Dave Camp

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of what our bill today seeks to accomplish. I want to thank Chairman Nancy Johnson for her leadership on this very important bill. I was very proud to be a part of our efforts to revamp the Foster Care system when this House passed the Adoption and Safe Families Act two years ago. And our efforts are paying off-- preliminary numbers show that adoptions of foster children have increased 40 percent since 1995. But this bill takes the next step--it recognizes that no matter how hard we work, some kids will turn 18 in foster care. They'll ``age out'' of the foster care system without a network of family and loved ones to turn to. And the evidence our Subcommittee has heard suggests these kids often have a very tough time. Up to two-thirds of the 18- year olds don't even complete high school or get a GED. The bill's provisions to help our young people who age out of foster care are very strong. Our Subcommittee has worked very hard to get bipartisan and widespread agreement on the best ways to do this. I believe it's important, however, to raise some concerns about how we pay for this bill today. I firmly believe that increases in one human services program should not come at the expense of another critical program. The bill repeals the ``hold harmless'' provision that was a part of the welfare reform law. In a nutshell, the ``hold harmless'' provision in current law ensures that if, in a given year, the states do not reach their 1995 level of child support collections, the federal government will hold them harmless and provide funds to make up for the state shortfalls. But repeal of ``hold harmless'' points to a bigger issue--the commitments that we have made to the states as a part of the welfare reform effort. Welfare reform is a partnership, between the Federal Government and all 50 states. Two issues are central to that commitment: First, this was a promise, I fear that this sets a bad precedent, and other promises that this Congress has made to the states in welfare will erode. We've seen it already, with the issue of administrative expenses for TANF funding. We're seeing it again today, and if we're not careful, we'll see it again tomorrow on another issue. Second, the states have made budget decisions for their entire human services budgets based on the promises they've been made--it's an interlocking and complex web, and pulling back from our financial commitment in one area is going to require the sates to make up that shortfall in other ways. I applaud our Subcommittee Chairman for her efforts to help these 20,000 children coming out of the foster care system each year. I also applaud her for the important efforts she's made in her Manager's Amendment, to allow at least a partial ``hold harmless'' payment to states that share more of their child support collections with families. Today I will support this bill, for the important ways it helps our nation's foster care children. But I would strongly urge the Chairman and others to continue to seek other ways to pay for the provisions in our bill, as the process moves forward.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor and remember three men and one young boy who lost their lives in a tragic accident. On November 11, 1995, after setting out for a duck hunt, Rod Burnside, his son Brad, Jim Ayre and Howard Swift were swept up by inclement weather. I know them well. Their presence is missed not only by their families and friends, but by the whole Midland County community as well. While no one could have foreseen the tragedy that took these gentle souls from their loved ones, the community came together in the spirit of fellowship to help the family and friends through these difficult times. The community has united to build a tribute to their departed friends. On June 24, 1999, a ceremony will be held to dedicate the memorial. It will stand near the Pere Marquette Rail Trail and will serve as a testament to the honor in which each man lived his life and it will be a solemn monument for their loved ones. Mr. Speaker, I know you will join me and my colleagues in a moment of silence to honor those for whom this memorial is being dedicated.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the gentleman for yielding me the time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the Hyde amendment. I have great respect for the chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary and his intentions, and I admire him for trying to do something about the violence which pervades our culture and, more particularly, affects our young people. We were all horrified by the shootings in Colorado and Georgia; and, like most people, we must all work to ensure a similar event does not occur again. The amendment before us has significant constitutional repercussion. And while the chairman raises significant questions, not one hearing on this new legal concept that violence is obscenity has occurred, and that has been particularly disappointing to me. As a father, I share the chairman's determination to keep violence and obscenity out of the hands of our Nation's children. But look at the volumes of case law on obscenity. All the laws and judges' opinions in the world have not done very well in ridding our society of obscenity. We need to change people's hearts and minds. If we do, the power of consumers and the marketplace will be more powerful than any law we could pass. The amendment before us tramples on the first amendment. I urge a ``no'' vote.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, before I begin, I first want to thank my good friend from North Carolina (Mr. Taylor), the chairman of the subcommittee, for understanding the importance of this amendment. I also want to thank the Committee on Rules and its chairman, the gentleman from California (Mr. Dreier), for allowing me to bring this important amendment before the House today. The amendment simply requires that unspent office funds be used for deficit or debt reduction. I believe that many Members are now familiar with this commonsense amendment that former Congressman Dick Zimmer and I first proposed back in 1991. In 1995, a similar amendment was approved on the House floor by an overwhelming margin of 403 to 21. In 1996 and 1997, it was accepted on the floor by the committee chairman. Last year the committee brought the bill to the House floor with this provision already incorporated into the bill. Mr. Chairman, I believe that this amendment will ensure Members of Congress can demonstrate their personal commitment to a balanced budget. This amendment requires any unspent office funds at the end of the year be used for debt, or if a deficit exists, for deficit reduction. It also requires that specific amounts returned by each office be printed annually in the Congressional Record. This has been an incentive for Members to do the best they can with taxpayers' dollars, to be innovative, just as the private sector continues to be. I thank the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Taylor) again for considering the Camp-Roemer-Upton amendment, and I urge all Members to support the amendment and the bill. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the gentleman from Indiana for his comments and for his leadership over the years on this issue. He very eloquently stated how this gives each individual Member an incentive to do the right thing, to be innovative, to take responsibility. The old adage ``you better spend all your budget or you won't get it next year'' is proven untrue with this proposal. Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to my good friend and colleague, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Upton).

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I yield 15 seconds to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Taylor), the chairman of the subcommittee.

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the Hotel Doherty, a building that has become a cherished landmark in the 4th Congressional District. I would like to bring to the attention of my colleagues this magnificent structure and the pride it has brought the people of Clare County. In 1924, State Senator A.J. Doherty, grandfather of A.J. Doherty, built the hotel as a way to try to return to the people of Clare a fraction of what they had given to him. He had been given a piece of property in Clare with the sole requirement that he erect a hotel costing more than $60,000. Mr. Doherty far exceeded this sum, building a massive and remarkable hotel that featured every modern amenity possible at that time. Such marvels as radios, hot and cold running water in every room and an Otis Elevator were just a few of its attractions. As time passed, the Hotel Doherty secured its place as a symbol of pride for Clare. For 75 years, the Hotel Doherty's guests have enjoyed its fine food and luxurious decor. It serves as a central meeting place in the state, as a respite for travelers and as a site for tourists. Even during tough economic times, the Doherty has maintained a level of excellence that has kept it among mid-Michigan's premier hotel and restaurant establishments. The Hotel Doherty is also exceptional because it has remained family operated since it opened. Its current operators are Dean and Jim Doherty, the fourth generation of Dohertys to hold that honor. Through the years, the hotel has changed with the times. It has undergone four expansions and renovations in its existence, but has still retained the charm and class that has made it an institution in mid-Michigan. It is a special privilege for me to be the Representative for a district that has such a magnificent establishment as the Hotel Doherty. In our quickly changing world, it is comforting to know that the Hotel Doherty has been a shining piece of mid-Michigan's history for 75 years. I am confident that under the Doherty's stewardship, it will continue to be a vital part of its future for many years to come.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to First Lieutenant James F. Mueller of Houghton Lake, Michigan, who will retire from the Michigan State Police on May 29. I would like to draw the attention of my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives and my constituents in the 4th Congressional District to First Lieutenant Mueller's distinguished career. For three decades, First Lieutenant James F. Mueller has served his country and his community. Soon after graduating from Valparaiso University in Indiana, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and fought for his country in the fields of Vietnam, earning numerous service awards. He returned home in 1971 and began his career with the Michigan State Police. In 1987, he was promoted to First Lieutenant at Houghton Lake Post #75. He soon became more than a state trooper to the residents of northern Michigan; he became a role model to young children and a key figure in the creation of the D.A.R.E. drug use prevention program in local schools. In addition to his professional career, First Lieutenant James F. Mueller's extensive personal community service proves his dedication to his neighbors. He is a member of the Lions and Kiwanis, has served in the United Way and Houghton Lake Merchant's Association and has served on the board of directors for the St. John's Lutheran Church, the River House Shelter and Roscommon County 911. On June 26, a banquet will be held for First Lieutenant Mueller at the Houghton Lake Elks' Club. He will be joined by his colleagues, who honor him for his career; many friends and neighbors who will wish him well; and his wife, Holly; son, Michael; and daughters Laura, Shannon and Kristen. I join them in thanking him for his years of service and add my personal best wishes to him in his future endeavors.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1259, the Social Security Lock Box bill. For too long, our Nation's seniors--and tomorrow's seniors--have been faced with uncertainty. It's an uncertainty about the promises they've been made, that the Social Security benefits they earned will be there for them when it's time for retirement. Our legislation locks away 100 percent of all Social Security surpluses. It locks them away from Congressional big spenders who'd rather break tomorrow's promises and fill the Social Security Trust Fund with IOUs, to spend for budget-busting federal spending today. With passage of our bill today, we can ensure that any new federal spending does not come at the expense of Social Security beneficiaries. Today, we make the guarantee for future beneficiaries and current Social Security recipients, that their benefits will be there. When they step toward retirement, they won't find IOUs in their Social Security accounts. Instead, they'll find their full benefits, and a promise kept. Let's put ``security'' back in Social Security. Support the Social Security Lock Box bill.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of all three Roemer amendments. Every year, as the gentleman from Wisconsin has pointed out, we come to the floor and debate this issue. I urge my colleagues to vote down additional funds for the International Space Station. I realize we are going to be facing three amendments today. One is to cap funding, one is to end our partnership with Russia in this program, and the third is to end funding for the Space Station altogether. But we continue to shovel money into this growing black hole of taxpayer dollars. Two modules have already been launched, but where is the next module? The launch of the third segment, Russia's service module, has been delayed again and again because of Russia's funding problems. Should we throw more U.S. taxpayer dollars to the Russians to finish their work? I fear that such assistance may become lost, like the $4.8 billion in IMF funds which were squandered by Russian officials. The Clinton administration's ill-fated decision to bring Russia aboard, a decision which they claimed would result in accelerating the Space Station completion by 2 years and reducing costs by $4 billion, has backfired badly. Instead, costs have accelerated and delays have increased. In the fiscal year 1994 VA-HUD bill which passed the House overwhelmingly, there was report language which said, and I stress this point, Congress stated that Russian participation, and this is where I am quoting, ``should enhance, not enable, the Space Station.'' Despite our best intentions, Russian participation has caused huge U.S. cost overruns and has in effect disabled the program, which is now dependent on Russia. Will the American taxpayer get their money's worth out of this project? I doubt it. The original scientific justifications for building the station have eroded. The presidents of 10 different scientific societies have called the Space Station a project of little scientific or technical merit that threatens valuable space-related projects and drains the scientific vitality of nations. I believe the $75 billion not yet spent on the Space Station could provide an enormous benefit to other programs within NASA and other earth-based scientific research. How many more delays, cost overrun and unfulfilled promises must we endure? I continue to support NASA and space exploration, but we must recognize the cost of this particular project far exceeds the potential benefits. I urge my colleagues to support the Roemer amendments and restore common sense to our space program.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the men and women from Mount Pleasant, Michigan, who served in World War I and World War II. On May 15, the city's memorials will be rededicated. I am honored to be invited to the ceremony and have submitted for the Record my remarks, which follow: It is my privilege to join as we pay tribute to the men and women who fought in World War I and World War II. Some have joined us today. Some died on the battlefield. All served with honor. When these monuments were first dedicated a different group of people stood here. They were mothers and fathers, sweethearts, classmates, and childhood friends to those they came to honor. With swollen pride and teary eyes, they remembered these sons and daughters. They could recount with detail the great battles led by our generals and the evil deeds committed by our enemies. They made do without at home to win the war abroad. They knew sacrifice, loyalty, and mission. As time passes, it is inevitable that the bitter memories of war fade. The names of the dead are engraved on plaques, and whispered at night by widows in prayers that only God hears. But because each new generation is faced with learning the value of freedom and the price it demands, they must turn to the past, to learn and remember. The lessons of World Wars I and II, like these two monuments, still stand. They are honor, service, bravery, and patriotism. The greatest memorial we can give to those who served in these wars is to keep the memories of these men and women in our hearts and minds, and to pass on their sacred values to our children.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Michael T. Wiltsie, a young man from the 4th Congressional District whose bravery I commend and whose actions I would like to call to the attention of my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives. On Sept. 2, 1998, Michael was serving as a safety patrol officer near Ganiard Elementary School in Mount Pleasant, Mich. He and an adult crossing guard were stationed at the corner of Broadway and Adams streets, a busy intersection. What happened next could have been a tragedy, but instead is the story of an heroic 12-year old whose quick thinking effectively saved the life of a 7-year-old boy. The adult crossing guard had just walked to the center of the street to stop traffic when the 7-year old walked around Michael's outstretched arms to follow the crossing guard. At that moment, a truck making a left-hand turn failed to stop at the stop sign and passed between Michael and the crossing guard. Michael reached out and grabbed the little boy by his backpack, pulling him to safety just as the truck sped by. Michael is one of the six young students being honored today at the AAA's School Safety Patrol Lifesaving Award Ceremony in Washington, D.C. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Lifesaving Award, which recognizes those patrols who risked their own lives to save the lives of others. More than one-half million children serve as patrols at 50,000 schools. It is a special privilege for me to represent Michael in the U.S. House of Representatives. Our halls here are filled with the statues and memories of American men and women who have unselfishly given to others. I am pleased today to submit this tribute to the Congressional Record, to ensure that Michael's bravery is also recorded for history.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, today, Congress is faced with one of its most important and difficult constitutional duties. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution clearly states that Congress shall have the power to declare war and to raise and support armies. Today, our Armed Forces are engaged in a NATO-led bombing campaign designed to force Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic to the negotiating table. The choices we must make are what actions we must take, declaring war, continuing on our current course or removing our troops, and what are our international responsibilities in the region. We face a stark reality and a difficult decision. The reality is that Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic and the Serbian military forces are engaged in ethnic cleansing--attempting to systematically exterminate the Kosovar citizens. Reports have confirmed this and the atrocities have intensified since the NATO bombing campaign began on March 24, 1999. Since the bombing campaign began, hundreds of thousands of Kosovars have fled the fighting. The pictures and stories of their escape are both tragic and disturbing. The decision facing Congress today is how to put an end to Slobodan Milosevic's organized efforts to harm these innocent people, how to return the refugees to their homeland and how to restore stability to the region. President Clinton has put our Armed Forces on an unfamiliar and unclear path. His stated goals are to end the ethnic cleansing and to restore stability to the region. As news reports have shown, the bombing campaign is having little impact on the Serbian military's infrastructure. More importantly, it is doing little to prevent his systematic extermination of the Kosovar people. It can be argued that far from restoring peace and stability to the region, the bombing campaign is causing further disruption and intensifying Milosevic's ethnic cleansing efforts. President Clinton has expressed concern about the introduction of ground troops into the region. I agree with his assessment. However, President Clinton recently authorized the mobilization of up to 33,000 reservists for deployment to the region--an act that could be interpreted as the first move toward the introduction of ground troops. I question the efficacy of the bombing campaign and our current course of action. No military action can be won by limiting military options and creating a convoluted and confusing decisionmaking process. President Clinton's poll-driven policies ignore his military advisor's advice, endanger our servicemen and women and may involve the U.S. in a long-term military occupation with an ever increasing escalation reminiscent of Vietnam. Our decision today is among the most important votes I've cast. Declaring war should be the last act of the Congress and the Administration after all diplomatic efforts have been exhausted and every avenue possible to resolve the conflict has been pursued. I don't believe we've exhausted these options at this time and that's why I will vote against declaring war. The introduction of ground troops escalates our involvement to an unnecessary level at this time. I'm not prepared to put our servicemen and women in a hostile situation and will vote to remove our troops. The situation in Kosovo is the result of centuries of conflict and will not and cannot be quickly resolved using military force. Any military victory will be offset by the fact that U.S. troops will remain a part of a long-term occupation force. As any neighboring nation should, the European nations have a responsibility to take a leadership role in working toward a permanent solution instead of temporary answers to this regional dispute. Finally, the U.S. Constitution is clear that Congress has the ability to declare war and raise and provide funding for our nation's Armed Forces. That's why I will support the Fowler Resolution, which clarifies the role of Congress and which outlines that no U.S. ground troops will be deployed unless such deployment is authorized by law.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the heroism of a young United States Marine from my district whose selfless actions saved the life of a fellow Marine and embody the values of our U.S. Armed Forces. Lance Cpl. Bobby J. Lawrence of Evart, Michigan, died tragically last Friday at Camp Pendleton in California. He and Lance Cpl. James N. Jones Jr. of Pueblo, Colorado, were riding in a 12-ton truck when Lance Cpl. Lawrence realized the brakes had failed. To avoid plunging over a cliff after the emergency brakes also failed, Lance Cpl. Lawrence jerked the steering wheel and intentionally tipped his truck. It overturned and Bobby Lawrence, a week away from his 21st birthday, was tragically killed when the truck overturned. But his passenger was saved. Lance Cpl. Lawrence will be flown back to Evart for burial. His noble actions will not rescind his loss, nor can they ever fully alleviate the pain of the family and friends who must bury this young Marine. Mr. Speaker, I know that each Member of the U.S. House of Representatives joins me and the residents of the 4th Congressional District in offering Lance Cpl. Lawrence's loved ones our prayers, our thoughts and our gratitude. May his soul rest in peace and may his bravery be forever remembered in the hearts of those for whom he served.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate St. Joseph School in St. Johns, Mich., on 75 years of serving the community. It is an honor to have this extraordinary school in the 4th Congressional District of Michigan. This remarkable school opened Sept. 8, 1924, with 61 students. Currently it draws 302 students from more than 200 area families, and serves kindergarten-6th students. Much of the success of today's education system depends on strong leadership from school teachers, administrators and parents, and St. Joseph School serves as an outstanding example. Its parents have devoted their precious time to ensure a quality education for their children. The teachers and administration of St. Joseph have had a tremendous impact on the lives of many students. They have promoted and maintained a solid system of education for countless young people over the past 75 years. I commend the staff, students and parents of St. Joseph School for their hard work in building an effective community for learning. Principal Tomi Ann Schultheiss' selfless commitment for the past seven years has helped prepare St. Joseph School for the 21st century. The focus on literacy and assurance that students obtain the essential skills needed for life are exemplary, and I am glad we have St. Joseph as an example for how we need to work to educate our children. I am confident that future generations of families will be able to count on St. Joseph School for a healthy start and a head start for their children. I wish the St. Joseph School the best for the future.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the bipartisan education legislation we have before us today. Education is an issue of vital importance to our Nation. While our children are succeeding, we need to continue to strengthen our public schools and ensure that every student receives a quality education. A good first step is to expand the Ed-Flex program to all 50 States. The State of Michigan was lucky enough to be included in the Ed-Flex Pilot Program. This designation has allowed local school officials to stop spending money on Federal programs that don't work, and instead to spend the money on programs that do. One example is right in my district. The Montcalm Intermediate School District requested, and received, an Ed-Flex waiver. This waiver allowed them to spend Federal dollars to train their teachers in social studies and language arts. Without this waiver, they would only receive money if they focused on math and science. The district decided the children would be better served by focusing their efforts on social studies and language arts. I think that is what our Federal education efforts should be about. Giving local districts the flexibility to use Federal money to best educate the children, instead of forcing the children to meet strict Federal guidelines and rules. I urge my colleagues to vote for this important legislation so that the children in their district will have the same opportunities.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, under our Constitution, it is our duty and solemn task to examine this matter in a way that will ultimately lead to the truth. After reviewing the evidence, I will vote in favor of impeachment. Lying under oath, obstruction of justice and abuse of office are all very serious acts that should not and cannot be ignored. It is my firm belief the President has undermined the integrity of his office and brought dishonor and disrepute on the Presidency of the United States. He has denied Congress and, most importantly, the American people an opporutinty to reach the truth. The truth is the foundation of our legal system. This foundation has been eroded by the President and his actions, and my conscience does not allow me to play a role in the continued deterioration of this system. This vote is between what is right and what is wrong. I cannot send a message to our children that would tell them it is OK to lie even if you are the President of the United States. Mr. Speaker, we have been given the solemn task of conducting impeachment hearings regarding the conduct of President Clinton. It has been a difficult process. However, under our Constitution, it is our duty and solemn task to examine this matter in a way that would ultimately lead us to the truth. After reviewing all the public statements and legal documents, I will vote in a favor of impeachment. Lying under oath, obstruction of justice and abuse of office are all very serious acts that should not and cannot be ignored. It is my firm belief the President has undermined the integrity of his office and brought dishonor and disrepute on the Presidency of the United States of America. He as denied a committee of the United States Congress, the House of Representatives and most importantly the American people, an opportunity to reach the truth. The truth is the foundation of our great legal system. This foundation has been eroded by the action of our President and my conscience does not allow me to play a role in the continued deterioration of this system. We cannot ignore the facts of this difficult case. By doing so, we would set a dangerous precedent for generations to come. This vote is between what is right and what is wrong. I cannot send a message to our children that would tell them it's ok to lie if you are the President of the United States. This would not be fair for their future or the future of our great country. This is a trying time for our Nation but it is one that was envisioned by our Founding Fathers. It is my hope this entire process will soon be resolved and the strength of our Constitution and the rule of law will prevail in the final outcome.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, at the end of this Congress the House of Representatives and the people of New York will lose a strong and tireless advocate. As you may know, Bill Paxon has served the people of New York well since his initial election at the young age of 23 when he was elected to the county legislature, he has continually served the people of New York and the United States. Since that time, he's worked diligently and with resolve to improve the lives of New York's citizens and the American people. For many, Bill Paxon's name is synonymous with the Republican majority. As chairman of the NRCC, Bill oversaw the emergence of the new republican majority. His guidance and leadership helped bring about some of the most dramatic changes our Government has experienced in nearly 40 years. I am both pleased and honored to have known and worked with Bill Paxon. He has not only been an effective legislator but also a good friend. I wish him and his family the best as he moves on to new and challenging endeavors.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to recognize Mr. Richard Chambers as ``Principal of the Year,'' from the great State of Michigan. As the Principal and Chief Administrator of Alma High School, in Alma, Michigan, Richard has promoted and maintained a solid system of education for eight-hundred students and eighty faculty over the past six years. Prior to his position at Alma High School, Mr. Chambers fulfilled several roles as principal, educator, and business associate for many great institutions throughout Michigan. Certainly, his participation with groups such as the local rotary club, the Michigan Department of Education Review Committee, the North Central Association evaluation team, and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, demonstrate the strong and influential leader Mr. Chambers is within his community. With a successful career beginning in 1964--when he started as a high school teacher and interim principal--Richard has enriched the lives of thousands of students. Based in a small town of roughly ten-thousand citizens, Alma High School has been selected a Class B, Michigan Exemplary School. Of the eight-hundred students who attend classes at Alma High School, 75 percent are expected to continue their education at some level of a post-secondary institution. This multitude of success is a direct result of Dick's interaction with his students and faculty. Today's society invests incredible merit in school to work programming and the broad curriculum offered at Alma High produces great incentive for post-secondary education. Much of the success of today's public school system depends on strong leadership from both teachers and the administration. The honor of ``Principal of the Year'' establishes a sense of security for the community to know such a special person is leading their school. This is the type of leader every school district needs. Alma High School is blessed to have the strength of Richard Chambers as their Principal. I know the parents, students and faculty associated with Alma High School, join me in recognizing Mr. Richard Chambers for his outstanding accomplishment.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Taxpayer Relief Act. Mr. Speaker, one thing is absolutely sure in this debate--taxes are too high. We're facing the highest peacetime tax burden in our Nation's history--21 percent of G.D.P. If taxes today were at the same level as 1950, the average American household today would be twice as rich. American families pay 38 percent of their income in taxes, up from 26 percent back in 1955--the Federal Government is taking too much from the American taxpayer. So the bill before us today cuts taxes--and it does so in a responsible, restrained and fair manner. Our tax relief is focused squarely on middle and lower income taxpayers--exactly those who need it the most. Husbands and wives--farmers and ranchers--small business owners and senior citizens. Democrats said it couldn't be done. For 30 years, they controlled Congress and never balanced the budget! Instead they used the Social Security trust funds on programs like midnight basketball and other pork-barrel spending. Now the G.O.P. comes in, and not only balances the budget and preserves Social Security, but also provides sweeping tax relief. When was the last time the Democrats balanced the budget? And more importantly, when was the last time they paid $1.4 trillion back to Social Security--instead of spending the trust funds? This debate is about Social Security, and we make a significant payment to our Nation's seniors. We also allow the American taxpayer to reap the rewards of their hard work in the form of reduced taxes. Who is complaining about our tax relief bill? Mr. Speaker, it's the same people who buried us under a mountain of debt and saddled our children with the burden of paying it off. Some on the other side believe we need to keep that surplus in Washington--but it's your money. And hard-working Americans deserve a break. Our opponents say that it's not enough to wall off $1.4 trillion dollars to save Social Security and both save Social Security and reduce taxes. But I believe we can. I urge support for the Taxpayer Relief Act.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. I would say to my colleagues from rural districts, this fast track bill has some of the most important pro-agricultural language in any bill you will vote on this year. A vote for fast track is a vote for United States farm families. A provision in our fast track bill not included in any other version that has passed the House before in the 1980s or any other time, Special 301 for agriculture, requires the Trade Representative to place a much higher focus on our Nation's farmers every year, initiating cases against those countries with barriers to U.S. agricultural products. There is no doubt about it, our farmers are hurting this year. Why? Part of it is weather. In my own congressional district we have had half the rain of a normal year. But a lot of it also has to do with international conditions. South American countries had a bumper crop this year, pushing worldwide crop prices down. The Asian economic crisis pushed prices down further, because Asian demand has plummeted. The lack of demand is cutting U.S. agricultural exports by $2 billion or more, according to USDA estimates. But we need to be able to tell our farmers in 1998, ``We're going to help you, we're going to help you increase your share in international markets when a strong dollar or weak demand are working against us. We are going to help you get good prices and a fair farm income.'' Trade is one of the most important tools we have to increase farm income. Last year our farmers exported $57 billion in agricultural products. With a $21 billion trade surplus last year, farmers made the largest dent in our trade deficit of any industry. Special 301 for agriculture helps address trade barriers. Under Special 301, when the U.S. Trade Representative makes their annual report on trade barriers, they must identify as priority countries those nations whose agricultural trade barriers have the most harmful impact on U.S. agricultural products. After identifying those countries, USTR is required to negotiate removal of the discriminatory barriers. If negotiations are unsuccessful, the U.S. can take retaliatory action under 301. I am pleased to have worked on this provision with the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Gutknecht). I urge support of the bill.

Mr. CAMP

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 4558.