Ben Campbell

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, April 9, 2003, at 10 a.m. in Room 485 of the Hart Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing on S. 285, to authorize the integration and consolidation of alcohol and substance abuse programs and services provided by Indian tribal governments, and for other purposes; S. 558, a bill to Elevate the Director of the Indian Health Service to be Assistant Secretary for Indian Health, and for other purposes; and S. 555, to establish the Native American Health and Wellness Foundation, and for other purposes. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am submitting a resolution recognizing October 12, 2003, through October 18, 2003, as National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Week. I am pleased to be joined by thirteen of my colleagues who are original cosponsors of the bill. We are hopeful that greater awareness of cystic fibrosis (CF) will lead to a cure. The resolution is similar to one which I introduced in the 107th Congress, S. Res. 270, which was agreed to by unanimous consent on October 3, 2002. Since then, I have received input from the National Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) and the National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Committee (NCFAC) and have updated the information accordingly. Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common fatal genetic diseases in the United States and there is no known cure. It affects approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States. As recently as 25 years ago, most children born with cystic fibrosis died in early childhood and few survived to their teenage years. Today, most can expect to live past 30. The difference stems from productive research which has led to an understanding of the way cystic fibrosis causes life-threatening damage and to the development of preventive techniques and treatments. While there is no cure, early detection and prompt treatment can significantly improve and extend the lives of those with CF. My home state of Colorado was one of the first states to require CF screening for newborns. Happily, more states are now performing this simple test. And, since the discovery of the defective CF gene in 1989, CF research has greatly accelerated. I am proud that Colorado is home to the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, including the Children's Hospital, the National Jewish Medical and Research Center and the Anschutz Centers for Advanced Medicine, all of which are actively involved in CF research and care. The Children's Hospital is one of fourteen innovative Therapeutics Development Centers nationwide performing cutting edge clinical research to develop new treatments for CF. Currently, the CF Foundation oversees more than 27 potential CF products in its drug development pipeline, including dozens in clinical trials. In addition, small pilot trials and large clinical studies are carried out in the 119 CF Foundation-accredited care centers across the United States. Organizations such as the Cystic Fibrosis Research, Inc. also sponsor studies for treatment of the disease. Efforts such as these throughout the nation are providing a greater quality of life for those who have CF. We applaud these efforts. While I am encouraged by the CF research in Colorado and elsewhere, more needs to be done. I believe we can increase the quality of life for individuals with Cystic Fibrosis by promoting public knowledge and understanding of the disease in a manner that will result in earlier diagnoses, more fund raising efforts for research, and increased levels of support for those who have CF and their families. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to act on this resolution so we can move another step closer to eradicating this disease. Thank you, Mr. President. I yield the floor.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, first let me thank Senator Daschle for his concern about the health of American Indians. For many of us, it is not really a front burner issue on our agendas as we face the war and so many other things, but to a lot of people whose health problems are between 5 and 10 times the national average, it is very important. So I thank Senator Daschle for doing that. Unfortunately, the amount seemed to exceed what we are able to support. The amount under this amendment increases IHS by 10 percent, or $292 million, bringing the total funding for the Indian Health Service to $3.208 million for facilities and services. In addition, it includes a sense of the Senate that Congress recognizes the need for prevention and research for a major disease in the Native American community, which is diabetes. As the Chair might know, some tribes suffer a 50-percent rate of diabetes among their members. Since 1997, Congress has increased Native American diabetes research and treatment.

Mr. CAMPBELL. In closing, this is a marked improvement over what we have done. I wish it could have been more, and I do thank Senator Daschle for bringing this to the floor.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, as Co-Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, I have closely monitored developments in the Republic of Belarus and informed my Senate colleagues of disturbing trends in that nation. I have met with members of this fledgling democratic opposition who, at great personal risk, dare to speak out against the repressive regime led by Alexander Lukashenka. I have met with the courageous wives whose husbands disappeared because they stood up to the regime and would not be silent. Against the backdrop of this climate of fear, the powers of the state have been brought to bear against independent journalists, trade unionists, and other voices of dissent. Increasingly, Belarus has been driven into self-imposed isolation under Lukashenka devoid of legitimate leadership or accountability. A little over a year ago I addressed the Senate to voice concern over reported arms deals between the regime and rouge states, including Iraq. It appears that such sales have taken on greater importance as the Belarusian economy spirals downward. While some might be tempted to dismiss Belarus as an anomaly, the stakes are too high and the costs too great to ignore. Accordingly, today, I am introducing the Belarus Democracy Act of 2003, which is designed to help put an end to repression and human rights violations in Belarus and to promote Belarus' entry into a democratic Euro- Atlantic community of nations. As a participating State in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, OSCE, Belarus has accepted a series of norms in the areas of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. As Europe's last dictator, Lukashenka continues to brashly trample the fundamental rights of his own people and their culture. As I alluded to earlier, independent media, non-governmental organizations, trade unions and the democratic opposition have had to operate under extremely difficult conditions, often facing serious mistreatment and an orchestrated campaign of harassment. Despite the repressions there are courageous individuals who support democracy have not been silenced. Two weeks ago, for example, Alexander Yarashuk, the leader of the Belarusian Congress of Democratic Trade Unions, called on Lukashenka to immediately cease backing Saddam. Moreover, just last week, on March 12, thousands gathered peacefully in a central Minsk square to protest deteriorating economic and social conditions in Belarus. Four of the rally's organizers--Andrei Sannikov, Ludmila Gryaznova, Dmitry Bondarenko and Leonid Malakhov--were given 15 day jail sentences for ``participation in unauthorized mass actions.'' Despite calls for change within Belarus, and considerable prodding from the international community, Lukashenka has shown no desire to deviate from his path of authoritarianism and personal profit at the expense of his own people. A few months ago, Lukashenka, who effectively controls the Belarusisn parliament, signed into law a new, repressive religion law. Local elections held earlier this month followed the pattern of Belarus' 2000 parliamentary and 2001 presidential elections--they were a joke. Control of election commissions, denials of registration for opposition candidates, ``early voting'' and outright falsifications were the norm. The Belarus Democracy Act of 2003 would authorize additional assistance for democracy-building activities such as support for NGOs, independent media, including radio and television broadcasting to Belarus, and international exchanges. It also encourages free and fair parliamentary elections, which have been notably absent in Belarus. This bill would also deny high-ranking officials of the Lukashenka regime entry into the United States. Additionally, strategic exports to the Belarusian Government would be prohibited, as well as U.S. Government financing except for humanitarian goods and agricultural or medical products. The U.S. executive directors of the international financial institutions would be encouraged to vote against financial assistance to the Government of Belarus except for loans and assistance for humanitarian needs. The bill would also require reports from the President concerning the sale of delivery of weapons or weapons-related technologies from Belarus to rouge states, including Iraq and North Korea. I am very pleased that the Ranking Member of the Committee on Foreign Relations, Senator Biden, is an original cosponsor of this measure. His support will ensure that we proceed on a bipartisan basis as we work to ensure the timely adoption and implementation of this legislation. The goal of the Belarus Democracy Act is to assist Belarus in becoming a genuine European state, in which respect for human rights and democracy is the norm and in which the long-suffering Belarusian people are able to overcome the legacy of dictatorship--past and present. Adoption and implementation of the Belarus Democracy Act will offer a ray of hope that the current period of political, economic and social stagnation will indeed end. The people of Belarus deserve a chance for a brighter future free of repression and fear. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the Belarus Democracy Act be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, as Co-Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, I have closely monitored developments in the Republic of Belarus and informed my Senate colleagues of disturbing trends in that nation. I have met with members of this fledgling democratic opposition who, at great personal risk, dare to speak out against the repressive regime led by Alexander Lukashenka. I have met with the courageous wives whose husbands disappeared because they stood up to the regime and would not be silent. Against the backdrop of this climate of fear, the powers of the state have been brought to bear against independent journalists, trade unionists, and other voices of dissent. Increasingly, Belarus has been driven into self-imposed isolation under Lukashenka devoid of legitimate leadership or accountability. A little over a year ago I addressed the Senate to voice concern over reported arms deals between the regime and rouge states, including Iraq. It appears that such sales have taken on greater importance as the Belarusian economy spirals downward. While some might be tempted to dismiss Belarus as an anomaly, the stakes are too high and the costs too great to ignore. Accordingly, today, I am introducing the Belarus Democracy Act of 2003, which is designed to help put an end to repression and human rights violations in Belarus and to promote Belarus' entry into a democratic Euro- Atlantic community of nations. As a participating State in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, OSCE, Belarus has accepted a series of norms in the areas of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. As Europe's last dictator, Lukashenka continues to brashly trample the fundamental rights of his own people and their culture. As I alluded to earlier, independent media, non-governmental organizations, trade unions and the democratic opposition have had to operate under extremely difficult conditions, often facing serious mistreatment and an orchestrated campaign of harassment. Despite the repressions there are courageous individuals who support democracy have not been silenced. Two weeks ago, for example, Alexander Yarashuk, the leader of the Belarusian Congress of Democratic Trade Unions, called on Lukashenka to immediately cease backing Saddam. Moreover, just last week, on March 12, thousands gathered peacefully in a central Minsk square to protest deteriorating economic and social conditions in Belarus. Four of the rally's organizers--Andrei Sannikov, Ludmila Gryaznova, Dmitry Bondarenko and Leonid Malakhov--were given 15 day jail sentences for ``participation in unauthorized mass actions.'' Despite calls for change within Belarus, and considerable prodding from the international community, Lukashenka has shown no desire to deviate from his path of authoritarianism and personal profit at the expense of his own people. A few months ago, Lukashenka, who effectively controls the Belarusisn parliament, signed into law a new, repressive religion law. Local elections held earlier this month followed the pattern of Belarus' 2000 parliamentary and 2001 presidential elections--they were a joke. Control of election commissions, denials of registration for opposition candidates, ``early voting'' and outright falsifications were the norm. The Belarus Democracy Act of 2003 would authorize additional assistance for democracy-building activities such as support for NGOs, independent media, including radio and television broadcasting to Belarus, and international exchanges. It also encourages free and fair parliamentary elections, which have been notably absent in Belarus. This bill would also deny high-ranking officials of the Lukashenka regime entry into the United States. Additionally, strategic exports to the Belarusian Government would be prohibited, as well as U.S. Government financing except for humanitarian goods and agricultural or medical products. The U.S. executive directors of the international financial institutions would be encouraged to vote against financial assistance to the Government of Belarus except for loans and assistance for humanitarian needs. The bill would also require reports from the President concerning the sale of delivery of weapons or weapons-related technologies from Belarus to rouge states, including Iraq and North Korea. I am very pleased that the Ranking Member of the Committee on Foreign Relations, Senator Biden, is an original cosponsor of this measure. His support will ensure that we proceed on a bipartisan basis as we work to ensure the timely adoption and implementation of this legislation. The goal of the Belarus Democracy Act is to assist Belarus in becoming a genuine European state, in which respect for human rights and democracy is the norm and in which the long-suffering Belarusian people are able to overcome the legacy of dictatorship--past and present. Adoption and implementation of the Belarus Democracy Act will offer a ray of hope that the current period of political, economic and social stagnation will indeed end. The people of Belarus deserve a chance for a brighter future free of repression and fear. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the Belarus Democracy Act be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the ``Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area Boundary Revision Act of 2003.'' I introduced a similar bill in the 107th Congress. I am confident that the 108th Congress will quickly pass this bill on to the President for his signature so that we can continue to celebrate this special place. My bill improves upon my earlier efforts designating the park. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison Gorge is a national treasure to be enjoyed by all. The park's combination of geological wonders and diverse wildlife make it one of the most unique natural areas in North America. The first person to survey the canyon, Abraham Lincoln Fellows, noted in 1901, ``our surroundings were of the wildest possible description. The roar of the water . . . was constantly in our ears, and the walls of the canyon, towering half mile in height above us, were seemingly vertical.'' Similarly, today, visitors can enjoy hiking the deep gorge to the Gunnison River raging below, or look overhead to marvel at eagles and peregrine falcons soaring in the sky. This bill modifies the legislative boundary of the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area allowing even greater access to the park's many recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, and hiking. This important legislation would expand the National Park by 2,725 acres, for a total of 33,025 acres. The Conservation area will be increased by 5,700 acres, for a total of 63,425 acres. In total this bill adds approximately 8,400 acres to provide habitat for several listed, threatened, endangered and BLM sensitive species including, the Bald Eagle, the River Otter, Delta Lomation, and Clay-Loving Buckwheat. Furthermore, I have added specific language to ensure that the Bureau of Reclamation retains its traditional jurisdiction over water and water delivery systems. This legislation helps preserve a unique national resource and a source of national pride. I urge quick passage of this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the ``Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area Boundary Revision Act of 2003.'' I introduced a similar bill in the 107th Congress. I am confident that the 108th Congress will quickly pass this bill on to the President for his signature so that we can continue to celebrate this special place. My bill improves upon my earlier efforts designating the park. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison Gorge is a national treasure to be enjoyed by all. The park's combination of geological wonders and diverse wildlife make it one of the most unique natural areas in North America. The first person to survey the canyon, Abraham Lincoln Fellows, noted in 1901, ``our surroundings were of the wildest possible description. The roar of the water . . . was constantly in our ears, and the walls of the canyon, towering half mile in height above us, were seemingly vertical.'' Similarly, today, visitors can enjoy hiking the deep gorge to the Gunnison River raging below, or look overhead to marvel at eagles and peregrine falcons soaring in the sky. This bill modifies the legislative boundary of the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area allowing even greater access to the park's many recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, and hiking. This important legislation would expand the National Park by 2,725 acres, for a total of 33,025 acres. The Conservation area will be increased by 5,700 acres, for a total of 63,425 acres. In total this bill adds approximately 8,400 acres to provide habitat for several listed, threatened, endangered and BLM sensitive species including, the Bald Eagle, the River Otter, Delta Lomation, and Clay-Loving Buckwheat. Furthermore, I have added specific language to ensure that the Bureau of Reclamation retains its traditional jurisdiction over water and water delivery systems. This legislation helps preserve a unique national resource and a source of national pride. I urge quick passage of this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I rise to call attention to an important milestone in our national history. Fifty-three years ago, armed forces from communist North Korea stormed across the 38th Parallel and brutally invaded South Korea. For the first time in history, a coalition of 21 nations' forces--most of them Americans-- rallied under the aegis of the United Nations to join the South Korean Forces in staving off the communist challenge. In the end, these heroes, fighting courageously under some of the most horrific conditions in the history of warfare, prevailed against the invading forces. An Armistice ending the hostilities in Korea and forever halting the spread of international communism was signed fifty years ago on 27 July 1953. During the Korean War approximately 1.8 million Americans fought in places like the Naktong Bulge, the Pusan perimeter, Inchon, Kunu-ri, the ``Frozen Chosin'', Pork Chop Hill and Heartbreak Ridge. Nearly 37,000 Americans lost their lives, over 100,000 were wounded, and more than 8,000 were taken prisoner or went missing in action. Some 50 years later, approximately 8166 Americans remain missing in action from the Korean War. Today, as we face the challenges of a new pending war and international terrorism we look with pride and respect to our Korean War veterans for their example of absolute dedication and sacrifice to the defense of freedom. Our Korean War veterans faced formidable odds and endured harsh and inhumane conditions in furthering our Nation's proud heritage of honor and valor in the face of overwhelming adversity. As the United States marks the fiftieth Anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended the hostilities in South Korea, all Americans must ``Pause to Remember'' our Korean War veterans and their families and next of kin. We thank and honor all Korean War veterans with hearts filled with pride. Today, the Republic of Korea stands as a proud testament to the sacrifices of 1.8 million Americans. Today, South Koreans enjoy a thriving economy and taste the fruits of a marvelous democracy. During the year 2003, let all Americans thank and honor our Korean War veterans for serving Freedom and Democracy with such distinction and valor.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, March 19, 2003, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing on Indian energy legislation, S. 424, the Tribal Energy Self- Sufficiency Act, and S. 522, the Native American Energy Development and Self-Determination Act of 2003. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251. committee on indian affairs

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, March 26, 2003, at 10:00 a.m. in Room 216 of the Hart Senate Office Building to conduct an OVERSIGHT HEARING on the Role and Funding of the Federal National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251. subcommittee on public lands and forests

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing a bill to facilitate the move of the Denver Veterans Affairs Medical Center, DVAMC, from its present site in Denver to the former Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in Aurora, Colorado. I am pleased to be joined in this effort by my friend and colleague Senator Allard as an original co- sponsor. The bill would authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to construct, lease or modify major medical facilities at the site of the former Fitzsimons Army Medical Center. It instructs the Secretary to work with the Department of Defense in planning a joint Federal project that would serve the health care needs of active duty Air Force and the VA. It would also require the Secretary to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations and the Committees on Veterans Affairs of the Senate and the House of Representatives. This report would detail the options selected by the Secretary and any information on further planning needed to carry out the move. The relocation of the DVAMC to the former Fitzsimons site offers a unique opportunity to provide the highest quality medical care for our veterans and certain members of our military. The University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, UCHSC, is moving its facilities from its overcrowded location near downtown Denver to the Fitzsimons site, a decommissioned Army base. The UCHSC and the DVAMC have long operated on adjacent campuses and have shared faculty, medical residents, and access to equipment. A DVAMC move to the new location in conjunction with the DOD would allow such cost-effective cooperation to continue, for the benefit of our veterans, active duty Air Force members and all taxpayers. The need to move is pressing. A recent VA study concludes that the Colorado State veterans' population will experience one of the highest percent increases nationally in veterans age 65 and over between 1990 and 2020. The present VA hospital was built in the 1950's. While still able to provide service, the core facilities are approaching the end of their useful lives and many of the patient care units have fallen horribly out of date. Studies indicate that co-location with the University on a state-of-the-art medical campus would be a cost effective way to give veterans and active duty Air Force members in the region the highest quality of care. The move would also provide a tremendous opportunity to showcase a nationwide model of cooperation between the University, the Department of Veterans Affairs, VA, and the Department of Defense. The VA needs to move quickly. Assisting our veterans with their medical needs is a promise we, as a country, made long ago. The savings we can realize by approving the timely transfer of our veterans' medical treatment facilities in the Denver region compels me to urge my colleagues to act quickly on this bill. We must not miss out on this opportunity to serve America's veterans and their families by ensuring that they receive the excellent medical care they deserve. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing a bill to facilitate the move of the Denver Veterans Affairs Medical Center, DVAMC, from its present site in Denver to the former Fitzsimons Army Medical Center in Aurora, Colorado. I am pleased to be joined in this effort by my friend and colleague Senator Allard as an original co- sponsor. The bill would authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to construct, lease or modify major medical facilities at the site of the former Fitzsimons Army Medical Center. It instructs the Secretary to work with the Department of Defense in planning a joint Federal project that would serve the health care needs of active duty Air Force and the VA. It would also require the Secretary to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations and the Committees on Veterans Affairs of the Senate and the House of Representatives. This report would detail the options selected by the Secretary and any information on further planning needed to carry out the move. The relocation of the DVAMC to the former Fitzsimons site offers a unique opportunity to provide the highest quality medical care for our veterans and certain members of our military. The University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, UCHSC, is moving its facilities from its overcrowded location near downtown Denver to the Fitzsimons site, a decommissioned Army base. The UCHSC and the DVAMC have long operated on adjacent campuses and have shared faculty, medical residents, and access to equipment. A DVAMC move to the new location in conjunction with the DOD would allow such cost-effective cooperation to continue, for the benefit of our veterans, active duty Air Force members and all taxpayers. The need to move is pressing. A recent VA study concludes that the Colorado State veterans' population will experience one of the highest percent increases nationally in veterans age 65 and over between 1990 and 2020. The present VA hospital was built in the 1950's. While still able to provide service, the core facilities are approaching the end of their useful lives and many of the patient care units have fallen horribly out of date. Studies indicate that co-location with the University on a state-of-the-art medical campus would be a cost effective way to give veterans and active duty Air Force members in the region the highest quality of care. The move would also provide a tremendous opportunity to showcase a nationwide model of cooperation between the University, the Department of Veterans Affairs, VA, and the Department of Defense. The VA needs to move quickly. Assisting our veterans with their medical needs is a promise we, as a country, made long ago. The savings we can realize by approving the timely transfer of our veterans' medical treatment facilities in the Denver region compels me to urge my colleagues to act quickly on this bill. We must not miss out on this opportunity to serve America's veterans and their families by ensuring that they receive the excellent medical care they deserve. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, as cochairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, I am concerned by a myriad of problems that plague the nation of Georgia a decade after restoration of its independence and nearly eleven years after it joined the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, OSCE. Among these pressing concerns that I would like to bring to the attention of my colleagues is the ongoing violence against non-Orthodox religious groups, as well as allegations of torture perpetrated by Georgian security officials. Concerning religious freedom, the situation in Georgia is one of the worst in the entire 55-nation region constituting the OSCE. Georgia is the only OSCE country where mobs are allowed to attack, violently and repeatedly, minority religious groups with complete impunity. Most recently, on January 24th, worshipers and clergy were assaulted and beaten in a mob attack on the Central Baptist Church in Tbilisi, where an ecumenical service was to have taken place. While police did eventually intervene, no arrests were made, and the planned ecumenical service between Baptists, Armenian Apostolic Church, Catholics and Lutherans was canceled. While I am pleased President Shevardnadze did issue a decree calling for a full investigation, to date no action by police or the Prosecutor General has taken place. During the past three years of escalating mob violence, the Jehovah's Witnesses have experienced the majority of attacks, along with Baptists, Pentecostals, and Catholics. Sadly, victims from throughout the country have filed approximately 800 criminal complaints, and not one of these has resulted in a criminal conviction. The mob attacks are usually led by either Vasili Mkalavishvili, a defrocked Georgian Orthodox priest, or Paata Bluashvili, the leader of the Orthodox ``Jvari'' Union. Often the police and media are tipped off in advance of an attack--probably so that the media can arrive early and the police can show up late. The brazen leaders of these attacks have even given television interviews while mob brutality continues in the background. In response to this ongoing campaign of violence against members of minority faiths, the leadership of the Helsinki Commission and other members of the Senate and House have been in correspondence with President Shevardnadze on numerous occasions. Congressional dismay over this ongoing issue was also reflected in language included in the omnibus appropriations bill underscoring concern over the Georgian Government's apparent resistance to prosecuting and jailing the perpetrators of these mob attacks. Despite assurances, Georgian officials have neither quelled this violence nor taken effective measures against the perpetrators of these assaults. Ironically, it appears that minority religious communities may be freer in parts of Georgia outside of Tbilisi's control than those under the central authorities. The conference report language should send a strong message to President Shevardnadze and other Georgian leaders. They must understand the Congress's deep and abiding interest in this matter and our desire to see those responsible for the violence put in jail. I also must express my concern regarding the widespread, indeed routine, use of torture in the Republic of Georgia. While law enforcement remains virtually nonexistent when it comes to protecting religious minorities from violent attacks, the use of torture by police remains a commonplace tool for extracting confessions and obtaining convictions in other areas. A government commission has also acknowledged that the scale of corruption in law enforcement has seriously eroded public confidence in Georgia's system of justice and the rule of law. At one point, a few years ago, there appeared to be real political will to address this problem. Sadly, increased protections for detainees, adopted to facilitate Georgia's accession to the Council of Europe, were quickly reversed by the parliament once Georgia's admission was complete. Moreover, I am particularly concerned by remarks made by Minister of Interior Koba Narchemashvili in November. In a move calculated to look tough on crime following a notorious murder, he called for seizing control of pre-trial detention facilities from the authority of the Ministry of Justice. This would move Georgia in exactly the wrong direction. Reform must continue on two levels; continuing to move Georgia's legal standards into compliance with international norms, and improving actual implementation by law enforcement officers. I want to see a prosperous, democratic, and independent Georgia, but these facts are deeply disturbing and disappointing. The Government of Georgia's failure to effectively address these concerns through decisive action will only further erode confidence here in Washington as well as with the people of Georgia.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Tuesday, March 11, 2003, at 2:30 p.m. in Room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to consider the Committee's Views and Estimates on the President's FY 2004 Budget Request for Indian Programs. Those wishing additional information may contact the Indian Affairs Committee at 224-2251. subcommittee on national parks

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to be joined by Senators Inouye and Thomas in introducing key legislation to help stop Indian land fractionation. One of the most enduring and damaging legacies of late-19th century Federal Indian policy is the continuing fractionation of Indian trust lands. The results of this ever-growing problem make it nearly impossible for affected Indian tribes to devise economic development strategies. By attempting to ``break up the tribal landmass'' and turning Indians into yeoman farmers, the Dawes Act of 1887 resulted in millions of acres of land transferred out of Indian ownership. By virtue of Indian heirship and probate rules and the steady march of time, millions more acres have passed from their original Indian allottees to thousands of descendants with undivided interests in parcels of land. In strict economic terms, these interests are practically worthless. Congressional efforts to counter this problem have focused on the Indian Land Consolidation Act and amendments made to the Act. Key escheat sections designed to return individual-owned fractionated lands to tribal ownership have been held unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1987, Hodel v. Irving, and in 1997, Babbitt v. Youpee. Congress and the Administration have also sought to return these interests to tribal ownership through voluntary purchase. The ``Indian Land Consolidation Program'' was enacted as part of the Fiscal Year 1999 Omnibus Appropriation and has proven a success. In 1999 I introduced amendments to the ILCA to limit disposition of Indian lands to Indian heirs, life estates to non-Indian heirs, or the tribe with jurisdiction over the lands. The bill I am re-introducing today was considered by the Committee on Indian Affairs and passed by the Senate last session. In light of this, it is my intention to expedite consideration of the measure. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am re-introducing a bill that is important to the State of Colorado, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and all Coloradans that live in the southwest corner of our beautiful State. More than thirty years of experience with environmental laws shows us that local design and implementation of such laws almost always trumps the ``one size fits all'' approach advocated by many in Washington, D.C. The Federal Clean Air Act authorizes States and Indian tribes to accept responsibility for air quality plans and standards, and implement many of the regulatory programs needed to maintain or improve air quality. In 1984 Congress ratified a jurisdiction and boundary agreement between the Tribe and the State that spared both sides litigation costs and a fight over the jurisdictional status of each square inch on the reservation. The 1984 pact permits the Tribe and the State to work out jurisdictional issues for themselves. Some uncertainty remains with respect to environmental issues and rather than placing the Environmental Protection Agency in the middle of a controversy about whether it is authorized to delegate Clean Air Act programs within the Ute Reservation, the Tribe and the State signed an agreement to eliminate any ambiguities. First, consistent with Congress' mandate in the Clean Air Act, the Tribe will be the entity responsible for administering Clean Air Act programs within the reservation. Second, an equal number of Tribal and State representatives will sit on the Commission established to hear and make decisions, and will set the pace for Tribal applications for delegations of authority. Finally, Federal court review is available to hear challenges to decisions by the Commission. In closing, let me again commend the efforts of both the Tribe and the State in negotiating and signing this historic agreement. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President today I am pleased to be joined by Senators Inouye and McCain in introducing two bills vitally important to the health of Native Americans: the ``Indian Health Care Improvement Act Reauthorization of 2003''. It is an unfortunate fact that the health status of Native people in the United States is poor. In fact, in the western hemisphere only the people of Haiti are in worse shape. Alcohol, drug abuse, and mental illness, tuberculosis, cancer, obesity and diabetes, heart disease, infant mortality, and a host of related pathologies plague Native people. Last fall's reauthorization of the Special Indian Diabetes Program showed the Federal commitment to ending the scourge of diabetes in Native communities. The ``Indian Health Care Improvement Act Reauthorization of 2003'' will reauthorize the programs administered by the Indian Health Service and will increase the direct management of health care services by tribes, Native Alaskans and Urban Indian health centers. This bill is the product of intense consultation between tribes, Native Alaskan health providers, and Urban Indian health centers, and relevant Federal agencies and representatives of the public and private health care sectors. The efforts of the IHS and Native health providers have been successful in improving the health status of Native people. Just in the last 10 years, infant and maternal mortality rates have declined by 30 percent and 40 percent, respectively. Similarly, tuberculosis mortality rates have also been reduced 53 percent. Other indicia of Native health status have also shown marked improvement. Even with modest increases in recent spending bills, funding for Native health care continues to lag far behind the level of need. To help close this gap, we must be creative and tap other sources of funds for Native health including the private, tribal and non-profit sectors of our economy. The second bill I am introducing will do just that and will facilitate the contribution of funds for purposes of Native health care by establishing a non-profit, charitable foundation to receive funds and in-kind contributions for such purposes. This is not a radical step as similar foundations have been established for other purposes. In recent years Congress has created both the American Indian Education Foundation and the Fish and Wildlife Foundation, which have proven to be very successful in achieving their purposes. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting these important bills. I ask unanimous consent that copies of the bills be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing the Commercial Driver's License Devolution Act of 2003. This bill is identical to that which I introduced in the 107th Congress as a companion bill to language originally brought to the floor of the House of Representatives by my friend from North Carolina, Representative Howard Coble. I believe it is no secret to my colleagues here in the Senate, that I support small business and returning power to the States. The traditional, one-size-fits-all approach to governing has done more harm than good, and this bill is an attempt to remedy some of that. This legislation will give States the option to establish their own commercial driver's license, CDL, requirements for intrastate drivers. It will return power to the States by giving them the option to license intrastate drivers of commercial motor vehicles based upon testing standards determined by the individual States. And I stress, it will be an ``option.'' I want to emphasize that this legislation is not a Federal mandate imposed on States. States that choose not to participate would remain under Federal guidelines. A State that chooses to exercise this option would in no way diminish the role of the CDL in the long-haul trucking industry. Additionally, this legislation effectively precludes two or more States from using this option as the basis for an interstate compact. As I am sure my colleagues are aware, the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, CMVSA, required States to establish a new and uniform program of testing and licensure for all operators of commercial vehicles both intra and interstate. The principal objectives of the Act have been met, and would not be harmed by this legislation I'm introducing here today. I have no issue with the CMVSA. It is a good law, and at the time the provisions it contained were necessary and timely for improving the standards of performance for long-haul truck drivers in this country. However, I, like my counterpart in the House, believe the CMVSA was imposed upon intrastate commerce where the operation of trucks may be a small but necessary part of an individual's job. Therefore, the reality was that Washington imposed its will on thousands of small businesses across this country who aren't involved in long-haul trucking and we expected them to adjust to any circumstance that might arise. That's unfair and not what government is supposed to be about. When you have conditions such as these, I believe it should be within a State's discretion to determine what kind of commercial vehicle licensure and testing is required for commerce taking place solely within its borders. This legislation is important to our nation's small businesses, especially those dependent upon commercial truck travel, which means it's important to the consumers. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to support it. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to be joined by Senators Inouye and Thomas in introducing key legislation to help stop Indian land fractionation. One of the most enduring and damaging legacies of late-19th century Federal Indian policy is the continuing fractionation of Indian trust lands. The results of this ever-growing problem make it nearly impossible for affected Indian tribes to devise economic development strategies. By attempting to ``break up the tribal landmass'' and turning Indians into yeoman farmers, the Dawes Act of 1887 resulted in millions of acres of land transferred out of Indian ownership. By virtue of Indian heirship and probate rules and the steady march of time, millions more acres have passed from their original Indian allottees to thousands of descendants with undivided interests in parcels of land. In strict economic terms, these interests are practically worthless. Congressional efforts to counter this problem have focused on the Indian Land Consolidation Act and amendments made to the Act. Key escheat sections designed to return individual-owned fractionated lands to tribal ownership have been held unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1987, Hodel v. Irving, and in 1997, Babbitt v. Youpee. Congress and the Administration have also sought to return these interests to tribal ownership through voluntary purchase. The ``Indian Land Consolidation Program'' was enacted as part of the Fiscal Year 1999 Omnibus Appropriation and has proven a success. In 1999 I introduced amendments to the ILCA to limit disposition of Indian lands to Indian heirs, life estates to non-Indian heirs, or the tribe with jurisdiction over the lands. The bill I am re-introducing today was considered by the Committee on Indian Affairs and passed by the Senate last session. In light of this, it is my intention to expedite consideration of the measure. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am re-introducing a bill that is important to the State of Colorado, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and all Coloradans that live in the southwest corner of our beautiful State. More than thirty years of experience with environmental laws shows us that local design and implementation of such laws almost always trumps the ``one size fits all'' approach advocated by many in Washington, D.C. The Federal Clean Air Act authorizes States and Indian tribes to accept responsibility for air quality plans and standards, and implement many of the regulatory programs needed to maintain or improve air quality. In 1984 Congress ratified a jurisdiction and boundary agreement between the Tribe and the State that spared both sides litigation costs and a fight over the jurisdictional status of each square inch on the reservation. The 1984 pact permits the Tribe and the State to work out jurisdictional issues for themselves. Some uncertainty remains with respect to environmental issues and rather than placing the Environmental Protection Agency in the middle of a controversy about whether it is authorized to delegate Clean Air Act programs within the Ute Reservation, the Tribe and the State signed an agreement to eliminate any ambiguities. First, consistent with Congress' mandate in the Clean Air Act, the Tribe will be the entity responsible for administering Clean Air Act programs within the reservation. Second, an equal number of Tribal and State representatives will sit on the Commission established to hear and make decisions, and will set the pace for Tribal applications for delegations of authority. Finally, Federal court review is available to hear challenges to decisions by the Commission. In closing, let me again commend the efforts of both the Tribe and the State in negotiating and signing this historic agreement. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President today I am pleased to be joined by Senators Inouye and McCain in introducing two bills vitally important to the health of Native Americans: the ``Indian Health Care Improvement Act Reauthorization of 2003''. It is an unfortunate fact that the health status of Native people in the United States is poor. In fact, in the western hemisphere only the people of Haiti are in worse shape. Alcohol, drug abuse, and mental illness, tuberculosis, cancer, obesity and diabetes, heart disease, infant mortality, and a host of related pathologies plague Native people. Last fall's reauthorization of the Special Indian Diabetes Program showed the Federal commitment to ending the scourge of diabetes in Native communities. The ``Indian Health Care Improvement Act Reauthorization of 2003'' will reauthorize the programs administered by the Indian Health Service and will increase the direct management of health care services by tribes, Native Alaskans and Urban Indian health centers. This bill is the product of intense consultation between tribes, Native Alaskan health providers, and Urban Indian health centers, and relevant Federal agencies and representatives of the public and private health care sectors. The efforts of the IHS and Native health providers have been successful in improving the health status of Native people. Just in the last 10 years, infant and maternal mortality rates have declined by 30 percent and 40 percent, respectively. Similarly, tuberculosis mortality rates have also been reduced 53 percent. Other indicia of Native health status have also shown marked improvement. Even with modest increases in recent spending bills, funding for Native health care continues to lag far behind the level of need. To help close this gap, we must be creative and tap other sources of funds for Native health including the private, tribal and non-profit sectors of our economy. The second bill I am introducing will do just that and will facilitate the contribution of funds for purposes of Native health care by establishing a non-profit, charitable foundation to receive funds and in-kind contributions for such purposes. This is not a radical step as similar foundations have been established for other purposes. In recent years Congress has created both the American Indian Education Foundation and the Fish and Wildlife Foundation, which have proven to be very successful in achieving their purposes. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting these important bills. I ask unanimous consent that copies of the bills be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing the Commercial Driver's License Devolution Act of 2003. This bill is identical to that which I introduced in the 107th Congress as a companion bill to language originally brought to the floor of the House of Representatives by my friend from North Carolina, Representative Howard Coble. I believe it is no secret to my colleagues here in the Senate, that I support small business and returning power to the States. The traditional, one-size-fits-all approach to governing has done more harm than good, and this bill is an attempt to remedy some of that. This legislation will give States the option to establish their own commercial driver's license, CDL, requirements for intrastate drivers. It will return power to the States by giving them the option to license intrastate drivers of commercial motor vehicles based upon testing standards determined by the individual States. And I stress, it will be an ``option.'' I want to emphasize that this legislation is not a Federal mandate imposed on States. States that choose not to participate would remain under Federal guidelines. A State that chooses to exercise this option would in no way diminish the role of the CDL in the long-haul trucking industry. Additionally, this legislation effectively precludes two or more States from using this option as the basis for an interstate compact. As I am sure my colleagues are aware, the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, CMVSA, required States to establish a new and uniform program of testing and licensure for all operators of commercial vehicles both intra and interstate. The principal objectives of the Act have been met, and would not be harmed by this legislation I'm introducing here today. I have no issue with the CMVSA. It is a good law, and at the time the provisions it contained were necessary and timely for improving the standards of performance for long-haul truck drivers in this country. However, I, like my counterpart in the House, believe the CMVSA was imposed upon intrastate commerce where the operation of trucks may be a small but necessary part of an individual's job. Therefore, the reality was that Washington imposed its will on thousands of small businesses across this country who aren't involved in long-haul trucking and we expected them to adjust to any circumstance that might arise. That's unfair and not what government is supposed to be about. When you have conditions such as these, I believe it should be within a State's discretion to determine what kind of commercial vehicle licensure and testing is required for commerce taking place solely within its borders. This legislation is important to our nation's small businesses, especially those dependent upon commercial truck travel, which means it's important to the consumers. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to support it. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing the Native American Capital Formation and Economic Development Act of 2003. Before the Europeans landed on these shores, Indian nations were vigorous and vital: tribal governments functioned well; tribal cultures and religions flourished; and tribal economies were strong. Over time tribal institutions failed when the independence they had known were stifled by the Federal Government. Since 1970, Indian self-determination has assisted the tribes in rebuilding their governments and resurrecting their economies. The bill I am introducing today will foster real self-determination and create a Native-capitalized development assistance corporation. If enacted, the tribes themselves will be the financiers and shareholders of the Native American Capital Development Corporation which will focus on mortgage lending and Indian home ownership; provide assistance to Native financial institutions; and work to create a secondary market in Indian mortgages. The corporation will include the Native American Economies Diagnostic Studies Fund to partner with tribes to conduct diagnostic studies of their economies and identify the inhibitors to greater levels of private sector investment and job creation. Ultimately the corporation and the tribes will work to remove those inhibitors. The corporation's Native American Economic Incubation Center Fund will work with participating tribes to channel development assistance to those tribes with a demonstrated commitment to sound economic and political policies; good governance; and practices that create increased levels of economic growth and job creation. It is my expectation that there will be much debate generated by this legislation which I consider a good thing. I expect to hold hearings on this important legislation in the weeks ahead. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of this important bill. I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am pleased to introduce the Indian Land Leasing Act of 2003 to make routine changes to title 25 of the United States Code and to assist economic activity on Indian lands by liberalizing the Indian land leasing process. Federal law requires tribal landowners to seek the approval of the Secretary of the Interior to lease their lands and further restricts the lease term to a period of 25 years. This legal framework is an obstacle in the path of the tribes and their members, and year after year Indian tribes are forced to seek the Committee on Indian Affairs' assistance in extending the lease term to 99 years. Over the years not fewer than 38 tribes have come to Congress and secured 99-year lease authority. At the tribes' request, this bill will extend 99-year lease authority to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation, the Yavapai- Prescott Tribe, the Yurok Tribe, and the Hopland Band of Pomo Indians to the long list of tribes that have already secured similar extensions. The bill also provides 99-year lease authority for tribes that wish to do so without the prior approval of the Secretary. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this modest but important legislation. I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the bill be printed in the Record.