October 30, 1995 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E 2063 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

THE NEW MEDICARE a more limited choice of health care providers. torial by Thomas Friedman in the New York Beneficiaries would get detailed information in Times. Mr. Friedman summarizes portions of HON. VERNON J. EHLERS the mail each year about types of plans avail- the World Bank study which show that in 1960 OF MICHIGAN able in their area. the Middle East had a per capita income high- Three, medical savings accounts: Bene- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES er than Asia, but in 1990, even with oil wealth, ficiaries could also choose coverage through a the Middle East per-capita income had only Monday, October 30, 1995 medical savings account [MSA]. This option doubled while that of Asia had more than Mr. EHLERS. Mr. Speaker, after months of would require beneficiaries to choose a high- quadrupled. Economic reform, privatization, debate and thousands of meetings across the deductible insurance policy paid by Medicare. and development have eluded the Middle East country, the House passed the Medicare Pres- The savings achieved through this policy will to a larger extent. ervation Act [MPA] on October 19. Crafting the be placed in an individual MSA, which will be These problems are acute in Egypt. The legislation, which generated strong feelings on used to pay for health care expenses within need for economic restructuring is enormous. all sides of the issue, was by no means an the deductible, or to purchase long-term care Egypt and the entire Middle East region will easy task. I am pleased with the hard work insurance. need to focus on economic issues if the region and sincere effort that was put forth by many The reforms don't stop there. The new Med- is to catch up with the rest of the world. Egypt people in developing a better Medicare sys- icare Program will also make significant re- and the Middle East need economic reform if tem. forms in payments for doctors, hospitals, and they are to generate jobs for the burgeoning Reforming Medicare is an urgent matter that other health care providers, in order to control youth population now entering the job market. must be addressed. Because of the complex- costs. Government-funded Medicare coverage The excellent New York Times editorial fol- ity of the issue and its widespread effect on for the wealthy will be phased out, starting lows: our Nation, it is important to understand why with couples with incomes above $125,000 [From the New York Times, Oct. 18, 1995] and individuals with incomes above $75,000. the system needs to be reformed and what EGYPT RUNS FOR THE TRAIN A special commission will be created to study our reform proposal involves. In April the (By Thomas L. Friedman) board of trustees of the Social Security funds the effects of the retirement of the large baby John Page, the World Bank’s chief Middle reported that the Medicare part A trust fund, boom generation, when there will be only two workers to support every retiree. Mechanisms East economist, likes to say that the dif- which pays for hospital-related services, will ference between the global economy of the be bankrupt in 7 years. The part B trust fund, to detect fraud and abuse will be strength- 1950’s and the 1990’s is the difference between which pays for outpatient services, is not in ened, and beneficiaries who detect any wrong- two trains. The global economy of the 1950’s danger of bankruptcy, because almost 70 per- doing in their bills will be rewarded. Finally, he says, ‘‘was like the old train from Heliop- cent of part B premiums is paid by the Federal the plan will install a failsafe mechanism to olis [a Cairo suburb] to Cairo. That train Government, and the rest is paid by bene- monitor the reforms and ensure that they are stopped at every station, and if you missed ficiaries who choose this coverage. In 1996, achieving the savings necessary to protect the one, you could always catch another. It was so slow that if you missed the last one, you for the first time since its creation, the part A system. Unfortunately, during the long debate about could ride your bike and catch up at the next trust fund will be paying out more in benefits station. If you couldn’t afford a ticket, you than it collects in taxes. Why? Mainly because the MPA some groups and individuals gen- could always ride on the roof. The global the costs of providing Medicare benefits have erated misinformation about the proposal. It is economy of the 1990’s by contrast is like the grown at more than double the growth of pri- important to understand that these reforms bullet train from Tokyo to Osaka. If you vate-sector health care costs. If we fail to ad- were not introduced in order to offset tax cuts miss it it’s gone—goodbye—and you can’t dress this problem and control its excessive or balance the budget. If these reforms are not catch up.’’ costs, Medicare will collapse. It is critical, adopted, the system will simply collapse. This That’s a useful image to keep in mind when visiting Cairo these days because the therefore, that we make reforms to save Medi- is not a quick fix; these changes are needed to protect and preserve the long-term health of Arab world in general, and Egypt in particu- care because there are thousands of bene- lar, is in real danger of missing the train, ficiaries who depend on it. Medicare has the system. and the consequences could be catastrophic. served us well for 30 years, but its failure to As is the case with any change, glitches Consider some startling statistics from a incorporate private-sector innovations and to may occur as the plan is implemented. While new World Bank study of Middle East econo- end waste, inefficiency, and fraud requires us it would be ideal if the reforms were perfect, mies entitled ‘‘Claiming the Future,’’ which to develop a better system. it is likely some may need correction. There- will be released next month. In 1960, the The MPA will expand the types of coverage fore Congress will monitor the implementation seven leading Arab economies had an aver- Medicare offers: process and correct any mistakes that may age per-capita income of $1,521, while the occur. seven East Asian ‘‘tigers’’—Taiwan, South One, current Medicare coverage: A bene- Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Ma- ficiary can choose to continue the same Medi- Now that the House has given its approval, the MPA has been incorporated into a larger laysia and Indonesia—had a per capita in- care coverage they have now. If they choose come of only $1,456. The Arabs were slightly to do this, their copayments and deductibles budget package. It will now move on to the ahead. By 1991, however, the per-capita in- will not be increased. They will also continue Senate before it is sent to the President for his come of the Arab countries was only $3,342, to pay the same percentage of part B pre- signature. while the Asian tigers were up to 58,000 per miums, 31.5 percent, with the Government f person. paying the remainder of the premium. Today the Arab Middle East attracts 3 per- EGYPT’S ECONOMIC BIND cent of global foreign investment, while East Two, MedicarePlus: A beneficiary is given Asia attracts 58 percent. Egypt exported and choices from a new category of coverage, imported more goods and services 20 years MedicarePlus. This option will allow bene- HON. LEE H. HAMILTON OF INDIANA ago than it does today, relative to the size of ficiaries to choose the same types of health its economy. In other words, Egypt was more IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES coverage available in the private sector, such integrated with the world economy in 1970, as HMO's and other types of coordinated Monday, October 30, 1995 under Gamal Abdel Nasser, than in 1990, care, instead of traditional Medicare coverage. Mr. HAMILTON. Mr. Speaker, I would like to under Hosni Mubarak. The Arab world lags These plans will likely offer full health care bring to the attention of my colleagues a re- far behind East Asia in spending on edu- cation, in the number of women in the work coverage to beneficiaries, perhaps eliminating cent World Bank study which highlights the force and in every measure of productivity. the need to purchase costly supplementary in- economies of the Middle East in general and Why the difference? One explanation is surance plans. These plans might also involve Egypt as a leader in that region in particular. that in East Asia leaders usually based their coverage of additional services, such as pre- The study entitled ``Claiming the Future'' political appeal on economics—‘‘Have I made scription drugs and eye care, in exchange for was the subject of an October 18, 1995 edi- you better off today than four years ago?’’—

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor. E 2064 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 30, 1995 while Arab leaders based their political ap- Wallace served with this unit in the Battle of Kathwari did not forget his origins. He enthu- peal on fighting colonialism or Zionism, or the Bulge and Operation Varsity, the largest siastically undertook a variety of projects sup- on ethnic and religious bonds, or on sheer airborne operation of the war. Fighting portive of freedom and human rights. Of spe- brute force. No Arab leader ever said: ‘‘Judge throughout, the Rhineland Campaign, Wallace me on my G.D.P.’’ So Arab economies ex- cial note is his work as founder of the Council isted to support the state, instead of the took part in the capture of Wesel, Munster, for Human Rights in Kashmir. Through this or- state existing to support the economy. Or, as and the Ruhr Valley complex. ganization, Farooq Kathwari has dedicated the Egyptian intellectual Tahseen Bashir After V±E Day, he transferred to the 101st himself to help foster a dialog for peace in this says: ‘‘Egypt was first a state, then the peo- Airborne for occupation duties and training for much-troubled region, and to promote human ple were created.’’ possible action during the then-likely invasion rights around the world. A year ago 500 Egyptian businessmen gath- of Japan. Following the deactivation of the Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues in the ered for the country’s biggest-ever economic 101st, he transferred to the 82nd Airborne and House of Representatives to join me now in conference. They adjusted the date precisely marched with that unit under Gen. James M. so President Mubarak could attend. The day honoring Farooq Kathwari, a most compas- of the conference Mr. Mubarak canceled be- Gavin during a victory parade in New York sionate and selfless citizen. May his good cause of another pressing engagement—he City on January 6, 1946. During the war works serve as a model for countless others had to receive the President of Mauritania. years, he had had the honor of serving in to follow. No wonder Mr. Mubarak has failed to insti- three different airborne divisions. f tute the structural reforms that could make Not yet through serving his country, George Egypt attractive to foreign investors and Wallace stayed on with the Army Reserve until HONORING STEPHEN WARD competitive on the world stage—that is April, 1953. Following his distinguished military downsizing the bloated bureaucracy, TUTTLE II ON ATTAINING THE service, Wallace joined the New York City Fire RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT privatizing state industries and reforming Department, where he served for 29 years be- investment regulations. President Mubarak fore retiring as assistant chief of the depart- is terrified that downsizing will lead to un- HON. CARRIE P. MEEK employment and riots. ment. That is a legitimate fear. But even if Mr. I was very proud on October 11, 1995, to be OF FLORIDA Mubarak doesn’t want to touch his bureauc- joined in Washington by Mr. George Wallace IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES racy, he could at least reform Egypt’s anti- for the special joint meeting of Congress in Monday, October 30, 1995 quated commercial codes, arbitrary tax reg- honor of World War II veterans. We must ulations and red-tape foreign investment never forget the courage and sacrifice of those Mrs. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to rules (a foreign investor needs the signatures millions of American young men, who like pay special tribute to an outstanding young of 26 different officials to set up shop here) so George Wallace answered their country's call man in my district, Stephen Ward Tuttle II of that the private sector can provide the jobs Miami, a member of Boy Scout Troop 840 of the Government cannot. during World War II. Fact: Mr. Mubarak has more mummies in f St. Louis Church. Stephen has earned the his cabinet than King Tut. His team of min- highest honor a Scout can achieve, the rank isters is the oldest in the Arab world. It has HONORING FAROOQ KATHWARI of Eagle Scout. not risen to the economic challenge, and so Stephen Tuttle began his long, arduous investors go elsewhere. HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN climb toward the rank of Eagle Scout as a It is time for the U.S. to stop looking at OF NEW YORK Cub Scout over 5 years ago. During that time, Egypt as a pillar in the peace process, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES he has constantly striven for excellence in start looking at it as an economic laggard badly in need of shock therapy. Egypt Monday, October 30, 1995 school, church, and scouting. He has consist- ently demonstrated discipline, leadership, doesn’t need a shuttle by the Secretary of Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today commitment, and integrity and provided an State. It needs a shuttle by the Secretary of to join with my constituents and with the mem- the Treasury. The World Bank estimates outstanding example to the Scouts around him bers of the American Jewish Committee as that the Arab states and Iran will have to and to the community as a whole. He has they honor Farooq Kathwari, who will receive create 47 million new jobs by the year 2010 earned the respect and admiration of his fel- the Institute of Human Relations Award on No- just to accommodate the population boom low Scouts, schoolmates, family, and those in vember 2 in Manhattan. that will enter the labor force by then. our community. If governments here do not reform them- This prestigious award is presented annually selves to meet that challenge, this region by the American Jewish Committee to an indi- Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Stephen won’t just miss the tram. The whole station vidual who represents the bold and humani- Tuttle on a job well done. I join with his moth- will explode. tarian beliefs and ideals that foster civil and er, Laura Tuttle, his scoutmaster, Capt. Roy f human rights and promote democracy. The Hamlin, his troop, and our entire community in recognizing his achievement and wishing him TRIBUTE TO GEORGE WALLACE Human Relations Award embodies the prac- tices of a pluralistic society and the belief that continued success in the future. HON. PETER T. KING the goals of justice, freedom, and democracy f for one group will be achieved only by guaran- OF NEW YORK SECRETARY WEINBERGER SEES teeing them for all peoples. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES B–2’S STRENGTHS Mr. Speaker, Farooq Kathwari is a most fit- Monday, October 30, 1995 ting recipient of this high honor. His story illus- Mr. KING. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great trates what our great country stands for, and HON. RANDY ‘‘DUKE’’ CUNNINGHAM pleasure to take this opportunity to salute one the bountiful opportunities the United States OF CALIFORNIA of my constituents for his role in the global offers its citizens. Farooq Kathwari came to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES America 30 years ago as a political refugee struggle against tyranny during World War II. Monday, October 30, 1995 Mr. George Wallace, from Merrick, NY, is a from Kashmir, and he now leads one of the member of the very best generation this Na- Nation's largest home-furnishing companies. Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, among tion ever produced. Like millions of other men He arrived in New York City at age 20 armed the many budget issues that Congress contin- from all across the United States, when war with a BA in English and political science, and ues to work on is our effort to revitalize our came to America in 1941, he answered the with a determination to live and grow in a free national security. In these tight budgetary call to duty and did his part. society. Two years later he earned an MBA, times, every spending decision we make must His service record during the Second World went to work for Newcourt Securities, where be cost and benefit justified. War is both remarkable and typical. I would he rapidly rose to the position of vice presi- The following commentary, written by former like to enter into the RECORD a brief outline of dent, and simultaneously launched his own Secretary of Defense Caspar W. Weinberger his military service. importing business. Soon thereafter, Ethan in the November 6, 1995, issue of Forbes George Wallace joined the U.S. Army in Oc- Allen purchased an interest in his company. In magazine, provides some of the many out- tober 1942. After graduating Officer Candidate 1980, the firms merged, and Farooq Kathwari standing arguments for our Nation to continue School he has commissioned as a 2d lieuten- became vice president of Ethan Allen. By to fund the B±2 Stealth Bomber Program. As ant of the field artillery. Shipped to England in 1989, he had risen to the post of chairman, Secretary Weinberger notes, ``few people un- 1944, he graduated Airborne School and was president, and CEO. derstand just how good, how revolutionary, assigned to the 17th Airborne Division, 680th While becoming a leader in the American this stealth bomber is.'' That said, I rec- Glider Field Artillery Battalion. and international business communities, Mr. ommend that all of my colleagues in the October 30, 1995 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E 2065 House and Senate read this piece, and con- member that the more strength we have, the RECOGNITION OF JUDE sider the value and benefit that the B±2 offers less likely it is that we will have to use it. HARRINGTON our national defense. In any event, the ultimate question of [From Forbes magazine, Nov. 6, 1995] whether we need to buy more than the al- HON. BUD SHUSTER ready-ordered B–2s need not be decided now. KEEP THE B–2 PROGRAM ALIVE OF PENNSYLVANIA What we do need now is the option to acquire (By Caspar Weinberger) more later and the ability to exercise that IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Whether to continue production of the B–2 option without the staggering costs of re- Monday, October 30, 1995 stealth bomber, the world’s most advanced starting production. If we terminate the B–2 aircraft, is an issue that creates strange alli- Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, far too often production line now, we virtually preclude ances. Many proponents of a strong defense the work of the men and women who are securing any more of those remarkable air- favor terminating the B–2 program, leaving craft in the future. charged with preserving our Nation's natural us with only the 20 aircraft already paid for. resources goes unnoticed. These individuals, A second group favor making the required We should instead agree to use the funds in many of whom dedicate their lives toward expenditures now (roughly $500 million) that the Defense appropriations bill to procure maintaining America's treasures are rarely rec- would enable us to resume production of the some of the parts necessary from the B–2’s ognized for the importance of the service B–2 should international conditions require nearly 3,400 suppliers, thereby keeping the it. This would be far less expensive than clos- line open for later low-level production. Gen- which they provide. ing the production line and having to start it eral John Loh, former commander of our Air Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to up later. A third group, small in number, be- Combat Command, sums it up well: ‘‘I see such an individual from my own congressional lieve we need more B–2s and should continue the B–2 as the centerpiece of . . . [a] strat- district, Mr. Jude Harrington of Huntingdon, production on a low-level scale. egy that places increasing importance on PA. A native of Pennsylvania, Mr. Harrington The second group’s approach is the most projecting immediate, responsive power from began his career with the U.S. Army Corps of reasonable, practical and necessary. The B– the U.S. to a regional crisis anywhere in the Engineers in 1980 as a student intern with the 2—the world’s only stealth bomber—is, as even one of its strongest opponents admits, world.’’ Pittsburgh district. He received a bachelors degree in parks and recreation from Slippery ‘‘a technological marvel . . .widely praised f by our highest-ranking military leaders.’’ Rock University in 1982. After graduating from But few people seem to understand just how Slippery Rock, Jude has served the corps at INTRODUCTION OF THE STATE good, how revolutionary, this stealth bomber several different locations and in the process is and what it adds to our ability to keep WATER SOVEREIGNTY PROTEC- has earned a solid reputation as a man of in- peace and freedom. TION ACT tegrity and conviction. Of course, the word ‘‘stealth’’ does not Since 1992, Jude has served as the super- mean the plane is invisible. But when the B– 2 is at high altitudes, where it flies when de- HON. MICHAEL D. CRAPO visory ranger for Raystown Lake. His work at livering nuclear or conventional bombs, it is the lake has enabled it to become one of the virtually impossible for any existing or pro- OF IDAHO largest tourist and recreation attractions in my jected defense system to detect it on radar, district. In fact, last year 1.3 million people and it therefore is invulnerable. Two B–2s IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES traveled to rural Pennsylvania to visit with a total crew of four can deliver a bomb- Monday, October 30, 1995 Raystown Lake. Mr. Harrington's primary re- load which, if dropped from conventional sponsibilities at Raystown are centered upon planes, would put the lives of 132 crewmen at Mr. CRAPO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to introduce the management of the lake's natural re- risk. In the Gulf war’s first hours, 45 sorties by stealth fighter F–117s struck almost as a bill to preserve the authority of the States sources and recreation programs. many Iraqi targets as did 850 sorties by con- over waters within their boundaries, to dele- Recently, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ventional aircraft. In the first 24 hours of gate the authority of the Congress to the selected Jude Harrington as the national re- Desert Storm, we sent 1,263 conventional air- States to regulate water, and for other pur- sources management employee of the year. craft to strike 144 major targets. Thirty-two poses. The corps handpicked Jude out of a field of a B–2s could have attacked the same number possible 1,200 candidates from across the Na- of targets— and more effectively because of Since 1866, Congress has recognized and tion. They recognized what we in the Ninth precision weaponry—in less time. deferred to the authority of the States to allo- District have known for years, that Jude Har- The debate turns on whether we need this cate and administer water within their borders. rington is the best of the best when it comes astonishing capability now that the Cold The Supreme Court has confirmed that this is War is over. Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.), to natural resources management. His work a skilled and effective advocate of a strong an appropriate role for the States. Additionally, on behalf of Raystown Lake is a testament to defense, believes that we no longer need a in 1952 the Congress passed the McCarran both his love for the area and his commitment ‘‘large fleet of stealthy, long-range, nuclear amendment which provides for the adjudica- to the preservation of natural resources. I will delivery aircraft.’’ He also views aircraft car- tion of State and Federal water claims in State close by thanking Jude Harrington for his serv- riers, submarines and other weapons as bet- water courts. ice to Raystown Lake and congratulating him ter serving our national security needs be- on being recognized for this honor which he cause they are ‘‘visible, forward-deployed However, despite both judicial and legisla- forces,’’ enabling us to ‘‘put our capability tive edicts, I am deeply concerned that the ad- richly deserves. on peaceful display’’—a good deterrent in ministration, Federal agencies and some in f and of itself. McCain makes the point that, Congress are setting the stage for ignoring THE 7-YEAR BALANCED BUDGET although the B–2 can carry conventional long established statutory provisions concern- weapons, having it do so is not cost-effective RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1995 at a fixed price of $556 million per aircraft. ing State water rights and State water con- Each additional B–2 will use scarce defense tracts. The Endangered Species Act, the SPEECH OF budget funds, precluding necessary mod- Clean Water Act, the Federal Land Manage- ernization and replacements for the trucks, ment Policy Act, Endangered Species Act Re- HON. MICHAEL G. OXLEY tanks, other aircraft, artillery and ships that covery Plans, rangeland reform, and proposed OF OHIO will be needed shortly. These are understand- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES able, reasonable arguments. wilderness legislation have been vehicles used It seems to me, however, that events over to erode State sovereignty over its water. Thursday, October 26, 1995 the last several years have demonstrated It is imperative that States maintain sov- The House in Committee of the Whole conclusively that we are going to need the ereignty over management and control of their House on the State of the Union had under B–2’s capabilities. The Gulf war exemplifies consideration the bill (H.R. 2491) to provide why we need to be able to project our mili- water and river systems. All rights to water or for reconciliation pursuant to section 105 of tary power over vast distances quickly and reservations of rights for any purpose in the concurrent resolution on the budget for effectively. It would be nice—but scarcely States should be subject to the substantive fiscal year 1996: safe—to believe that there will be no more and procedural laws of that State, not the Fed- Mr. OXLEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in Gulf wars or events that will require such ca- eral Government. To protect State water rights strong support of the Seven-Year Balanced pabilities. But, for example, we are commit- I am introducing the State Water Sovereignty ted to the defense of two other potential Budget Reconciliation Act of 1995. As the hotspots: Taiwan and South Korea. Should Protection Act. name implies, this package of reforms outlines the U.S. be called into action, the B–2 would a clear path to a balanced budget in the year be extremely useful. It serves us well to re- 2002. We promised the American people that E 2066 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 30, 1995 we would bring the budget to balance in 7 pand the auction to raise an additional $15.3 quick fix effort to fund tax breaks could be years, and today we plan to deliver on that billion over 7 years. Having been an early pro- construed by anyone as fiscally conservative. promise. ponent of the spectrum auction, I am pleased I urge my colleagues to oppose the ill-con- While balancing the budget in itself is an ad- that revenue raised by auctioning radio spec- ceived and reckless cuts called for in this bill mirable and worthwhile goal, our bill does trum, which was previously given away for which will not only shake the current founda- much more. These provisions, taken as a free, will now be used to balance the budget. tion, but will cause irreparable damage to the whole, mark a clear shift in power from Fed- Other meaningful reforms included in our bill health of American senior citizens in the fu- eral bureaucrats to families, States, and com- include: The creation of tax deductible per- ture. munities, who know what works best for them. sonal medical savings accounts, the closing of f I had the opportunity myself to vote in Com- corporate tax loopholes, public housing re- mittee on many of the provisions included in forms to eliminate duplicative programs, termi- NO WELCOME MAT FOR the bill, and I commend my colleagues for nating the overly bureaucratic and costly Di- MILOSEVIC their fine work in constructing the other re- rect Student Loan Program, and the adoption forms included in this bill. of a taxpayers' bill of rights. HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH I would like to outline some of the major I believe that it is time for these reforms, be- OF NEW JERSEY items included in our bill. cause the American people deserve more IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES As many already know, the Medicare trust- than higher taxes and a bigger, more bureau- Monday, October 30, 1995 ees reported last April that unless Congress cratic Federal Government. This bill rep- takes ``prompt, effective and decisive action,'' resents much more than your average yearly Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, in- Medicare will go bankrupt in 2002. Con- spending reconciliation plan, it represents a stead of rolling out the red carpet this week for sequently, House Republicans have passed blueprint for the future. Under our plan Ameri- Slobodan Milosevic, the Clinton administration the Medicare Preservation Act of 1995, which cans will have more in the family budget, should hand over the Serbain President to has been included in this bill. This legislation greater control over the workings of their Gov- international investigators for his alleged role will bring Medicare back onto solid financial ernment, and the peace of mind that their chil- in war crimes perpetrated in the former Yugo- ground by infusing it with the innovation and dren and grandchildren will live in a debt-free slavia. Having ignited the firestorm of extreme efficiency found in many private health plans. America full of opportunity. Serb nationalism which has consumed most of By giving seniors a wide choice of options, Bosnia and part of Croatia, Milosevic is now f while maintaining traditional Medicare as one being enlisted as a member of the Clinton ad- option, and by cracking down on waste, fraud, THE 7 YEAR BALANCED BUDGET ministration's fire brigade assembled to douse and abuse, we can ensure a strong Medicare RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1995 the smoldering ashes in its aftermath. Program well into the future. Milosevic, who has earned the title ``Butcher Another major highlight of this legislation is SPEECH OF of the Balkans,'' has reincarnated himself, in the $245 billion tax cut for American families. the eyes of the Clinton administration, as a As included in the Contract With America, our HON. MICHAEL F. DOYLE peacemaker despite the fact that he was bill includes a $500 per-child tax credit, a re- OF PENNSYLVANIA named a suspected war criminal by Secretary duction in the capital gains tax, and a repeal IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of State Eagleberger during the final days of of President Clinton's 1993 tax on Social Se- Thursday, October 26, 1995 the Bush administration, and that he heads a curity benefits. While President Clinton prom- government being sued for genocide before ised tax relief for the middle-class, and subse- The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union had under the International Court of Justice. The Clinton quently delivered the largest tax increase in consideration the bill (H.R. 2491) to provide administration views the Serbian leader as the American history, our bill delivers on our for reconciliation pursuant to section 105 of one who can deliver the Bosnian Serbs in promise of needed tax cuts. the concurrent resolution on the budget for support of a United States-brokered peace This package also incorporates the Personal fiscal year 1996: plan which will effectively divide Bosnian- Responsibility Act of 1995, as passed by the Mr. DOYLE. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in Herzegovian along ethnic lines. House earlier this year. Simply stated, welfare opposition to H.R. 2425, and to speak on be- Is he really a new peacemaker or is he after has become a way of life for far too many re- half of our communities, hospitals, and the something else? I fear the latter is true. Reel- cipients. By making it easier to collect a hand- health of today's and tomorrow's senior citi- ing under the devastating impact of economic out than to work, the current system has de- zens. If we are to bring about Medicare reform sanctions imposed in 1992 by the U.N. on stroyed individual initiative and actually perpet- which will prove to be truly beneficial, we must Serbia for its role in the wars in neighboring uated poverty. A Contract With America prior- first reach a consensus that reforms must ity, this pro-work, pro-family bill will reform our Croatia and Bosnia, Milosevic is keen to cut a achieve specified goals without creating new, welfare system by providing a helping hand, deal which will pave the way for the sanctions more difficult problems. not a handout, to the millions of Americans to be lifted. I am not convinced he has given In the Pittsburgh area alone, there are caught in this dead-end trap. up on his dream of creating a ``Greater Ser- As some may know, the cost of Medicaid seven hospitals which would face almost cer- bia.'' has been growing at the uncontrollable rate of tain shut-down as a result of these proposed The Clinton administration has embraced nearly 10 percent a year, and eating up one- cuts. This situation is certainly exacerbated by Milosevic as part of its full-court press to con- fifth of State budgets. Our bill includes Medic- the elimination of disproportionate share pay- clude a Bosnian peace accord, at almost any aid reform that will provide more money, fewer ments to these hospitals. It is neither prudent cost, as the presidential campaign season bureaucrats, and greater protections against nor logical to make devastating cuts to Medi- nears. Mr Speaker, I welcome the fact that the fraud and abuse. With the help of our Nation's care in such an arbitrary fashion. The sound President has finally begun to focus on the cri- Governors, Republicans have developed a thinking, hard-working people of western sis in Bosnia. At the same time, I have res- plan to block grant Medicaid funds to States in Pennsylvania and across this country will tell ervations about the conduct of the current ne- the form of new MediGrants. Given this new you that putting the cart before the horse will gotiations and am vehemently opposed to al- flexibility States will be able to design innova- get Medicare nowhere fast. lowing Mr. Milosevic into the United States. tive, cost-effective programs targeted toward It has been documented that both proposals Despite the hype and new spins, one fact is their specific needs and populations. we are considering today, H.R. 2425 and the abundantly clearÐMilosevic was the master- In our continuing effort to make Government Democratic alternative, will result in the Medi- mind behind extreme Serb nationalism which both smaller and more efficient our bill in- care trust fund being put on sound financial spawned mayhem in Bosnia and Croatia and cludes language, which I personally shep- footing through the year 2006. However, the ultimately has led to the murder of tens of herded through the Commerce Committee, to Democratic alternative saves $90 billion, all of thousands of innocent civilians in these coun- abolish the Department of Commerce. While which is put back into the Medicare system, tries. Warren Zimmerman, the last United our bill will maintain the Department's legiti- while H.R. 2425 cuts $270 billion, far more States Ambassador to Yugoslavia has ob- mate functions, such as the census and statis- than is necessary, simply to help pay for huge served ``nobody in Belgrade doubts that the tical recordkeeping functions, we eliminate the tax cuts we cannot afford. war in Bosnia is being masterminded by unnecessary and duplicative functions for an A recent national poll shows that 72 percent Milosevic in collusion with his Bosnian Serb estimated $7 billion in savings. of those polled oppose Medicare cuts being henchman, Radovan Karadzic.'' Zimmerman Another issue that I was personally involved made to pay for tax breaks. One has to ques- has characterized the Serbian President as a with was the spectrum auction. Our bill will ex- tion how making major cuts to Medicare in a liar ``almost totally dominated by his dark October 30, 1995 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E 2067 side.'' The genocidal campaign unleashed by Bosnian soldiers who say they spoke to and and it is not known if Mladic would execute Milosevic has included the rape of tens of looked at identify papers of the captured such a large number of men without at least thousands of women, the destruction of thou- Serbian captain. the tacit approval of Serbian leaders in Bel- In a separate interview, a Muslim officer sands of mosques and Catholic churches, and grade. confirmed that the Serbian officer had been Mladic, who eyewitnesses interviewed by the forcible expulsion of hundreds of thou- captured. The Serbian officer’s whereabouts the Monitor said was at Karakaj and three sands. are unknown, and he may have been killed other executions sites during or just before Mr. Speaker, the Bosnian Serb political and later by Muslim forces. executions began, had been visiting Belgrade military leaders, Karadzic and Mladic, wouldn't Western diplomats have long suspected regularly for weeks prior to the attack. dare step foot on United States soil following that the Bosnian Serb attack on Srebrenica Dutch peacekeepers reported seeing mem- their indictment as war criminals by the U.N. in mid-July was approved by Belgrade, but bers of paramilitary groups from Serbia, and War Crimes Tribunal in the Hague, earlier this the government of President Slobodan Muslims say they saw Belgrade-based para- year. There is a cruel irony in the fact that, Milosevic has vehemently denied it. military leader Zeljko ‘‘Arkan’’ Raznjatovic with his lieutenants largely out of the picture, Mr. Milosevic’s involvement would be an in Srebrenica. embarrassment for the Clinton administra- The Washington Post reported seeing Mus- Milosevic has returned to center stage as the tion, eager to portray Milosevic—who will be lim soldiers driving a jeep with Yugoslav perceived linchpin to peace in the Balkans fol- attending peace talks in Ohio next week—as Army license plates on July 17. The Muslims lowing a 4-year war of armed aggression and a peacemaker in the Balkans, not a war said they had captured the jeep from forces genocide which he, himself, set in motion. criminal. involved in the attack on Srebrenica. In a speech launching a week-long com- ‘‘Whether by commission or omission, New York Newsday reported on Aug. 12 memoration at the University of Connecticut of [Milosevic] is responsible, no question,’’ says that Western intelligence officials captured the 50th anniversary of the Nuremberg trials, a senior UN military official based in Za- radio intercepts of Yugoslav Army chief Gen. President Clinton solemnly declared ``there greb, Croatia. ‘‘He had plenty of sources on Momcilo Perisic, directing Mladic on how to must be peace of justice to prevail, but there the ground there. He had to know what was attack Srebrenica during the offensive. happening, and either approved of it or did SERB DENIALS must be justice when peace prevails.'' Appar- nothing to stop it.’’ Yugoslav officials have strenuously denied ently, the Clinton administration is prepared to A senior Western diplomat in Zagreb also the accounts, but the Yugoslav Army and put justice aside in their quest for peace in says Milosevic is responsible for what is Arkan are believed to be tightly controlled Bosnia which it believes hinges on Milosevic. quickly emerging as one of the darkest hours by Milosevic, who holds an iron grip over Mr. Speaker, I would submit that peace and of Bosnia’s 31⁄2 year conflict. Serbia’s military. ‘‘I have no doubt he directly approved or justice can and should be pursued simulta- Despite the growing evidence, Srebrenica tacitly approved of the taking of neously. I agreed with President Clinton when survivors remain skeptical that Milosevic— Srebrenica,’’ the diplomat says. ‘‘Whether he said, ``By successfully prosecuting war whom the Clinton administration is depend- Milosenic knew [about the executions] or criminals in the former Yugoslavia * * * we ing on to force the Bosnian Serbs to agree to not, he knows what kind of man [Bosnian send a strong signal for those who would use a peace deal—will be tied to or punished for Serb Army commander Gen. Ratko] Mladic Europe’s worst massacre since World War II. the cover of war to commit terrible atrocities, is and how he operates.’’ that they cannot escape the consequences of ‘‘It all depends on the politicians,’’ Malovic REPORTS OF MASS EXECUTIONS such actions.'' But what signal is the Clinton says. ‘‘They could punish them, or reward them, for doing this.’’ administration sending by welcoming Milosevic Over 2,000 Muslim men were executed by Bosnian Serb forces following the fall of f to the United States? Srebrenica, according to nine survivors Even those who accept Milosevic's partici- interviewed by the Monitor last month. THE 7-YEAR BALANCED BUDGET pation in the current peace talksÐfor whatever War-crimes investigators now have evi- RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1995 reasonÐmust acknowledge that the Serbian dence that as many as 3,000 to 4,000 men were leader will garner a degree of credibility and executed by the Bosnian Serbs, according to SPEECH OF prestige by being allowed to enter the United a senior UN official close to the investiga- States. Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, by willingly tion. ‘‘Wait until everything comes out,’’ he HON. FRANK R. WOLF admitting Milosevic, the Clinton administration says. ‘‘Then, people will understand how big OF VIRGINIA this is.’’ calls into question its determination to see all IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The UN official close to the International war criminals, regardless of rank, brought to War Crimes Tribunal in The Hague said mass Thursday, October 26, 1995 justice. graves ring the area around Srebrenica, and The House in Committee of the Whole Mr. Speaker, the arrival of Slobodan confirmed the existence of a new set of Unit- House on the State of the Union had under Milosevic in the United States is repugnant to ed States spy photos showing a new group of consideration the bill (H.R. 2491) to provide apparent mass graves near the village of American principles and is an affront to the for reconciliation pursuant to section 105 of Karakaj, as reported by the Boston Globe on memory of the tens of thousands of innocent the concurrent resolution on the budget for Oct. 3. victims of the Balkan war. fiscal year 1996: For the RECORD, Mr. Speaker, I wish also to The photos confirm the accounts of five Mr. WOLF. Mr. Chairman, I rise on behalf of include a disturbing article which was pub- men interviewed by the Monitor who say over 2,000 Muslim prisoners were executed the American family, America's children, and lished in the Christian Science Monitor on Oc- near the town of Karakaj on July 18. The restoring the American dream and will support tober 24, 1995. photos may be the basis for new indictments budget reconciliation which will bring our bur- [From the Christian Science Monitor, Oct. against General Mladic expected to be issued 24, 1995] geoning budget deficit into balance by the by the Tribunal. year 2002 and provide needed family tax re- SERBIA HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR MASSACRE OF Bosnian Serb officials have said that mass BOSNIANS graves in the village of Nova Kasaba cap- lief. This is the right thing to do. (By David Rohde) tured in US spy photos and visited by the Consider this. According to the Joint Com- Officers from Serbia participated in the at- Monitor in August contain the bodies of mittee on Taxation, a child born today will tack on the UN-declared ‘‘safe area’’ of Muslim soldiers who were killed in combat have to pay $187,000 in his or her lifetime in Srebrenica, according to credible eyewitness and not executed. interest on the national debt. That money accounts obtained by the Monitor. And sen- But the Karakaj site is too far from the won't be spent on education, nutrition, medical ior Western diplomats and UN officials say route that Muslim men would have followed research, national defense, or roads. Rather, Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic is re- to escape from Srebrenica, according to the our children will be forced to pay for the UN official. sponsible for the attack and the subsequent present generation's profligacy. That is unfair; executions of thousands of Muslim civilians. Mevludin Oric, a survivor of the Karakaj Muslim witnesses say that an officer from execution, said in an interview that one of it is unwise; and it offends traditional notions Serbia was directing the roundup of Muslim the officers directing the roundup of pris- of justice. prisoners in the village of Konjevic Polje, oners in Konjevic Polje was a 40- to 45-year- For all the things the 104th Congress will and that a Serb officer captured by Muslim old officer from Serbia. Mr. Oric is consid- do, this is the most important. We are at a his- forces was following orders issued from the ered by war-crimes investigators to be one of toric crossroads, and I will choose the path of Serbian capital, Belgrade. their most credible witnesses. The Serbian lower interest rates, lower taxes, and job cre- ‘‘The Serb officer said they were under or- officer was not present at the later execu- ation, thereby preserving America's greatness ders from Belgrade not to allow any men to tion, Oric added. escape from Srebrenica,’’ says Bosnian sol- Who gave the order to execute thousands for present and future generations. It is time to dier Dzemal Malvic. of prisoners remains unknown. end the gluttonous consumption of America's ‘‘All Muslim men were to be captured or But evidence of Milosevic’s involvement in precious and scarce resources. We can ill af- killed,’’ said Mr. Malovic, one of three Srebrenica has been mounting for months, ford the relentless spending and borrowing E 2068 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 30, 1995 binge of the past which mortgages the future and more immediately they can earn $15,000 ties they will have outside of school when they of America's most precious resourceÐher beginning on January 1, 1996. This change try to enter the work force. The budget will young peopleÐbecause we are unwilling to goes a long way to providing equity to the deny approximately 3,000 young people in exercise restraint needed to forego immediate hard working seniors of this great country and Texas the opportunity to serve their commu- gratification. I am proud to be associated with it. nity through AmeriCorps. And over 7 years, We have a solemn duty to provide a better f the Republican budget eliminates summer world for future generations. Will Allen jobs for 297,437 youths in Texas. Dromgoole, in his poem ``The Bridge Builder,'' THE 7 YEAR BALANCED BUDGET In this family friendly Congress Republicans describes an old man's effort to cross a river RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1995 are picking and choosing what type of families flowing through a vast, deep, and wide chasm. they want to help. For example, the Repub- SPEECH OF Even though the old man never had to repeat lican welfare bill cuts foster care and adoption the treacherous journey, he built a bridge over HON. RONALD D. COLEMAN for vulnerable Texas children by $359.5 million the river. A fellow traveler asked the old man OF TEXAS over 7 years and eliminates cash assistance why he was wasting his strength building a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES for 5,260 children in Texas simply because bridge he would never use. The builder lifted Thursday, October 26, 1995 they were born to unmarried mothers under his old gray head and responded: 18. Additionally, assistance would be cut to The House in Committee of the Whole There followeth after me today House on the State of the Union had under 222,000 children in Texas simply because A youth, whose feet must pass this way. consideration the bill (H.R. 2491) to provide their paternity has not been established. This chasm, that has been naught to me, for reconciliation pursuant to section 105 of The effort to balance the budget should not To that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be. the concurrent resolution on the budget for include an unnecessary and harsh attack on He, too, must cross in the twilight dim; fiscal year 1996: children and their interests. They are the fu- Good friend, I am building the bridge for him. Mr. COLEMAN. Mr. Chairman, Republicans ture of this country and we must treat them as have not only targeted the sick, disabled, el- assets, not liabilities. Mr. Chairman, I implore all Members to be derly, and women in this Congress, but now f like the selfless bridge builder and vote for this they are targeting children. Children do not legislation which will build a bridge to a better have a voice in the legislature, but trust us to THE 7 YEAR BALANCED BUDGET world for those who follow. protect their interests. This Congress has be- RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1995 f trayed that trust by waging an all-out war on SPEECH OF THE 7 YEAR BALANCED BUDGET children in the budget. RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1995 The battle has been waged on a number of HON. CHAKA FATTAH different fronts: health care, disabled assist- OF PENNSYLVANIA SPEECH OF ance, education, nutrition, and social safety IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nets. HON. JERRY WELLER In Texas, Medicaid coverage for as many as Thursday, October 26, 1995 OF ILLINOIS 206,641 children will be eliminated under Re- The House in Committee of the Whole IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES publican proposals by 2002. Currently, 20 per- House on the State of the Union had under Thursday, October 26, 1995 cent of all children in Texas rely on Medicaid consideration the bill (H.R. 2491) to provide for their basic health needs. Medicaid pays for for reconciliation pursuant to section 105 of The House in Committee of the Whole the concurrent resolution on the budget for House on the State of the Union had under immunizations, regular checkups, and inten- fiscal year 1996: consideration the bill (H.R. 2491) to provide sive care for about 1,407,000 children in for reconciliation pursuant to section 105 of Texas. Mr. FATTAH. Mr. Chairman, I oppose this the concurrent resolution on the budget for There are 148,287 El Pasoans who are eli- heinous attempt by the Republican majority to fiscal year 1996: gible for Medicaid. Of those eligible, approxi- balance the budget at the expense of the Na- Mr. WELLER. Mr. Chairman, I come to the mately 57,000 are children between the ages tion's elderly. This hysteria surrounding the well today to speak in favor of the Republican of 1 and 14. mandate to balance the budget in 7 years is plan to allow seniors to increase their earnings The Republican budget also repeals the nothing short of a hoax being perpetrated on without being penalized. Senior citizens made Vaccines for Children Program, putting at risk the American people to conceal the true Re- this country strong with their long and arduous at least $1.5 billion over 7 years that would publican agenda. If the Republicans were so labors year in and year out. They taught me otherwise provide immunizations for children interested in balancing the Federal budget, and my generation how to profit from a strong in Texas and across the Nation. In the last few would they be proposing a royalty holiday for work ethic. Yet, we need to stop punishing years, El Paso has been the site of several major oil producers, many of whom are not them for their desire to remain active. We outbreaks of serious diseases such as tuber- even American companies? If the Republicans need to recognize that many seniors want to culosis and hepatitis. Without vaccines for were truly interested in balancing the Federal work longer. We need to reward those who contagious diseases, the health of the border budget, would they be proposing the elimi- continue to work or operate a business. We region would be in great danger. nation of the guaranteed minimum tax on cor- can no longer force them to choose between Children with disabilities are at risk as well. porations? Does it make sense to propose a an active and productive life and Social Secu- The Republican welfare plan denies as many $242 billion tax cut if your objective is to bal- rity benefits. as 54 percent of all disabled children in Texas ance the budget? How many of the American Under current law, seniors between the SSI cash benefits in 2002. people know that the debate over balancing ages of 65 and 69 lose $1 in benefits for Texas education programs are vitally impor- the budget is being conducted in an environ- every dollar they earn over $11,160. This tant to sustain a good economy, and my Re- ment where half the budget isn't even on the earnings test amounts to an additional 33 per- publican colleagues are set on destroying our table? cent marginal tax rate. This marginal rate is on educational system. In Texas, Head Start The result, Mr. Chairman, is that we have a top of the taxes they already pay on their would be denied to 12,512 children in 2002 program to revise Medicare which, like the en- earnings. This draconian test punishes seniors under the Republican budget. The cuts would tire Republican program, is regressive in the who want to work beyond the age of 64. also deny title I funding to 100,100 children in extreme. It gives special breaks to doctors; it It is unconscionable that in times of shrink- Texas. increases premiums for people who can least ing fiscal resources at the Federal level, that Not only are we reducing funds in assisting afford it; it distorts medical financing systems, we would punish seniors who seek to remain education, but we are reducing the ability of particularly of hospitals that serve the poor; it financially independent. With so severe an administrators to keep their schools safe. The sets up dynamics that could lead to the con- earnings limit we essentially force them to be- Republican budget cuts funding to the Safe centration of the poorest and least healthy come more reliant on Government spending and Drug Free Schools Program which sup- people in the most inadequate coverage. The and congressional action. Such an unhealthy plies funding to 1,043 out of 1,053 school dis- Republicans have maintained that the pre- reliance undermines the self esteem of seniors tricts in Texas who use the money to keep miums of the poorest elderly will continue to and makes the governing role of Congress crime, violence, and drugs away from the chil- be paid, but this is just another deception. The more difficult. dren in their schools. very program which is responsible for paying Our proposal today, would raise the earning Not only does the budget limit the opportuni- these premiums is being eliminated under the potential of seniors to $30,000 over 5 years ties students have, but it limits the opportuni- Republican Medicaid reform package. October 30, 1995 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E 2069 Nothing could make the true Republican in- signed to guarantee the future of the canal, in years, not 17 months, to get back on the road tent more clear than an analysis of their ap- particular the widening of the Culebra Cut. It to prosperity. The airlines are already facing a proach to Medicare reform. If they had been is fully financed from increases in revenues huge tax burden that affects their ability to op- concerned about protecting the health options from canal operations that have taken place erate and increases, by a substantial amount, of the elderly, they would have pursued com- made over the last few years. the cost of traveling for all passengers. By de- prehensive health care reform. The Repub- By treaty rights, Mr. Speaker, these reve- laying this tax, and eventually its repeal, we lican agenda has nothing to do with protecting nues belong to Panama, and could have eas- will help the airlines recover from a disastrous Medicare, or with balancing the budget. It has ily been used by the Panamanian Government 5 years of losses, create more jobs, and de- to do with making good on campaign promises for other much needed investments in social crease the travel cost for their passengers. I to corporations. It has to do with eliminating, and economic development projects; instead, hope that my colleagues and the budget con- on every conceivable front, our social obliga- they have been allocated in a conscious and, ferees will support the House position and tion to invest in our people. It has to do with in my view, responsible decision by the Perez eventually push for full repeal of this devastat- vitiating the very meaning of this democracy. Balladares administration, to maintain and im- ing tax. It has to do with tearing at the fabric of our so- prove the viability of the canal well into the f cial institutions so that those at the bottom of next century. heap, who can least fend for themselvesÐour I wish to share with my colleagues my per- THE WHITE HOUSE CONFERENCE children, our elderly, our poorÐhave no sonal congratulations to the Government of ON TRAVEL AND TOURISM chance of improving the quality of their lives. Panama, and particularly to its President, Mr. It is about redistributing the resources of our Ernesto Perez Balladares, for its courageous HON. VICTOR O. FRAZER country to those that already have plenty so and decided leadership in the hemisphere; OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS that they can get more. particularly on such difficult issues as the war IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES H.R. 2425 is a bad bill. It does not address on drugs; for I also note from very recent Monday, October 30, 1995 the broader issue of health care reform; it media and intelligence reports of continuing places unnecessary burdens on the elderly and large seizures by his government of ship- Mr. FRAZER. Mr. Speaker, today I would and the poor; it devastates medical training fa- ments of illicit substances destined for our like to welcome the 1,700 delegates attending cilities, and is mainly a financial vehicle to bal- shores. These actions and other strong meas- the White House Conference on Travel and ance the budget while reducing taxes for the ures to control and prevent money laundering, Tourism to Washington, DC. It is with great affluent. We can do better for the elderly, we I might add, are being carried out in full co- price and honor that I also welcome Mrs. An- can do better for our future as a democratic operation with U.S. Government agencies and gela Belfon, co-owner of World Wide Travel of society. I urge my colleagues to consider who those of other governments. St. Thomas, a small business person, as my we are to be become as a people before they I am confident that the United States and delegate to the conference. vote on this measure, because it is that ques- Panama will continue to strengthen their rela- Small businesses represent the largest cre- tion that this bill puts to the test. tions as we enter delicate exploratory talks on ator of jobs in the Nation. The travel and tour- f some sort of presence of our military in the ism industry is a major employer in the Virgin Isthmus after the year 2000. I took the oppor- Islands, consisting primarily of small busi- CONGRATULATIONS TO THE tunity to tell the distinguished President of nesses. This vital segment of our economy GOVERNMENT OF PANAMA Panama that I support such a presence, Mr. must be supported. Speaker, and that the Congress will do its part Government can play a major role by foster- HON. BILL RICHARDSON to support any efforts to strengthen the ties ing a partnership with the private sector. This OF NEW MEXICO that bind our two nations. partnership recognizes the importance of the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f industry as well as the Government's role in monitoring and promoting the travel and tour- Monday, October 30, 1995 BUDGET CONFEREES SHOULD SUP- ism industry. Mr. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I had the PORT THE HOUSE-PASSED 2- The White House Conference on Travel and privilege of meeting President Ernesto Perez YEAR EXTENSION OF JET FUEL Tourism is a good example of how Govern- Balladares of Panama for the first time last EXEMPTION ment and businesses can work together to week. The occasion was a meeting hosted by build a stronger economy. Enrique Iglesias, president of the IDB, at HON. SAM JOHNSON f which many senior level representatives of the OF TEXAS TRIBUTE TO GENE YODER U.S. Government agencies that closely follow IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the affairs of our two countries were present, as well as senior officials from the inter- Monday, October 30, 1995 HON. TIM ROEMER national financial institutions. Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, OF INDIANA The feeling around the table was unanimous over the past 5 years our airlines have posted IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the structural economic achievements ob- losses of over $13 billion. This has caused al- tained by President Perez Balladares' adminis- most one-half of those to file for chapter 11 Monday, October 30, 1995 tration, after only 1 year in office, were consid- bankruptcy with three of them closing their Mr. ROEMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to erable, particularly in terms of modernizing doors completely. Because of these financial pay special tribute to Mr. Gene Yoder of Go- and opening up Panama's economy to private setbacks and heavy Government mandates, shen, Indiana. Gene is retiring this year as domestic and foreign investment. over 120,000 U.S. jobs have been lost. Chairman of the American Association of These include modern legislation to stream- Therefore, I believe that budget reconcili- Homes and Services for the Aging, a position line and level the playing field in terms of tax ation conferees should support the House- he has held since 1993. regulations and incentives; considerable passed measure that extends for 2 years the No one has done more to care for older flexibilization of heretofore rigid labor laws, exemption of the aviation jet fuel tax. This new Americans in northern Indiana than Gene and increased participation by the private sec- tax was supported by the Democrats and the Yoder. For the past 25 years, Gene has tor in the key areas of telecommunications, Clinton administration and passed as part of served as President and CEO of Greencroft, energy, water supply, and ports. Increased in- the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of Inc., a campus of senior housing and long- vestment in these areas are crucial for the 1993. I believe that this new tax will further term care services in Goshen. successful implementation of the Panama burden the airline industry by imposing an ad- Greencroft has provided high quality hous- Canal Treaties to which our two governments ditional $500 million in new taxes in addition to ing and health care to hundreds of senior citi- are fully committed. the $6.5 billion in excise taxes they already zens over the years. In addition to his work at Indeed, we heard as well from the Under pay. To deny this extension could prove det- Greencroft, Gene has touched the lives of Secretary of the Army, who is also Chairman rimental to the future of our airline industry thousands of older Americans who reside in of the Panama Canal Commission, a very when for the first time in 5 years they are more than 5,000 long-term care facilities positive report regarding the growing participa- showing slight improvements. around the country which he has represented tion of Panamanians in the management and That is why it is so important that our budg- as AAHSA's leader. operation of the canal. I also took note of on- et conferees support the House-passed jet Most recently, Gene led an AAHSA delega- going major capital investment projects de- fuel extension that would give the airlines 2 tion which met privately with President Clinton E 2070 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 30, 1995 to share concerns about the future of health profit aging services organizations and older volved in the current events and politics that care and social programs for the elderly. In Americans is an example for all. affect them. addition, he served as a delegate to the 1995 f For 2 years, the South Street Journal has White House Conference on Aging. provided Chicago's South Side with an inform- TRIBUTE TO SOUTH STREET JOUR- Gene has also taken an active leadership ative and relevant community newspaper that NAL FOR ILLINOIS’ FIRST CON- role on the state level, having served as Presi- fosters open dialogue on current events and GRESSIONAL DISTRICT dent of the Indiana Association of Homes for helps to strengthen community relations. They the Aging in 1986, and as a member of the have helped register voters and have provided Elkhart County Council of Aging from 1982± HON. BOBBY L. RUSH a voice to communities that are sometimes 83. OF ILLINOIS overlooked. Gene's impressive career in services to the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES aging is clearly a labor of love. He consistently South Side communities such as Washing- Monday, October 30, 1995 strives to raise awareness about the issues ton Park, Hyde Park, Douglas, Oakland, facing the elderly. In his 2-year tenure as Mr. RUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay Kenwood, Woodlawn, Fuller Park, Armour Chair of AAHSA, he has helped lead the fight tribute to the South Street Journal, a commu- Square, Grand Boulevard, and the Gap have to reduce the use of physical and chemical re- nity based newspaper on Chicago's South all seen the benefits the Journal has provided. straints in long-term care facilities, and has Side, on the occasion of their second anniver- Mr. Speaker, today I stand here to formally championed the establishment of ethics com- sary. recognize the South Street Journal for their mittees in nursing homes. The South Street Journal has always prided contribution to the South Side of Chicago, the Although Gene is stepping down as Chair- itself on social responsibility providing objec- State of Illinois, and the United States of man of AAHSA, he will continue his service to tive and insightful news while keeping in mind America. senior citizens through his work at Greencroft the welfare of the residents of the commu- I am pleased to enter these words of com- and other endeavors. It is a great pleasure for nities it services. It has built a strong founda- mendation into the RECORD. me to pay tribute today to this truly inspiring tion of not only disseminating information but American, whose lifetime of service to not-for- also encouraging communities to become in- October 30, 1995 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E 2071 SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS NOVEMBER 2 Water Heritage Area in the State of Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, 9:30 a.m. Colorado, S. 364, to authorize the Sec- agreed to by the Senate on February 4, Energy and Natural Resources retary of the Interior to participate in Forests and Public Land Management Sub- the operation of certain visitor facili- 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- committee ties associated with, but outside the tem for a computerized schedule of all To resume hearings to examine alter- boundaries of, Rocky Mountain Na- meetings and hearings of Senate com- natives to Federal forest land manage- tional Park in the State of Colorado, S. mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- ment and to compare land management 489, to authorize the Secretary of the tees, and committees of conference. cost benefits on Federal and States Interior to enter into an appropriate This title requires all such committees lands. form of agreement with, the town of to notify the Office of the Senate Daily SD–366 Grand Lake, Colorado, authorizing the Digest—designated by the Rules Com- Governmental Affairs town to maintain permanently a ceme- mittee—of the time, place, and purpose To hold hearings on S. 704, to establish tery in the Rocky Mountain National the Gambling Impact Study Commis- Park, S. 608, to establish the New Bed- of the meetings, when scheduled, and sion. ford Whaling National Historical Park any cancellations or changes in the SD–342 in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and meetings as they occur. 10:00 a.m. As an additional procedure along Environment and Public Works H.R. 629, the Fall River Visitor Center with the computerization of this infor- Transportation and Infrastructure Sub- Act. mation, the Office of the Senate Daily committee SD–366 Digest will prepare this information for To hold hearings on courthouse construc- printing in the Extensions of Remarks tion and related GSA public buildings NOVEMBER 14 section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD program matters. 10:00 a.m. on Monday and Wednesday of each SD–406 Judiciary Special on Aging week. To hold hearings to examine the oper- To hold hearings to examine fraud in the ation of the Office of the Solicitor Gen- Meetings scheduled for Tuesday, Oc- medicare and medicaid programs. tober 31, 1995, may be found in the eral. SD–562 SD–226 Daily Digest of today’s RECORD. MEETINGS SCHEDULED NOVEMBER 7 NOVEMBER 15 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. Indian Affairs NOVEMBER 1 Judiciary Business meeting, to mark up S. 1341, to Administrative Oversight and the Courts 9:30 a.m. provide for the transfer of certain lands Subcommittee Commerce, Science, and Transportation to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa In- To hold hearings on S. 1356, to amend the dian Community and the city of To hold hearings on S. 582, to amend Shipping Act of 1984 to provide for Scottsdale, Arizona; to be followed by United States Code to provide that cer- ocean shipping reform. hearings on S. 1159, to establish an tain voluntary disclosures of violations SR–253 American Indian Policy Information of Federal laws made pursuant to an Environment and Public Works Center. environmental audit shall not be sub- Clean Air, Wetlands, Private Property, and SR–485 ject to discovery or admitted into evi- Nuclear Safety Subcommittee dence during a Federal judicial or ad- To resume hearings on S. 851, to amend NOVEMBER 8 ministrative proceeding. the Federal Water Pollution Control SD–226 Act to reform the wetlands regulatory 10:00 a.m. program. Judiciary SD–406 To hold hearings to examine mandatory Governmental Affairs victim restitution. POSTPONEMENTS Permanent Subcommittee on Investiga- SD–226 tions OCTOBER 31 NOVEMBER 9 To continue hearings to examine global 9:30 a.m. proliferation of weapons of mass de- 2:00 p.m. Commerce, Science, and Transportation struction. Energy and Natural Resources Aviation Subcommittee SD–342 Parks, Historic Preservation and Recre- To hold hearings to examine the United 10:00 a.m. ation Subcommittee States/United Kingdom Bilateral Avia- Judiciary To hold hearings on S. 231 and H.R. 562, tion Agreement. To continue hearings to examine changes bills to modify the boundaries of Wal- SR–253 in Federal law enforcement as a result nut Canyon National Monument in the of the incident in Waco, Texas. State of Arizona, S. 342, to establish SH–216 the Cache La Poudre River National