Spencer Abraham

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, reserving the right to object, I want to clarify: How much time will be available on the Ashcroft amendment?

Mr. ABRAHAM. I would only indicate that I know Senator Domenici wishes to speak on this issue as well.

Mr. ABRAHAM. I think at least that much time.

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I will be brief because in many ways I am very pleased with the direction of today's debate, particularly with the fact that it actually will result in some votes. We have been on the floor talking about trying to lock up Social Security on many occasions. I was seeking to get a final vote on a lockbox that I think really does do the job of protecting Social Security. I think we did it four times and couldn't get to a final vote. Today, we are moving in the direction of getting final votes on both a form of Social Security lockbox and on the issue of locking up Medicare. I think that is an important step. While I am happy to support almost any effort that makes it more difficult to spend the Social Security surplus, I do not believe that the forms offered today go as far as we should to ensure a permanent off-limits nature of the Social Security surplus. I hope the spirit which we have seen today, of working towards giving people options to vote, is one that we can build on, and that I will soon have an opportunity to have a vote on the Social Security lockbox proposal on which Senator Domenici, Senator Ashcroft, and I have been working. I think it is a very productive debate to talk about treating the Medicare surplus, the Part A of the Medicare trust fund, in the same fashion. The disagreements over details are ones that ought to be something we can work out. I do not think implications of intent with respect to the future spending of these dollars that are being made are on point with the intent of the draft Senator Ashcroft has offered. I think his goal is very clearly to try to protect the surplus in Social Security from being spent, period. I think that is his motive. I will leave it to him to comment. I think implications that there were any ulterior goals in his proposal are off the mark. In fact, I hope people will examine more closely his longstanding position on this issue. While it may be now, in the middle of a Presidential campaign, that people are talking about a Medicare lockbox, I remember Senator Ashcroft talking about a Medicare lockbox more than a year before the Presidential election and certainly months before it was an issue in terms of the national Presidential debate. As a colleague, I appreciate the fact that he was ahead of everybody else in trying to raise that issue on the Senate side. We have worked together to try to move both of these issues today and in the past. I want to go on record in favor of having mechanisms in place that protect these trust funds from seeing these dollars used for anything other than their purpose. One hopes that would be the outcome. If not in the context of this legislation, then let us be honest about it: The likelihood that this type of amendment is going to be able to survive the entire conference process may be questionable. I hope by going on record--as I suspect by the end of this afternoon every Member of the Senate will--in favor of locking up both of these surpluses, we will take a step in the direction of ultimately achieving it. I certainly intend to come back to the Senate and, in the context of legislation that can get to final passage inclusive of such lockboxes, give the Senate opportunities to support such an effort. As I talk to constituents in my State, and from comments made by people all over America, there is little doubt that one of the most frustrating things to people, whether they are already Social Security recipients or will be in the future, is the fact that they have watched as too many Social Security surplus dollars have been spent on other things in order to make the deficit appear smaller. I think they are going to be very pleased this year when we end the fiscal year not only with a balanced budget but also without spending one penny of Social Security on anything but Social Security or the reduction of debt. That is a sea change. I don't think we should lose sight of the circumstances in which it has come about. Senator Ashcroft, myself, Senator Domenici, and others in the budget process have worked to make sure there were in place the kinds of budget rules that precluded Social Security surpluses from being spent on other things. This year taxpayers who have been so disappointed in the past that such moneys were used for other purposes are going to receive the good news that they were not and that they are not going to be in the future. Indeed, this year's budget resolution, as last year's, incorporates the kinds of rules that will protect it. I am proud to have been involved in the drafting of those rules. I am glad we are back on this topic. It may not resolve it fully, in the context of the Labor-HHS appropriations bill, but hopefully, after today, we have at least set the precedent that we will create these lockboxes, that we are not going to prevent votes from being taken on final passage of the various options that are out there, at least to get final votes on those options in some context. I look forward to bringing back an even stronger Social Security lockbox and for a chance to get a vote on the version we have drafted. I would like to have that opportunity. I yield the floor.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. I spoke on the floor a few minutes ago and raised many of the same inquiries the Senator has raised. I am disappointed, after so many efforts on our part to get a vote, that we couldn't. On the other hand, I indicated I was heartened that today at least there seems to be a willingness to begin to give people votes on issues relating to the lockbox. I want to have the votes. There is a clear distinction between the lockbox we have authored together and we want to have an opportunity for that stronger lockbox to be considered. I want it done soon. It ought to be done on a vehicle that becomes a law.

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I want to comment, in response to the comments of the Senator from North Dakota, the following: The Senator from North Dakota has characterized the stance of those of us who have not supported his proposal for a Medicare and Social Security lockbox as resisting his efforts for 2 years. Resisting his efforts is not, in my judgment, a proper characterization. We have not supported those efforts. But what we have done today is provided the Senator from North Dakota a chance to have a vote on a proposal he has worked on and for which he has sought support. I would like to distinguish that from what I consider to be the accurate definition of resistance, which is to not even give a vote to people who have a legitimate proposal to bring to the floor of the Senate, and I consider the amendment Senators Domenici and Ashcroft and I drafted with respect to a Social Security lockbox to be a legitimate piece of legislation that deserves the same consideration that we will soon give the Senator from North Dakota. I say to the Senator from North Dakota and his colleagues, I hope, in the spirit with which a vote is being offered on the proposal that he has today, we will get a straight up-or-down vote on the proposal we have been offering because now that you have had this chance we will see what happens, obviously, both here and in the conference that will follow the passage of this legislation. I would like to have the opportunity to get a straight up-or-down vote on the legislation that on five or six or whatever number it is separate occasions has been prevented from happening. That to me would be the difference between resistance and lack of support. I do not ask the Senator from North Dakota to vote for my proposal. I hope he and his colleagues would at least give us an opportunity to let all of us cast our votes up or down on it. I hope we get that chance. I yield the floor.

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I thank the Senator from Missouri. I cannot resist responding to the closing remarks by the Senator from North Dakota. I have to say, I interpret his comments as saying he and his colleagues, because they oppose or would vote against the lockbox proposal we have offered so many times, would not even let us have an up-or-down vote on it. I think that is unfortunate. I think the way the Senate works, they certainly have an ability to prevent votes. But so do we. I hope we will not have to get to the point where we have to engage both sides in those kinds of tactics. We have certainly demonstrated today a willingness to have a vote on his Social Security lockbox proposal. The concerns he raised in the letter that was written by Secretary Rubin, the long-since departed Secretary of the Treasury, were in fact responded to by us in the modifications that we brought in the most recent version of this lockbox. Certainly I am not going to get into the merits of that at this point, but the notion that because the Secretary of the Treasury argues that something could cause problems should prevent us from having a chance to vote on an issue--there are plenty of issues we vote here where Cabinet members have raised the specter of problems if such votes or legislation were passed. It is pretty clear to me that notwithstanding the seemingly positive steps taken today to give the Senator from North Dakota an opportunity to have his Social Security lockbox voted on, we are still going to meet impediments in the effort to get ours voted on. I would put the Presiding Officer and the Senate on notice, we are going to keep trying. We, unfortunately, may have to go into the sorts of tactical approaches that cause a lot of time to be taken when it seems to me we could accommodate both sides on this fairly easily. In any event, we will keep pressing forward on it. I close by complimenting the Senator from Missouri whose steadfast efforts on both the Social Security lockbox as well as the Medicare lockbox front predated the efforts of anyone else of whom I am aware, certainly on the Medicaid issue. He has certainly demonstrated his commitment to that. Certainly his efforts to bring these issues to the floor deserve all our praise and thanks.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I rise today in honor and in memory of a dear friend of mine, Mr. Arthur Saltzman, of Franklin, Michigan, who passed away on June 18, 2000, at the age of 79. Mr. Saltzman was not only a friend, but an inspiration--a man who dedicated much of his life to improving the State of Michigan. Born in New York City in 1920, Mr. Saltzman came to Michigan to work for Ford Motor Company, where he was in charge of training/management programs for salaried employees. After Mr. Saltzman retired from Ford, he worked for the Greater Detroit Chamber of Commerce, was a consultant with the U.S. Department of Energy in Washington, DC, and was Director of the Michigan State University Advanced Management Program in Troy, Michigan. He also was Director of the Michigan Economic Opportunity Office and a member of the Oakland University Charter Board of Trustees. Mr. Saltzman earned his Bachelor's, Master's and Doctoral degrees from New York University. During World War II, he was with the Army Specialized Training Program, serving in both the Philippines and Tokyo. Surviving Mr. Saltzman are his wife, Florence, with whom he celebrated his 50th Anniversary on January 30, 1999; daughters Amie R. Saltzman and Sarah Saltzman; his sister, Doris Chartow of Syracuse, New York; grandchildren, Joshua and Joanna; five nephews and four nieces. Mr. President, Arthur Saltzman was a leader in the Michigan Republican Party at both the State and County level. I had the privilege to work with him on many occasions, and I found it to be a wonderful experience each and every time. Arthur was a man who truly enjoyed life, and his love for living was infectious. I am sure that he will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I rise today in honor and in memory of a dear friend of mine, Mrs. Jacquelyn Stewart, who passed away on June 19 at the age of 59. Mrs. Stewart was not only a friend, but a truly special woman. She believed deeply in the ideals of the Republican Party, and worked extremely hard to fight for these ideals. Mrs. Stewart was born in Detroit, Michigan. After attending Henry Ford Community College in Dearborn, Michigan, she attended the Oakland County Police Academy. She spent 15 years as an investigator with the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office. On May 8, 1989, Mrs. Stewart was appointed to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission as an Administrative Commissioner. In 1997, Governor John Engler elevated her to position of Chairwoman of the Commission. For her work in that position, Mrs. Stewart is credited with restoring credibility to an agency that had fallen under controversy. Mrs. Stewart also served the Oakland County Republican Party in many ways, most prominently as one of the top aides to former prosecutor and current County Executive, L. Brooks Patterson. In the mid-1980's, she led a petition drive that fell just short of placing a proposed restoration of the death penalty on the Michigan ballot. Mrs. Stewart is survived by her husband, Mr. James Stewart, former longtime Huntington Woods Police Chief, as well as her sons, Chris and Timothy Boelter; daughter Elizabeth Rose; stepson James Stewart, and two brothers. Mr. President, I consider it a privilege to have been able to know and work with Jackie Stewart. She was a woman of complete integrity, who fought for what she believed regardless of the odds against her. Her energy and boundless efforts were an inspiration to men and women throughout the State of Michigan, and I am sure she will be dearly missed by everyone who knew her.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, the Migratory Bird Conservation Act which I introduced with the Minority Leader, Senator Daschle, and our late colleague Senator Chafee, is designed to protect the habitat of the over 90 endangered species of migratory birds which spend the spring and summer months in the United States and the winter months in other Western Hemisphere nations. This will be the third time this bill has passed the Senate. It previously cleared the Senate in 1998 and early 1999, but, until Monday's 384-22 House vote, the legislation was stalled in the other chamber. Despite taking almost three years, this legislation remains very timely. Many bird species of birds are threatened despite the growing popularity of birdwatching. Every year approximately 25 million Americans travel to observe birds, and 60 million American adults watch and feed birds at home. According to the Fish and Wildlife Service, bird watching and feeding generates fully $20 billion every year in revenue across America. Protecting the various species of birds benefits the nation in a variety of ways. The increased popularity of birdwatching is increasingly reflected in the new tourist dollars being spent in small, rural communities. Healthy bird communities also prevent crop failures and infestations by controlling insect populations, thus saving hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses each year to farming and timber interests. And yet, despite the enormous benefits we derive from our bird populations, many of them are struggling to survive. In my own State we are working to bring the Kirtland's Warbler back from the brink of extinction. A few years ago, the population of this distinctive bird has been estimated at approximately 200 nesting pairs. Since then, a great deal of work has been done by Michigan DNR employees to preserve the Kirtland's Warbler habitat in the Bahamas, where they winter. Thanks in large part to this effort, the number of breeding pairs has recently increased to an estimated 800. The problem we face in Michigan is simple. Since the entire species spends half of the year in the Bahamas, the significant efforts made by Michigan's Department of Natural Resources and concerned residents of Michigan will not be enough to save this bird if its winter habitat is destroyed. The same story is likely true for at least one bird species in every other state. Because migratory birds range across a number of international borders every year, we must work to establish safeguards at both ends of their migration routes, as well as at critical stopover areas along their way. Only in this case can conservation efforts prove successful. That is why Senator Daschle, Senator Chafee, and I introduced the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act. This legislation will protect bird habitats across international boundaries by teaming businesses with conservation groups, thus combining capital with know- how. These entities will then partner with local organizations in countries where bird habitat is endangered to help teach the local people how to preserve and maintain their critical natural habitat. The 5 year demonstration project created by this Act will provide $5 million each year to help establish cost-sharing, habitat conservation programs in the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean. This legislation is proactive, avoids complicated and expensive bureaucratic structures and will bring needed focus and expertise to areas now receiving relatively little attention in the area of environmental degradation. And it has wide support in the environmental and conservation communities. This legislation is endorsed by the National Audubon Society, Ducks Unlimited, the Nature Conservancy, the American Bird Conservancy, Defenders of Wildlife, the American Forest and Paper Association and the Conservation Fund. These organizations agree that establishing partnerships between business, government and nongovernmental organizations both here and abroad can greatly enhance the protection of migratory bird habitat. I want to thank the distinguished minority leader, my original partner for the past two and one half years, for his hard work and efforts on behalf of this legislation. His involvement and perserverance--long with those of Peter Hanson and Eric Washburn of his staff--helped us overcome a variety of obstacles and pave the way for this bill to become law. I also want to thank Senator Bob Smith, Chairman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, for his efforts to move this legislation forward. The continuing commitment of the Senate Environment Committee was essential to bringing this bill to the finish line. And let me recognize the efforts of Kevin Kolevar of my staff, who began the work on this bill back in February of 1998. Finally, Mr. President, I want to recognize the efforts of our former colleague and friend, Senator John Chafee, who passed away earlier this year. As chairman of the Environmental Committee, Senator Chafee was a driving force behind this legislation. Senator Chafee and his committee staffer, Jason Patlis, shepherded this bill through the Senate twice. This legislation is yet another addition to the long list of contributions made by Senator John Chafee to protect our natural resources for generations. I can think of no better tribute to Senator Chafee than to send this bill to the President with a resounding bipartisan vote by the Senate.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the American National Committee for Tyre and the International Association to Save Tyre for all the good work they are doing to raise awareness on the issue of preserving this great historical site. As many may know, Tyre, Lebanon was one of the most important cities in the classical era. It served as an administrative center of life for the people of the Mediterranean region, and was the birthplace for the modern day alphabet and democracy. If restored to its original beauty, and its antiquities are carefully unearthed and preserved, Tyre could become a world center for cultural education of past civilizations. I am pleased to serve as the Honorary Chairman of the American National Committee and I am honored to work with my colleague and friend, Senator Claiborne Pell, whose previous 20 years of leadership on this issue remains invaluable. There is no dispute that underneath the present day soil of Tyre lies the great archeological treasures of eight successive civilizations: the Phoenician, Persian, Roman, Greek, Byzantine, Arab, and Ottoman, as well as that of the Crusaders. Many attempts have been made to unearth these treasures, but present day realities have made it very difficult to implement a full fledged plan to discover these antiquities. Tyre has been designated as a World Heritage site, and as such, should be treated with great respect for the education of future generations. The Government of Lebanon is searching for ways to protect the archeological sites while planning realistically for economic expansion and tourism. However there are problems. The Lebanese Government recently approved building the southern extension of the coastal highway near many of the archeological treasures. The government has also permitted some of the coastal sea area to be refilled for the construction of parking lots. In addition, there has been damaging activity surrounding Tell El-Mashouk. It is my hope that the Lebanese government will institute a master plan, cultural resources assessment, and a management plan for Tyre which will clearly map out the best approach at uncovering, preserving, and displaying these vast treasures. I do hope that the government will cease it present activity in the area until it can develop a workable and enforceable plan. It seems a particularly appropriate time for the Lebanese Government to be planning their approach to the city of Tyre. With the Israeli withdrawal from the South of Lebanon, and peace close at hand, Lebanon can begin the process of rebuilding through tourism. It is my hope that part of the agenda to rebuild Southern Lebanon includes the preservation of the great city of Tyre and its surroundings, and I offer my assistance to do what I can in the United States to help the government of Lebanon achieve this goal.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, each year, the American Jewish Committee's Metropolitan Detroit Chapter presents one individual with its Judge Learned Hand Human Relations Award. Recipients of this award are honored for their outstanding leadership within the legal profession, and for exemplifying the high principles for which Judge Learned Hand was renowned. I rise today to recognize Mr. Lloyd A. Semple, who will receive the 2000 Judge Learned Hand Award on June 29, 2000, in Detroit, Michigan. Mr. Semple is the Chairman of one of Detroit's oldest and most prestigious law firms, Dykema Gossett, PLLC. Founded in 1926, Dykema Gossett provides legal services to a broad range of clients, from international and Fortune 500 companies to individuals and small ``Mom and Pop'' businesses. Its mission has remained constant throughout its almost seventy-five years: to provide the best possible legal advice and service to its clients. The firm has grown over 270 lawyers strong, and now has locations in the following Michigan cities: Ann Arbor, Bloomfield Hills, Grand Rapids, and Lansing; as well as offices in Chicago and Washington, D.C. In addition, Dykema Gossett has recently gone global, forming an affiliation with a firm in Bologna, Italy. In his time as Chairman, Mr. Semple has overseen this growth and adaptation to the ``new economy'' while at the same time stressing the importance of pro bono work to the members and associates of Dykema Gossett. Twice in recent years the law firm has been recognized by the Detroit Metropolitan Bar Association for its efforts in this regard. In 1998, Dykema Gossett was selected by the Business Law Section of the American Bar Association as the firm that made the most outstanding pro bono contribution in the United States in transactional and business related areas. In addition, members and associates donate their time and resources to a host of charitable and civic organizations, recognizing the importance of being not only a community member, but a community leader. Much of this is attributable, I think, to the strong leadership of Mr. Semple, and his belief that a good business should also strive to be a good neighbor. Mr. Semple himself practices general corporate law, including acquisitions, divestitures, mergers and financings. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Yale University, and his Jurist Doctorate from the University of Michigan. He is a member of the Detroit Metropolitan Bar Association, the American Bar Association, and the State Bar of Michigan. He is a Director and/or Officer of Interface Systems, Inc., Sensys Technologies Inc., Tracy Industries, Inc., and Civix, Inc. In addition, Mr. Semple serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Detroit Medical Center; Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Detroit Zoological Society; and is a Trustee of Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall. He is the Director and Corporate Secretary, as well as a Trustee, of the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Center, an organization which raises funds for the awareness and prevention of breast cancer. He has served as Chairman of the Board of Harper Hospital, Councilman and Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Grosse Pointe Farms, President of the Yale Alumni Association of Michigan and President of the Country Club of Detroit. I applaud Mr. Semple on his many achievements within the realm of the law, and his many charitable endeavors outside of that realm. Not only the City of Detroit, but the entire State of Michigan, has benefitted from his many great works. On behalf of the United States Senate, I congratulate Mr. Lloyd A. Semple on receiving the 2000 Judge Learned Hand Award, and wish him continued success in the future.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I am proud to rise today as an original cosponsor of the Violence Against Women Act of 2000, and I urge my colleagues to join with us in this effort to ensure the safety and protection of women and families. The 1994 Violence Against Women Act has been crucial in reducing violence perpetrated against women and families across America. VAWA '94 increased resources for training and law enforcement, and bolstered prosecution of child abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence cases. States have changed the way they treat crimes of violence against women; 24 states and the District of Columbia now mandate arrest for most domestic violence offenses. States are lifting some of the costs to women associated with violence, and as a result of VAWA, all have some provision for covering the cost of a forensic rape exam. And notably, VAWA '94 provided much-needed support for shelters and crisis centers, and created a National Domestic Violence Hotline. Yet, despite the advances made as a result of the original Violence Against Women Act, violence against women remains a critical problem in our country. Recent studies show 307,000 incidents of rape and sexual assaults were perpetrated in 1998 alone. Over one million women are stalked annually. Violence by intimates accounts for 20% of all violent crimes against women. It is essential that we reauthorize VAWA now, so that we can continue the initiatives that have made a difference, and so that we can further protect women and children from violence. VAWA 2000 combines a variety of law-enforcement initiatives with support and prevention programs, in an effort to eradicate both the causes and effects of violence against women and families. The bill would ensure that those who regularly interact with victims of domestic violence--the courts, police, and social service providers--receive excellent training in reversing the destructive effects of domestic violence. As too many families are turned away in time of great need, VAWA 2000 offers increased funding to expand shelter services for families escaping violence. And in addition to providing emergency shelter, VAWA reauthorization provides for short-term and transitional housing, providing women and families real alternatives to returning to abusive homes. Finally, VAWA '94 enabled immigrant victims of domestic violence to gain lawful permanent residence in the U.S. without the knowledge, participation, or cooperation of their abusive citizen or permanent resident spouses. Although the spirit and intent of this law was to facilitate the prosecution of abusers, and to allow women and children to safely escape violence and rebuild their lives, unintended legal barriers have prevented the full protection of VAWA '94 from taking effect. VAWA 2000 cures this fault, and continues the spirit and work that began with the bi-partisan passage of VAWA '94. Mr. President, it is essential that these programs be reauthorized, so that we may stop the cycles of violence and poverty that result from domestic violence. I urge my colleagues to support VAWA 2000, and I look forward to working with the members of the Judiciary Committee in bringing this important legislation to the floor as soon as possible.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I am proud to rise today as an original cosponsor of the Violence Against Women Act of 2000, and I urge my colleagues to join with us in this effort to ensure the safety and protection of women and families. The 1994 Violence Against Women Act has been crucial in reducing violence perpetrated against women and families across America. VAWA '94 increased resources for training and law enforcement, and bolstered prosecution of child abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence cases. States have changed the way they treat crimes of violence against women; 24 states and the District of Columbia now mandate arrest for most domestic violence offenses. States are lifting some of the costs to women associated with violence, and as a result of VAWA, all have some provision for covering the cost of a forensic rape exam. And notably, VAWA '94 provided much-needed support for shelters and crisis centers, and created a National Domestic Violence Hotline. Yet, despite the advances made as a result of the original Violence Against Women Act, violence against women remains a critical problem in our country. Recent studies show 307,000 incidents of rape and sexual assaults were perpetrated in 1998 alone. Over one million women are stalked annually. Violence by intimates accounts for 20% of all violent crimes against women. It is essential that we reauthorize VAWA now, so that we can continue the initiatives that have made a difference, and so that we can further protect women and children from violence. VAWA 2000 combines a variety of law-enforcement initiatives with support and prevention programs, in an effort to eradicate both the causes and effects of violence against women and families. The bill would ensure that those who regularly interact with victims of domestic violence--the courts, police, and social service providers--receive excellent training in reversing the destructive effects of domestic violence. As too many families are turned away in time of great need, VAWA 2000 offers increased funding to expand shelter services for families escaping violence. And in addition to providing emergency shelter, VAWA reauthorization provides for short-term and transitional housing, providing women and families real alternatives to returning to abusive homes. Finally, VAWA '94 enabled immigrant victims of domestic violence to gain lawful permanent residence in the U.S. without the knowledge, participation, or cooperation of their abusive citizen or permanent resident spouses. Although the spirit and intent of this law was to facilitate the prosecution of abusers, and to allow women and children to safely escape violence and rebuild their lives, unintended legal barriers have prevented the full protection of VAWA '94 from taking effect. VAWA 2000 cures this fault, and continues the spirit and work that began with the bi-partisan passage of VAWA '94. Mr. President, it is essential that these programs be reauthorized, so that we may stop the cycles of violence and poverty that result from domestic violence. I urge my colleagues to support VAWA 2000, and I look forward to working with the members of the Judiciary Committee in bringing this important legislation to the floor as soon as possible.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, on June 25, 1950, Communist North Korea invaded South Korea with approximately 135,000 troops, and in doing so initiated the Korean War. On June 25, 2000, the citizens of Traverse City, Michigan, will commemorate the 50th Anniversary of this unfortunate event, and will recognize the efforts of the many men and women who served the United States Armed Forces during the Korean War, with the dedication of a Korean War Memorial. The Korean War is often referred to as our ``forgotten war.'' Fought between World War II and the Vietnam War, I believe it safely can be said that it never found its proper place among our Nation's history textbooks. This weekend, the 50th Anniversary of the North Korean invasion, provides all of us with an opportunity to take a moment to recognize the men and women who served in the Korean War--nearly six million individuals. Their sacrifices and contributions for the sake of our Nation must never be overlooked or forgotten. Earlier this year, I was very pleased to co-sponsor Senate Joint Resolution 39, a bicameral resolution that recognizes the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War, and the service by the members of our Armed Forces during that conflict. Today, I am pleased to do my part to ensure that the Korean War ceases to be thought of as our ``forgotten war.'' There is no doubt in my mind--and there should be no doubt in anyone else's--that the men and women who served in Korea, and particularly the 54,260 soldiers who gave their lives in Korea, deserve much better than that. Local communities can do much to remedy the situation as well. I commend Traverse City, Michigan, for constructing this Korean War memorial, and for taking the opportunity on Sunday, June 25, 2000, to pay tribute to the men and women who served during the Korean War. We must show these men and women that we appreciate their efforts and sacrifices on behalf on our great Nation, and that we thank them for their extraordinary efforts. In doing this, we will illustrate to them that they have not been forgotten; rather, the case is far from this. Mr. President, the men and women who served our Nation in Korea did so at a time when its very foundation--democracy--was being threatened by the terrible force of communism. On behalf of the entire United States Senate, I congratulate the citizens of Traverse City, Michigan, for recognizing and honoring this service.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, if the distinguished Senator from Kentucky will yield, I would like to clarify some issues regarding additional assistance to Lebanon.

Mr. ABRAHAM. As the Senator knows, I have a special interest in the provision of the bill that provides $15 million for development activities in Lebanon, including support for the American educational institutions there. I am pleased that this year that level of funding is maintained in the bill as it was reported from committee, and I wish to thank the Senator from Kentucky for his leadership and the interest that he too has taken in Lebanon's future. As you know, earmarking $15 million in economic assistance is an important beginning to a comprehensive aid package to Lebanon. However, the recent events in the South of Lebanon call for a more detailed and larger aid package to Lebanon. A larger aid package can help the country rebuild itself due to the devastation of the past 30 years. Specifically, Lebanon needs the financial assistance to: rebuild its schools; repair and rebuild its sewage systems; repair its destroyed power generation plants; upgrade its water purification facilities; and construct general infrastructure projects. In my opinion, a package similar to the recent Jordanian package of $250 million would provide the type of support needed to effectively launch the rebuilding effort. Unfortunately, it appears that the Administration is not currently prepared to present a comprehensive aid package. Several inquiries of the Administration have produced no budgetary figures. This is disappointing in that your legislation is clearly the appropriate vehicles in which to include this funding. Notwithstanding their reluctance, I would like to offer my amendment to increase Lebanon's funding to $250 million.

Mr. ABRAHAM. I withdraw my amendment.

Mr. ABRAHAM. I thank the Senator for that clarification. I also wish to commend him and his committee for their strong interest in a financial assistance package for Lebanon. climate change language

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I am pleased the Senate is considering a resolution today that commemorates the state visit of the King of Morocco. I extend my warmest welcome to His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco on the occasion of his first official visit to the United States of America. It is my hope that my colleagues will join me in welcoming the King with swift adoption of this resolution.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, on July 2, 2000, a very special event will take place in Sterling Heights, Michigan: the first reunion of United States citizens who trace their roots back to the town of Pacentro, Italy. Over 800 people will attend the event, some of them with ancestors who immigrated to the United States over 150 years ago. In addition, the Mayor of Pacentro himself, Mr. Fernando Caparso, will be attending the event. I rise today to welcome Mr. Caparso to the State of Michigan. Pacentro is a small town located east of Rome. It sits in the Abruzzo region in the province of L'Aquila. Born in medieval times, the town is famous for its three castle towers, the oldest of which was built by Count Boarmondo and dates back to the thirteenth century. Another dates from the fifteenth century, and is recognized as the loveliest castle in the region. More recently, Pacentro has gained fame as the birthplace of the rock star Madonna's grandparents. Mr. Caparso was born there on February 12, 1951, to Antonio and Rosina Fabiilli. He was one of five children; three sisters remain in Pacentro and the oldest sister resides in Washington, Michigan. After completing high school in Pacentro, Mr. Caparso graduated from Liceo Classico Ocidio in Sulmona, Italy. He followed his studies there at La Sapienza University in Rome, where he received a doctorate degree. Finally, he attended Gabriele d'Annunzio University in Chieti, where he specialized in sports medicine. Mr. Caparso is presently caring for three towns in the Abruzzo region: Secinaro, Gagliano Aterno and Castel Di Ieri. The sport of soccer has also played a very large role in Mr. Caparso's life. While completing his studies, he always played for an amateur team in the Peligna Valley Region. And, when his playing days were behind him, he became a referee. Mr. Caparso has refereed women's major league games throughout Italy, and is currently the President of the Sulmona Referee Administration. Mr. Caparso was elected Mayor of Pacentro in 1999. Having decided that the city needed a better administration, an administration which tended to the needs of all its citizens, he further decided to do something about it. Mr. Caparso was elected Mayor along with a list of conservative councilmen. Mr. President, I am sure that the Pacentro, Italy, Reunion 2000 will be a wonderful success. I know that a great number of individuals have put their hearts and souls into this reunion, and I applaud their many efforts. On behalf of the entire United States Senate, I welcome Mr. Fernando Caparso, Mayor of Pacentro, Italy, to the State of Michigan.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Dr. Denise Davis-Cotton, who will be honored this morning during the Millennium Commencement Ceremony at Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall. Dr. Davis-Cotton is being honored for her many contributions to the Detroit Public School System. In particular, she will be honored for her role as the founding principal of the Detroit High School for the Fine and Performing Arts, and for the work she has done in this capacity. In founding the Detroit High School for the Fine and Performing Arts, which opened its doors to students in the fall of 1992, Dr. Davis- Cotton established a unique center for learning: a small inner city public school dedicated primarily to the study of the arts. She designed the school curriculum, developed its program components, and wrote the philosophy and mission statement for the school, all of which are based upon a strong commitment to the study of the arts. After an initial application process, students are asked to audition in one of the following areas: instrumental music, vocal music, speech and theater, dance or visual arts. Only after this audition are students accepted to the school. Upon acceptance, students partake in a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, along with an intensive study in their selected art field. The results of this demanding program have been resoundingly successful. 100 percent of the first graduating class received acceptance to college; the school holds a 97 percent student retention rate; a 95 percent student attendance rate; and the Class of 2000 had an overall grade point average of 3.08. Mr. President, the 107 students who comprised the Class of 1998 were awarded seven and a half million dollars in scholarships and grants for higher education. The school has had national champions in Academic Games and the Tri-Math-A-Lon, and its Forensics Team has won the Michigan State Championship four consecutive years. Another important aspect of the Detroit High School for the Fine and Performing Arts is the unique relationship the school has formed with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Through this partnership, students have been given the opportunity to work with jazz greats Brandford Marsalis and Frank Foster; award winning composer Alvin Singleton; Detroit Symphony Orchestra Music Director Neeme Jarvi; and Detroit Symphony Orchestra Assistant Conductor Ya-Hui-Wang. In addition to instrumental students studying privately with members of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, an annual joint concert is presented featuring Detroit High School for the Fine and Performing Arts and Detroit Symphony Orchestra. This partnership was taken to an even higher level in 1996. With financial assistance from the Detroit Medical Center, an $80 million dollar project was undertaken, to be called Orchestra Place. Orchestra Place, when completed, will be an office, retail, education and arts complex centered around the historic home of the Detroit Symphony, Orchestra Hall. It will also include the new home of the Detroit High School for the Fine and Performing Arts. It is expected to be an important regional performing arts complex, which will offer professional and student performances in the world class Orchestra Hall. Mr. President, all of these many accomplishments would not have been possible were it not for the many efforts and the incredible vision of Dr. Denise Davis-Cotton. Not only has she provided the youth of Detroit with an entirely new opportunity in education, she has also provided the nation with a blueprint for success in inner city public education. On behalf of the entire United States Senate, I congratulate Dr. Davis- Cotton on her many contributions to the State of Michigan, and wish her continued success in the future.

Mr. ABRAHAM

Mr. ABRAHAM. Yes, the Senator, the chairman of the Banking Committee, is correct. This act is intended to facilitate e-commerce and to provide legal certainty for electronic signatures, contracts and records where such certainty does not exist today. It is not in any way intended to limit the effectiveness of any other statute, regulation or other rule of law which permits the use of electronic records, electronic delivery, and electronic signatures, and which is otherwise consistent with the provisions of the act.

Mr. ABRAHAM. Yes. The conference report requires a ``reasonable demonstration'' that the consumer will be able to access the electronic records to which the consent applies. By means of this provision, the conferees sought to provide consumers with a simple and efficient mechanism to substantiate their ability to access the electronic information that will be provided to them.

Mr. ABRAHAM. Yes. An e-mail response from a consumer that confirmed that the consumer can access electronic records in the specified formats would satisfy the ``reasonable demonstration'' requirement.