Beach, CA 98–011] (RIN: 2115– final rule—Safety Zone; Santa Barbara gain from sale of farmland which is similar AA97) received April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 Channel, CA [COTP Los Angeles-Long Beach, to the exclusion from gain on the sale of a U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on CA; 99–001] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received April principal residence; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. 16, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to Ways and Means. 1677. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office the Committee on Transportation and Infra- By Mr. CANADY of Florida (for him- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. structure. self, Mr. EWING, Mr. EHRLICH, Mr. Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of 1686. A letter from the Chief, Regulations ETHERIDGE, Mr. CONDIT, Mr. FOLEY, Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Branch, U.S. Customs Service, Department Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mrs. THURMAN, Mr. ment’s final rule—Safety/Security Zone; of the Treasury, transmitting the Depart- BOYD, and Mr. HAYES): Long Beach Harbor, CA [COTP Los Angeles- ment’s final rule—Import Restrictions Im- Long Beach, CA; 98–009] (RIN: 2115–AA97) re- H.R. 1504. A bill to streamline, modernize, posed On Byzantine Ecclesiastical and Ritual and enhance the authority of the Secretary ceived April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Ethnological Material from Cyprus [T.D. 99– 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- of Agriculture relating to plant protection 35] (RIN: 1515–AC46) Recevied April 9, 1999, and quarantine, and for other purposes; to tation and Infrastructure. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- 1678. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office the Committee on Agriculture, and in addi- mittee on Ways and Means. of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. tion to the Committees on the Judiciary, Re- 1687. A communication from the President Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of sources, and Ways and Means, for a period to of the United States, transmitting an ac- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- be subsequently determined by the Speaker, count of all Federal agency climate change ment’s final rule—Safety/Security Zone; in each case for consideration of such provi- programs and Activities; jointly to the Com- Long Beach Harbor, CA [COTP Los Angeles- sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the mittees on Appropriations, International Re- Long Beach, CA; 98–008] (RIN: 2115–AA97) re- committee concerned. lations, Science, Commerce, and Ways and ceived April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. By Mr. ENGLISH (for himself, Mr. Means. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- CARDIN, Mr. REGULA, Mr. COYNE, Mr. tation and Infrastructure. f NEY, Mr. TRAFICANT, and Mr. 1679. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office ADERHOLT): of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON H.R. 1505. A bill to amend United States Coast Guard Headquarters, Department of PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS trade laws to address more effectively im- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of port crises; to the Committee on Ways and ment’s final rule—Safety Zone; Pierpont committees were delivered to the Clerk Means. Bay, Ventura, CA [COTP Los Angeles-Long for printing and reference to the proper By Mr. GIBBONS: Beach, CA; 98–007] (RIN: 2115–AA97) received H.R. 1506. A bill to provide for the orderly April 9, 1999, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); calendar, as follows: disposal of certain Federal land in the State to the Committee on Transportation and In- Mr. REYNOLDS: Committee on Rules. of Nevada and for the acquisition of environ- frastructure. House Resolution 145. Resolution providing mentally sensitive land in the State, and for 1680. A letter from the Acting Chief, Office for consideration of the bill (H.R. 999) to other purposes; to the Committee on Re- of Regulations & Administrative Law U.S. amend the Federal Water Pollution Control sources. H2272 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 1999

By Mr. HANSEN: NORTON, Mr. CONYERS, Mrs. MEEK of By Mrs. WILSON: H.R. 1507. A bill to require the Secretary of Florida, Mr. RUSH, Mr. OWENS, Mr. H.R. 1519. A bill to provide for humani- Transportation to grant exemptions under CLYBURN, Mrs. JONES of Ohio, Mr. tarian assistance for Kosovar Albanian refu- section 41714 of title 49, United States Code, DAVIS of Illinois, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, gees, and for other purposes; to the Com- to allow 30 additional slot exemptions at Ms. PELOSI, Mr. UNDERWOOD, Mr. mittee on International Relations, and in ad- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport PAYNE, Mr. CUMMINGS, and Mr. dition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for air carriers to provide daily air service WEINER): for a period to be subsequently determined between Ronald Reagan Washington Na- H.R. 1512. A bill to improve the safety of by the Speaker, in each case for consider- tional Airport and other airports that are firearms; to the Committee on the Judiciary. ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- more than 1, 250 statute miles from Ronald By Ms. NORTON (for herself and Mr. risdiction of the committee concerned. Reagan Washington National Airport, and NADLER): By Ms. STABENOW (for herself and for other purposes; to the Committee on H.R. 1513. A bill to allow Federal employ- Mrs. JONES of Ohio): Transportation and Infrastructure. ees to take advantage of the transportation H. Con. Res. 90. Concurrent resolution ex- By Mr. HUNTER: fringe benefit provisions of the Internal Rev- pressing the sense of Congress that all Mem- H.R. 1508. A bill to prohibit entry of the enue Code that are available to private sec- bers mourn the loss of life at Columbine Russian vessel KAPITAN MAN into any port tor employees; to the Committee on Govern- High School in Littleton, Colorado, and con- in the United States at which there is a ment Reform. demn this and previous incidents of deadly United States naval presence; to the Com- By Mr. OLVER (for himself, Mrs. JOHN- violence in our Nation’s schools; to the Com- mittee on Intelligence (Permanent Select). SON of Connecticut, Mr. SHOWS, Mr. mittee on Education and the Workforce, and By Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas (for LATOURETTE, Mr. SANDERS, Mr. STU- in addition to the Committee on the Judici- himself, Mr. MURTHA, Mr. PAK, Mr. EVANS, Mr. SERRANO, Mr. ary, for a period to be subsequently deter- CUNNINGHAM, Mr. SCARBOROUGH, Mr. BOUCHER, Mr. KIND, Mr. FROST, Mr. mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- REYES, Mr. PETERSON of Pennsyl- RAHALL, Mr. NEY, Ms. RIVERS, and sideration of such provisions as fall within vania, Mr. TOWNS, Mr. HUNTER, Ms. Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts): the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. RIVERS, Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania, H.R. 1514. A bill to amend title XIX of the By Mr. SWEENEY: Mr. LANTOS, Mr. STEARNS, Mr. Social Security Act to provide for manda- H. Con. Res. 91. Concurrent resolution au- FRANKS of New Jersey, Mr. GREEN of tory coverage of services furnished by nurse thorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for Texas, Mrs. MYRICK, Mr. ENGLISH, practitioners and clinical nurse specialists a clinic to be conducted by the United States Mr. GARY MILLER of California, Mr. under State Medicaid plans; to the Com- Luge Association; to the Committee on GIBBONS, Mrs. KELLY, Mr. FILNER, mittee on Commerce. Transportation and Infrastructure. Mr. TANCREDO, Mrs. JONES of Ohio, By Mrs. ROUKEMA (for herself, Mr. f Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi, Ms. WISE, Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. STRICKLAND, GRANGER, Mr. DICKEY, Ms. KIL- Mr. BAIRD, Mrs. CAPPS, Ms. KAPTUR, ADDITIONAL SPONSORS PATRICK, Mrs. CHENOWETH, Mr. HILL Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California, of Indiana, Mr. MALONEY of Con- Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York, Mr. AN- necticut, Mr. JEFFERSON, Mr. EVANS, were added to public bills and resolu- DREWS, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. Mr. SHOWS, Mr. HOLDEN, Mr. BISHOP, tions as follows: MCDERMOTT, Mr. GILMAN, Mrs. Mr. RAHALL, Mr. UNDERWOOD, Mr. H.R. 53: Mr. HOSTETTLER. MORELLA, Mr. SHAYS, Mrs. KELLY, FROST, Mr. MCKEON, Mr. PASTOR, Mr. H.R. 72: Mr. TRAFICANT, Mr. SESSIONS, Mrs. Mr. SANDERS, Mr. MICA, Mr. LEACH, RANGEL, Mr. GEJDENSON, Mr. SISISKY, KELLY, Mr. CUNNINGHAM, Mr. KING, and Mr. Mr. MCCOLLUM, Mr. GREENWOOD, Mr. Mr. DIXON, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. BORSKI, SUNUNU. BOEHLERT, and Mrs. JOHNSON of Con- Mr. STUPAK, Mrs. MEEK of Florida, H.R. 111: Mr. GOODLING, Mr. PETERSON of necticut): Mr. GOODLING, Mr. INSLEE, Mr. Minnesota, and Mr. COMBEST. H.R. 1515. A bill to amend the Public SANDLIN, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. SPRATT, H.R. 179: Mr. DEUTSCH. Health Service Act, Employee Retirement Mr. COOKSEY, Mr. PITTS, Ms. PRYCE of H.R. 225: Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. Income Security Act of 1974, and the Internal Ohio, and Mr. KINGSTON): WU, Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. JENKINS, Revenue Code of 1986 to prohibit group and H.R. 1509. A bill to authorize the Disabled Mr. KIND, Mr. PHELPS, Mr. SKEEN, and Ms. individual health plans from imposing treat- Veterans’ LIFE Memorial Foundation to es- EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. ment limitations or financial requirements tablish a memorial in the District of Colum- H.R. 226: Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, Mr. on the coverage of mental health benefits bia or its environs to honor veterans who be- WEINER, Mr. WEYGAND, Mr. BENTSEN, and Mr. and on the coverage of substance abuse and came disabled while serving in the Armed BONIOR. chemical dependency benefits if similar limi- Forces of the United States; to the Com- H.R. 230: Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. tations or requirements are not imposed on mittee on Resources. H.R. 241: Mr. SHAYS, Mr. KING, Mr. KOLBE, medical and surgical benefits; to the Com- By Mr. LEWIS of Georgia (for himself, Mr. BOUCHER, Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mr. COOKSEY, mittee on Commerce, and in addition to the Mr. CONYERS, Mr. JACKSON of Illinois, Mr. PAUL, Mrs. THURMAN, and Mr. SHOWS. Committees on Education and the Work- Mr. HINCHEY, Ms. WATERS, Ms. H.R. 263: Mr. ENGLISH and Mr. BECERRA. PELOSI, Ms. LEE, Mrs. MALONEY of force, and Ways and Means, for a period to be H.R. 274: Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island, Ms. New York, Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mr. subsequently determined by the Speaker, in ESHOO, Mr. WOLF, Mr. FRANK of Massachu- BISHOP, Ms. KILPATRICK, Mr. LA- each case for consideration of such provi- setts, Mr. PHELPS, Mrs. MINK of Hawaii, and FALCE, Mr. FROST, Mr. FILNER, Ms. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Mr. TIERNEY. ESHOO, Ms. NORTON, Mrs. committee concerned. H.R. 275: Mrs. MORELLA and Mrs. NORTHUP. CHRISTENSEN, Mr. BROWN of Cali- By Mr. SKEEN (for himself, Mr. H.R. 362: Ms. KILPATRICK. fornia, Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA, and Mr. MCINNIS, Mr. CANNON, Mr. HAYWORTH, H.R. 371: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. THOMPSON of Mississippi): and Mr. UDALL of New Mexico): H.R. 415: Ms. WATERS. H.R. 1510. A bill to promote environmental H.R. 1516. A bill to amend the Radiation H.R. 417: Mr. BECERRA and Mr. justice, public health, and pollution reduc- Exposure Compensation Act to provide for BLAGOJEVICH. tion efforts; to the Committee on Commerce, payment of compensation to individuals ex- H.R. 488: Ms. DELAURO. and in addition to the Committees on Trans- posed to radiation as the result of working in H.R. 491: Mr. OLVER and Mr. BONIOR. portation and Infrastructure, Agriculture, uranium mines and mills which provided H.R. 492: Mr. SKEEN. and Resources, for a period to be subse- uranium for the use and benefit of the H.R. 500: Mr. DICKS. quently determined by the Speaker, in each United States Government, and for other H.R. 516: Mr. ISAKSON. case for consideration of such provisions as purposes; to the Committee on the Judici- H.R. 525: Mr. INSLEE, Ms. MCKINNEY, Mr. fall within the jurisdiction of the committee ary. WATT of North Carolina, Mr. BLAGOJEVICH, concerned. By Mr. TRAFICANT: Mr. SAWYER, Mr. CAPUANO, Ms. SLAUGHTER, By Mr. LUCAS of Oklahoma: H.R. 1517. A bill to provide for the test and and Mr. MALONEY of Connecticut. H.R. 1511. A bill to amend title XVIII of the evaluation by the Armed Forces of the Mo- H.R. 527: Mr. CROWLEY. Social Security Act to require certain addi- bile Expeditionary Accurate Night Vision H.R. 552: Mr. KUYKENDALL, Mr. STUPAK, tional information in statements of expla- Compatible Portable Airfield Lighting Sys- Mr. SMITH of Washington, Mr. FRANKS of nation of benefits provided to Medicare bene- tem; to the Committee on Armed Services. New Jersey, Mr. HYDE, Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. ficiaries under the Medicare Program; to the By Mr. WEYGAND: STUMP, Mr. BENTSEN, Mr. CAMPBELL, Mr. Committee on Ways and Means. H.R. 1518. A bill to amend title X of the BURTON of Indiana, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. FROST, By Ms. MILLENDER-MCDONALD (for Housing and Community Development Act of Mr. NEY, and Mr. SUNUNU. herself, Mr. MARKEY, Mr. HINOJOSA, 1992 to authorize the Secretary of Housing H.R. 557: Mr. HALL of Ohio and Mr. SAW- Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California, Ms. and Urban Development to provide assist- YER. CARSON, Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, Mr. ance for startup costs of community pro- H.R. 582: Ms. WOOLSEY and Mr. DICKS. DIXON, Mrs. MINK of Hawaii, Mrs. grams to prevent residentially based lead H.R. 654: Ms. BALDWIN. CLAYTON, Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, Mr. poisoning in children; to the Committee on H.R. 708: Mr. LANTOS and Mr. HALL of JACKSON of Illinois, Ms. LOFGREN, Ms. Banking and Financial Services. Texas. April 21, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2273

H.R. 716: Mr. HINCHEY. H.R. 1138: Mr. MENENDEZ. BIGGERT, Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, Ms. H.R. 719: Mr. BOEHLERT. H.R. 1159: Mr. MARTINEZ and Mr. SKELTON. RIVERS, and Mr. STARK. H.R. 732: Mr. BOEHLERT, Mr. BORSKI, Mr. H.R. 1168: Mr. STRICKLAND, Mr. GEORGE H.R. 1355: Mr. WEXLER, Mr. FROST, and Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island, Mr. BALDACCI, Mr. MILLER of California, Mr. WALSH, Mr. NEAL DAVIS of Illinois. WALSH, Mr. OWENS, Mr. JACKSON of Illinois, of Massachusetts, Mr. MOAKLEY, Mr. BOEH- H.R. 1388: Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. BURTON of In- and Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. LERT, Mr. CAPUANO, and Ms. RIVERS. diana, Mr. WYNN, Mr. BAIRD, Mr. BALDACCI, H.R. 739: Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. KUYKENDALL, H.R. 1172: Mr. SHAYS, Mr. BEREUTER, Mr. Mr. CLEMENT, Mr. GREENWOOD, and Mr. Mr. MARTINEZ, Ms. LOFGREN, and Mr. LEVIN. EVANS, and Mr. GEPHARDT. BONIOR. H.R. 766: Mr. TALENT. H.R. 1178: Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. CRANE, Mr. H.R. 1389: Mr. SHOWS, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, H.R. 767: Mr. TALENT. YOUNG of Alaska, Mr. SMITH of Washington, Mr. MOORE, Mrs. BIGGERT, Mr. DEFAZIO, and H.R. 773: Mr. KLINK, Mr. LAHOOD, Mr. LAN- Mr. LAMPSON, Mr. TOOMEY, Mr. COLLINS, Mr. Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin. TOS, Mr. CONDIT, and Mr. GARY MILLER of PAUL, Mr. KASICH, and Mr. GREEN of Wis- H.R. 1402: Mr. BERRY, Mr. TAUZIN, Mr. California. consin. BONIOR, Mr. WICKER, Mr. BALLENGER, Mr. H.R. 776: Mr. ENGLISH, Mr. BOEHLERT, Mr. H.R. 1187: Mr. WOLF, Mr. CROWLEY, Mr. JONES of North Carolina, and Mr. BENTSEN. CLAY, Mr. OWENS, Mr. GEORGE MILLER of JEFFERSON, Mr. TRAFICANT, Mr. QUINN, Ms. H.R. 1408: Mr. FRANKS of New Jersey and California, Mr. KILDEE, Mr. MARTINEZ, Mr. MILLENDER-MCDONALD, Mr. STEARNS, and Mr. MCNULTY. PAYNE, Mrs. MINK of Hawaii, Mr. SCOTT, Ms. Mr. TIERNEY. H.R. 1414: Mr. WISE, Mr. HOUGHTON, Mr. WOOLSEY, Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO, Mrs. H.R. 1200: Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, Ms. BALDACCI, Mr. WYNN, and Mrs. EMERSON. MCCARTHY of New York, Mr. FORD, Mr. PELOSI, Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California, H.R. 1432: Mrs. MINK of Hawaii, Mr. STRICK- KUCINICH, Mr. HOLT, and Mr. HOEFFEL. Ms. LEE, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. LAND, Mr. PETERSON of Pennsylvania and Mr. H.R. 827: Mr. MCNULTY. TIERNEY, Mr. STARK, and Ms. BALDWIN. ENGLISH. H.R. 833: Mr. CAMP and Mr. SIMPSON. H.R. 1214: Mr. BALDACCI and Mr. RANGEL. H.R. 1443: Mr. WAXMAN, Ms. NORTON, and H.R. 844: Mr. MCINNIS, Mr. FROST, Mr. RAN- H.R. 1233: Ms. PELOSI and Mr. GEORGE MIL- Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. GEL, Mr. HAYWORTH, and Mr. HOUGHTON. LER of California. H.R. 1459: Mr. FORD. H.R. 845: Mr. STUPAK and Mrs. EMERSON. H.R. 1238: Mr. LANTOS, Mr. GEORGE MILLER H.R. 1476: Ms. RIVERS, Mr. SHOWS, Mr. H.R. 924: Mr. ANDREWS, Mr. BEREUTER, Mr. of California, and Mr. MCNULTY. ENGLISH, and Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. DOOLITTLE, Mr. ETHERIDGE, Mr. GUTIERREZ, H.R. 1239: Ms. MCKINNEY, Mr. BISHOP, Mr. H.R. 1484: Mr. EVANS. Mr. SKELTON, Mr. SPENCE, Mr. STRICKLAND, MCGOVERN, Mr. TOWNS, Mr. BROWN of Cali- H.R. 1495: Mr. STUPAK. and Mrs. THURMAN. fornia, Mr. WEINER, Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, Mr. H.R. 1497: Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, Mr. H.R. 987: Mr. NEY, Mr. MCCRERY, Mr. RUSH, Mr. JACKSON of Illinois, and Mr. UDALL CUMMINGS, Mr. FROST, and Mr. BORSKI. GANSKE, Mr. DEMINT, Mrs. NORTHUP, Mr. of New Mexico. H.J. Res. 34: Mr. HALL of Texas. SIMPSON, Mrs. BIGGERT, Mr. EVERETT, and H.R. 1247: Mr. HOUGHTON and Mr. HALL of H. Con. Res. 21: Mrs. MALONEY of New Mr. TOOMEY. Texas. York. H.R. 989: Ms. SLAUGHTER and Mr. GARY H.R. 1250: Mr. POMEROY and Mr. LEVIN. H. Con. Res. 43: Mr. GARY MILLER of Cali- MILLER of California. H.R. 1276: Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. fornia. H.R. 1000: Mrs. CUBIN, Mr. HILL of Montana, CONYERS, Ms. RIVERS, Mr. RUSH, Mrs. H. Con. Res. 46: Ms. LOFGREN. and Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota. CHRISTENSEN, and Mr. BRADY of Pennsyl- H. Con. Res. 51: Mr. HORN, Mr. WAXMAN, H.R. 1046: Mr. COSTELLO. vania. and Mr. MORAN of Virginia. H.R. 1064: Mr. MARKEY and Mr. WEXLER. H.R. 1286: Mr. HALL of Texas and Mr. H. Con. Res. 58: Mr. HALL of Texas and Mr. H.R. 1071: Mr. STUPAK, Mr. DIXON, Mr. LI- STRICKLAND. DAVIS of Illinois. PINSKI, Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO´ , Mr. WU, Mr. H.R. 1294: Mr. SHOWS, Mr. UDALL of Colo- H. Con. Res. 60: Mr. SNYDER, Mrs. BIGGERT, LANTOS, Mr. STRICKLAND, Mr. FORBES, and rado, Mr. FOLEY, and Mr. COOKSEY. Mr. STRICKLAND, Mr. WAXMAN, and Mr. Ms. SCHWAKOWSKY. H.R. 1298: Ms. RIVERS and Mr. MCDERMOTT. KUCINICH. H.R. 1082: Ms. HOOLEY of Oregon. H.R. 1301: Mr. DELAY, Mr. GREEN of Texas, H. Con. Res. 82: Mr. BARTLETT of Maryland, H.R. 1083: Mr. BOEHNER and Mr. SHAYS. Mr. NUSSLE, Mr. STRICKLAND, Mr. MCINTOSH, Mr. MANZULLO, Mr. BARR of Georgia, and Mr. H.R. 1096: Mr. VENTO and Mr. FARR of Cali- Mr. BERRY, Mr. BURR of North Carolina, and ROHRABACHER. fornia. Mr. STUMP. H. Res. 41: Ms. ESHOO and Ms. ROS- H.R. 1098: Mr. TANCREDO. H.R. 1304: Mr. NETHERCUTT, Ms. KIL- LEHTINEN. H.R. 1102: Mr. HERGER, Mr. CAMP, Mr. PATRICK, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. WHITFIELD, Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. DAVIS of Virginia, Ms. LOFGREN, Mr. NOR- f SHOWS, and Mr. LAHOOD. WOOD, Mr. SMITH of Texas, Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. H.R. 1108: Mr. MALONEY of Connecticut and BONIOR, Mr. ANDREWS, and Mr. WHITFIELD. DELETIONS OF SPONSORS FROM Mr. MARKEY. H.R. 1307: Mr. PASTOR. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS H.R. 1111: Mr. KENNEDY of Rhode Island, H.R. 1350: Mr. BROWN of California, Mr. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors Mrs. EMERSON, Mr. BISHOP, Mr. VENTO, and LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. JEFFERSON, Mr. Mr. PALLONE. ALLEN, Mr. WEINER, Ms. KILPATRICK, Mr. were deleted from public bills and reso- H.R. 1123: Mr. LANTOS, Mr. WAXMAN, and TIERNEY, Ms. DEGETTE, Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, lutions as follows: Mr. ACKERMAN. Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mrs. H.R. 850: Mr. HOLDEN. H.R. 1130: Mr. WYNN. LOWEY, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. LANTOS, Mrs. H.R. 987: Mr. MARTINEZ.