Ben Campbell

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Thursday, February 24 at 9:30 a.m. to conduct an oversight hearing regarding energy supply issues relating to crude oil, heating oil, and transportation fuels. The hearing will examine such issues as the recent price spikes in the Northeast Region as well as predicted gasoline prices during the peak summer months. The committee will examine the short and long term causes as well as the potential fixes.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Small Business be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Thursday, February 24, 2000, beginning at 9 a.m. in room 428A of the Russell Senate Office Building to hold a hearing entitled ``The President's Fiscal Year 2000 Budget Request for the Small Business Administration.''

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will conduct an oversight hearing on the President's budget request for Indian programs for fiscal year 2001 beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 23, 2000. The hearing will be held in the committee room, 485 Russell Senate Building. Those wishing additional information may contact committee staff at 202/224-2251. committee on agriculture, nutrition, and forestry

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, though there are glimmers of hope in Native communities, most Native Americans remain racked by unemployment, mired in poverty, and rank at or near the bottom of nearly every social and economic indicator in the nation. For years the Committee on Indian Affairs, which I chair, has made strengthening Indian economies a top priority. Healthy tribal economies and lower unemployment rates are imperative if tribes are to achieve the goals of self-sufficiency and true self-determination. Although federal economic development assistance has been available for years, poverty, ill health, and unemployment remain rampant. One of the reasons for the lack of success despite spending billions of dollars, is the lack of a consistent or consolidated federal policy to target development resources. Indian business, economic and community development programs span the entire federal government and for any given project undertaken by a tribe, there may be 6 to 8 or more agencies involved. This fragmentation and lack of coordination is not producing the kind of progress Indian country so badly needs. To begin to remedy this problem, today I am pleased to introduce legislation that builds on the most successful federal Indian policy to date: Indian self-determination. The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, which was enacted in 1975, authorizes Indian tribes and tribal consortia to ``step into the shoes'' of the federal government to administer programs and services historically provided by the United States. This Act has worked as it was intended and has resulted in improved efficiency of program delivery and service quality; better managed tribal institutions; stronger tribal economies; and a general shift away from federal control over Indian lives to more local, tribal authority. What began as a Demonstration Project in 1975 has blossomed as more and more tribal governments realize the benefits of self governance. As of 1999, nearly 48% of all Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and 50% of all Indian Health Service (IHS) programs and services have been assumed by tribes under the Indian Self-Determination Act. The legislation I introduce today will begin the second phase of the Self-Determination experiment by assistant Indian tribes in their use and maximization of existing federal resources for purposes of economic development. By authorizing tribes and tribal consortia to consolidate and target existing federal funds for development purposes, this bill will promote a more efficient use of federal resources. Perhaps more importantly, the legislation will lay the foundation for a development strategy that looks to employment creation, investment and improved standards of living in Indian country as the real measure of a successful development policy. One of the key goals of this bill is to eliminate inconsistencies and duplication in federal policies that continue to be a barrier to Indian development through the issuance of uniform regulations and policies governing the use of funds across federal agencies. By authorizing federal-tribal arrangements to combine and coordinate federal resources, this bill will make the best use of existing federal programs to assist tribes in attracting private investment and capital onto Indian reservations. Already in this session we have addressed other building blocks to Indian development such as financing housing construction and physical infrastructure, the need for good governance practices at the federal and tribal levels, ensuring adequate capital for entrepreneurs, and encouraging private sector investment into Native communities. I am hopeful that the legislation I introduce today will signal a new day for how the federal government assists Native communities in creating jobs and building a better future for their members. I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, though there are glimmers of hope in Native communities, most Native Americans remain racked by unemployment, mired in poverty, and rank at or near the bottom of nearly every social and economic indicator in the nation. For years the Committee on Indian Affairs, which I chair, has made strengthening Indian economies a top priority. Healthy tribal economies and lower unemployment rates are imperative if tribes are to achieve the goals of self-sufficiency and true self-determination. Although federal economic development assistance has been available for years, poverty, ill health, and unemployment remain rampant. One of the reasons for the lack of success despite spending billions of dollars, is the lack of a consistent or consolidated federal policy to target development resources. Indian business, economic and community development programs span the entire federal government and for any given project undertaken by a tribe, there may be 6 to 8 or more agencies involved. This fragmentation and lack of coordination is not producing the kind of progress Indian country so badly needs. To begin to remedy this problem, today I am pleased to introduce legislation that builds on the most successful federal Indian policy to date: Indian self-determination. The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, which was enacted in 1975, authorizes Indian tribes and tribal consortia to ``step into the shoes'' of the federal government to administer programs and services historically provided by the United States. This Act has worked as it was intended and has resulted in improved efficiency of program delivery and service quality; better managed tribal institutions; stronger tribal economies; and a general shift away from federal control over Indian lives to more local, tribal authority. What began as a Demonstration Project in 1975 has blossomed as more and more tribal governments realize the benefits of self governance. As of 1999, nearly 48% of all Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and 50% of all Indian Health Service (IHS) programs and services have been assumed by tribes under the Indian Self-Determination Act. The legislation I introduce today will begin the second phase of the Self-Determination experiment by assistant Indian tribes in their use and maximization of existing federal resources for purposes of economic development. By authorizing tribes and tribal consortia to consolidate and target existing federal funds for development purposes, this bill will promote a more efficient use of federal resources. Perhaps more importantly, the legislation will lay the foundation for a development strategy that looks to employment creation, investment and improved standards of living in Indian country as the real measure of a successful development policy. One of the key goals of this bill is to eliminate inconsistencies and duplication in federal policies that continue to be a barrier to Indian development through the issuance of uniform regulations and policies governing the use of funds across federal agencies. By authorizing federal-tribal arrangements to combine and coordinate federal resources, this bill will make the best use of existing federal programs to assist tribes in attracting private investment and capital onto Indian reservations. Already in this session we have addressed other building blocks to Indian development such as financing housing construction and physical infrastructure, the need for good governance practices at the federal and tribal levels, ensuring adequate capital for entrepreneurs, and encouraging private sector investment into Native communities. I am hopeful that the legislation I introduce today will signal a new day for how the federal government assists Native communities in creating jobs and building a better future for their members. I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the Stamp Out Domestic Violence Act of 2000. The bill will allow every American to easily contribute to the fight against domestic violence through the voluntary purchase of certain specially issued U.S. Postal stamps, generally referred to as semi- postals. Proceeds raised from the stamps would fund domestic violence programs nationwide. The national statistics on domestic violence are reprehensible and shocking. Consider the following: A woman is battered every 15 seconds in the United States. According to the Justice Department, four million American women were victims of violent crime last year. Two thirds of these women were victimized by someone they knew. In fact, 30 percent of female murder victims are killed by current or former partners. In Colorado alone, the Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence reported 59 domestic violence related deaths in 1998. We can and must make every effort to change that. But, before we can eliminate the incidence of domestic violence we must acknowledge the problem and identify the resources needed to combat the problem. Mr. President, I believe this bill represents an innovative way to generate money for the fight against domestic violence. In the 105th Congress, as Chairman of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Subcommittee, I supported the first semi-postal issued in the United States, the Breast Cancer Research Stamp. So far, more than 104 million stamps have been sold nationally, raising $8 million for breast cancer research. My bill is modeled after the breast cancer stamp, and I am confident it will be just as successful. Specifically, under the ``Stamp Out Domestic Violence Act of 2000,'' the Postal Service would establish a special rate of postage for first- class mail, not to exceed 25 percent of the first-class rate, as an alternative to the regular first-class postage. The additional sum would be contributed to domestic violence programs. The rate would be determined in part, by the Postal Service to cover administrative costs, and the remainder by the Governors of the Postal Service. All of the funds raised would go to the Department of Justice to support local domestic violence initiatives across the country. In a country as blessed as America, the horrid truth is more women are injured by domestic violence each year than by automobile and cancer deaths--combined. We can no longer ignore that fact, for our denial is but a small step from tacit approval. The funds raised by this stamp will represent another step forward in addressing this national concern. I urge my colleagues to act quickly on this important legislation. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record. There being no objecton, the bill was ordered to be printed in the Record, as follows:

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the Stamp Out Domestic Violence Act of 2000. The bill will allow every American to easily contribute to the fight against domestic violence through the voluntary purchase of certain specially issued U.S. Postal stamps, generally referred to as semi- postals. Proceeds raised from the stamps would fund domestic violence programs nationwide. The national statistics on domestic violence are reprehensible and shocking. Consider the following: A woman is battered every 15 seconds in the United States. According to the Justice Department, four million American women were victims of violent crime last year. Two thirds of these women were victimized by someone they knew. In fact, 30 percent of female murder victims are killed by current or former partners. In Colorado alone, the Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence reported 59 domestic violence related deaths in 1998. We can and must make every effort to change that. But, before we can eliminate the incidence of domestic violence we must acknowledge the problem and identify the resources needed to combat the problem. Mr. President, I believe this bill represents an innovative way to generate money for the fight against domestic violence. In the 105th Congress, as Chairman of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Subcommittee, I supported the first semi-postal issued in the United States, the Breast Cancer Research Stamp. So far, more than 104 million stamps have been sold nationally, raising $8 million for breast cancer research. My bill is modeled after the breast cancer stamp, and I am confident it will be just as successful. Specifically, under the ``Stamp Out Domestic Violence Act of 2000,'' the Postal Service would establish a special rate of postage for first- class mail, not to exceed 25 percent of the first-class rate, as an alternative to the regular first-class postage. The additional sum would be contributed to domestic violence programs. The rate would be determined in part, by the Postal Service to cover administrative costs, and the remainder by the Governors of the Postal Service. All of the funds raised would go to the Department of Justice to support local domestic violence initiatives across the country. In a country as blessed as America, the horrid truth is more women are injured by domestic violence each year than by automobile and cancer deaths--combined. We can no longer ignore that fact, for our denial is but a small step from tacit approval. The funds raised by this stamp will represent another step forward in addressing this national concern. I urge my colleagues to act quickly on this important legislation. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record. There being no objecton, the bill was ordered to be printed in the Record, as follows:

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce a resolution to recognize and support the United States Olympic Committee and the 2000 Olympic Games. There are several reasons why I have a particular interest in the Olympic Movement and the U.S. Olympic Committee. I am the only Olympian in the United States Senate and Congressman Jim Ryun and I are the only two current Members of Congress to have been members of an Olympic Team. Years ago, I founded the U.S. Olympic Caucus with former Senator Bill Bradley and former Congressman Tom McMillan. In addition, the United States Olympic Committee is headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, along with the Olympic Training Center. Many athletes are currently training at that facility for future Olympic Games and especially in preparation for the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. As I look back on the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan, I remember how proud I was to be on the U.S. Olympic Team. Carrying the United States flag in the closing ceremonies was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I remember how proud I was to be an American and an Olympian. I hold that moment in my heart and relive it at each new Olympic Games to this day. The Olympic motto is ``Swifter, Higher, Stronger'' and with that ideal, the Olympic Movement brings out the very best in all of us-- athletes and spectators alike. I believe, along with the U.S. Olympic Committee, that competition and the athletes are the heart and soul of the Olympic Movement. This is the reason that I offer this resolution today. The United States Olympic Committee is to be highly commended for the prompt and decisive action it took after accusations of inappropriate solicitations surfaced. I know how much good the games do for young men and women and for our country. I am convinced the U.S. Olympic Committee has done everything in its power to get to the bottom of allegations, punish those who deserve it, and return the focus of the Olympic Movement back where it should be, with the athletes. Most people don't realize that unlike many of the world's Olympic teams, the U.S. Olympic Team gets not one dime of federal money to subsidize its sports operations. Our Olympic Team is solely supported by the contributions of millions of Americans and American businesses and corporations which are dedicated to the Olympic Movement. The Olympic Movement will endure and prosper only by the continued vigilance and the ongoing commitment of organizers and supporters, and by our unwavering support of the athletes who are the future of the modern Olympic Games. As we begin the countdown towards the first Olympic Games of the new millennium, my resolution would designate June 23, 2000, as Olympic Day in recognition of the anniversary of the founding of the modern Olympic Movement. I urge my colleagues to support prompt passage of this resolution.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President. This year will mark the 50th anniversary of America's effort in Korea to halt the spread of Communist aggression. Today, I am introducing a bill that is of great importance to me and the more than 1.5 million American men and women who so valiantly fought and supported the U.S. effort in Korea. On June 25, 1950, the Communist North Korean military invaded South Korea, provoking a swift U.S. response. Two days later, President Truman ordered the intervention that eventually involved 22 nations. In the three years that the U.S. led this multinational force, more than 54,000 Americans gave their lives in the fight to preserve our freedom and democratic way of life. As many as 92,000 soldiers were wounded and more than 8,000 were left behind. Despite this struggle and sacrifice, I can clearly remember as a young man, returning home from my years in Korea, feeling as if no one knew that we had ever been gone. It was a harsh, painful conflict that America very quickly wanted to place well behind it. I knew then and understand now why Korea came to be known as ``The Forgotten War.'' If you visit the Korean War Memorial at the end of the Mall here in Washington, you will see the patrolling squad of 19 weary soldiers frozen in motion, their rustled ponchos and obstacles beneath them a testament to the harsh conditions and terrain that were endured each day of ground combat. On the adjacent granite wall, one will see the faint etchings of 2,400 unnamed faces of the men and women who contributed in the effort in so many different ways. Clearly displayed beyond these images is the message that so profoundly reminds us, ``Freedom is Not Free.'' Mr. President, the joint resolution that I introduce today marks the passage of these 50 years since the Korean War and recognizes its extraordinary significance in our history. Most importantly, it thanks and honors the brave men and women who fought so hard to defeat the spread of Communism and preserve our freedom and democracy. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution to recognize our nation's Korean War veterans and mark this historic anniversary. I ask unanimous consent that the joint resolution be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing legislation that will help ensure that priceless public lands, including the Yellow Jacket Canyon in the Southwestern corner of my beautiful home state of Colorado, are preserved and managed in the most farsighted and balanced manner possible. I have developed this legislation with the Department of the Interior and the local government bodies. It successfully takes into account the concerns of all interested parties. The lands I hope we can protect were the home to a rich civilization before the existence of this hemisphere was known to the western world. It is imperative we protect these lands now in a reasonable manner to recognize the historical, archeological and cultural value they hold. But, I do not believe we should lock these lands from the public. When public lands are suddenly grabbed away by executive decree it creates ill feelings and distrust. The hardest hit are those people who live near the land, know it the best and whose livelihood is most connected to it. These are almost always hard working families. Elected local and state governments are also losers. Land grabs seriously erode the very tax base that enables towns, counties and states to provide the services the people need, including schools, law enforcement, and fire protection. Finally, participatory democracy, our nation's bedrock, also loses when an executive decree is used to end run the American people and those they have chosen to represent them in Congress. Through close consultation with the acting BLM director, Tom Fry, I have drafted a bill which should take into consideration the views of interested parties. I will submit for the record at the conclusion of my statement a number of letters from local organizations and elected officials who support this effort to designate a National Conservation Area. It will allow many of the area's current uses to stay intact while preserving the ancient treasures found there. I consider the declaration of national monuments by this administration by executive order another example of restricting the use of more public land without working with Congressional delegations, local officials, and other interested parties, as was the case with the Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument designation in Utah. My bill makes sure that the involved parties take part in land management decisions in Colorado. I am trying to ensure that all of the concerns of the people who live and work in the area are heard and addressed before any designation is made by the administration on these public lands. My bill would require public hearings which would allow everyone involved from local ranchers, recreational users, and all local elected officials to be involved with preserving this area. As I stated in a letter to Interior Secretary Babbitt on June 8, 1999, Coloradans do not want to see another Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument designation in Colorado. Secretary Babbitt in a letter to Mr. Ed Zink dated November 9, 1999, declared his intent to designating the Anasazi area a national monument by the authority of the Antiquities Act of 1906. My bill proposes a compromise to preserve this area with local input, and avoid the heavy handed action of a monument designation by the President. My legislation will create a National Conservation Area which will allow the historic uses to take place while efforts are made to conserve the area. I am introducing this legislation to alert the president and the secretary that the citizens in Southwest Colorado desire protection of the area but oppose an executive action that bypasses Congress. This can be accomplished through the legislative process with a hearing scheduled on my bill early this year during the second half of the 106th Congress. Some in the administration will say that they are currently trying to work with the local community since they held a series of six scheduled town meetings on the proposed withdrawal. From the input that I have received, no one seems sold on the idea at the local level that a monument designation is the only option available to protect the ancient treasures in Southwestern Colorado. The Southwest Resource Advisory Council was formed to bring forth a wide variety of issues to take into consideration before the Secretary of the Interior moves forward with his intended move to remove the public from the area. The report addresses everything from recreation and tourism to oil and gas development in the area which is how these small communities survive economically. In our efforts to preserve the culture of the area, we cannot continue to lock up all of our public land which so many small towns in the West depend upon. Our small communities in Southwestern Colorado know how to be good stewards of the land and my bill allows everyone from the local citizens, the Department of Interior, and Congress to work in a collective effort to save this area for future generations. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the bill and letters of support be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing legislation that will help ensure that priceless public lands, including the Yellow Jacket Canyon in the Southwestern corner of my beautiful home state of Colorado, are preserved and managed in the most farsighted and balanced manner possible. I have developed this legislation with the Department of the Interior and the local government bodies. It successfully takes into account the concerns of all interested parties. The lands I hope we can protect were the home to a rich civilization before the existence of this hemisphere was known to the western world. It is imperative we protect these lands now in a reasonable manner to recognize the historical, archeological and cultural value they hold. But, I do not believe we should lock these lands from the public. When public lands are suddenly grabbed away by executive decree it creates ill feelings and distrust. The hardest hit are those people who live near the land, know it the best and whose livelihood is most connected to it. These are almost always hard working families. Elected local and state governments are also losers. Land grabs seriously erode the very tax base that enables towns, counties and states to provide the services the people need, including schools, law enforcement, and fire protection. Finally, participatory democracy, our nation's bedrock, also loses when an executive decree is used to end run the American people and those they have chosen to represent them in Congress. Through close consultation with the acting BLM director, Tom Fry, I have drafted a bill which should take into consideration the views of interested parties. I will submit for the record at the conclusion of my statement a number of letters from local organizations and elected officials who support this effort to designate a National Conservation Area. It will allow many of the area's current uses to stay intact while preserving the ancient treasures found there. I consider the declaration of national monuments by this administration by executive order another example of restricting the use of more public land without working with Congressional delegations, local officials, and other interested parties, as was the case with the Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument designation in Utah. My bill makes sure that the involved parties take part in land management decisions in Colorado. I am trying to ensure that all of the concerns of the people who live and work in the area are heard and addressed before any designation is made by the administration on these public lands. My bill would require public hearings which would allow everyone involved from local ranchers, recreational users, and all local elected officials to be involved with preserving this area. As I stated in a letter to Interior Secretary Babbitt on June 8, 1999, Coloradans do not want to see another Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument designation in Colorado. Secretary Babbitt in a letter to Mr. Ed Zink dated November 9, 1999, declared his intent to designating the Anasazi area a national monument by the authority of the Antiquities Act of 1906. My bill proposes a compromise to preserve this area with local input, and avoid the heavy handed action of a monument designation by the President. My legislation will create a National Conservation Area which will allow the historic uses to take place while efforts are made to conserve the area. I am introducing this legislation to alert the president and the secretary that the citizens in Southwest Colorado desire protection of the area but oppose an executive action that bypasses Congress. This can be accomplished through the legislative process with a hearing scheduled on my bill early this year during the second half of the 106th Congress. Some in the administration will say that they are currently trying to work with the local community since they held a series of six scheduled town meetings on the proposed withdrawal. From the input that I have received, no one seems sold on the idea at the local level that a monument designation is the only option available to protect the ancient treasures in Southwestern Colorado. The Southwest Resource Advisory Council was formed to bring forth a wide variety of issues to take into consideration before the Secretary of the Interior moves forward with his intended move to remove the public from the area. The report addresses everything from recreation and tourism to oil and gas development in the area which is how these small communities survive economically. In our efforts to preserve the culture of the area, we cannot continue to lock up all of our public land which so many small towns in the West depend upon. Our small communities in Southwestern Colorado know how to be good stewards of the land and my bill allows everyone from the local citizens, the Department of Interior, and Congress to work in a collective effort to save this area for future generations. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the bill and letters of support be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President. This year will mark the 50th anniversary of America's effort in Korea to halt the spread of Communist aggression. Today, I am introducing a bill that is of great importance to me and the more than 1.5 million American men and women who so valiantly fought and supported the U.S. effort in Korea. On June 25, 1950, the Communist North Korean military invaded South Korea, provoking a swift U.S. response. Two days later, President Truman ordered the intervention that eventually involved 22 nations. In the three years that the U.S. led this multinational force, more than 54,000 Americans gave their lives in the fight to preserve our freedom and democratic way of life. As many as 92,000 soldiers were wounded and more than 8,000 were left behind. Despite this struggle and sacrifice, I can clearly remember as a young man, returning home from my years in Korea, feeling as if no one knew that we had ever been gone. It was a harsh, painful conflict that America very quickly wanted to place well behind it. I knew then and understand now why Korea came to be known as ``The Forgotten War.'' If you visit the Korean War Memorial at the end of the Mall here in Washington, you will see the patrolling squad of 19 weary soldiers frozen in motion, their rustled ponchos and obstacles beneath them a testament to the harsh conditions and terrain that were endured each day of ground combat. On the adjacent granite wall, one will see the faint etchings of 2,400 unnamed faces of the men and women who contributed in the effort in so many different ways. Clearly displayed beyond these images is the message that so profoundly reminds us, ``Freedom is Not Free.'' Mr. President, the joint resolution that I introduce today marks the passage of these 50 years since the Korean War and recognizes its extraordinary significance in our history. Most importantly, it thanks and honors the brave men and women who fought so hard to defeat the spread of Communism and preserve our freedom and democracy. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution to recognize our nation's Korean War veterans and mark this historic anniversary. I ask unanimous consent that the joint resolution be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am joined by 28 of my colleagues in submitting this resolution to keep alive in the memory of all Americans, the sacrifice and commitment of those men and women who lost their lives while serving as law enforcement officers. Specifically, this resolution would designate May 15, 2000, as National Peace Officers Memorial Day. As a former deputy sheriff, I know first-hand the risks which law enforcement officers face everyday on the front lines protecting our communities. Currently, more than 700,000 men and women who serve this nation as our guardians of law and order do so at a great risk. Every year, about 1 in 9 officers is assaulted, 1 in 25 officers is injured, and 1 in 4,400 officers is killed in the line of duty. There are few communities in this country that have not been impacted by the senseless death of a police officer. In 1999, approximately 135 federal, state and local law enforcement officers have given their lives in the line of duty and nearly 15,000 men and women have made that supreme sacrifice during the past century. We can be heartened by knowing that fewer police officers died in 1999 than in any year since 1965. According to National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Chairman Craig W. Floyd, ``a combination of factors appears to be making life safer for our officers including better training, improved equipment, the increased use of bullet-resistant vests, and the overall drop of crime.'' On May 15, 2000, more than 15,000 peace officers are expected to gather in our Nation's Capital to join with the families of their fallen comrades, past and present, who by their faithful and loyal devotion to their responsibilities have rendered a dedicated service to their communities and, in doing so, have established for themselves an enviable and enduring reputation for preserving the rights and security of all citizens. Mr. President, I urge my colleagues to join us in supporting this important resolution. I ask unanimous consent that letters of support be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today the Senate considers S. 692, entitled the ``Internet Gaming Prohibition Act.'' As my colleagues know, I support this measure but from the day this bill was introduced I have had concerns about its scope. As Chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs I have been concerned that existing law, namely the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, would be irreparably harmed unless we made certain changes to the bill. This is an important bill and I support the intent of the bill's sponsors to make it more difficult for this kind of gaming to be conducted, particularly by underage players. If enacted, this bill would prohibit Internet gambling, but make exceptions for certain segments of the gaming industry which currently use a variety of technologies to enhance traditional gaming. It is important for my colleagues to realize that the bill does not prohibit all forms of gaming using available high-technology. When I reviewed S. 692 for the first time, I realized that certain gaming activities currently being conducted by Indian tribes would be prohibited by this bill. My concerns centered on the fact that the same or similar activities were allowed to other entities--such as the states, the horse-racing industry and others--that were disallowed to tribes. This fundamental inequity is what led me to propose fair treatment for tribal governmental gaming. In addition to issues of equity, the economic impacts of Indian gaming are substantial and should be acknowledged. These revenues provide an important source of development capital and jobs for many tribes across the country. Contrary to the views many here hold, Indian gaming is very highly regulated by federal, state and tribal officials, and has been subject to federal law for eleven years. I addressed my concerns to the Senate Judiciary Committee in June of this year and began discussions on how best to address currently-legal Indian gaming in S. 692. My main concerns with drafting any language dealing with Indian gaming and the IGRA centered on the following requirements: 1. All gaming must be legal under current federal law; 2. All class III gaming (casino style) must be conducted pursuant to a tribal state compact; and 3. All aspects of the game must take place on Indian Lands (game, player, facility, server, etc.). It is critical to note that there is no tribe in the U.S. that is currently offering online/Internet betting. Instead, several tribes currently use widely-available technology to broadcast bingo to numerous operations located on Indian lands or to link class III games for the purpose of determining an aggregate betting pool for the purpose of offering bigger prizes. It is my understanding in supporting the substitute along with my amendment, that S. 692 allows tribes to continue their current practices regarding the use of technology to enhance the effectiveness and profitability of their operations, but does not authorize any tribe to operate betting on the Internet as it currently perceived by the general public. The specific provisions of my amendment address all currently legal class II and class III gaming, as defined in the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, 25 U.S.C. Sec. 2701 et seq. Accordingly, for Indian gaming activities to not run afoul of the provisions of S. 692 1. The game must be conducted according to the requirements of IGRA. 2. All persons making or receiving a bet, or transmitting information regarding a bet must be on Indian lands. That means all aspects of the game must be located on tribal land, including the person playing the game, the actual machine which is the game, and any computer server which may be used to keep track of information relating to the play of the game. In the case of a satellite (which cannot be located on Indian land), all machinery used to receive the signal must be located on Indian land. 3. The game must be conducted on an interactive computer service which uses a closed-loop subscriber based service or a private network. 4. Where class III games are conducted, each tribe participating in a network must have a compact which authorizes games to be conducted using the technology described, that is, an interactive computer service which uses a closed-loop subscriber-based service or a private network. It is critical to understand that this means that a tribe must have a compact only in the state in which they are located, not that they compact with every state in which the network is located. 5. In jurisdictions where class III gaming is currently using technology to link games, but either have compacts which do not specifically authorize networked games, or that do authorize these games, but do not contain the specific authorization required in S. 692, the amendment allows them to continue the operations of those games until the expiration of their current compact. The current language addressing technology that is included in most compacts does not contain the exact terminology as defined in S. 692. Additionally, there are other states where language that addresses the use of technology is not contained in the compact, but the state has consented to the use of technology. My amendment contains a ``grandfather clause'' for those operations, which will run until their compacts expire by their own terms. Once a tribe's compact expires, the compact must be renegotiated and will be required to contain language which conforms to the requirements of S. 692. Contrary to the views of some, Indian tribes are not generally interested in operating games which are broadcast on the ``world wide web'' or the Internet, and in which a person sitting in their home may ``log on'' to a computer and begin placing bets. Indian tribes are, however, interested in continuing the operation of the games they currently have, and which they have agreed with their states are legal. This amendment allows them to do just that.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing legislation which would create a plaque honoring those Vietnam veterans who died as a result of the war but who are not eligible to have their names placed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The ``Vietnam Veterans Recognition Act of 1999'' would authorize the placement of a plaque within the sight of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to honor those Vietnam veterans who died after their service in the Vietnam War, but as a direct result of that service. This bill is similar to H.R. 3293, which was introduced by my colleague in the House of Representatives, Congressman Gallegly. Deadly war wounds do not always kill right away. Sometimes these fatal war wounds may linger on for many years after the fighting is done. Sometimes these wounds are clearly evident from the time they are inflicted, sometimes they are not. The terrible toll that Agent Orange has taken on our Vietnam veterans stands as one stark example. What we do know is that all too often these war wounds eventually take the lives of many of our brave Vietnam veterans. Even though these veterans may not have been killed in action while they served in the tropical jungles of Vietnam, in the end they too made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Like their brothers and sisters who died on the field of battle, they too deserve to be duly recognized and honored. Mr. President, duly honoring the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country should always be a priority. Unfortunately, the service and sacrifices made by some Vietnam veterans is still not being fully recognized since their names are not included on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. This bill recognizes the sacrifices made by these Vietnam veterans by authorizing a plaque that will be engraved with an appropriate inscription honoring these fallen veterans. Since no federal funds will be used for the plaque, it will be up to our nation's leading veteran's organizations and individual Americans to demonstrate their commitment to honoring these fallen veterans through charitable giving to help make it a reality. The American Battle Monument Commission will lead the effort in collecting the private funds necessary. It is vital for us to have a place to honor all the men and women who have served and died for their country. It is also important for the families of these fallen heroes to have a place in our nation's capital where their loved one's sacrifice is honored and recognized for future generations. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing legislation which would create a plaque honoring those Vietnam veterans who died as a result of the war but who are not eligible to have their names placed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The ``Vietnam Veterans Recognition Act of 1999'' would authorize the placement of a plaque within the sight of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to honor those Vietnam veterans who died after their service in the Vietnam War, but as a direct result of that service. This bill is similar to H.R. 3293, which was introduced by my colleague in the House of Representatives, Congressman Gallegly. Deadly war wounds do not always kill right away. Sometimes these fatal war wounds may linger on for many years after the fighting is done. Sometimes these wounds are clearly evident from the time they are inflicted, sometimes they are not. The terrible toll that Agent Orange has taken on our Vietnam veterans stands as one stark example. What we do know is that all too often these war wounds eventually take the lives of many of our brave Vietnam veterans. Even though these veterans may not have been killed in action while they served in the tropical jungles of Vietnam, in the end they too made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Like their brothers and sisters who died on the field of battle, they too deserve to be duly recognized and honored. Mr. President, duly honoring the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country should always be a priority. Unfortunately, the service and sacrifices made by some Vietnam veterans is still not being fully recognized since their names are not included on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. This bill recognizes the sacrifices made by these Vietnam veterans by authorizing a plaque that will be engraved with an appropriate inscription honoring these fallen veterans. Since no federal funds will be used for the plaque, it will be up to our nation's leading veteran's organizations and individual Americans to demonstrate their commitment to honoring these fallen veterans through charitable giving to help make it a reality. The American Battle Monument Commission will lead the effort in collecting the private funds necessary. It is vital for us to have a place to honor all the men and women who have served and died for their country. It is also important for the families of these fallen heroes to have a place in our nation's capital where their loved one's sacrifice is honored and recognized for future generations. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing legislation which would better equip our nation's firefighters to fight the ever- increasing threat of property destruction and potential loss of life. The ``Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement (FIRE) Act of 1999'' would authorize the newly-named Federal Fire and Emergency Management Agency to make available matching grants on a competitive basis to fire departments for the purpose of protecting the public and firefighting personnel against fire and fire-related hazards. This bill is a companion to H.R. 1168, which was introduced by my colleague in the House of Representatives, Congressman Pascrell. Mr. President, each year approximately 100 of our nation's firefighters pay the ultimate sacrifice to preserve the safety of our communities. Increased demands on firefighting personnel have made it difficult for local governments to prepare for necessary fire safety precautions. The fire loss in the United States is serious, and the fire death rate is one of the highest per capita in the industrialized world. Fire kills more than 4,000 people and injures more than 25,000 people each year. Today, 11 people will die due to fire. Two of these people are likely to be children under the age of 5. Another 68 people will be injured due to fire. Financially, the impact of America's estimated 2.2 million fires annually is over $9 billion in direct property losses. Those numbers are staggering, and many of these losses could have been prevented. The bill I introduce today would make grants available to train firefighter personnel in firefighting, emergency response, arson prevention and detection, and the handling of hazardous substances or pollutants or contaminants associated with the illegal manufacture of amphetamine or methamphetamine. This bill also creates partnerships by allowing for the effective use of the capabilities of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Department of Commerce, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission for research and development aimed at advancing the health and safety of firefighters; information technologies for fire management; technologies for fire prevention and protection; firefighting technologies; and burn care and rehabilitation. In addition, this legislation would ensure that grants would be made to a wide variety of fire departments, including applicants from paid, volunteer, and combination fire departments, large and small, which are situated in urban, suburban and rural communities. Mr. President, despite the risks, 1.2 million men and women firefighters willingly put their lives on the line responding to over 17 million calls, annually. Our greatest challenge is to put limited resources to work where they will make the most difference in saving lives and reducing losses. I am pleased that the bill I introduce today has been endorsed by the Colorado State Fire Chief's Association. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing legislation which would better equip our nation's firefighters to fight the ever- increasing threat of property destruction and potential loss of life. The ``Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement (FIRE) Act of 1999'' would authorize the newly-named Federal Fire and Emergency Management Agency to make available matching grants on a competitive basis to fire departments for the purpose of protecting the public and firefighting personnel against fire and fire-related hazards. This bill is a companion to H.R. 1168, which was introduced by my colleague in the House of Representatives, Congressman Pascrell. Mr. President, each year approximately 100 of our nation's firefighters pay the ultimate sacrifice to preserve the safety of our communities. Increased demands on firefighting personnel have made it difficult for local governments to prepare for necessary fire safety precautions. The fire loss in the United States is serious, and the fire death rate is one of the highest per capita in the industrialized world. Fire kills more than 4,000 people and injures more than 25,000 people each year. Today, 11 people will die due to fire. Two of these people are likely to be children under the age of 5. Another 68 people will be injured due to fire. Financially, the impact of America's estimated 2.2 million fires annually is over $9 billion in direct property losses. Those numbers are staggering, and many of these losses could have been prevented. The bill I introduce today would make grants available to train firefighter personnel in firefighting, emergency response, arson prevention and detection, and the handling of hazardous substances or pollutants or contaminants associated with the illegal manufacture of amphetamine or methamphetamine. This bill also creates partnerships by allowing for the effective use of the capabilities of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Department of Commerce, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission for research and development aimed at advancing the health and safety of firefighters; information technologies for fire management; technologies for fire prevention and protection; firefighting technologies; and burn care and rehabilitation. In addition, this legislation would ensure that grants would be made to a wide variety of fire departments, including applicants from paid, volunteer, and combination fire departments, large and small, which are situated in urban, suburban and rural communities. Mr. President, despite the risks, 1.2 million men and women firefighters willingly put their lives on the line responding to over 17 million calls, annually. Our greatest challenge is to put limited resources to work where they will make the most difference in saving lives and reducing losses. I am pleased that the bill I introduce today has been endorsed by the Colorado State Fire Chief's Association. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I would like to take this opportunity to recognize a not-for-profit organization which has been on the national forefront of motorcyclists' rights. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation here in Washington, D.C. is a nation-wide grassroots activist group that is completing its tenth year representing motorcycling rights. As the year draws to an end and we look forward to a new century, we should be proud of an organization such as MRF which embodies our forefathers' commitment to the Constitution and the values of freedom and the self- determination of a citizen government. In the mid-1980's the leadership of the various state motorcyclist associations, which had been around since the early 1970's, began to be concerned about the possibility of and need for becoming involved with federal legislation that had an impact on motorcyclists. In 1985, these leaders began hosting a national conference, the Meeting Of The Minds, to educate motorcyclists on how to be more effective in their state legislatures. In September of this year the MRF hosted the Fifteenth Annual Meeting Of The Minds in Denver, Colorado. In 1986, the idea of establishing a national association and opening an office in Washington, DC, was conceived. In 1987, the Motorcycle Rights Fund (MRF) was incorporated as a 501 (4) not-for-profit association and fund raising began. In 1988, the name of the association was changed to the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, and with less than $30,000 in the bank, the MRF hired its first employee and opened its Washington, D.C. headquarters on November 8, 1988. Since its inception the MRF has had two primary goals. One has been its educational program, which sponsors national and regional conferences every year, with the purpose of training and educating leaders of state motorcyclist associations. The MRF's second, and primary program, is its government relations activity. The MRF was recently recognized by the American Society of Association Executives with its Award of Excellence, for the overall federal legislative program. The awards committee recognized the commitment of the MRF and its on-going efforts for the past ten years. In 1996 MRF's federal legislative program was also the recipient of ASAE's Excellence in Government Relations Award for a Single Issue. In its ten-year presence in the Nation's Capital, MRF has had a number of legislative accomplishments in diverse areas ranging from highway safety, personal liberty, law enforcement and discrimination issues; technology development policies, highway access, and state to federal relationships. As we recognize MRF's 10-Year Anniversary, I look forward to hearing about MRF's future successes in the months and years to come.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I too have an interest in this matter, but from a different angle. The U.S. fabric industry consumes virtually all the wool fiber produced in the United States. My home state is a significant producer of wool. If we approve legislation that damages fabric makers, it will have a direct and adverse impact on wool growers. The growers in my state are already suffering from surging imports of lamb meat. In addition, the price of their wool has been severely depressed due to the fact that wool from Australia and New Zealand is routinely dumped on the world market. As a result, I am on the record as strongly opposing any legislation that cuts U.S. wool fabric duties. It is critical that in the discussions of this issue members from the wool producing regions are fully informed and involved. We simply cannot accept a move that would take steps to appease suit makers without fully understanding and considering the impact of such legislation all the way down the chain--from fabric makers to wool growers.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the ``Seniors As Volunteers in Our Schools Act of 1999,'' a bill which will be an important step in ensuring that our schools provide a safe and caring place for our children to learn and grow. This bill will help build lasting partnerships between our local school systems, our children and our country's growing number of senior citizens. Under the bill, school administrators and teachers are encouraged to use qualified seniors as volunteers in federally funded programs and activities authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA.) It specifically encourages the use of seniors as volunteers in the safe and drug free schools programs, Indian education programs, the 21st Century Community before- and after-school programs and gifted and talented programs. I believe the best way to get older Americans to serve as volunteers is to ask them. My bill does just that. The Seniors as Volunteers in Our Schools Act creates no new programs; rather it suggests another allowable use of funds already allocated. The discretion whether to take advantage of this new resource continues to remain solely with the school systems. Studies show that consistent guidance by a mentor or caring adult can help reduce teenage pregnancy, substance abuse and youth violence. Evidence also shows that the presence of adults on playgrounds, and in hallways and study halls, stabilizes the learning environment. And recently, the Colorado School Safety Summit, convened by Governor Bill Owens, recommended connecting each child to a caring adult as a way to reduce youth violence. Our country is in the midst of an age revolution. There are twice as many older adults today as there were 30 years ago. America now possesses not only the largest, but also the healthiest, best-educated, and most vigorous group of seniors in history. In the years ahead, an increasing number of us will be living decades longer than our own parents and grandparents. We need to think of those extra years of life as a resource. I believe seniors can be role models and share the wisdom, experience, and skills they have acquired over a lifetime of learning. I know firsthand of the importance of mentoring based on my own experiences as a teacher. A mentor can have a profound positive impact on a child's life. What better way to expand the number of mentors than to invite our seniors/elders to volunteer in schools? What better way to make our schools safer for our children than to have more adults visibly involved? I do not expect this legislation to solve all the problems confronting our schools today. But, I see it as a practical way to help make our schools safer, more caring places for our children. If our institutions create opportunities that allow them to make a genuine contribution, I believe America's growing senior population can play an important role in supporting our nations' schools. And, older adults have what the working-age population lacks: time. I urge my colleagues to support passage of this legislation. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I take the time today to reintroduce a bill that will help millions of water consumers throughout my state. This bill is based on S. 2140, legislation I introduced last year, which passed out of the full Senate. The Denver Water Department has developed a unique plan to re-use non-potable water for irrigation and industrial uses. In the arid West, where growing populations and changing values are place increasing demands on existing water supplies, water and availability remain important issues. Recent conflicts are particularly apparent in the West where agricultural needs for water are often in direct conflict with urban needs. This legislation will help remedy some of this conflict. This bill authorizes the Denver Water Department to access federal funds to assist in the implementation of this plan. The State of Colorado, the Colorado Water Congress, the Denver Board of Water Commissioners, and the Mayor of Denver have fully endorsed this legislation. I am pleased to assist these interested parties with this worthwhile proposal. The Denver Water Department serves over a million customers and is the largest water supplier in the Rocky Mountain region. Over the past several years Denver Water has developed a plan to treat and re-use some of its water supply for uses not involving human consumption, such as irrigation and industrial purposes. In this manner, Denver will stretch its water supply without the cost and potential environmental disruption of building new reservoirs. It will also ease the demand on fresh drinking-quality water supplies. The Denver Nonpotable Reuse Project will treat secondary wastewater, that is water which has already been used once in Denver's system. It is an environmentally and economically viable method for extending and conserving our limited water supplies. The water quality will meet all Colorado and federal standards. The water will still be clean and odorless, but since it will be used for irrigation and industrial uses around the Denver International Airport and the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Refuge, the additional expense to treat it for drinking will be avoided. The nonpotable project will be constructed in three phases and ultimately will result in an additional useable water supply of 15,000 acre feet. The use of the nonpotable water for irrigation and industrial customers will make potable water supplies available for up to 30,000 homes. Construction will include a treatment plant and a distribution system that is separate from the potable water system. Phase I will serve customers in the vicinity of the reuse plant, including a Public Service Company power plant, other industrial users and other public areas. Phase II will add irrigation for parks and golf courses in the former Stapleton Airport and the recently closed Lowry Air Force Base redevelopment areas. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal, which is being converted to a national wildlife refuge, will also use the reuse water to maintain lake levels on-site and to provide water for wildlife habitats. Phase III will serve existing parks as well as new development of a commercial corridor leading to the Denver International Airport. With the construction of Phase II, the irrigation, heating and cooling, and car washing facilities at Denver International Airport will convert to reuse water, where a dual distribution system has already been installed. In the West, naturally scarce water supplies and increasing urban populations have furthered our need for water reuse, recycling, conservation, and storage proposals which are the keys to successfully meet the water needs of everyone. This plan would benefit many Coloradans, and would help relieve many of the water burdens faced in the Denver region. Again, I'd like to thank the interested parties for their support, and I am hopeful this bill can be quickly passed and put into effect. I ask unanimous consent that the bill and copies of letters of support from the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, the Colorado Water Congress, the Denver Board of Water Commissioners, and the Mayor of Denver be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I take the time today to reintroduce a bill that will help millions of water consumers throughout my state. This bill is based on S. 2140, legislation I introduced last year, which passed out of the full Senate. The Denver Water Department has developed a unique plan to re-use non-potable water for irrigation and industrial uses. In the arid West, where growing populations and changing values are place increasing demands on existing water supplies, water and availability remain important issues. Recent conflicts are particularly apparent in the West where agricultural needs for water are often in direct conflict with urban needs. This legislation will help remedy some of this conflict. This bill authorizes the Denver Water Department to access federal funds to assist in the implementation of this plan. The State of Colorado, the Colorado Water Congress, the Denver Board of Water Commissioners, and the Mayor of Denver have fully endorsed this legislation. I am pleased to assist these interested parties with this worthwhile proposal. The Denver Water Department serves over a million customers and is the largest water supplier in the Rocky Mountain region. Over the past several years Denver Water has developed a plan to treat and re-use some of its water supply for uses not involving human consumption, such as irrigation and industrial purposes. In this manner, Denver will stretch its water supply without the cost and potential environmental disruption of building new reservoirs. It will also ease the demand on fresh drinking-quality water supplies. The Denver Nonpotable Reuse Project will treat secondary wastewater, that is water which has already been used once in Denver's system. It is an environmentally and economically viable method for extending and conserving our limited water supplies. The water quality will meet all Colorado and federal standards. The water will still be clean and odorless, but since it will be used for irrigation and industrial uses around the Denver International Airport and the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Refuge, the additional expense to treat it for drinking will be avoided. The nonpotable project will be constructed in three phases and ultimately will result in an additional useable water supply of 15,000 acre feet. The use of the nonpotable water for irrigation and industrial customers will make potable water supplies available for up to 30,000 homes. Construction will include a treatment plant and a distribution system that is separate from the potable water system. Phase I will serve customers in the vicinity of the reuse plant, including a Public Service Company power plant, other industrial users and other public areas. Phase II will add irrigation for parks and golf courses in the former Stapleton Airport and the recently closed Lowry Air Force Base redevelopment areas. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal, which is being converted to a national wildlife refuge, will also use the reuse water to maintain lake levels on-site and to provide water for wildlife habitats. Phase III will serve existing parks as well as new development of a commercial corridor leading to the Denver International Airport. With the construction of Phase II, the irrigation, heating and cooling, and car washing facilities at Denver International Airport will convert to reuse water, where a dual distribution system has already been installed. In the West, naturally scarce water supplies and increasing urban populations have furthered our need for water reuse, recycling, conservation, and storage proposals which are the keys to successfully meet the water needs of everyone. This plan would benefit many Coloradans, and would help relieve many of the water burdens faced in the Denver region. Again, I'd like to thank the interested parties for their support, and I am hopeful this bill can be quickly passed and put into effect. I ask unanimous consent that the bill and copies of letters of support from the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, the Colorado Water Congress, the Denver Board of Water Commissioners, and the Mayor of Denver be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to submit today, along with the Vice Chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee, Senator Inouye and many of our colleagues, a Senate resolution that designates the month of November 1999, as `National American Indian Heritage Month.' I feel it is appropriate and deserving to honor American Indians and Alaska Natives, as the original inhabitants of the land that now constitutes the United States, with this November designation as Congress has done for almost a decade. American Indians and Alaska Natives have left an indelible imprint on many aspects of our everyday life that most Americans often take for granted. The arts, education, science, medicine, industry, and government are areas that have been influenced by American Indian and Alaska Native people over the last 500 years. Many of the healing remedies that we use today were obtained from practices already in use by Indian people and are still utilized today in conjunction with western medicine. Mr. President, many of the basic principles of democracy in our Constitution can be traced to practices and customs already in use by American Indian tribal governments including the doctrines of freedom of speech and separation of powers. Our Founding Fathers benefited greatly from the example of the Indian tribes in the early stages of our Nation. The respect of Native people for the preservation of natural resources, reverence for elders, and adherence to tradition, mirrors our own values which we developed in part, through the contact with American Indians and Alaska Natives. These values and customs are deeply rooted, strongly embraced and thrive with generation after generation of Native people. From the difficult days of Valley Forge through our peace keeping efforts around the world today, American Indian and Alaska Native people have proudly served and dedicated their lives in the military readiness and defense of our country in wartime and in peace. In fact, their participation rate in the Armed Forces far outstrips the rates of all other groups in this Nation. Many American Indian men and women gave their lives selflessly in the defense of this Nation even before they were granted American citizenship in 1924. Many of the words in our language have been borrowed from Native languages, including many of the names of the rivers, cities, and States across our Nation. Indian arts and crafts have also made a distinct impression on our heritage. It is my hope that by designating the month of November 1999, as ``National American Indian Heritage Month,'' we will continue to encourage self-esteem, pride, and self awareness amongst American Indians and Alaska Natives of all ages. Many schools, organizations, Federal, State, Tribal and local governments can also plan activities and programs to celebrate the achievements of American Indians and Alaska Natives. November is a special time in the history of the United States; we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday by remembering the American Indians and English settlers as they enjoyed the bounty of their harvest and the promise of new kinships. By recognizing the many Native contributions to the arts, governance, and culture of our Nation, we will honor their past and ensure a place in America for Native people for generations to come. I ask for the support of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for this resolution, and urge the Senate to pass this important matter.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I appreciate my good friend from Oklahoma bringing this to our attention. I have long been a supporter of Impact Aid, and I can speak to this issue from personal experience. For 20 years, my wife Linda taught at a school in southwest Colorado which is dependent upon the program, so I know firsthand its vital importance. In fact, more than 24 million acres of land in Colorado are federally owned lands. Impact Aid eases the burden on surrounding school districts with a smaller tax base because of these Federal lands, ensuring a high- quality education for all students. My home State of Colorado has lost 16 percent in funding since this program was reauthorized in 1994. As the Impact Aid reauthorization is considered early next year, I look forward to a fair and honest evaluation of the funding formula.