Ben Campbell

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Today I join my colleague, Senator Hatch, in introducing the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act Amendments of 1999. These amendments, which are desperately needed, will help to provide much needed relief and assistance to many victims of uranium exposure and make this Act more consistent with current medical knowledge. From 1946 to 1971, the United States purchased domestically-mined uranium for our nuclear weapons arsenal. Many of these mines were located in western Colorado, affecting citizens in my state. With the uranium mined there, in my colleague's state of Utah and throughout the western United States, we were able to develop vast stores of nuclear weapons, which were the key to our national security. The cold war demanded that we keep producing these weapons in order to keep up with, and defend ourselves against, the former Soviet Union. It was not until many years later that scientists began to realize that, ironically, the uranium we were mining to help create weapons to protect us in a nuclear war, was actually killing those men who mined it. Also harmed were those brave men and women who participated in atmospheric tests of the weapons armed with the uranium. By 1971, the Atomic Energy Commission had put in place, and fully implemented, ventilation and safety procedures which greatly reduced the threat of radiation exposure. But for those miners and test-site participants who were involved in the atomic weapons program in the years before the changes, there was little more available for them than a kind word and pat on the back as they developed cancer and other diseases. In 1990, we took steps to change the way we treated these victims. I cosponsored a measure in the House which allowed victims of certain types of radiation exposure to file claims with the Department of Justice and collect up to $100,000 in damages. It was the first step toward acknowledging the unknown sacrifice many of those miners and test participants made to win the cold war. With the passage of the law, the Committee on the Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation (BEIR) began further researching the health effects of radiation exposure. Their studies have revealed that several other types of cancer and nonmalignant respiratory diseases are caused by exposure to radiation, in addition to those listed in the original act. Furthermore, the BEIR Committee has discovered that many of the factors we thought contributed to cancer, such as coffee consumption, actually have no effect. Additionally, the unnecessarily long length of exposure, sometimes as high as 500 working level months, was determined by experts to be excessive and difficult to accurately measure and prove. The findings of the BEIR Committee have led us to seek to update the original law, with the advice and input of many experts in the health and mining fields, by amending the act with the latest scientific research. It's time to finish what we started in the 1990 act. These victims need to be treated fairly and receive adequate care. We also owe it to the other people who worked with uranium to continue studying the effects of their contribution on their health. That's why this bill expands coverage to other uranium victims and establishes grant programs for education and the prevention and early detection of radiogenic diseases. I ask my colleagues to join us today in making good on our promise to these people who so dutifully served their nation.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to introduce the Native American Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program Consolidation Act of 1999, to enable Indian tribes to consolidate and integrate alcohol and substance abuse prevention, diagnosis, and treatment programs to provide unified and more effective services to Native Americans. Native communities continue to be plagued by alcohol and substance abuse at staggering rates and this abuse is wreaking havoc on Native families across the country. Unfortunately, alcohol continues to be an important risk factor associated with the top three killers of Native youth--accidents, suicide, and homicide. Based on 1993 data, the rate of mortality due to alcoholism among Native youth ages 15 to 24 was 5.2 per 100,000, which is 17 times the rate for whites of the same age. Native Americans have higher rates of alcohol and drug use than any other racial or ethnic group. Despite previous treatment and preventive efforts, alcoholism and substance abuse continue to be prevalent among Native youth: 82 percent of Native adolescents admitted to having used alcohol, compared with 66 percent of non-Native youth. In a 1994 school-based study, 39 percent of Native high school seniors reported having ``gotten drunk'' and 39 percent of Native kids admitted to using marijuana. Alcohol and substance abuse also contributes to other social problems including sexually transmitted diseases, child and spousal abuse, poor school achievement and dropout, drunk-driving related deaths, mental health problems, hopelessness and, too commonly, suicide. The Federal Government offers several disparate and currently uncoordinated substance abuse prevention and treatment programs for which Native Americans are eligible. This bill addresses how to best coordinate these programs so that the resources are effectively targeted at the communities that need them. Program funds from the Department of Education include the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education's Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities--National Programs; and the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities--State Grants. In the Department of Health and Human Services the programs include the Administration for Children and Families' (ACF) Social Services Block Grant; the Indian Health Service's (IHS) Urban Indian Health Services funds; the IHS's Research funds; the IHS's Alcohol and Substance Abuse services including outpatient visits, inpatient days, regional treatment centers, admissions, aftercare referrals, and emergency placements; the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Grants for Residential Treatment Programs for Pregnant and Postpartum Women; the SAMHSA Demonstration Grants for Residential Treatment for women and their Children; the SAMHSA Cooperative Agreements for Substance Abuse Treatment and Recovery Systems for Rural, Remote and Culturally Distinct Populations; the SAMHSA Mental Health Planning and Demonstration Projects; the SAMHSA Demonstration Grants for the Prevention of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Among High-Risk Populations; the SAMHSA Demonstration Grants on Model Projects for Pregnant and Postpartum Women and their Infants; the SAMHSA Comprehensive Residential Drug Prevention and Treatment, Projects for Substance-Using Women and their Children; and the SAMHSA Block Grants for Prevention and Treatment of Substance Abuse. Programs in the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) include Community Planning and Development, Shelter Plus Care; and HUD's Drug Elimination Grant funds. Department of the Interior program funds include the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Services to Indian Children, Elderly and Families funds. Programs in the Department of Justice include National Institute of Justice, Justice Research, Development, and Evaluation Project Grants. The Department of Transportation funds include National Highway Traffic Safety Administration/Federal Highway Administration funds. Funds available through the National Institutes of Health--National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism include several different grant programs for minorities and the prevention of alcohol abuse. The goal of this bill is to authorize tribal governments and inter- tribal organizations to consolidate these programs through a single Federal office, in the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and use a single implementation plan to reduce the administrative and bureaucratic processes and result in more and better services to Native Americans. This legislation tracks the widely-hailed and very successful ``477 model'' that Indian tribes have had used to effectively coordinate employment training and related services through the Indian Employment Training and Related Services Demonstration Act of 1992 (Pub. Law 102-477). Under the ``477 model,'' an applicant tribe can file a single comprehensive plan to draw and coordinate resources from many federal agencies and administer them through one office, the Bureau of Indian Affairs in the Department of the Interior. To facilitate this inter-agency resource transfer, Secretaries of named agencies are required to negotiate and enter into memoranda of understanding. The bill I am introducing today mirrors the ``477 model'' for purposes of alcohol and drug abuse resources. I am certain that with this authority, Indian tribes can achieve the same high level of success they have had in the employment training field. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the legislation be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to introduce the Native American Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program Consolidation Act of 1999, to enable Indian tribes to consolidate and integrate alcohol and substance abuse prevention, diagnosis, and treatment programs to provide unified and more effective services to Native Americans. Native communities continue to be plagued by alcohol and substance abuse at staggering rates and this abuse is wreaking havoc on Native families across the country. Unfortunately, alcohol continues to be an important risk factor associated with the top three killers of Native youth--accidents, suicide, and homicide. Based on 1993 data, the rate of mortality due to alcoholism among Native youth ages 15 to 24 was 5.2 per 100,000, which is 17 times the rate for whites of the same age. Native Americans have higher rates of alcohol and drug use than any other racial or ethnic group. Despite previous treatment and preventive efforts, alcoholism and substance abuse continue to be prevalent among Native youth: 82 percent of Native adolescents admitted to having used alcohol, compared with 66 percent of non-Native youth. In a 1994 school-based study, 39 percent of Native high school seniors reported having ``gotten drunk'' and 39 percent of Native kids admitted to using marijuana. Alcohol and substance abuse also contributes to other social problems including sexually transmitted diseases, child and spousal abuse, poor school achievement and dropout, drunk-driving related deaths, mental health problems, hopelessness and, too commonly, suicide. The Federal Government offers several disparate and currently uncoordinated substance abuse prevention and treatment programs for which Native Americans are eligible. This bill addresses how to best coordinate these programs so that the resources are effectively targeted at the communities that need them. Program funds from the Department of Education include the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education's Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities--National Programs; and the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities--State Grants. In the Department of Health and Human Services the programs include the Administration for Children and Families' (ACF) Social Services Block Grant; the Indian Health Service's (IHS) Urban Indian Health Services funds; the IHS's Research funds; the IHS's Alcohol and Substance Abuse services including outpatient visits, inpatient days, regional treatment centers, admissions, aftercare referrals, and emergency placements; the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Grants for Residential Treatment Programs for Pregnant and Postpartum Women; the SAMHSA Demonstration Grants for Residential Treatment for women and their Children; the SAMHSA Cooperative Agreements for Substance Abuse Treatment and Recovery Systems for Rural, Remote and Culturally Distinct Populations; the SAMHSA Mental Health Planning and Demonstration Projects; the SAMHSA Demonstration Grants for the Prevention of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Among High-Risk Populations; the SAMHSA Demonstration Grants on Model Projects for Pregnant and Postpartum Women and their Infants; the SAMHSA Comprehensive Residential Drug Prevention and Treatment, Projects for Substance-Using Women and their Children; and the SAMHSA Block Grants for Prevention and Treatment of Substance Abuse. Programs in the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) include Community Planning and Development, Shelter Plus Care; and HUD's Drug Elimination Grant funds. Department of the Interior program funds include the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Services to Indian Children, Elderly and Families funds. Programs in the Department of Justice include National Institute of Justice, Justice Research, Development, and Evaluation Project Grants. The Department of Transportation funds include National Highway Traffic Safety Administration/Federal Highway Administration funds. Funds available through the National Institutes of Health--National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism include several different grant programs for minorities and the prevention of alcohol abuse. The goal of this bill is to authorize tribal governments and inter- tribal organizations to consolidate these programs through a single Federal office, in the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and use a single implementation plan to reduce the administrative and bureaucratic processes and result in more and better services to Native Americans. This legislation tracks the widely-hailed and very successful ``477 model'' that Indian tribes have had used to effectively coordinate employment training and related services through the Indian Employment Training and Related Services Demonstration Act of 1992 (Pub. Law 102-477). Under the ``477 model,'' an applicant tribe can file a single comprehensive plan to draw and coordinate resources from many federal agencies and administer them through one office, the Bureau of Indian Affairs in the Department of the Interior. To facilitate this inter-agency resource transfer, Secretaries of named agencies are required to negotiate and enter into memoranda of understanding. The bill I am introducing today mirrors the ``477 model'' for purposes of alcohol and drug abuse resources. I am certain that with this authority, Indian tribes can achieve the same high level of success they have had in the employment training field. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the legislation be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Madam President, today the Senate is taking another important step toward enacting sweepstakes reform legislation. Today we continue the good fight that was launched nearly fourteen months ago when the Senate first began consideration of sweepstakes reform legislation. I was pleased to lead the fight for sweepstakes reform on June 5th, 1998, in the 105th Congress, when I introduced S. 2414, the Honesty in Sweepstakes Act of 1998. This was the first legislation of its kind. A few months later, on September 1st, 1998, a high-impact Senate hearing focusing on the Honesty in Sweepstakes Act of 1998 attracted national attention and widespread public support. That hearing, followed by a series of hearings chaired by Senator Collins this year, was the turning point in the battle for sweepstakes reform and helped generate the powerful momentum that has carried sweepstakes reform forward. I was prompted to fight for Honesty in Sweepstakes when I heard far too many horrible stories about how consumers, especially our seniors, were being taken advantage of, and all too often seriously financially harmed by sweepstakes promotions that prey upon people's hopes and dreams by making convincing yet false promises of riches. They use massive mailing lists to deliberately target our most vulnerable consumers with false promises of riches and then bombard them again and again. Since I first introduced the Honesty in Sweepstakes Act I have been contacted by many people from Colorado and all over the country with stories of their unfortunate experiences with sweepstakes promotions. They told stories of how their loved ones, often their elderly parents, had squandered many thousands of dollars after having been lured in by cleverly presented promotions promising instant riches. Many people from all over the country have also sent me large envelopes stuffed full of examples of the misleading sweepstakes promotions they and their loved ones have received. I am pleased to be an early cosponsor of the bill we consider today, S. 335, the Deceptive Mail Prevention and Enforcement Act, which was introduced by my colleague Senator Collins. This bill includes a number of provisions similar to those I included in the Honesty in Sweepstakes Act. There are two additional provisions included in S. 335 that I believe will be especially beneficial in the fight against misleading sweepstakes. The first calls for establishing centralized and easy to access toll free phone numbers where consumers' questions can be answered. The second provision makes it much easier for people to have their names removed from mailing lists. Our nation's seniors and other vulnerable consumers are clearly being taken advantage of, and in some cases seriously financially harmed, by intentionally misleading sweepstakes promotions. Something needs to be done. I support passage of this legislation to bring this harmful practice to a halt.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President. Today I express my support for S. 1429, The Taxpayer Refund Act of 1999. This is a sound bill based on real need and I believe the American taxpayers deserve and want this legislation. The Taxpayer Refund Act of 1999 goes a long way to relieve taxpayers of an unfair tax burden. This bill provides: broad-based tax relief; family tax relief by addressing the Marriage Penalty Tax; retirement savings and education incentives; health care tax reductions; small business tax relief; international tax reform, and death and gift tax relief, among other provisions. I am particularly interested in the estate tax relief because earlier this year I introduced the Estate and Gift Tax Rate Reduction Act of 1999, (S. 38). Estate and gift taxes remain a burden on American families, particularly those who pursue the American dream of owning their own business. This is because family-owned businesses and farms are hit with the highest tax rate when they are handed down to descendants--often immediately following the death of a loved one. These taxes, and the financial burdens and difficulties they create come at the worst possible time. Making a terrible situation worse is the fact that the rate of this estate tax is crushing, reaching as high as 55 percent for the highest bracket. That's higher than even the highest income tax rate bracket of 39 percent. Furthermore, the tax is due as soon as the business is turned over to the heir, allowing no time for financial planning or the setting aside of money to pay the tax bills. Estate and gift taxes right now are one of the leading reasons why the number of family-owned farms and businesses are declining; the burden of this tax is just too much. This tax sends the troubling message that families should either sell the business while they are still alive, in order to spare their descendants this huge tax after their passing, or run-down the value of the business, so that it won't make it into their higher tax brackets. Whichever the case may be, it hardly seems to encourage private investment and initiative, which have always been such a strong part of our American heritage. I am pleased that the bill before us takes the important step to address this unfair burden. I will continue to work with my colleagues for the complete elimination of the death tax. I have heard the argument that this tax cut will threaten Social Security, but that's just not true. In fact, this bill saves every penny of the money set aside for Social Security. Social Security is safe and secure with this bill. This bill also leaves $277 billion to finance Medicare, emergencies or other priorities, so this bill does not threaten Medicare or Medicare beneficiaries. In contrast, the administration's budget would increase spending by $1 trillion and increase taxes by $100 billion over the next 10 years according to the Congressional Budget Office. How can this administration believe that they can increase spending and taxes even though they already admitted raising taxes too much? I think since we now have a balanced budget, then the American people deserve this tax cut. The American people have earned this tax cut, this is their money and I think we should give it back to them. I know that $792 billion is a lot of money, but we have a $3 trillion surplus and one reason we have a $3 trillion surplus is the taxpayers got their taxes raised too much. I realize that we could just go ahead and spend that extra money like the administration wants to do, but I think that would be irresponsible. I think if the American people overpaid, then the American people should get their money back--that's just fair. The Taxpayer Refund Act of 1999 is the largest middle-class tax relief since the Reagan administration and I think it's high time the hard-working taxpayer get this refund. I ask unanimous consent to have pertinent information printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I take this opportunity today in my capacity as Co-Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, known as the Helsinki Commission, to draw the attention of my Senate colleagues to the growing problem of official and unofficial corruption abroad and the direct impact on U.S. business. Last week I chaired a Commission hearing that focused on the issues of bribery and corruption in the OSCE region, an area stretching from Vancouver to Vladivostok. The Commission heard that, in economic terms, rampant corruption and organized crime in this vast region has cost U.S. businesses billions of dollars in lost contracts with direct implications for our economy here at home. Ironically, Mr. President, in some of the biggest recipients of U.S. foreign assistance--countries like Russia and Ukraine--the climate is either not conducive or outright hostile to American business. This week a delegation of Russian officials led by Prime Minister Sergei Stepashin are meeting with the Vice President and other administration officials to seek support of the transfer of billions of dollars in loans and other assistance, money which ultimately comes from the pockets of U.S. taxpayers. I recently returned from the annual session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in St. Petersburg, Russia, where I had an opportunity to sit down with U.S. business representatives to learn from their first-hand experiences and gain a deeper insight into the obstacles they face. During the 105th Congress, I introduced legislation--the International Anti-Corruption Act--to link U.S. foreign aid to how conducive recipient countries are to business investment. I intend to reintroduce that legislation shortly, taking into account testimony presented during last week's Commission hearing. The time has come to stop doing business as usual with the Russians and others who gladly line up to receive our assistance then turn around and fleece U.S. businesses seeking to assist with the establishment of legitimate operations in these countries. An article in the Washington Post this week illustrates the type of rampant and blatant corruption faced by many in the U.S. business community, including companies based in my home state of Colorado. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the full text of this article be printed in the Record. There being on objection, the material was ordered to be printed in

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, instead of jumping on the bandwagon to pump billions of additional tax dollars into a black hole in Russia, the administration should be pressing the Russian leadership, including Prime Minister Stepashin, to root out the kinds of bribery and corruption described in this article that have an overall chilling effect on much needed foreign investment. Left unchecked, such corruption will continue to undermine Russia's fledgling democracy and the rule of law and further impede moves toward a genuine free market economy.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, are we in morning business?

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am pleased to introduce the National Law Enforcement Museum Act of 1999. This legislation would authorize the construction of a National Law Enforcement Museum to be built here in our Nation's Capital. Just over one year ago, this institution, along with millions of other Americans, were reminded about the risks that our officers must face on a daily basis. On July 24, 1998, U.S. Capitol Police Officer Jacob J. Chestnut and Detective John Gibson were killed by a deranged man. This legislation I introduce today will ensure that their story of heroism and sacrifice is never forgotten, just as we must never forget the thousands of other officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice to secure the safety and well-being of our communities. As a former deputy sheriff, I know first-hand the risks peace officers face in enforcing our laws. Throughout our nation's history, nearly 15,000 federal, state, and local law enforcement officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. Based on FBI statistics, nearly 63,000 officers are assaulted each year in this country, resulting in more than 21,000 injuries. On average, one police officer is killed somewhere in America every 54 hours. Approximately 740,000 law enforcement professionals are continuing to put their lives on the line for the safety and protection of others. We owe all of those officers a huge debt of gratitude, and it is only fitting that we properly commemorate this outstanding record of service and sacrifice. My legislation seeks to achieve this important goal by authorizing the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, a nonprofit organization, to establish a comprehensive law enforcement museum and research repository on federal land in the District of Columbia. The Fund is the same group that so ably carried out the congressional mandate of 1984 to establish the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, which was dedicated in 1991 just a few blocks from the Capitol. Clearly, their record of significant achievement speaks volumes about their ability to meet this important challenge. Since 1993, the Fund has efficiently operated a small-scale version of the National Law Enforcement Museum at a site located about two blocks from the Memorial. The time has come to broaden the scope of this museum and move it in closer proximity to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. This museum would serve as a repository of information for researchers, practitioners, and the general public. The museum will become the premiere source of information on issues related to law enforcement history and safety, and obviously a popular tourist attraction in Washington, DC, as well. The ideal location for this museum is directly across from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial on a parcel of federal-owned property that now functions as a parking lot. The building, as planned, will have underground parking for the judicial officers who currently use this lot. Under my legislation, no federal dollars are being proposed to establish this museum. Rather, the Fund would raise all of the money necessary to construct the museum through private donations. Recognizing the national importance of this museum, however, the legislation states that upon completion of the museum facility the Secretary of the Interior and the Administrator of the General Services Administration will be responsible for the maintenance of the exterior grounds and interior space, respectively. The legislation places the responsibility of operating the museum in the hands of the Fund. Finally, let me add that this legislation is supported by 15 national law enforcement organizations: the Concerns of Police Survivors; the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association; the Fraternal Order of Police; the Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary; the International Association of Chiefs of Police; the International Brotherhood of Police Officers; the International Union of Police Associations/AFL- CIO; the National Association of Police Organizations; the National Black Police Association; the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives; the National Sheriffs Association; the National Troopers Coalition; the Police Executive Research Forum; the Police Foundation; the United Federation of Police; and the National Law Enforcement Council. Together, these organizations represent virtually every law enforcement officer, family member and police survivor in the United States. Mr. President, as we remember the sacrifices made by Officer Chestnut, Detective Gibson and so many other brave officers, I strongly urge my colleagues in the Senate to join me in support of this important legislation. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the legislation and letters of support be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am pleased to introduce the National Law Enforcement Museum Act of 1999. This legislation would authorize the construction of a National Law Enforcement Museum to be built here in our Nation's Capital. Just over one year ago, this institution, along with millions of other Americans, were reminded about the risks that our officers must face on a daily basis. On July 24, 1998, U.S. Capitol Police Officer Jacob J. Chestnut and Detective John Gibson were killed by a deranged man. This legislation I introduce today will ensure that their story of heroism and sacrifice is never forgotten, just as we must never forget the thousands of other officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice to secure the safety and well-being of our communities. As a former deputy sheriff, I know first-hand the risks peace officers face in enforcing our laws. Throughout our nation's history, nearly 15,000 federal, state, and local law enforcement officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. Based on FBI statistics, nearly 63,000 officers are assaulted each year in this country, resulting in more than 21,000 injuries. On average, one police officer is killed somewhere in America every 54 hours. Approximately 740,000 law enforcement professionals are continuing to put their lives on the line for the safety and protection of others. We owe all of those officers a huge debt of gratitude, and it is only fitting that we properly commemorate this outstanding record of service and sacrifice. My legislation seeks to achieve this important goal by authorizing the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, a nonprofit organization, to establish a comprehensive law enforcement museum and research repository on federal land in the District of Columbia. The Fund is the same group that so ably carried out the congressional mandate of 1984 to establish the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, which was dedicated in 1991 just a few blocks from the Capitol. Clearly, their record of significant achievement speaks volumes about their ability to meet this important challenge. Since 1993, the Fund has efficiently operated a small-scale version of the National Law Enforcement Museum at a site located about two blocks from the Memorial. The time has come to broaden the scope of this museum and move it in closer proximity to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. This museum would serve as a repository of information for researchers, practitioners, and the general public. The museum will become the premiere source of information on issues related to law enforcement history and safety, and obviously a popular tourist attraction in Washington, DC, as well. The ideal location for this museum is directly across from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial on a parcel of federal-owned property that now functions as a parking lot. The building, as planned, will have underground parking for the judicial officers who currently use this lot. Under my legislation, no federal dollars are being proposed to establish this museum. Rather, the Fund would raise all of the money necessary to construct the museum through private donations. Recognizing the national importance of this museum, however, the legislation states that upon completion of the museum facility the Secretary of the Interior and the Administrator of the General Services Administration will be responsible for the maintenance of the exterior grounds and interior space, respectively. The legislation places the responsibility of operating the museum in the hands of the Fund. Finally, let me add that this legislation is supported by 15 national law enforcement organizations: the Concerns of Police Survivors; the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association; the Fraternal Order of Police; the Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary; the International Association of Chiefs of Police; the International Brotherhood of Police Officers; the International Union of Police Associations/AFL- CIO; the National Association of Police Organizations; the National Black Police Association; the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives; the National Sheriffs Association; the National Troopers Coalition; the Police Executive Research Forum; the Police Foundation; the United Federation of Police; and the National Law Enforcement Council. Together, these organizations represent virtually every law enforcement officer, family member and police survivor in the United States. Mr. President, as we remember the sacrifices made by Officer Chestnut, Detective Gibson and so many other brave officers, I strongly urge my colleagues in the Senate to join me in support of this important legislation. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the legislation and letters of support be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will meet during the session of the Senate on Tuesday, August 3, 1999 at 10:00 a.m. to conduct a hearing on S. 964, a bill to provide for equitable compensation for the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. The hearing will be held in room 485, Russell Senate Office Building. Please direct any inquiries to committee staff at 202/224-2251. committee on indian affairs

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will meet during the session of the Senate on Tuesday, August 3, 1999 at 2:30 p.m. to conduct a hearing on S. 692, a bill to prohibit Internet Gaming. The hearing will be held in room 485, Russell Senate Office Building. Please direct any inquiries to committee staff at 202/224-2251. committee on indian affairs

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, August 4, 1999 at 9:30 a.m. to conduct a hearing on S. 299, a bill to elevate the Director of the Indian Health Service to an Assistant Secretary for Indian Health within the Department of Health and Human Services; and S. 406, a bill to allow tribes to bill directly for Medicare and Medicaid; to be followed by a business meeting, to consider pending legislation. The hearing/meeting will be held in room 485, Russell Senate Office Building. Please direct any inquiries to committee staff at 202/224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 21, 1999, at 9:30 a.m. to conduct a hearing on S. 985, the Intergovernmental Gaming Agreement Act of 1999. The hearing will be held in room 106, Dirksen Senate Office Building. Please direct any inquiries to committee staff at 202/224-2251. committee on Energy and Natural Resources

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to provide a report to my colleagues on the successful congressional delegate trip last week to St. Petersburg, Russia, to participate in the Eighth Annual Parliamentary Assembly Session of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, known as the OSCE PA. As Co-chairman of the Helsinki Commission, I headed the Senate delegation in coordination with the Commission Chairman, Congressman Chris Smith. the parliamentary assembly This year's congressional delegation of 17 members was the largest representation by any country at the proceedings and was welcomed as a demonstration of continued U.S. commitment to security in Europe. Approximately 300 parliamentarians from 52 OSCE participating states took part in this year's meeting of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. My objectives in St. Petersburg were to advance American interests in a region of vital security and economic importance to the United States; to elevate the issues of crime and corruption among the 54 OSCE countries; to develop new linkages for my home state of Colorado; and to identify concrete ways to help American businesses. crime and corruption The three General Committees focused on a central theme: ``Common Security and Democracy in the Twenty-First Century.'' I served on the Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and the Environment Committee which took up the issue of corruption and its impact on business and the rule of law. I sponsored two amendments that highlighted the importance of combating corruption and organized crime, offering concrete proposals for the establishment of high-level inter-agency mechanisms to fight corruption in each of the OSCE participating states. My amendments also called for the convening of a ministerial meeting to promote cooperation among these states to combat corruption and organized crime. My anti-corruption amendment was based on the premise that corruption has a negative impact on foreign investment, on human rights, on democracy building and on the rule of law. Any investor nation should have the right to expect anti-corruption practices in those countries in which they seek to invest. Significant progress has been made with the ratification of the new OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions. Under the OECD Convention, companies from the leading exporting nations will have to comply with certain ethical standards in their business dealings with foreign public officials. And, last July, the OSCE and the OECD held a joint conference to assess ways to combat corruption and organized crime within the OSCE region. I believe we must build on this initiative, and offered my amendment to urge the convening of a ministerial meeting with the goal of making specific recommendations to the member states about steps which can be taken to eliminate this primary threat to economic stability and security and major obstacle to U.S. businesses seeking to invest and operate abroad. My anti-crime amendment was intended to address the negative impact that crime has on our countries and our citizens. Violent crime, international crime, organized crime and drug trafficking all undermine the rule of law, a healthy business climate and democracy building. This amendment was based on my personal experiences as one of the only members of the United States Senate with a law enforcement background and on congressional testimony that we are witnessing an increase in the incidence of international crime, and we are seeing a type of crime which our countries have not dealt with before. During the opening Plenary Session on July 6, we heard from the Governor of St. Petersburg, Vladimir Yakolev, about how the use of drugs is on the rise in Russia and how more needs to be done to help our youth. On July 7, I had the opportunity to visit the Russian Police Training Academy at St. Petersburg University and met with General Victor Salnikov, the Chief of the University. I was impressed with the General's accomplishments and how many senior Russian officials who are graduates of the university, including the Prime Minister, governors, and members of the Duma. General Salnikov and I discussed the OSCE's work on crime and drugs, and he urged us to act. The General stressed that this affects all of civilized society and all countries must do everything they can to reduce drug trafficking and crime. After committee consideration and adoption of my amendments, I was approached by Senator Jerry Grafstein from Canada who indicated how important it was to elevate the issues of crime and corruption in the OSCE framework. I look forward to working with Senator Grafstein and other parliamentarians on these important issues at future multi-lateral meetings. cultural linkages with colorado St. Petersburg is rich in culture and educational resources. This grand city is home to 1,270 public, private and educational libraries; 181 museums of art, nature, history and culture; 106 theaters; 52 palaces; and 417 cultural organizations. Our delegation visit provided an excellent opportunity to explore linkages between some of these resources with the many museums and performing arts centers in Colorado. On Thursday, July 8, I met with Tatyana Kuzmina, the Executive Director for the St. Petersburg Association for International Cooperation, and Natalia Koltomova, Senior Development Officer for the State Museum of the History of St. Petersburg. We learned that museums and the orchestras have exchanges in New York, Michigan and California. Ms. Kuzmina was enthusiastic about exploring cultural exchanges with Denver and other communities in Colorado. I look toward to following up with her, the U.S. Consulate in St. Petersburg, and leaders in the Colorado fine arts community to help make such cultural exchanges a reality. As proof that the world is getting smaller all the time, I was pleasantly surprised to encounter a group of 20 Coloradans on tour. In fact, there were so many from Grand Junction alone, we could have held a Town Meeting right there in St. Petersburg! In our conversations, it was clear we shared the same impressions of the significant potential that that city has to offer in future linkages with Colorado. I ask unanimous consent that a list of the Coloradans whom I met be printed in the Record following my remarks.

Mr. CAMPBELL. In the last Congress, I introduced the International Anti-Corruption Act of 1997 (S. 1200) which would tie U.S. foreign aid to how conducive foreign countries are to American businesses and investment. As I prepare to reintroduce this bill in the 106th Congress and to work on combating crime and corruption within the OSCE framework, I participated in a meeting of U.S. business representatives on Friday, July 9, convened by the Russian-American Chamber of Commerce, headquartered in Denver. We were joined by my colleagues, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, Senator George Voinovich and my fellow Coloradan, Congressman Tom Tancredo. We heard first-hand about the challenges of doing business in Russia from representatives of U.S. companies, including Lockheed Martin Astronautics, PepsiCo, the Gillette Company, Coudert Brothers, and Colliers HIB St. Petersburg. Some issues, such as export licensing, counterfeiting and corruption are being addressed in the Senate. But, many issues these companies face are integral to the Russian business culture, such as taxation, the devaluation of the rouble, and lack of infrastructure. My colleagues and I will be following up on ways to assist U.S. businesses and investment abroad. In addition, on Wednesday, July 7, I participated in a meeting at the St. Petersburg Investment Center. The main focus of the meeting was the presentation of a replica of Fort Ross in California, the first Russian outpost in the United States, to the Acting U.S. Consul General on behalf of the Governor of California. We heard from Anatoly Razdoglin and Valentin Makarov of the St. Petersburg Administration; Slava Bychkov, American Chamber of Commerce in Russia, St. Petersburg Chapter; Valentin Mishanov, Russian State Marine Archive; and Vitaly Dozenko, Marine Academy. The discussion ranged from U.S. investment in St. Petersburg and the many redevelopment projects which are planned or underway in the city. Crime and Drugs As I mentioned, on Wednesday, July 7, I toured the Russia Police Training Academy at St. Petersburg University and met with General Victor Salnikov, the Chief of the University. This facility is the largest organization in Russia which prepares law enforcement officers and is the largest law institute in the country. The University has 35,000 students and 5,000 instructors. Among the law enforcement candidates, approximately 30 percent are women. The Police Training Academy has close contacts with a number of countries, including the U.S., France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Finland, Israel and others. Areas of cooperation include police training, counterfeiting, computer crimes, and programs to combat drug trafficking. I was informed that the Academy did not have a formal working relationship with the National Institute of Justice, the research and development arm of the U.S. Department of Justice which operates an extensive international information-sharing program. I intend to call for this bilateral linkage to facilitate collaboration and the exchange of information, research and publications which will benefit law enforcement in both countries fight crime and drugs. U.S.-Russia Relations In addition to the discussions in the plenary sessions of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, we had the opportunity to raise issues of importance in a special bilateral meeting between the U.S. and Russia delegations on Thursday morning, July 8. Members of our delegation raised issues including anti-Semitism in the Duma, developments in Kosovo, the case of environmental activist Aleksandr Nikitin, the assassination of Russian Parliamentarian Galina Starovoitova, and the trafficking of women and children. As the author of the Senate Resolution condemning anti-Semitism in the Duma (S. Con. Res. 19), I took the opportunity of this bilateral session to let the Russian delegation, including the Speaker of the State Duma, know how seriously we in the United States feel about the importance of having a governmental policy against anti-Semitism. We also stressed that anti-Semitic remarks by their Duma members are intolerable. I look forward to working with Senator Helms to move S. Con. Res. 19 through the Foreign Relations Committee to underscore the strong message we delivered to the Russians in St. Petersburg. We had the opportunity to discuss the prevalence of anti-Semitism and the difficulties which minority religious organizations face in Russia at a gathering of approximately 100 non-governmental organizations (NGOs), religious leaders and business representatives, hosted by the U.S. Delegation on Friday, July 9. We heard about the restrictions placed on religious freedoms and how helpful many American non-profit organizations are in supporting the NGO's efforts. I am pleased to report that the U.S. Delegation had a significant and positive impact in advancing U.S. interests during the Eighth OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Session in St. Petersburg. To provide my colleagues with additional information, I ask unanimous consent that my formal report to Majority Leader Lott be printed in the Record following my remarks.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Thank you, Mr. President, I yield the floor. Exhibit No. 1 Coloradans in St. Petersburg, Russia Iva Allen, Grand Junction. Kay Coulson, Grand Junction. Inez Dodson, Grand Junction. Isabel Downing, Grand Junction. Terry Eakle, Greeley. Betty Elliott, Grand Junction. Dorothy Evans, Grand Junction. Kay Hamilton, Grand Junction. Helen Kauffman, Grand Junction. Nancy Koos, Denver. Dick and Jay McElroy, Grand Junction. Lyla Michaels, Glenwood Springs. Carol Mitchell, Grand Junction. Neal and Sonya Morris, Grand Junction. Pat Oates, Grand Junction. Kawna Safford, Grand Junction. Phyllis Safford , Grand Junction. Dorothy Smith, Grand Junction. Irene Stark, Montrose. Exhibit No. 2 Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, Washington, DC, July 14, 1999. Hon. Trent Lott, Majority Leader, United States Senate, Washington, DC. Dear Senator Lott: I am pleased to report to you on the work of the bipartisan congressional delegation which I co- chaired that participated in the Eighth Annual Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), hosted by the Russian Parliament, the Federation Council and the State Duma, in St. Petersburg, July 6-10, 1999. Other participants from the United States Senate were Senator Hutchison of Texas and Senator Voinovich. We were joined by 14 Members of the House: Rep. Smith, Rep. Hoyer, Rep. Sabo, Rep. Kaptur, Rep. Cardin, Rep. Sawyer, Rep. Slaughter, Rep. Stearns, Rep. Tanner, Rep. Danner, Rep. Hastings of Florida, Rep. Salmon, Rep. Cooksey, and Rep. Tancredo. The combined U.S. delegation of 17, the largest representation by any country in St. Petersburg was welcomed by others as a demonstration of the continued commitment of the United States, and the U.S. Congress, to Europe. This year's Assembly brought together nearly 300 parliamentarians from 52 OSCE participating States. Seven countries, including the Russian Federation, were represented at the level of Speaker of Parliament or President of the Senate. The Assembly continued to recognize the democratically elected parliament of Belarus which President Lukashenka dissolved following his illegal power grab in 1996. The inaugural ceremony included a welcoming addresses by the Speaker of the State Duma, Gennady Seleznev, and the Governor of St. Petersburg, Vladimir Yakovlev. The President of the Assembly, Ms. Helle Degn of Denmark, presided. The theme for the St. Petersburg Assembly was ``Common Security and Democracy in the Twenty-First Century.'' Foreign Minister Knut Vollenback of Norway addressed the Assembly in his capacity of OSCE Chairman-in-Office to report on the organization's activities, particularly those relating to post-conflict rehabilitation and reconstruction in Kosovo. Vollenbaek urged the Parliamentary Assembly and its members to play an active role in promoting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in Kosovo. Considerable attention was given to the Stability Pact for Southeastern Europe throughout the discussions on Kosovo. Members of the U.S. delegation actively participated in a special plenary session on Kosovo and contributed to a draft resolution concerning the situation in Kosovo. The delegation was successful in securing adoption of several amendments; underscoring the legal obligation of State to cooperate with the International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia; granting access to all prisoners by the International Committee on the Red Cross; extending humanitarian assistance to other parts of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia; and supporting democracy in Serbia and Montenegro. Senator Voinovich introduced a separate resolution stressing the urgent need to support infrastructure projects which would benefit neighboring countries in the Balkans region. This resolution was widely supported and adopted unanimously. Work in the Assembly's three General Committee--Political Affairs and Security; Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment; and Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions--focused on the central theme: ``Common Security and Democracy in the Twenty-First Century.'' During discussion in the General Committee on Political Affairs and Security, the U.S. pressed for greater transparency with respect to OSCE activities in Vienna, urging that meetings of the Permanent Council be open to the public and media. Considerable discussion focused on the Assembly's long-standing recommendation to modify the consensus rule that governs all decisions taken by the OSCE. During the closing session Rep. Hastings was unanimously elected committee Vice Chairman. Members offered several amendment to the draft resolution considered by the General Committee on Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment. Two amendments that I sponsored focused on the importance of combating corruption and organized crime, offering concrete proposals for the establishment of high-level inter-agency corruption-fighting mechanisms in each of the OSCE participating States as well as the convening of a ministerial meeting to promote cooperation among these States to combat corruption and organized crime. Other amendments offered by the delegation, and adopted, highlighted the importance of reform of the agricultural sector, bolstering food security in the context of sustainable development, and regulation of capital and labor markets by multilateral organizations. The Rapporteur's report for the General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions focused on the improvement of the human rights situation in the newly independent states. Amendments proposed by the U.S. delegation, and adopted by the Assembly, stressed the need for participating States to fully implement their commitments to prevent discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief and condemned statements by parliamentarians of OSCE participating States promoting or supporting racial or ethnic hatred, anti-Semitism and xenophobia. Other U.S. amendments that were adopted advocated the establishment of permanent Central Election Commissions in emerging democracies and emphasized the need for the Governments of the OSCE participating States to act to ensure that refugees and displaced persons have the right to return to their homes and to regain their property or receive compensation. Two major U.S. initiatives in St. Petersburg were Chairman Smith's resolution on the trafficking of women and children for the sex trade and Rep. Slaughter's memorial resolution on the assassination of Galina Starovoitova, a Russian parliamentarian and an outspoken advocate of democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Russia who was murdered late last year. The trafficking resolution appeals to participating States to create legal and enforcement mechanisms to punish traffickers while protecting the rights of the trafficking victims. The resolution on the assassination called on the Russian Government to use every appropriate avenue to bring Galina Starovoitova's murders to justice. Both items received overwhelming support and were included in the St. Petersburg Declaration adopted during the closing plenary. An ambitious series of bilateral meetings were held between Members of the U.S. delegation and representatives from the Russian Federation, Ukraine, Turkey, France, Romania, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Armenian, Canada, and the United Kingdom. While in St. Petersburg, the delegation met with Aleksandr Nikitin, a former Soviet navy captain being prosecuted for his investigative work exposing nuclear storage problems and resulting radioactive contamination in the area around Murmansk. In addition, the delegation hosted a reception for representatives of non-governmental organizations and U.S. businesses active in the Russian Federation. Elections for officers of the Assembly were held during the final plenary. As. Helle Degn of Denmark was re-elected President. Mr. Bill Graham of Canada was elected Treasurer. Four of the Assembly's nine Vice-Presidents were elected: Mr. Claude Estier (France), Mr. Bruce George (U.K.), Mr. Ihor Ostach (Ukraine), and Mr. Tiit Kabin (Estonia). Rep Hoyer's current term as Vice-President runs through 2001. Enclosed is a copy of the St. Petersburg Declaration adopted by participants at the Assembly's closing session. Finally, the Standing Committee agreed that the Ninth Annual Session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly will be held next July in Bucharest, Romania. Sincerely, Ben Nighthorse Campbell, U.S.S., Co-Chairman.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I submit a resolution in honor of the Women's World Cup Soccer Champions, the U.S. Women's Soccer Team. From the first game of the Women's World Cup in New Jersey, which was played before a sold-out crowd, to the final game at the Rose Bowl filled with 90,185 screaming fans, setting the women's sports record for attendance, this U.S. Women's Soccer Team has inspired us all. The U.S. Women's Soccer Team had an outstanding run during the 1999 Women's World Cup which culminated in an amazing victory against the Chinese in the final game. After 120 minutes of exciting soccer, the game came down to a shoot- out where the U.S. Women's Team prevailed 5 to 4 to become the champions. From Briana Scurry's game winning save to the nail-biting seconds before Brandi Chastain made the winning goal, they had us all sitting on the edge of our chairs. As a former Olympic athlete, I know the dedication and determination that these women must have in order to achieve this tremendous accomplishment. I want to point out that every member of this team either has a college degree or is pursuing one. I can't think of better role models for today's youth than this World Cup Team. I want to congratulate and recognize each and every member of this team and I ask unanimous consent that their names and the resolution be printed in the Record. I would also like to thank my good friend and former Olympian Donna de Varona, the Chairwoman of the Women's World Cup, for her hard work and dedication to ensure that women's soccer is finally given the recognition it deserves. I urge my colleagues to join in strong support of passage of this resolution.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs will meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 21, 1999, at 9:30 a.m. to conduct a hearing on S. 985, the Intergovernmental Gaming Agreement Act of 1999. The hearing will be held in room 485, Russell Senate Building. Please direct any inquiries to committee staff at 202/224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I take this opportunity to comment on the pending bill. In my view, what we are discussing today is the most costly big- government health care plan since the Clinton health care reform plan was debated earlier this decade. We all know the fate of that attempt, and it is my hope we might now allow common sense to play a part in creating a Patients' Bill of Rights. The demands on our health care system have changed dramatically in the past decade. So has our health care system. But, those changes have not affected all people evenly, and it's clear many people have had unfortunate experiences. Going from the traditional doctor-patient relationship into a system where all aspects of care are subject to approval and authorization is understandably difficult. But, as the cost of quality care became an obstacle to access, the concept of managing care has evolved as the predominate method of insured medical service. While health care in America, and our advances in medical technology remain the envy of the world, it would be a serious mistake to pretend that all are well-served by our present health care system. The Federal Government, in an effort to give all Americans access to affordable care, has, in fact, encouraged participation in managed care plans. All federally-sponsored health care, which includes Medicare, Medicaid, the Federal Employees Health Benefit program and military health care, has experienced the emergence of managed care. Now we must deal with the issue of ensuring health care quality as a first priority. And we must do it in a way that will not raise costs of care or cause employers to stop offering health insurance. While managed care has become the dominant delivery method of cost- effective healthcare in our nation, what is missing are standards that will ensure fairness to both patients and providers, and clarify what are often confusing medical and legal terms and hidden rules for both parties. The question before us now is how best to protect these patients while giving the health care industry incentives for finding efficient methods of delivering care. All of us expect the highest quality health care for the citizens of this country, but, that care must be affordable. Anyone that believes having Congress dictate a costly, one-size-fits-all mandate will make health care more affordable or more available is, I believe, severely out of touch with reality. That is why I am concerned about the pending legislation. This bill mandates new regulations which would increase premiums by 6.1 percent, not including inflation. It could raise the cost of a typical family's health insurance policy by more than $300 per year. That is not logical, responsible or acceptable. We have been down this road before with the ``catastrophic health'' bill of 10 years ago. The Senate passed it because people were told premium increases would be minimal. Then people got their bill. This pending bill will drive up the number of uninsured Americans. In my State of Colorado, it is estimated that this legislation would add more than 32,000 persons to the rolls of the uninsured. Our biggest health care problem already is that there are currently 43.5 million uninsured Americans. Who pays for their inevitable medical care? You, I, and every other taxpayer. It is clear that increased mandates increase costs, and that those increased costs reduce coverage. It is no secret that higher health insurance premiums will force employers to drop optional medical coverage they offer employees. That should not be the intention of this legislation, but it is the reality. Every time a mandate raises the cost of insurance by one percent, more than 200,000 Americans lose their coverage. Small businesses would drop coverage if exposed to the pending bill's liability provisions. Canceling coverage leaves patients exposed to expensive medical bills. That's not patient protection. We cannot pass legislation that forces employers to provide health care. They will close shop, because they can't afford it. The pending bill will lead to government-run health care. The bill's mandates could cost the private sector more than $56 billion, greatly exceeding the annual threshold established in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act, which most Members of this body voted for. Many States are currently developing patient-protection legislation through their State legislatures and assemblies. My State of Colorado has already established mandates concerning an independent external review process for denied claims, a ban on gag clauses, and direct access to OB-GYN services. Despite that fact, the pending bill, in an attempt to tighten federal control over the entire U.S. health system, applies federal mandates to all health insurance products. Mr. President, I believe it is time to put the brakes on the runaway one-size-fits-all mandates which are inflicting hardship on our most vulnerable citizens and legitimate health care providers. The time to protect patients and providers is before costly mandates are enacted into law. Let us think ahead. We have already seen through our experience with the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, that well-intentioned solutions enacted by Congress can turn into unworkable, burdensome regulations when imposed on the entire health care system. We are discussing sweeping legislation which, if passed and enacted, will have significant consequences for all Americans and their health care. I believe we can best protect these Americans by making reasonable changes which give them more choices. Let's provide access to affordable, quality care without inventing unnecessary new federal mandates for an already top-heavy health care structure. I believe the Republican Patients' Bill of Rights Plus will do just that. It will improve quality of care and expand consumer choice as well as protect patients' rights. It will hold HMOs accountable for providing the care they promised. It places treatment decisions in the hands of doctors, not lawyers. And, patients have the right to coverage for emergency care that a prudent lay-person would consider medically necessary. The purpose of our bill is to solve problems when care is needed, not later after harm has occurred. Common sense demands we act reasonably. More importantly, the future health care of hundreds of millions of Americans demands we act with their interests in mind. I thank the Chair.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I announce that the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources will meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 14, 1999, at 9:30 a.m., to conduct a joint oversight hearing on the Report of the General Accounting Office (GAO) on the Interior Department's Planned Trust Fund Reform. The hearing will be held in room 216 of the Hart Senate Office Building. Those wishing additional information should contact the Committee on Indian Affairs at (202) 224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. CAMPBELL. This amendment has been cleared on both sides of the aisle, and we are ready to adopt it. I ask unanimous consent the amendment be agreed to.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent reading of the amendment be dispensed with.