United States Senate DALE BUMPERS, ARKANSAS WARREN RUDMAN, NEW HAMPSHIRE FRANK R

ROBERT C. BYRD, WEST VIRGINIA, CHAIRMAN

DANIEL K. INOUYE, HAWAII MARK 0. HATFIELD, OREGON ERNEST F. HOLLINGS, SOUTH CAROLINA TED STEVENS, ALASKA J. BENNETT JOHNSTON. LOUISIANA JA M ES A. MCCLURE, IDAHO QUENTIN N. BURDICK, NORTH DAKOTA JAKE GARN. UTAH PATRICK J. LEAHY, VERMONT THAD COCHRAN, MISSISSIPPI JIM SASSER, TENNESSEE ROBERT W. KASTEN. JR., W ISC O N SIN DENNIS DECONCINI. ARIZONA ALFONSE M. D'AMATO, NEW YORK United States Senate DALE BUMPERS, ARKANSAS WARREN RUDMAN, NEW HAMPSHIRE FRANK R. LAUTENBERG, NEW JERSEY ARLEN SPECTER, PENNSYLVANIA COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS .. TOM HARKIN, IOWA PETE V. DOMENICI, NEW MEXICO W a s h in g t o n , DC 20510-6025 BARBARA A. M IKULSKI, M ARYLAND CHARLES E. GRASSLEY, IOWA HARRY REID, NEVADA DON NICKLES, OKLAHOMA BROCK ADAMS, WASHINGTON PHIL GRAMM, TEXAS WYCHE FOWLER, JR., GEORGIA J. ROBERT KERREY, NEBRASKA

JAMES H. ENGLISH, STAFF DIRECTOR J. KEITH KENNEDY, MINORITY STAFF DIRECTOR

July 17, 1989

The Honorable Daniel K. Inouye United States Senate 722 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Dan:

Thank you for your letter regarding several items of interest under the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary and related agencies.

I appreciate knowing of your personal interest in these matters. Be assured of my intention to work closely with you and other members of the Committee as we develop recommendations for fiscal year 1990 appropriations.

Thank you again for apprising me of your concerns.

Best wishes,

Sincerely,

WARREN B. RUDMAN United States Senator

WBR/jsj ROBERT C. BYRD. W EST VIRGINIA. CHAIRMAN

DANIEL K. INOUYE. HAWAII MARK 0. HATFIELD, OREGON ERNEST F. HOLLINGS, SOUTH CAROLINA TED STEVENS, ALASKA J. BENNETT JOHNSTON. LOUISIANA JA M ES A. McCLURE, IDAHO QUENTIN N. BURDICK. NORTH DAKOTA JAKE GARN. UTAH PATRICK J. LEAHY, VERMONT THAD COCHRAN, MISSISSIPPI JIM SASSER. TENNESSEE ROBERT W. KASTEN. JR., WISCONSIN United States Senate DENNIS DECONCINI. ARIZONA ALFONSE M. D'AMATO, NEW YORK DALE BUMPERS. ARKANSAS WARREN RUDMAN. NEW HAMPSHIRE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS FRANK R. LAUTENBERG. NEW JERSEY ARLEN SPECTER, PENNSYLVANIA TOM HARKIN, IOWA PETE V. DOMENICI, NEW MEXICO W a s h i n g t o n , DC 20510-6025 BARBARA A. MIKULSKI, MARYLAND CHARLES E. GRASSLEY. IOWA HARRY REID, NEVADA DON NICKLES, OKLAHOMA BROCK ADAMS. WASHINGTON PHIL GRAMM, TEXAS WYCHE FOWLER, JR., GEORGIA J. ROBERT KERREY. NEBRASKA

JAMES H. ENGLISH, STAFF DIRECTOR J. KEITH KENNEDY, MINORITY STAFF DIRECTOR

July 19, 1989

The Honorable Daniel K. Inouye United States Senate Washington, DC 20510

Dear Dan:

Thank you for your recent letter requesting an appropriation of $6,000,000 in FY 1990 for the Office of Redress Administration (ORA) as well as monies to begin funding of redress payments- I appreciate your taking the time to share with me your continued interest in funding for the Civil Liberties Public Education Fund.

As you know, the Commerce, Justice, State Subcommittee has received its 302(b) allocation and it will be hard pressed to provide baseline increases in existing programs. I assure you, however, that the Committee will give your request serious consideration.

With warm regards, I am

Robi&t C . Byrd Chairman

RCB/ajs DANIfcl. K. INQJUYE Prince Kuhio Feoeral Building R o o m 7325, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard H onolulu, HI 96850 (808) 541-2542 FAX (808) 541-2549

SUITE 722, HART SENATE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 2 0 5 1 0 (202) 224-3934 FAX (202) 224-6747

July 25, 1989

The Honorable Robert Byrd Cha irraan Senate Appropriations Committee United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Robert:

Although the matter of redress for Americans of Japanese ancestry, who were interned in federal government internment camps during World War II, has been before us and debated for over a decade, my participation in these debates, as you may have been aware, has been minimal. It is most difficult for me to admit that I have been very inhibited and reluctant to say much in these debates because of my ethnic background. I believe that by this reluctance and inhibition, I may have performed a grave disservice to many Americans, especially those with whom I served in the Army during World War II.

I believe the time has come for me to tell you what has befen in my heart for all these years. I was a young 18-year-old high school graduate when I volunteered and put on the uniform of my country. At that moment, because of war-time censorship and other restrictions, I was not aware of the strange plight of my fellow Americans of Japanese ancestry on the mainland U.S. However, I was made aware of their unbelievable problems soon after I joined them in training camp. I learned that over 120,000 Americans were given 48 hours to settle their accounts and businesses and required by law to leave their residences of many years for incarceration in barracks and makeshift camps in distant parts of the United States. History now shows that their only crime was that they were born of parents of Japanese ancestry. History also shows that there was no evidence of any "fifth column" sabotage activities carried out by any of these Americans of Japanese ancestry.

When our special infantry regiment was being formed, I was aware that half of the regiment would be made up of men from Hawaii and the other half from the mainland United States. These mainland men volunteered from behind barbed wires in these camps. They did not volunteer as other Americans did in free American communities. To this day, I look back with disbelief that men who had been denied their civil rights, J.uly 25, 1989 Page -2-

deprived of their worldly goods, and humiliated with unjust incarceration, would nonetheless stand up and take the oath to defend the country that was mistreating them without due process of law. I have often times asked myself the question, "Would I have volunteered under these circumstances?" I, in all honesty, cannot give you a forthright answer.

The men who volunteered from these camps were very reluctant to share their unfortunate internment experiences with us Hawaiians. They would just shrug their shoulders and mutter, "I suppose that is the way it is." But in a rare moment, one of them would open up and tell us about an episode in his camp. For example, I remember a story I had heard on a cold spring night in the field. One of my mainland buddies told us about the Manzanar camp, where soldiers shot and killed three internees and wounded about ten others because they were demonstrating for the release of a fellow internee who had been arrested for allegedly assaulting another internee. According to the provisions of this bill, those three dead men would not receive any redress payments. Then, while we were training in Mississippi to prepare us for combat in Europe, word came to several of my buddies from California that their State had begun to implement a law which had authorized the seizure, and resale of "idle farm machinery." Obviously, "idle farm machinery" that were found in the State of California during that period were almost always ones that the internees were forced to abandon. And, needless to say, these California internees were not around to purchase them. Further, we were at times told about the great losses that these young volunteers and their families had to incur. For example, it was commonplace for residences, farms, and personal items to be sold for a fraction of their market value. In fact, one of my buddies sold his almost brand-new 1.9*11--Ford for $100. It was in a good and clean condition, but that was all he could get from his neighbors. We are now told that these losses exceeded $6 billion.

Most of the members of the Senate have been in this body for at least ten years. During that period, we have given our support and votes to other reparations programs. Redress and reparations are not unique in our history. For example, in 1980, we appropriated funds to provide $10,000 to each of 1,318 anti-Vietnam War demonstrators who were found to have been "wrongfully" jailed for one weekend. More recently, in_ 1986, we appropriated sums to give each American hostage $22,000 for his or her bitter experience in Iran. The internment of some of the families of those with whom I served in combat went on for over three years. July 25, 1989 Page -3-

My mainland buddies were silent because they could not bring themselves to share their humiliation with those of us from Hawaii. As a footnote, I should point out that during the one year of almost continuous and intensive combat in Europe, over 200 of these mainland volunteers from the internment camps went through the ranks of my Company-- Company E, 2nd Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regimental Combat Team. Of that number, all, with the exception of about 20, were either wounded or killed in action. That is a very high percentage of Purple Hearts. Incidentally, the Regiment, with which I was privileged and honored to serve, was the most decorated Army unit of its size In World War II.

I am certain you must have concluded that this letter has been most difficult to compose. It is with some measure of reluctance that I share It with you. I hope that when the time for decision is upon us, you will join me in remembering those men from the internment camps who proudly and courageously demonstrated their "last full measure of devotion" In the defense of their country. Although these men will not receive benefits from the provisions of this bill, I am certain that they will gratefully rest in peace.

Most respectfully,

DANIEL K. INOUYE United States Senator

DKI:mbd The Senator has requested that his letter

(attached) on Japanese Redress be read.

The letter went to all members of the

Senate Appropriations Committee.

Marie LATE MAIL

REASON FOR DELAY:

NAME PLEASE CIRCULATE TO ______AND RETURN TO (please check off and date)

DOWNSTAIRS

DAYNA PAT______INTERNS LI ANN LAMELA BOBBIE^ ^ SHARON HEATHER FRANK____ GREGG

«Sfe-2±UPSTAIRS

BARBARA JENNIFER -TERRY* SARA MARGARET___ INTERNS VIRGINIA IRENE______BEVERLY_J MARIE______PHYLISS DAN DANIEL K. INOUYE HAWAII ROOM 9321. 300 AkA MOMU Howoun.il. Ml N t lO . ffOtl M 1-2343 PAX |303| § 4 1-3343 United States Senate SUITE 722. HART SENATE SUILDING WASHINGTON. DC 20610 (202) 224-3334 SAX (202) 224-6747

July 25, 1989

I believe the time has come for me to tell you what has been in my heart for all these years. I was a young 18-year-old high school graduate when I volunteered and put on the uniform of my country. At that moment, because of war-time censorship and other restrictions, I was not aware of the strange plight of my fellow Americans of Japanese ancestry on the mainland U.S. However, I was made aware of their unbelievable problems soon after I joined them in training camp. I learned that over 120,000 Americans were given 48 hours to settle their accounts and businesses and required by law to leave their residences of many years for incarceration in barracks and makeshift camps in distant parts of the United States. History now shows that their only crime was that they were born of parents of Japanese ancestry. History also shows that there was no evidence of any “fifth column" sabotage activities carried out by any of these Americans of Japanese ancestry. When our special infantry regiment was being formed, I was aware that half of the regiment would be made up of men from Hawaii and the other half from the mainland United States. These mainland men volunteered from behind barbed wires in these camps. They did not volunteer as other Americans did in free American communities. To this day, I look back with disbelief that men who had been denied their civil rights, July 25, 1989 Page -2-

deprived of their worldly goods, and humiliated with unjust incarceration, would nonetheless stand up and take the oath to defend the country that was mistreating them without due process of law. I have often times asked myself the question, "Would 1 have volunteered under these circumstances?" I, in all honesty, cannot give you a forthright answer.

The men who volunteered from these camps were very reluctant to share their unfortunate internment experiences with us Hawaiians. They would just shrug their shoulders and mutter, ”1 suppose that is the way it is." But in a rare moment, one of them would open up and tell us about an episode in his camp. For example, I remember a story I had heard on a cold spring night in the field. One of my mainland buddies told us about the Manzanar gamp, where soldiers shot and killed three internees and wounded about ten others because they were demonstrating for the release of a fellow internee who had been arrested for allegedly assaulting another internee. According to the provisions of this bill, those three dead men would not receive any redress payments. Then, while we were training in Mississippi to prepare us for combat in Europe, word came to several of my buddies from California that their State had begun to implement a law which had authorized the seizure and resale of 'idle farm machinery." Obviously, "idle farm machinery" that were found in the State of California during that period were almost always ones that the internees were forced to abandon. And, needless to say, these California internees were not around to purchase them. Further, we were at times told about the great losses that these young volunteers and their families had to incur. For .example, it was commonplace for residences, farms, and personal items to be sold for a fraction of their market value. In fact, one of my buddies sold his almost brand-new 1941 Ford for $100. It was in a good and clean condition, but that was all he could get from his neighbors. We are now told that these losses exceeded $6 billion.

Most of the members of the Senate have been in this body for at least ten years. During that period, we have given our support and votes to other reparations programs. Redress and reparations are not unique in our history. For example, in 1980, we appropriated funds to provide $10,000 to each of 1,318 anti-Vietnam War demonstrators who were found to have been "wrongfully’1 jailed for one weekend. More recently, in 1986, we appropriated sums to give each American hostage $22,000 for his or her bitter experience in Iran. The internment of some of the families of those with whom I served in combat went on for over three years. )

July 25, 1989 Page -3-

My mainland buddies were silent because they could not bring themselves to share their humiliation with those of us from Hawaii. As a footnote, I should point out that during the one year of almost continuous and intensive combat in Europe, over 200 of these mainland volunteers from the internment camps went through the ranks of my Company— Company E, 2nd Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regimental Combat Team. Of that number, all, with the exception of about 20, were either wounded or killed in action. That is a very high percentage of Purple Hearts. Incidentally, the Regiment, with which I was privileged and honored to serve, was the most decorated Army unit of its size in World War. II.

I am certain you must have concluded that this letter has been most difficult to compose. It is with some measure of reluctance that 1 share it with you. I hope that when the time for decision is upon us, you will join me in remembering those men from the internment camps who proudly and courageously demonstrated their "last full measure of devotion" in the defense of their country. Although these men will not receive benefits from the provisions of this bill, I am certain that they will gratefully rest in peace.

Most respectfully

DANIEL K. INOUYE United States Senator

DKI:mbd SPARK M. MATSUNAGA m e m b e r : HAWAII COMMITTEE ON FINANCE COMMITTEE ON LABOR AND WASHINGTON OFFICE: HUMAN RESOURCES 109 H a r t B u il d in g W a s h in g t o n , DC 20510 Bnited States Senate COMMITTEE ON VETERANS’ AFFAIRS HONOLULU OFFICE: WASHINGTON, DC 20510 3 1 0 4 P r in c e K u h io B u il d in g H o n o l u l u , H I 9 6 8 5 0

September 11, 1989

HAND DELIVERED

Honorable Ernest F. Hollings Chairman Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State and the Judiciary Committee on Appropriations U. S. Senate Washington, D. C. 20510

Dear Fritz:

As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State and the Judiciary of the Senate Appropriations Committee, you will soon be considering the FY-90 appropriation for the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P. L. 100-383), a bill which provides for token compensatory payments and an official apology to Americans of Japanese ancestry who were interned by the federal government during World War II. I hope you will take into consideration the following facts:

*P. L. 100-383 authorizes an annual appropriation of up to $500 million for payments to each of the surviving former internees.

*The U. S. Department of Justice requested the full $500 million authorization for FY-90, plus $6 million for the Department's administrative expenses. The Justice Department stated that it wanted to complete the payments to former internees as quickly as possible because many of the internees are elderly and because prompt completion of the program will reduce its administrative cost.

*The Justice Department request was reduced to $20 million by the Bush Administration. The Department was disappointed about the reduction, not happy.

*A $20 million appropriation would permit payment of only 1,000 of the surviving internees in FY-90. The House Appropriations Committee has approved funding in the amount of $50 million for FY-90 — which would permit payment only of internees over the age of 85. In order to pay internees over the age of 70 in FY-90, funding in the amount of at Honorable Ernest F. Hollings September 11, 1989 Page 2

least $320 million should be appropriated. This amount is well under the $500 million cap on annual appropriations.

*As the Justice Department's Office of Redress Administration (ORA) has pointed out, delays in the payment of compensatory funds will only make the program more complex and more costly. The Civil Liberties Act provides that if a former internee dies after August 11, 1988, the date of enactment, the vested $20,000 will be paid to his spouse, children or parents. ORA will then have to locate these heirs. Moreover, the elderly internee, who actually suffered injustice during World War II would be deprived of the apology and compensation approved by Congress and the Administration.

*As required by law, ORA has located over 99 percent of the approximately 60,000 surviving internees. The $20,000 payments could begin as soon as funding becomes available.

You may recall that my bill, S. 1009, the Senate version of the Civil Liberties Act, was cosponsored by 75 senators and passed the Senate by a vote of 69-27, notwithstanding a recent Subcommittee staff memo which implied that only "eight western senators" supported funding of the bill.

The victims of the federal government's World War II internment policy have waited nearly 50 years for redress of this serious grievance. I would deeply appreciate your favorable consideration of this appeal for a minimum appropriation of $320 million for FY-90 so that one of the most notorious violations of civil liberties in our nation's history can finally be set right.

Aloha and best wishes.

Honorable Daniel K. Inouye U . S . Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 tinted States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510 Official Business

Honorable Daniel K. Inouye U.S. Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

URGENT FOR MEMBER ©nttcb States Senate a Ox MEMORANDUM

Senator:

With respect to the joint letter to

Senator Hollings regarding FYT90

aporopriations for Japanese redress,

Senator Matsunaga would also like to

send identical letters to Senators

Byrd and Hatfield.

Do you have any objectionslS hOho this?

YES NO

Marie

' j DANIEL K.. INOUYE Prince Kuhio Federal Building HAWAII Room 7325, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard H o n o lu lu , HI 9685Ō (808) 541-2542 lEnited States Senate FAX (808) 541-2549 SUITE 722, HART SENATE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510 (202) 224-3934 FAX (202) 224-6747

July 14, 1989

The Honorable Robert Byrd Chairman Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mr. Chairman:

At the outset, we wish to thank you for supporting the adoption of an amendment to the FY ’89 Supplemental Appropriations Bill that would provide $1.0 million for adrainistrative expenses to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

As the full Committee on Appropriations begins deliberations on the FY *90 Appropriations Bill, we urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level of funding for redress payments.

* The Department of Justice1s (DOJ) original budget request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in FY *89 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Departments mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ's request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget Office1s estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ’s request as well as Congress’ authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department’s request to $2.1 million in FY ’89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in FY ’90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Robert Byrd July 14, 1989 Page -2-

We were extremely disappointed that the House Appropriations Committee failed to include in its Supplemental Appropriations Bill, the $6.4 million for administrative expenses and $250 million for redress payments. The $250 million funding level would have been paid to eligible individuals aged seventy years and older. The Office of Redress Administration (ORA) estimates these payments would cost $320 million in FY 1990.

ORA estimates that 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long-term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years of the enactment of Public Law 100-383* In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Accordingly, the implementation of the Civil Liberties Act will not be successful unless we take the appropriate action and provide the necessary funding levels for the program. In keeping with Congress1 commitment to those who lost their freedom and property without due process of law, we strongly urge your support and consideration for funding in the amount of $6.0 million for administrative expenses and to include the highest possible level of funding for redress payments in the FY *90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill. DANIEL Ki INOUYE P r i n c e K u h i o F e d e r a l B u i l d i n g HA W A II R o o m 7325, 3 0 0 Ala Moana Boulevard H o n o l u l u , HI 9 6 8 5 0 (808) 541-2542 FAX (808) 541-2549 United States Senate SUITE 722, HART SENATE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510 (202) 224-3934 FAX (202) 224-6747

July 14, 1989

The Honorable Mark Hatfield Ranking Minority Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mark:

At the outset, we wish to thank you for supporting the adoption of an amendment to the FY f89 Supplemental Appropriations Bill that would provide $1.0 million for administrative expenses to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

As the full Committee on Appropriations begins deliberations on the FY 190 Appropriations Bill, we urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level of funding for redress payments. to The Department of Justice*s (DOJ) original budget request io the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in FY *89 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ's request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget Office's estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ's request as well as Congress' authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department's request to $2.1 million in FY '89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in FY '90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Mark Hatfield July 14, 1989 Page -2-

ORA estimates that 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long-term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years from the enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Sincerely, DANIEL K. INOUYE P r in c e K u h io F e d e r a l B u il d in g HAWAII R o o m 7 3 2 5 , 3 0 0 A l a M o a n a B o u l e v a r d H o n o l u l u , HI 9 6 8 5 0 (808) 541-2542 United States Senate FAX (808) 541-2549 SUITE 722, HART SENATE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510 (202) 224-3934 FAX (202) 224-6747

July, 14 1989

The Honorable Ernest Hollings Chairman Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, The Judiciary and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mr. Chairman:

At the outset, we wish to thank you for supporting the adoption of an amendment to the FY ’89 Supplemental Appropriations Bill that would provide $1.0 million for administrative expenses to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

As your Subcommittee begins deliberations on the FY T90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill, we again urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level o f - funding for redress payments.

Last month, we advised you that the Department of Justice*s (DOJ) original request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million 'in FY *89 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this levelof funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ*s request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget's estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the D0J*s request as well as Congress* authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department's request to $2.1 million in FY *89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in FY '90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Ernest Hollings July 14, 1989 Page -2-

As you know, 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years of the enactment of Public Law 100-383« In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Sincerely D A N IE L K. IN O U Y E 1 Prince Kuhio Federal Building HAWAII R o o m 7325, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard Honolulu. HI 96850 (808) 541-2542 FAX (808) 541-2549 Bnited States Senate SUITE 722, HART SENATE BUILDING WASHINGTON. DC 20510 (202) 224-3934 FAX (202) 224-6747

July 14, 1989

The Honorable Warren Rudman Ranking Minority Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, The Judiciary and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Warren:

At the outset, we wish to thank you for supporting the adoption of an amendment to the FY *89 Supplemental Appropriations Bill that would provide $1.0 million for administrative expenses to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

As your Subcommittee begins deliberations on the FY '90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill, we again urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level of» funding for redress payments.

Last month, we advised you that the Department of Justice's (D0J) original request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million 'in FY *89 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the D0J felt that this level' of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ1s request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget's estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

As you know, 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of.ten years from the enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

S i n c e r e l y , ‘Hoitd States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

June 19, 1989

The Honorable Mark Hatfield Ranking Minority Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mark:

At the outset, we wish to thank you for supporting the adoption of an amendment to the FY '89 Supplemental Appropriations Bill that would provide $1.0 million for administrative expenses to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

As the full Committee on Appropriations begins deliberations on the PY ’90 Appropriations Bill, we urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level of funding for redress payments.

The Department of Justice’s (DOJ) original budget request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in PY ’89 supplemental funds and $6 million in PY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in PY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department’s mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ’s request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget Office’s estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ’s request as well as Congress’ authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department’s request to $2.1 million in PY ’89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in FY ’90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in PY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Mark Hatfield June 19, 1989 Page -2-

ORA estimates that 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in PY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long-term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years from the enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Sincerely, U nited States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

June 19, 1989

The Honorable Robert Byrd Chairman Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mr. Chairman:

The Department of Justice’s (DOJ) original budget request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in PY '89 supplemental funds and $6 million in PY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in PY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department’s mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ’s request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget Office’s estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ’s request as well as Congress’ authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department’s request to $2.1 million in PY ’89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in PY ’90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in PY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Robert Byrd June 19, 1989 Page -2-

ORA estimates that 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in PY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long-term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years of the enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Accordingly, the implementation of the Civil Liberties Act will not be successful unless we take the appropriate action and provide the necessary funding levels for the program. In keeping with Congress’ commitment to those who lost their freedom and property without due process of law, we strongly urge your support and consideration for funding in the amount of $6.0 million for administrative expenses and to include the highest possible level of funding for redress payments in the PY ’90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill. United States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

June 19, 1989

The Honorable Ernest Hollings Chairman Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, The Judiciary and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mr. Chairman:

At the outset, we wish to thank you for supporting the adoption of an amendment to the PY '89 Supplemental Appropriations Bill that would provide $1.0 million for administrative expenses to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

As your Subcommittee begins deliberations on the PY '90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill, we again urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level of funding for redress payments.

Last month, we advised you that the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) original request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in PY ’89 supplemental funds and $6 million in PY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in PY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ's request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget's estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ’s request as well as Congress’ authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department’s request to $2.1 million in PY ’89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in PY ’90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in PY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Ernest Hollings June 19, 1989 Page -2-

As you know, 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years of the enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Sincerely, V U nited States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

June 19, 1989

The Honorable Warren Rudman Ranking Minority Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, The Judiciary and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Warren:

At the outset, we wish to thank you for supporting the adoption of an amendment to the PY ’89 Supplemental Appropriations Bill that would provide $1.0 million for administrative expenses to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

Last month, we advised you that the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) original request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in PY '89 supplemental funds and $6 million in PY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in PY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department’s mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ’s request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget’s estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ’s request as well as Congress’ authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department’s request to $2.1 million in PY ’89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in PY ’90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in PY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Warren Rudman June 19, 1989 Page -2-

As you know, 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years from the enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Sincerely, United States Rotate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

April 20, 1989

Dear Colleague:

We are writing to you as a cosponsor of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, to seek your support for funding to implement this historic legislation.

Attached for your review are two letters. The first letter urges Senators Hollings and Rudman as Chairman and Ranking Minority Member, respectively, of the Senate Commerce, Justice, State Appropriations Subcommittee, to support supplemental appropriations in fiscal year 1989 for administrative expenses to identify and verify eligible beneficiaries. The second letter urges Senators Sasser and Domenici, as Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Senate Budget Committee, respectively, to include funding in the FY 1990 Senate Budget Resolution for fiscal year 1990 for additional administrative expenses and redress compensation.

The Department of Justice’s (DOJ) original budget request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in FY 1989 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department’s mandate and priorities, including its anti-drug initiatives. The DOJ’s request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget Office’s estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operations.

The Administration drastically reduced the DOJ’s request to $2.1 million in FY 1989 supplemental funds and $3.5 in FY 1990 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments.

Page -2-

The letter supporting supplemental appropriations in FY 1989 is consistent with the Department of Justice’s original budget request and CBO’s budget estimate for administrative expenses. Supplemental funds are necessary to complete the identification and verification of eligible recipients by the deadline set in the Civil Liberties Act, and will allow ORA to begin distributing payments in FY 1990.

The House Appropriations Committee recently reported an FY 1989 supplemental appropriations bill which includes $6.4 million for administrative expenses and $250 million for redress payments. The letter to Senators Hollings and Rudman urges them to support the House levels for administrative expenses and redress payments, but at a minimum, to support $6.4 million in administrative expenses.

The letter to Senators Sasser and Domenici supporting the inclusion of funds in the FY 1990 Senate Budget Resolution for the Civil Liberties Act is also consistent with the Department of Justice’s original budget request and with CBO budget estimates for administrative expenses.

Please contact Margaret Cummisky (46047) or Marie Blanco (46056) if you wish to cosign the attached letters or if you need more information.

Sincerely,

4 Paul Simon Mted States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

April 27, 1989

The Honorable Jim Sasser Chairman Committee on the Budget United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mr. Chairman:

We are writing to urge the Senate Budget Committee to include, in its FY 1990 Budget Resolution, funding at levels originally requested by the Department of Justice to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

As you are aware, the Department of Justice’s FY 1990 budget request submitted to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.0 million for administrative costs and the statutory maximum of $500 million for compensation payments. In recommending this amount, the Department felt that it would be fully prepared to meet the one year deadline for identifying and verifying eligible individuals, and begin payments to eligible individuals in FY 1990. The Department of Justice's request also reflects its assessment that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandates and priorities, including funding for its anti-drug initiatives.

Unfortunately, the Administration drastically reduced these funding levels to $3.4 million for administrative expenses and $20 million for redress payments. Under the Administration's proposal, only 1000 individuals will receive compensation in FY 1990. The Office of Redress Administration (ORA) estimates that 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in the coming fiscal year. Delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long-term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, payments to heirs defeats Congress' intent to compensate those who actually suffered the great injustice of internment without due process. The Honorable Jim Sasser April 27, 1989 Page -2-

When Congress overwhelmingly passed the Civil Liberties Act, it made a commitment to those who lost their liberty and property without due process of law. We hope you will show your desire to fulfill this commitment by including in the FY 1990 Budget Resolution, funding in the amount of $6.4 million for administrative expenses and $500 million for redress payments as originally requested by the Department of Justice.

We greatly appreciate your serious consideration of this request.

Sincerely United States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

April 27, 1989

The Honorable Pete V. Doraenici Ranking Minority Member Committee on the Budget Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Pete:

As you are aware, the Department of Justice’s FY 1990 budget request submitted to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.0 million for administrative costs and the statutory maximum of $500 million for compensation payments. In recommending this amount, the Department felt that it would be fully prepared to meet the one year deadline for identifying and verifying eligible individuals, and begin payments to eligible individuals in FY 1990. The Department of Justice’s request also reflects its assessment that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandates and priorities, including funding for its anti-drug initiatives.

We greatly appreciate your serious consideration of this request.

Sincerely, United States Rotate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

April 27, 1989

The Honorable Ernest F. Hollings Chairman Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mr. Chairman:

In anticipation of mark-up by the Commerce, Justice, State Subcommittee of a supplemental appropriation bill for FY 1989, we wish to take this opportunity to urge you to support supplemental appropriations to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

As you are aware, the Administration has requested a supplemental of $2.1 million for administrative expenses to implement the Civil Liberties Act. Unfortunately, this amount is woefully inadequate for the Justice Department to carry out its obligations under the law.

The Office of Redress Administration (ORA) faces a tremendous responsibility in light of the statutory requirement that all redress payments be issued within ten years of the enactment of P.L. 100-383. It is therefore imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated at the outset to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

The task of identifying, verifying and issuing payments to the 60,000 former internees is a formidable undertaking. Success in meeting these objectives will in large part depend upon whether the ORA receives sufficient administrative funding during the critical initial period to ensure that the redress program can be properly implemented. Most of the initial expenses are one-time nonrecurring costs. The timely availability of these funds is essential to the efficient and successful operation of ORA and implementation of the Civil Liberties Public Education Fund.

can assimilate the large quantities of information it has received from the public, match this information with War Relocation Records held by the National Archives, and begin verification and payment in FY 1990. The request also reflects the DOJ's assessment that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandates and priorities, including its anti-drug initiatives.

While the Civil Liberties Act was being considered by the 100th Congress, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation. Our request for a FY 1989 supplemental of $6.4 million is therefore consistent with both the Department of Justice and CBO budget estimates.

Administrative costs will represent approximately one percent of the cost of payments under the Civil Liberties Public Education Fund. We believe that this modest investment will guarantee the smooth and efficient management of the program.

The House Appropriations Committee recently reported an FY 1989 supplemental appropriations bill which includes $6.4 million for administrative expenses and $250 million for redress payments. We urge you to support these levels when the Senate Commerce, Justice, State Subcommittee reviews the supplemental. At a minimum, we urge you to support supplemental appropriations of $6.4 million for administrative expenses. As is the case with the Administration request, we recommend that this appropriation be made without respect to fiscal year limitation.

Sincerely, United States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

April 27, 1989

The Honorable Warren Rudman Ranking Minority Member Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Warren:

The House Appropriations Committee recently reported an FY 1989 supplemental appropriations bill which includes $6.4 million for administrative expenses and $250 million for redress payments. We urge you to support these levels when the Senate Commerce, Justice, State Subcommittee reviews the supplemental. At a minimum, we urge you to support supplemental appropriations of $6.4 million for administrative expenses. As is the case with the Administration request, we recommend that this appropriation be made without respect to fiscal year limitation.

When Congress overwhelmingly passed the Civil Liberties Act, it made a commitment to those who lost their liberty and property without due process of law. We hope you will show your desire to fulfill this commitment by supporting this request. DANIEL K. INOUYE P r in c e K u h io F e d e r a l B u il d in g HAWAII R o o m 7325, 300 A l a M o a n a B o u l e v a r d H o n o l u l u , HI 96850 (808)541-2542 FAX (808)541-2549 United States Senate SUITE 722, HART SENATE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510 (202) 224-3934 FAX (202) 224-6747

April 20, 1989

Dear Colleague:

We are writing to you as a cosponsor of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, to seek your support for funding to implement this historical legislation.

The Administration drastically reduced the DOJ’s request to $2.1 million in FY 1989 supplemental funds and $3.4 in FY 1990 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments.

The letter supporting supplemental appropriations in FY 1989 is consistent with the Department of Justice’s original budget request and CBO's budget estimate for administrative expenses. Supplemental funds are necessary to complete the identification and verification of eligible recipients by the deadline set in the Civil Liberties Act, and will allow ORA to begin distributing payments in FY 1990.

Please contact Margaret Cummisky (46047) or Marie Blanco (46056) by the close of business on Friday, May 12 if you wish to cosign the attached letters or if you need more information. DRAFT DEAR COLLEAGUE °KL E ’JJa^Tjr \

Dear Colleague:

We are writing/to you as a cosponsor of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, j o seek your support for funding to implement this iniwnimr3.irifal legislation.

The Administration drastically reduced the DOJ’s request to $2.1 million in FY 1989 supplemental funds and $ 3 . ^ o L n FY ^ 1990 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments.

We are certain you agree that the Administration’s figures are inadequate. Under the Administration’s proposal, only 1000 individuals will receive compensation in FY 1990. The Office of Redress Administration (ORA), charged with implementing the Civil Liberties Act, estimates that 2000 to 2400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. Delay in compensating eligible beneficiaries will only increase the costs of the program over the long term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, payments to heirs defeats Congress' intent to compensate those who actually suffered the great injustice of internment without due process. The letter supporting supplemental appropriations in FY 1989 is consistent with the Department of Justice’s original budget request and CBO’s budget estimate for administrative expenses. Supplemental funds are necessary to complete the identification and verification of eligible recipients by the deadline set in the Civil Liberties Act, and will allow ORA to begin distributing payments in FY 1990.

The House Appropriations Committee recently reported an PY 1989 supplemental appropriations bill which includes $6.4 million for administrative expenses and $250 million for redress payments. The letter to Senators Hollings and Rudman urges them to support the House levels for administrative expenses and redress payments, but at a minimum, to support $6.4 million in administrative expenses.

The letter to Senators Sasser and Domenici supporting the inclusion of funds in the PY 1990 Senate Budget Resolution for the Civil Liberties Act is also consistent with the Department of Justice’s original budget request and with CBO budget estimates for administrative expenses.

Please contact Margaret Cummisky (46047) or Marie Blanco (46056) by the close of business o n ^ K llldj, if you wish to cosign the attached letters o^t if you need more information. \ I -Y\ V 6 ' CUt—

LETTERS TO CHAIRMAN JIM SASSER AND RANKING MINORITY MEMBER PETE DOMENICI

As you are aware, the Department of Justice’s PY 1990 budget request submitted to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.0 million for administrative costs and the statutory maximum of $500 million for compensation payments. In recommending this amount, the Department felt that it would be fully prepared to meet the one year deadline for identifying and verifying eligible individuals, and begin payments to eligible individuals in PY 1990. The Department of Justice’s request also relects its assessment that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department’s mandates and priorities, including funding for its anti-drug initiatives.

Unfortunately, the Administration drastically reduced these funding levels to $3.4 million for administrative expenses and $20 million for redress payments. Under the Administration’s proposal, only 1000 individuals will receive compensation in PY 1990. The Office of Redress Administration (ORA) estimates that 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in the coming fiscal year. Delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long-term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, payments to heirs defeats Congress’ intent to compensate those who actually suffered the great injustice of internment without due process.

When Congress overwhelmingly passed the Civil Liberties Act, it made a commitment to those who lost their liberty and property without due process of law. We hope you will show your desire to fulfill this commitment by including in the PY 1990 Budget Resolution, funding in the amount of $6.4 million for administrative expenses and $500 million for redress payments as originally requested by the Department of Justice.

We greatly appreciate your serious consideration of this request. w 0 % <73 y QL

LETTER TO SENATORS HOLLINGS AND RUDMAN RE: FY 89 SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS

In anticipation of mark-up by the Commerce, Justice, State Subcommittee of a supplemental appropriation bill for PY 1989, we wish to take this opportunity to urge you to support supplemental appropriations to implement the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 (P.L. 100-383).

The task of identifying, verifying and issuing payments to the 60,000 former internees is a formidable undertaking. Success in meeting these objectives will in large part depend upon whether the ORA receives sufficient administrative funding during the critical Initial period to ensure that the redress program can be properly implemented. Most of the initial expenses are one-time nonrecurring costs. The timely availability of these funds is essential to the efficient and successful operation of ORA and implementation of the Civil Liberties Public Education Fund.

During a March 2nd hearing before the House Commerce, Justice, State Appropriations Committee, officials of the Justice Department confirmed that the budget request submitted to 0MB for administrative costs was $6.4 million in FY 1989 and $6.0 million for FY 1990. The Department’s estimate realistically reflects the necessary costs of undertaking this effort. Data processing and other capabilities must be established in FY 1989 so that the ORA can assimilate the large quantities of information It has received from the public, match this information with War Relocation Records held by the National Archives, and begin verification and payment in FY 1990. The request also reflects the DOJ’s assessment that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department’s mandates and priorities, including its anti-drug initiatives. While the Civil Liberties Act was being considered by the 100th Congress, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation. Our request for a FY 1989 supplemental of $6.4 million is therefore consistent with both the Department of Justice and CBO budget estimates.

The House Appropriations Committee recently reported an FY 1989 supplemental appropriations bill which includes $6.4 million for administrative expenses and $250 million for redress payments. We urge you to support these levels when the Senate Commerce, Justice, State Subcommittee reviews the supplemental. At a minimum, we urge you to support supplemental appropriations of $6.4 million for administrative expenses. As is the case with the Administration request, we recommend that this appropriation be made without respect to fiscal year limitation.

TO: Elma Henderson Alan Osaki John Trasvina

FROM: Marie Blanco/Margaret Cummisky (Sen. Inouye)

RE: Funding for Civil Liberties Act of 1988

Attached are drafts of the following:

1. "Dear Colleague" soliciting signatures for: (1) letter to Senators Hollings and Rudman supporting FY 89 supplemental appropriations and (2) letter to Senators Sasser and Domenici supporting funding in FY 90.

2. Letter to Senators Hollings and Rudman supporting FY 89 supplemental appropriations.

3. Letter to Senators Sasser and Domenici supporting funding in FY 90.

Please let us know as soon as possible if you have any suggested changes and if your Senator would like to cosign the "Dear Colleague" letter. Congress o! tije ZHniteb States House of J&epreSentattbeS Masfnngton, BC 20515 N0T Response needed March 6, 1989 by MARCH 20 Dear Colleague:

In the 100th Congress, you supported final passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 to redress the grevious wrong of the forcible removal and internment of Americans of Japanese ancestry. Thank you for your support on this very important first step in providing compensation. As the budget process for Fiscal Year 1990 begins, we are writing to ask you to sign the attached letter to Budget Committee Chairman Leon Panetta calling for full funding of the Redress Fund.

The Act, signed into law (P.L. 100-383) by President Reagan, authorizes $500 million per year for redress compensation. Unfortunately, the Reagan budget proposal only calls for $20 million in FY '90, and the Bush budget puts the program in an even more precarious position by placing it in the box of domestic discretionary programs with no funding level assigned to it.

The Justice Department has identified more than 50,000 individuals that are potentially eligible for redress payments out of an estimated 60,000. However, the FY '90 budget request is only sufficient enough to compensate 1000 claims. As a result, The Department of Justice estimates that more internees will die (2400) than will be compensated (1000). Delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long-run as the heirs must be located and verified by the Justice Department.

The FY '90 funding level proposed for the Redress Fund is woefully inadequate. There is no question that if the full $500 million authorized under the law were appropriated this year that every cent would be properly dispersed, as Congress directed. Approving a funding level that would only compensate 1000 people, when more than 50,000 will be eligible and verified over the next year, would be a serious breach of Congress' promise to those who have borne the injustice for far too long already.

If you would like to sign the attached letter to Chairman Panetta, please contact Carol Stroebel in Congressman Mineta's office at 52631 or Marina Chang in Congresswoman Saiki's office

Sincerely

Daniel K. Akaka', M.C.

Robert T. Matsui, M.C. LETTER TO HR. PANETTA: We support fulfilling the Congressional intent of H.R. 442, the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, through the full appropriation of $500 million for compensation in this program for Fiscal Year 1990. This legislation, to redress the grievous wrong of the forcible removal and internment of Americans of Japanese ancestry, was passed overwhelmingly by Congress. In so doing, this government made a commitment to compensate the thousands of loyal Americans whose civil rights were so brutally abrograted more than 45 years ago. We must meet this commitment, and meet it promptly. As you know. President Reagan did not keep this promise when he submitted his fiscal year 1990 budget proposal to Congress, nor did President Bush. P.L. 100-383 authorizes $500 million per year for redress compensation; the proposed budget includes only $20 million. We fully understand the difficult financial pressures of this fiscal year. However, we also fully understand the grave situation of the redress program. Of the 120,000 Americans who suffered through this tragedy, half have already died. The vast majority of the approximately 60,000 survivors are more than 60 years old. The $20 million proposed for FY 90 would compensate only 1,000 people. The Department of Justice estimates that 2,400 eligible people will die during that same year. In Southern California alone, more than 300 eligible Americans of Japanese ancestry have died since H.R. 442 became law. The DOJ's Office of Redress Administration has located more than 50,000 possible beneficiaries. For most of them, the process of verification will be brief and straightforward. There is no question that if the full $500 million permitted under law were appropriated for Fiscal Year 1990, every cent could be promptly and properly disbursed, as Congress directed. Pragmatically, as more and more eligible individuals die, the administrative costs increase exponentially with the added burden of tracking down and verifying the limited heirs permitted under the law. To approve a funding level which would compensate only 1,000 people, when close to 50,000 will be eligible and verified over the next year, would be a failure of Congress' promise. As the Budget Committee formulates the Fiscal Year 1990 Budget Resolution, we urge you to keep this important national commitment in mind, and that you provide for a budget assumption for full funding for redress, and so state that in the text of the Resolution. We look forward to working with you in these efforts. Thank you very much. San Jose Mercury News, Monday morning, February 13,1989

last last Au-

ti i a oe qeto. u ti.s one this.is But question. open an is .this .would've gone into full combat on the the on combat full into gone .would've . him his life. his . him . On a night patrol across the Arno River in River Arno the across .patrol night Ona .f sing ws'tope^y • Japia- *• 'attompted^by was espionage ..of Lou Cannon covers Cannon Lou the down shutting meant it if even budget, government*" re the with rhetoric high-blown Reagan’s , egnsi, I T a hr tr, I term, third a had Td “If said, Reagan 6, Feb. California Southern of University the ancestry. their than reason other no for imprisoned those for justice of ality D-Hawail,and 13 other senators recently recently senators other 13 D-Hawail,and theLrin are Manyold. years 100 nearly are sign the reparations legislation. reparations to the sign urging. Reagan in Japanese-American? soaked into the. sands of the beaches is all all is beaches the of the. intosands soaked issue where Amertca~shouid try to match match to try Amertca~shouid where issue 1 o a to money find would he Where ments, pay the up speed to Bush President urged inouye, Daniel justice,.Sen, for decades their-70s." or 80s ae 42d eietl obt Team. Combat Regimental 442nd famed Army's the family of Masuda, Sgt.Kazuo the Staff of visited they where Ana, Santa Reagan. Ronald by be, should forces. armed n color." one nw oe epe rm h cms who camps the from people some know vice Cross in an engagement that also cost cost also that engagement an in Crossvice Santa Ana ceremony, “The blood that has has that blood “The ceremony, Ana Santa Or their recovering or cemetery local a n rprtos amns n aai “I Hawaii. in payments reparations coordinat ing is who attorney Honolulu a ra, JEarl Nlshimu- said out," came budget the ahntn ot ' Post. Washington a.Gn oeh(iea o)Siwl to Stilweli Joe) (Vinegar Joseph Gen. Maj. Japanese- of thousands where battlefield, nese-American. 94 Msd ere a itnuse Ser Distinguished a earned Masuda 1944, the Masuda family.and declaring at the the at declaring family.and Masuda the comforting too, helped, Reagan attitudes.' farm. County ange in son their burying difficulty having were time M&sudas, the the whofor at help cific mrcn sre wtiao Jnfthe,.U.S. withivalor served Americans bolic rebuke to discrimination and as spe as and discrimination to rebuke bolic Army Air Corps, Reagan'accompanied Reagan'accompanied Corps, Air Army Reaganism of the Week: Appearing at at Week: Appearing the of Reaganism This history* is well remembered, ,pr ,pr remembered, well is history* This Noting that these people'had “waited “waited people'had these that Noting “We were terribly disappointed alter alter disappointed terribly were “We by year last recallod was incident This The StilweU mission helped change local StilweUThechange helped mission In December 1945,-as a captain in the the in captain a 1945,-as December In tlels ii ws nedd s sym a as intended was visit Stilwell’s Racial prejudice was also refuted on the the on refuted also was prejudice Racial thg White White thg O ftousefor the. ftousefor

WASHINGTON OFFICE. NORMAN Y. MtNETA 2350 Ratbum» how** Qrvicc Builoina m e m o ir of c o n g r c s s W aamimotom. DC 206 19 1 3 t h p**TMICT. CAUrOMNiA TM rwm t (202) 229-2631

d eputy w hip OISTNJCT OFFICE: Congress of the Unitefl States S u m 3 1 0 12*9 South Wincmcmi» Boulevard 9a m Jest, CA 95126-3963 PUBLIC WORKS AND fwnw of Rqiresaitattots Tiunom (4091 964-6046 transportation SUBCOMMITTEE ON AVIATION CHAIRMAN Washington, B £ 20515

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY February 23, 1989 TRADE TASK FORCE Hon* James c. Wright Speaker of the House U.S. House of Representatives The Capitol Building Suite IH204 Washing'" D. C. 20515

Dear Mr. L p e a k - e r ; Let us begin by thanking you for your successful past leadership in working to redress the grievous wrong of the forcible removal and internment of Americans of Japanese ancestry. Your firm support for this issue is well known and appreciated, and was key to H.R. 442, the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, becoming law. As with the authorizing of redress legislation, Congress will be required to again take the lead to assure that this landmark legislation is realized. On August 10, 1988, when President Reagan signed H.R. 442 into law, he said, "For here we admit a wrong. Here we reaffirm our commitment as a nation to equal justice under the law." Unfortunately, his first opportunity to rectify this wrong — his fiscal year 1990 budget proposal — did not reflect that commitment, nor did President Bush's proposal. P.L. 100-383 authorizes $500 million per year for redress compensation; President Reagan allocated only $20 million. We fully understand the difficult financial pressures of this fiscal year. However, we also fully understand the grave situation of the redress program. Of the 120,000 Americans who suffered through this tragedy, half have already died. The vast majority of the approximately 60,000 survivors are more than 60 years old. The $20 million proposed for FY 90 would compensate only 1,000 people. The Department of Justice estimates that 2,400 eligible people will die during that same year. The DOJ's Office of Redress Administration has located more than 50,000 possible beneficiaries. For most of them, the process of verification will be brief and straightforward. There is no question that if the full $500 million permitted under law were appropriated for Fiscal Year 1990, every cent could be promptly and properly disbursed, as Congress directed. The funds would go to recipients who have waited more than 45 years for justice. 02/24/89 09:55 ©202 225 2631 Rep. Mineta - DC @005

Hon. James C. Wright February 23, 1989 Page 2 Congress* intent was that compensation be provided in as timely a manner as possible. We know that you share our question: How much longer must we ask these loyal citizens to wait? Pragmatically, as more and more eligible individuals die, the administrative costs increase exponentially with the added burden of tracking down and verifying the limited heirs permitted under the law. Clearly, the current proposed level of funding is inadequate. As Congress considers the funding level of the redress program, we ask for your continued support to make clear that it is a House leadership priority to get the full amount for redress budgeted and appropriated. We look forward to working with you in these efforts. We will be contacting you shortly about this vital issue.

Sincerely yours

NORMAN Y. MINETA Member of Congress Member of Congress DANIEL K. INOUYE Prince Kuhio Federal Building HAWAII R o o m 7325, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard H o n o lu lu , HI 9 6 8 5 0 (808) 541-2542 United States Senate FAX (808) 541-2549 SUITE 722, HART SENATE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510 (202) 224-3934 FAX (202) 224-6747 URGENT I

MEMORANDUM

TO: Alan Osaki (Adams )X \ :- \ ' s Dick Andrews (Blden) > Q Office of Senator Bradley-A ^ h ^ ^ Jan or Carolyn (Cranston)^ j ^ " Laurie Schultz (Jeffords)^ SaJ-1 y Yo^©l 1 (Kerry) A* Chris Yoo (Levin) Bob Herring/Glenn Roberts (Mikulski)r^\ Tom Malinowski (Moynlhan)^f: John Trasvina (Simony '

DATE: February 1, 1989

FROM: Marie Blanco/Margaret Cummlsky (46056 or 46047)

RE: Letter to President Bush In Support of Higher Funding for the Civil Liberties Act

Attached is a revised version of the letter to President Bush. The changes are underlined.

Representatives of the Alaskan Aleuts requested that we include a paragraph urging President Bush to support higher funding for Title II of the Civil Liberties Act, which authorizes redress for Alaskan Aleuts who were relocated and mistreated in relocation camps during World War II. President Reagan’s budget requested $300,000 to administer the program, but no funds for compensation. The Civil Liberties Act authorizes $12,000 per eligible individual. There are approximately 400 to 500 potentially eligible Aleuts. Apparently most have been identified.

The other two changes are technical in nature.

Please let us know by noon on February 2 if these changes affect your Senator’s decision to co-sign this letter.

Thank you for your assistance in this matter. January 24, 1989

President George Bush The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear Mr. President:

We were pleased to see you In the forefront of the Reagan- Bush administration as the first official to publicly state support for the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which provides redress for Americans of Japanese ancestry who were summarily denied their rights during World War II because of their race. Thus, we believe that you share our serious concern about the inadequate funding level proposed for the implementation of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 in President Reagan’s Fiscal Year 1990 budget.

In keeping with your support for this legislation, and for civil rights in general, we strongly urge you to request a higher level of funding for this important program in your budget.

Thousands of eligible Americans who waited more than 40 years for justice are now, obviously, aging. Many are in their 80s and 90s. Of the 60,000 estimated eligible individuals, the Department of Justice’s Office of Redress Administration has identified approximately 40,000 to date. President Reagan’s budget proposal will compensate only 1000 eligible individuals. This is also the estimated number of eligible individuals who will die during that same year.

Clearly, this level of funding Is inadequate. Congress intended to compensate eligible individuals in as timely a ' manner as possible. These Japanese Americans survived the painful experience of the Internment camps, of the loss of their property and their dignity during the war, as well as enduring an unjustified presumption of disloyalty to our country. They have waited decades for justice. It would be sad and Ironic if they never received compensation because funds had not been appropriated before they died. Yet, that is exactly the situation this current proposal creates. President George Bush January 24, 1989 Page -2-

In addition, pragmatically, as more and more eligible individuals die, the administrative costs multiply exponentially with the added burden of tracking down and verifying the limited heirs permitted under the law. The basic principle behind this bill is to compensate those who personally suffered. To do so requires a far greater level of funds than the $20 million proposed for fiscal year 1990.

Therefore, we urge you to increase the funding for compensation and administration under the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 in your fiscal year 1990 budget.

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. DANIEL K. INOUYE P r in c e K u h io Fe d e r a l B u il d in g 'HAWAII R o o m 7325, 300 A l a M o a n a B o u l e v a r d H o n o l u l u , HI 9 6 8 5 0 (808) 541-2542 FAX (808)541-2549 United States Senate SUITE 722, HART SENATE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC 20510 (202) 224-3934 FAX (202) 224-6747

January 26, 1989

Dear Colleague:

As a cosponsor of legislation addressing the evacuation and relocation of Japanese Americans during World War II enacted on August 10, 1988, passed by the 100th Congress and signed by President Reagan, I was disappointed with President Reagan's proposal to fund only $20,000,000 of the $500,000,000 authorized for fiscal year 1990.

Within the few months since the enactment of the Civil Liberties Act, the Department of Justice's Office of Redress Administration has identified approximately 40,000 survivors. Many are in their 80s and 90s.

The Reagan budget proposal will compensate only 1000 eligible individuals. This is also the estimated number of eligible individuals who will die during the same year.

I am certain you agree that Congress intended to compensate eligible Individuals in as timely a manner as possible, and to compensate those who personally suffered.

I plan to send a letter to President Bush asking him to support a higher level of funding for the Civil Liberties Act than the $20,000,000 proposed by President Reagan. A copy of my proposed letter is attached.

If you would like to cosign this letter, or need further information, please contact Margaret Cummisky (46047) or Marie Blanco (46056) of my staff.

Thank you for your consideration of this important matter. Bni'ted States Rotate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

Dear Colleague:

As cosponsors of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, we are writing to seek your support for funding to implement this historic legislation.

Attached for your review are letters to Senators Byrd and Hatfield, Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations and to Senators Hollings and Rudman, Chairman and Ranking Minority of the Senate Commerce, Justice, State Appropriations Subcommittee, urging their support for the highest possible level of funding for redress compensation, and $6.0 million for administrative expenses in the PY ’90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill.

Last month, we advised you that the Department of Justice's (DOJ) original request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in PY '89 supplemental funds and $6 million in PY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in PY 1990 for redress payments. The DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ's request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget Office's estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ's request as well as Congress' authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department's request to $2.1 million in PY '89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in PY '90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in PY 1990 for redress payments.

We were extremely disappointed that the House Appropriations Committee failed to include in its Supplemental Appropriations Bill the $6.4 million for administrative expenses and $250 million for redress payments. The $250 million funding level would have been paid to eligible individuals aged seventy years and older. The Office of Redress Administration (ORA) estimates these payments would cost $320 million in PY 1990. Page -2-

As you know, 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutorily required ten years following enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Accordingly, the implementation of the Civil Liberties Act will not be successful unless we take the appropriate action and urge Chairman Hollings and Senator Rudman to support the highest possible level of funding for redress payments and $6.0 million for administrative expenses.

If you wish to cosign the attached letter, please contact Marie Blanco of Senator Inouye’s staff at 4-6056. We thank you for your consideration of this important matter.

Sincerely, United States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

Dear Colleague:

As cosponsors of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, we are writing to seek your support for funding to implement this historic legislation.

Attached for your review are letters to Senators Byrd and Hatfield, Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations and to Senators Hollings and Rudman, Chairman and Ranking Minority of the Senate Commerce, Justice, State Appropriations Subcommittee, urging their support for the highest possible level of funding for redress compensation, and $6.0 million for administrative expenses in the FY ’90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill.

Last month, we advised you that the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) original request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in FY '89 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. The DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ's request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget Office’s estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ’s request as well as Congress’ authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department's request to $2.1 million in FY ’89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in FY ’90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments.

As you know, 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutorily required ten years following enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

If you wish to cosign the attached letter, please contact Marie Blanco of Senator Inouye’s staff at 4-6056. We thank you for your consideration of this important matter.

Sincerely, United States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

June 19, 1989

The Honorable Mark Hatfield Ranking Minority Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mark:

As the full Committee on Appropriations begins deliberations on the FY ’90 Appropriations Bill, we urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level of funding for redress payments.

The Department of Justice’s (DOJ) original budget request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in FY '89 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ's request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget Office's estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ’s request as well as Congress' authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department’s request to $2.1 million in FY '89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in FY '90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Mark Hatfield June 19, 1989 Page -2-

Accordingly, the implementation of the Civil Liberties Act will not be successful unless we take the appropriate action and provide the necessary funding levels for the program. In keeping with Congress’ commitment to those who lost their freedom and property without due process of law, we strongly urge your support and consideration for funding in the amount of $6.0 million for administrative expenses and to include the highest possible level of funding for redress payments in the PY '90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill. United States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

June 19, 1989

The Honorable Robert Byrd Chairman Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mr. Chairman:

As the full Committee on Appropriations begins deliberations on the FY '90 Appropriations Bill, we urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level of funding for redress payments.

The Department of Justice's (DOJ) original budget request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in FY ’89 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light ^.of the Department’s mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ's request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget Office’s estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ's request as well as Congress' authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department’s request to $2.1 million in FY '89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in FY ’90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Robert Byrd June 19, 1989 Page -2-

ORA estimates that 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long-term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years of the enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Accordingly, the implementation of the Civil Liberties Act will not be successful unless we take the appropriate action and provide the necessary funding levels for the program. In keeping with Congress’ commitment to those who lost their freedom and property without due process of law, we strongly urge your support and consideration for funding in the amount of $6.0 million for administrative expenses and to include the highest possible level of funding for redress payments in the FY f90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill. United States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

June 19, 1989

The Honorable Ernest Hollings Chairman Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, The Judiciary and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mr. Chairman:

As your Subcommittee begins deliberations on the FY *90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill, we again urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level of funding for redress payments.

Last month, we advised you that the Department of Justice's (DOJ) original request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in FY '89 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandate and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ's request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget's estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

As you know, 2,000 to 2,400 eligible individuals will die in PY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years of the enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

Sincerely, V United States Senate WASHINGTON, DC 20510

June 19s 1989

The Honorable Warren Rudman Ranking Minority Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, The Judiciary and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Warren:

As your Subcommittee begins deliberations on the FY ’90 State, Justice, Commerce Appropriations Bill, we again urge your support for the inclusion of $6.0 million for administrative expenses, and the highest possible level of funding for redress payments.

Last month, we advised you that the Department of Justice's (DOJ) original request to the Office of Management and Budget included $6.4 million in FY ’89 supplemental funds and $6 million in FY 1990 for administrative expenses and $500 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. Obviously, the DOJ felt that this level of funding was appropriate in light of the Department's mandate.and priorities including its anti-drug initiative. In addition, the DOJ's request for administrative expenses is consistent with the Congressional Budget's estimate that the cost of administering the program will be $10 to $15 million during the first years of operation.

Unfortunately, the DOJ's request as well as Congress’ authorization to fund the Civil Liberties Act at the statutory maximum of $500 million was deeply compromised when the Administration drastically reduced the Department’s request to $2.1 million in FY ’89 supplemental funds and $3.4 million in FY '90 for administrative expenses, and $20 million in FY 1990 for redress payments. The Honorable Warren Rudman June 19, 1989 Page -2-

As you know, 2,000 to 2,400 eligible Individuals will die in FY 1990. A delay in compensating those who are eligible will only increase the costs of the program over the long term as heirs must be located and verified by ORA. Further, ORA has the tremendous responsibility to issue all redress payments within the statutory requirement of ten years from the enactment of Public Law 100-383. In order that ORA may accomplish its difficult task in a successful manner, it is imperative that sufficient administrative funds be appropriated to permit the Justice Department to fulfill its obligations under this program.

V Sincerely,