Ben Campbell

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am joined by my friends and colleagues, Senator Kohl and Senator Hatch in introducing an expanded version of the Mad Cow Prevention Act of 2001, which we previously introduced on March 14, 2001. Our original bill would establish a federal Task Force to prevent the spread to and within the United States of Mad Cow Disease, Foot-and-Mouth Disease, and related livestock diseases. This new bill, entitled the Mad Cow and Related Diseases Prevention Act of 2001, would add the Secretary of State and the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to the Task Force. We also are invoking Rule 14 to have the bill placed directly on the Senate Calendar. We are taking this rare step because of the growing severity of this threat and testimony presented at a hearing this morning before the Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Affairs, Foreign Commerce and Tourism. We can not take for granted that our food supply will not be tainted by Mad Cow Disease, which has infected over 175,000 cattle in Great Britain and Europe, and other livestock diseases. This is an issue that has a direct impact on my home state of Colorado, and the rest of the nation as a whole. We need to proceed in a prudent, cautious way to do everything we can to prevent Mad Cow Disease and other devastating livestock diseases from entering and spreading in the United States. Only then can we ensure continued consumer confidence in the safety of the American food supply. The bill we reintroduce today establishes a Federal Interagency Task Force, to be chaired by the Secretary of Agriculture, for the purpose of coordinating actions to prevent the outbreak of Mad Cow Disease. The agencies will include the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Health and Human Service, the Secretary of Treasury, the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, the Director of the National Institutes of Health, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control, the Commissioner of Customs, the Secretary of State, the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and any other agencies the President deems appropriate. No later than 60 days after the enactment of this legislation, the task force will submit to Congress a report which will describe the actions the agencies are taking and plan to take to prevent the spread of Mad Cow and other livestock diseases and make recommendations for the future prevention of the spread of this disease to the United States. The Task Force should also consider and report on foot-and-mouth disease, chronic wasting disease and other diseases associated with our meat industries. I urge my colleagues to support its speedy passage. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Thursday, April 5, 2001 at 9:30 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a Hearing to receive the goals and priorities of the United South and Eastern Tribes (USET) for the 107th Congress. Those wishing additional information may contact Committee staff at 202/224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am joined by my friends and colleagues, Senator Kohl and Senator Hatch in introducing an expanded version of the Mad Cow Prevention Act of 2001, which we previously introduced on March 14, 2001. Our original bill would establish a federal Task Force to prevent the spread to and within the United States of Mad Cow Disease, Foot-and-Mouth Disease, and related livestock diseases. This new bill, entitled the Mad Cow and Related Diseases Prevention Act of 2001, would add the Secretary of State and the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to the Task Force. We also are invoking Rule 14 to have the bill placed directly on the Senate Calendar. We are taking this rare step because of the growing severity of this threat and testimony presented at a hearing this morning before the Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Affairs, Foreign Commerce and Tourism. We can not take for granted that our food supply will not be tainted by Mad Cow Disease, which has infected over 175,000 cattle in Great Britain and Europe, and other livestock diseases. This is an issue that has a direct impact on my home state of Colorado, and the rest of the nation as a whole. We need to proceed in a prudent, cautious way to do everything we can to prevent Mad Cow Disease and other devastating livestock diseases from entering and spreading in the United States. Only then can we ensure continued consumer confidence in the safety of the American food supply. The bill we reintroduce today establishes a Federal Interagency Task Force, to be chaired by the Secretary of Agriculture, for the purpose of coordinating actions to prevent the outbreak of Mad Cow Disease. The agencies will include the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Health and Human Service, the Secretary of Treasury, the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, the Director of the National Institutes of Health, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control, the Commissioner of Customs, the Secretary of State, the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and any other agencies the President deems appropriate. No later than 60 days after the enactment of this legislation, the task force will submit to Congress a report which will describe the actions the agencies are taking and plan to take to prevent the spread of Mad Cow and other livestock diseases and make recommendations for the future prevention of the spread of this disease to the United States. The Task Force should also consider and report on foot-and-mouth disease, chronic wasting disease and other diseases associated with our meat industries. I urge my colleagues to support its speedy passage. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am joined by the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Senators Hatch and Leahy, along with 34 other Senators in introducing this resolution to keep alive in the memory of all Americans the sacrifice and commitment of those law enforcement officers who lost their lives serving their communities. Specifically, this resolution would designate May 15, 2001, as National Peace Officers Memorial Day. As a former deputy sheriff, I know first-hand the risks which law enforcement officers face everyday on the front lines protecting our communities. Currently, more than 700,000 men and women who serve this nation as our guardians of law and order do so at a great risk. Every year, about 1 in 9 officers is assaulted, 1 in 25 officers is injured, and 1 in 4,400 officers is killed in the line of duty. There are few communities in this country that have not been impacted by the words: ``officer down.'' In 2000, approximately 150 federal, state and local law enforcement officers have given their lives in the line of duty. This represents more than a 10 percent rise in police fatalities over the previous year. And, nearly 15,000 men and women have made the supreme sacrifice. The Chairman of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Craig W. Floyd, reminds us, ``Despite improved equipment and better training, law enforcement remains the deadliest profession in America. On average, one officer is killed somewhere in America every 57 hours. At the very least, we must ensure that those officers, and their families, are never forgotten.'' On May 15, 2001, more than 15,000 peace officers are expected to gather in our Nation's Capital to join with the families of their fallen comrades who by their faithful and loyal devotion to their responsibilities have rendered a dedicated service to their communities. In doing so, these heroes have established for themselves an enviable and enduring reputation for preserving the rights and security of all citizens. This resolution is a fitting tribute for this special and solemn occasion. I urge my colleagues to join us in supporting passage of this important resolution.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Thursday, March 22, 2001, at 2 p.m., in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing to discuss the goals and priorities of the Member Tribes of the National Congress of the American Indians for the 107th Congress. Those wishing additional information may contact Committee staff at 202/224-2251. subcommittee on national parks, historic preservation, and recreation

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the Mad Cow Prevention Act of 2001 which would help ease the American consumer's growing concern about our food supply. We can no longer take for granted that our food supply will not be tainted by bovine spongiform encephalopathy, BSE, commonly known as Mad Cow Disease, which has infected over 175,000 cattle in Great Britain and Europe. We also should be concerned about the growing threat of foot-and-mouth disease and other associated diseases to America's meat supply. The bill I introduce today establishes a Federal Interagency Task Force, to be chaired by the Secretary of Agriculture, for the purpose of coordinating actions to prevent the outbreak of Mad Cow Disease. The agencies will include the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Health and Human Service, the Secretary of Treasury, the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, the Director of the National Institutes of Health, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control, the Commissioner of Customs, and any other agencies the President deems appropriate. No later than 60 days after the enactment of this legislation the task force will submit to Congress a report which will describe the actions the agencies are taking and plan to take to prevent the spread of BSE and make recommendations for the future prevention of the spread of this disease to the United Sates. The Task Force should also consider and report on foot-and-mouth disease, chronic wasting disease and other diseases associated with our meat industries. Recently, a situation developed in Texas prompting the quarantine of over a 1000 head of cattle. The animals were quickly purchased and taken out of the food chain by Purina. But, this incident shows how easily a contamination may start. It also has raised questions on how this disease can be controlled. In order to address this problem, on February 9, 2001, I wrote to Secretary Veneman and requested a report from the USDA regarding our government's response to mad cow disease specifically addressing: what USDA is doing to address this problem; what other federal agencies are doing; what any future plans are; and how USDA proposes to prevent the introduction and spread of mad cow disease in the United States. However, since I sent my letter to the USDA Secretary, the situation in Europe has gone from bad to worse. Therefore, I believe a government-wide approach is now necessary and that is why I am introducing this bill today. We simply must act quickly. Currently, our nation's farmers and ranchers are benefitting from profitable good cattle prices, and our meat supply is safe. But, as a Western Senator from a state with a significant cattle industry that trades in the international market, I share the growing fears of constituents about the potential devastating impact mad cow disease would have if it spreads to and within the United States. The emerging potential for mad cow disease in the United States would also raise devastating health implications for humans. We cannot, in good conscience, take a chance that would allow an outbreak to occur in the U.S. which would destroy America's cattle industry and devastate consumers' confidence in our food supply. In my home state of Colorado alone there are more than 3.15 million head of cattle and more than 12,000 beef producers. Nationwide, Colorado ranks 4th in cattle on feed and 10th in overall cattle numbers. Nearly one-third of Colorado counties are classified as either economically dependent on the cattle industry or a vital role in their economies. It is critical that we in Congress do everything we can to protect this industry in Colorado and across the country. Over the past two months, there has been a series of news reports which highlight the spread of Mad Cow in Europe. Newsweek ran a cover story, ABC aired a provocative story and countless other reports have shown the potential situation we could face. And, today, the crisis surrounding foot-and-mouth disease is on the front page of our major newspapers. With the focus shifting to the United States, consumers are becoming wary and growing more concerned about the potential of the spread of the disease to our shores. The Mad Cow Prevention Act of 2001 I introduce today is a necessary step towards addressing the potential disaster of this disease in our country. I urge my colleagues to support its speedy passage. I ask unanimous consent that recent news clips, and the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the Mad Cow Prevention Act of 2001 which would help ease the American consumer's growing concern about our food supply. We can no longer take for granted that our food supply will not be tainted by bovine spongiform encephalopathy, BSE, commonly known as Mad Cow Disease, which has infected over 175,000 cattle in Great Britain and Europe. We also should be concerned about the growing threat of foot-and-mouth disease and other associated diseases to America's meat supply. The bill I introduce today establishes a Federal Interagency Task Force, to be chaired by the Secretary of Agriculture, for the purpose of coordinating actions to prevent the outbreak of Mad Cow Disease. The agencies will include the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Health and Human Service, the Secretary of Treasury, the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, the Director of the National Institutes of Health, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control, the Commissioner of Customs, and any other agencies the President deems appropriate. No later than 60 days after the enactment of this legislation the task force will submit to Congress a report which will describe the actions the agencies are taking and plan to take to prevent the spread of BSE and make recommendations for the future prevention of the spread of this disease to the United Sates. The Task Force should also consider and report on foot-and-mouth disease, chronic wasting disease and other diseases associated with our meat industries. Recently, a situation developed in Texas prompting the quarantine of over a 1000 head of cattle. The animals were quickly purchased and taken out of the food chain by Purina. But, this incident shows how easily a contamination may start. It also has raised questions on how this disease can be controlled. In order to address this problem, on February 9, 2001, I wrote to Secretary Veneman and requested a report from the USDA regarding our government's response to mad cow disease specifically addressing: what USDA is doing to address this problem; what other federal agencies are doing; what any future plans are; and how USDA proposes to prevent the introduction and spread of mad cow disease in the United States. However, since I sent my letter to the USDA Secretary, the situation in Europe has gone from bad to worse. Therefore, I believe a government-wide approach is now necessary and that is why I am introducing this bill today. We simply must act quickly. Currently, our nation's farmers and ranchers are benefitting from profitable good cattle prices, and our meat supply is safe. But, as a Western Senator from a state with a significant cattle industry that trades in the international market, I share the growing fears of constituents about the potential devastating impact mad cow disease would have if it spreads to and within the United States. The emerging potential for mad cow disease in the United States would also raise devastating health implications for humans. We cannot, in good conscience, take a chance that would allow an outbreak to occur in the U.S. which would destroy America's cattle industry and devastate consumers' confidence in our food supply. In my home state of Colorado alone there are more than 3.15 million head of cattle and more than 12,000 beef producers. Nationwide, Colorado ranks 4th in cattle on feed and 10th in overall cattle numbers. Nearly one-third of Colorado counties are classified as either economically dependent on the cattle industry or a vital role in their economies. It is critical that we in Congress do everything we can to protect this industry in Colorado and across the country. Over the past two months, there has been a series of news reports which highlight the spread of Mad Cow in Europe. Newsweek ran a cover story, ABC aired a provocative story and countless other reports have shown the potential situation we could face. And, today, the crisis surrounding foot-and-mouth disease is on the front page of our major newspapers. With the focus shifting to the United States, consumers are becoming wary and growing more concerned about the potential of the spread of the disease to our shores. The Mad Cow Prevention Act of 2001 I introduce today is a necessary step towards addressing the potential disaster of this disease in our country. I urge my colleagues to support its speedy passage. I ask unanimous consent that recent news clips, and the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, march 14, 2001 at 9:30 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a business meeting to consider the committee's views and estimates on the President's FY 2002 Budget Request for Indian Programs to be followed immediately by a hearing on S. 211, the Native American Education Improvement Act of 2001. Those wishing additional information may contact Committee staff at 202/224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to be joined by Senators Inouye and Bingaman in introducing the Indian Tribal Federal Recognition Administrative Procedures Act of 2001. From the first days of the republic, the Congress has acted to recognize the unique legal and political relationship the United States has with the Indian tribes. Reforming the process of Federal recognition is the purpose of the legislation I am introducing today. Federal recognition is critical to tribal groups because it triggers eligibility for services and benefits provided by the United States because of their status as members of federally recognized Indian tribes. I want to be clear, I am not advocating for the approval of every petition for recognition, and I am not proposing that the petitions receive a limited or cursory review. I am concerned with the viability of the current recognition process and am interested in seeing fairness, promptness, and finality brought into that process while providing basic assurances to already-recognized tribes regarding their inherent rights. Federal recognition may be accomplished in two ways: through the enactment of federal legislation; or through the administrative process that occurs, or more accurately does not occur, within the Branch of Acknowledgement and Research, BAR. Over the years, the length of time the Bureau has taken to process certain petitions and the process for which applications for recognition are considered has increased. At a hearing on similar legislation in 2000, one group testified that its petition has been pending since 1970! The process in the Department of the Interior is time consuming and costly, although it has improved from its original state. It has frequently been hindered by a lack of staff and resources which are needed to fairly and promptly review all petitions. The cases on active consideration, including those with proposed findings, have been in the process for anywhere from 2 to 9 years. As with any decision-making body, fairness and timeliness are the keys to maintaining a credible system which holds the confidence of affected parties. I believe that it is in the interests of all parties to have a clear deadline for the completion of the recognition process. In 1978, the Department of the Interior promulgated regulations to establish criteria and procedures for the recognition of Indian tribes by the Secretary of Interior. Since that time tribal groups have filed 250 letters of intent and petitions for review and consideration. Of those, 51 have been resolved, 34 by the BAR. The remainder are in various stages of consideration by the Department either ready for active status or are already placed on active status. In the last twenty years, the Committee on Indian Affairs has held several oversight hearings on the Federal recognition process. At those hearings the record clearly showed that the process does not work. At a Committee on Indian Affairs hearing in 1995, the Bureau testified that at the current rate of review and consideration, it would take several decades to eliminate the entire backlog of tribal petitions. The record from numerous previous hearings reveals a clear need for the Congress to address the problems affecting the recognition process. The bill I am introducing today will go a long way toward resolving the problems which have plagued both the Department of the Interior and tribal petitioners over the years. This bill, the Indian Tribal Federal Recognition Administrative Procedures Act of 2001, provides the required clarification and changes that will help tribal petitioners and the United States in providing fair and orderly administrative procedures to extend Federal recognition to eligible Indian groups. The principal purpose is to remove the Federal acknowledgment process from the BAR and transfer the responsibility for the process to a temporary and independent Commission on Indian Tribal Recognition. This bill provides that the Commission will be an independent agency, composed of three members appointed by the President, and authorized to hold hearings, take testimony, and reach final determinations on petitions for recognition. The bill provides strict but realistic time-lines to guide the Commission in the review and decision-making process. Under the existing process, some petitioners have waited ten years or more for even a cursory review of their petition. This bill will allow for a cost-effective process for the BIA and the petitioners, it will provide definite time-lines for the administrative recognition process, and sunsets the Commission in 12 years. To ensure fairness, the bill provides for appeals of adverse decisions to the federal district court here in the District of Columbia. To ensure that the views and comments of all affected parties are considered, the bills directs the Commission to consider evidence and materials submitted by states, local communities, and State attorneys general. To ensure promptness, the bill authorizes adequate funding for the costs of processing petitions through the Commission. The bill also provides finality for both the petitioners and the Department by requiring all interested tribal groups to file their petitions with 8 years after the date of enactment and requiring the Commission to complete to work within 12 years from enactment. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record, and urge my colleagues to join me in enacting this much-needed reform legislation.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to be joined by Senators Inouye and Bingaman in introducing the Indian Tribal Federal Recognition Administrative Procedures Act of 2001. From the first days of the republic, the Congress has acted to recognize the unique legal and political relationship the United States has with the Indian tribes. Reforming the process of Federal recognition is the purpose of the legislation I am introducing today. Federal recognition is critical to tribal groups because it triggers eligibility for services and benefits provided by the United States because of their status as members of federally recognized Indian tribes. I want to be clear, I am not advocating for the approval of every petition for recognition, and I am not proposing that the petitions receive a limited or cursory review. I am concerned with the viability of the current recognition process and am interested in seeing fairness, promptness, and finality brought into that process while providing basic assurances to already-recognized tribes regarding their inherent rights. Federal recognition may be accomplished in two ways: through the enactment of federal legislation; or through the administrative process that occurs, or more accurately does not occur, within the Branch of Acknowledgement and Research, BAR. Over the years, the length of time the Bureau has taken to process certain petitions and the process for which applications for recognition are considered has increased. At a hearing on similar legislation in 2000, one group testified that its petition has been pending since 1970! The process in the Department of the Interior is time consuming and costly, although it has improved from its original state. It has frequently been hindered by a lack of staff and resources which are needed to fairly and promptly review all petitions. The cases on active consideration, including those with proposed findings, have been in the process for anywhere from 2 to 9 years. As with any decision-making body, fairness and timeliness are the keys to maintaining a credible system which holds the confidence of affected parties. I believe that it is in the interests of all parties to have a clear deadline for the completion of the recognition process. In 1978, the Department of the Interior promulgated regulations to establish criteria and procedures for the recognition of Indian tribes by the Secretary of Interior. Since that time tribal groups have filed 250 letters of intent and petitions for review and consideration. Of those, 51 have been resolved, 34 by the BAR. The remainder are in various stages of consideration by the Department either ready for active status or are already placed on active status. In the last twenty years, the Committee on Indian Affairs has held several oversight hearings on the Federal recognition process. At those hearings the record clearly showed that the process does not work. At a Committee on Indian Affairs hearing in 1995, the Bureau testified that at the current rate of review and consideration, it would take several decades to eliminate the entire backlog of tribal petitions. The record from numerous previous hearings reveals a clear need for the Congress to address the problems affecting the recognition process. The bill I am introducing today will go a long way toward resolving the problems which have plagued both the Department of the Interior and tribal petitioners over the years. This bill, the Indian Tribal Federal Recognition Administrative Procedures Act of 2001, provides the required clarification and changes that will help tribal petitioners and the United States in providing fair and orderly administrative procedures to extend Federal recognition to eligible Indian groups. The principal purpose is to remove the Federal acknowledgment process from the BAR and transfer the responsibility for the process to a temporary and independent Commission on Indian Tribal Recognition. This bill provides that the Commission will be an independent agency, composed of three members appointed by the President, and authorized to hold hearings, take testimony, and reach final determinations on petitions for recognition. The bill provides strict but realistic time-lines to guide the Commission in the review and decision-making process. Under the existing process, some petitioners have waited ten years or more for even a cursory review of their petition. This bill will allow for a cost-effective process for the BIA and the petitioners, it will provide definite time-lines for the administrative recognition process, and sunsets the Commission in 12 years. To ensure fairness, the bill provides for appeals of adverse decisions to the federal district court here in the District of Columbia. To ensure that the views and comments of all affected parties are considered, the bills directs the Commission to consider evidence and materials submitted by states, local communities, and State attorneys general. To ensure promptness, the bill authorizes adequate funding for the costs of processing petitions through the Commission. The bill also provides finality for both the petitioners and the Department by requiring all interested tribal groups to file their petitions with 8 years after the date of enactment and requiring the Commission to complete to work within 12 years from enactment. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record, and urge my colleagues to join me in enacting this much-needed reform legislation.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am pleased to be joined by Senator Bingaman and Senator Inouye in introducing the Indian Needs Assessment, Program Evaluation and Policy Coordination Act of 2001 to bring about needed reforms in the way Indian programs are designed and funded. As the annual funding debates over Indian programs show us year after year, rational and equitable funding decisions are made more difficult because of the lack of accurate and up-to-date information about the needs of tribal governments and tribal members. The ability of the Congress to target unmet needs and make available adquate funds for tribes and tribal members is directly related to the quantity and quality of information available about the type and degree of demand for federal programs and services. Within two years of the enactment of this act, and every 5 years thereafter, each Federal agency or department is required to conduct an ``Indian Needs Assessment'', INA, aimed at determining the needs of tribes and Indians eligible for programs and services administered by such agency or department. To facilitate information collection and analysis, the bill requires the development of a uniform method, criteria and procedures for determining, analyzing, and compiling the program and service needs of tribes and Indians. The resulting ``Indian Needs Assessments'' are to be filed with the Committees on Appropriations and Indian Affairs of the Senate, and the Committees on Appropriations and Resources of the House of Representatives. In addition to a Needs Assessment, the bill also requires that each Federal agency or department responsible for providing services to Indians file an ``Annual Indian Program Evaluation'', AIPE, with these same committees. The AIPE will measure the performance and effectiveness of the programs under the jurisdiction of that agency or department, and include recommendations as to how such programs can be improved. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record and urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this measure.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am pleased to be joined by Senator Bingaman and Senator Inouye in introducing the Indian Needs Assessment, Program Evaluation and Policy Coordination Act of 2001 to bring about needed reforms in the way Indian programs are designed and funded. As the annual funding debates over Indian programs show us year after year, rational and equitable funding decisions are made more difficult because of the lack of accurate and up-to-date information about the needs of tribal governments and tribal members. The ability of the Congress to target unmet needs and make available adquate funds for tribes and tribal members is directly related to the quantity and quality of information available about the type and degree of demand for federal programs and services. Within two years of the enactment of this act, and every 5 years thereafter, each Federal agency or department is required to conduct an ``Indian Needs Assessment'', INA, aimed at determining the needs of tribes and Indians eligible for programs and services administered by such agency or department. To facilitate information collection and analysis, the bill requires the development of a uniform method, criteria and procedures for determining, analyzing, and compiling the program and service needs of tribes and Indians. The resulting ``Indian Needs Assessments'' are to be filed with the Committees on Appropriations and Indian Affairs of the Senate, and the Committees on Appropriations and Resources of the House of Representatives. In addition to a Needs Assessment, the bill also requires that each Federal agency or department responsible for providing services to Indians file an ``Annual Indian Program Evaluation'', AIPE, with these same committees. The AIPE will measure the performance and effectiveness of the programs under the jurisdiction of that agency or department, and include recommendations as to how such programs can be improved. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record and urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this measure.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to reintroduce a bill that will help millions of water consumers throughout my home state of Colorado. My bill, the Denver Water Reuse Project, is based on legislation I previously introduced in the last Congress. The full Senate passed this legislation last year, but time ran out in the 106th Congress before the House could act. The Denver Water Department has developed a plan to re-use non- potable water for irrigation and industrial uses. In the arid West, where growing populations and changing values are placing increasing demands on existing water supplies, water availability remains an important issue throughout the West. Recent conflicts are particularly apparent where agricultural needs for water are often in direct conflict with urban needs. This legislation will help remedy some of this conflict. The State of Colorado, the Colorado Water Congress, the Denver Board of Water Commissioners, and the Mayor of Denver endorsed this legislation last year. I am pleased to assist these interested parties with this worthwhile proposal. The Denver Water Department serves over a million customers and is one of the largest water suppliers in the Rocky Mountain region. Over the past several years Denver Water has developed a plan to treat and re-use some of its water supply for uses not involving human consumption. In this manner, Denver will stretch its water supply without the cost and potential environmental disruption of building new projects. It will also ease the demand on fresh drinking-quality water supplies. The Denver Water Reuse Project will treat secondary wastewater which is water that has already been used once in Denver's system. It is an environmentally and economically viable method for extending and conserving our limited water supplies. The water quality will meet all Colorado and federal standards. The water will still be clean and odorless, but since it will be used for irrigation and industrial uses around the Denver International Airport and the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Refuge, the additional expense to treat it for consumption will be avoided. In the West, naturally scarce water supplies and increasing urban populations have increased our need for water re-use, recycling, conservation, and storage proposals. These are all keys to successfully meet the water needs of everyone. This plan would benefit many Coloradans, and would help relieve many of the water burdens faced in the Denver region. Again, I'd like to thank the interested parties for their support, and I am hopeful this bill can be quickly passed and put into effect. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill and a copy of the letter of support from the Mayor of Denver be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to reintroduce a bill that will help millions of water consumers throughout my home state of Colorado. My bill, the Denver Water Reuse Project, is based on legislation I previously introduced in the last Congress. The full Senate passed this legislation last year, but time ran out in the 106th Congress before the House could act. The Denver Water Department has developed a plan to re-use non- potable water for irrigation and industrial uses. In the arid West, where growing populations and changing values are placing increasing demands on existing water supplies, water availability remains an important issue throughout the West. Recent conflicts are particularly apparent where agricultural needs for water are often in direct conflict with urban needs. This legislation will help remedy some of this conflict. The State of Colorado, the Colorado Water Congress, the Denver Board of Water Commissioners, and the Mayor of Denver endorsed this legislation last year. I am pleased to assist these interested parties with this worthwhile proposal. The Denver Water Department serves over a million customers and is one of the largest water suppliers in the Rocky Mountain region. Over the past several years Denver Water has developed a plan to treat and re-use some of its water supply for uses not involving human consumption. In this manner, Denver will stretch its water supply without the cost and potential environmental disruption of building new projects. It will also ease the demand on fresh drinking-quality water supplies. The Denver Water Reuse Project will treat secondary wastewater which is water that has already been used once in Denver's system. It is an environmentally and economically viable method for extending and conserving our limited water supplies. The water quality will meet all Colorado and federal standards. The water will still be clean and odorless, but since it will be used for irrigation and industrial uses around the Denver International Airport and the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Refuge, the additional expense to treat it for consumption will be avoided. In the West, naturally scarce water supplies and increasing urban populations have increased our need for water re-use, recycling, conservation, and storage proposals. These are all keys to successfully meet the water needs of everyone. This plan would benefit many Coloradans, and would help relieve many of the water burdens faced in the Denver region. Again, I'd like to thank the interested parties for their support, and I am hopeful this bill can be quickly passed and put into effect. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill and a copy of the letter of support from the Mayor of Denver be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, Senate Standing Rule XXVI requires each committee to adopt rules to govern the procedures of the committee and to publish those rules in the Congressional Record not later than March 1 of the first year of each Congress. On March 7, 2001, the Committee on Indian Affairs held a business meeting during which the members of the committee unanimously adopted rules to govern the procedures of the committee. Consistent with standing rule XXVI, today I ask unanimous consent to print in the Record the rules of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 at 9:30 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a business meeting to adopt the rules of the committee for the 107th Congress. Those wishing additional information may contact committee staff at 202/224-2251. committee on energy and natural resources subcommittee on water and power

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing a package of four bills that will help improve our nation's justice system and honor those law enforcement officers and firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty. The first bill I am introducing is the Officer Dale Claxton Bullet Resistant Police Protective Equipment Act of 2001, an updated version of legislation I introduced during the last Congress. This bill is named in honor of Officer Dale Claxton of Cortez, CO, a fine law enforcement officer and family man, who was fatally shot through the windshield of his patrol car on May 29, 1998, after stopping a stolen truck. His assailants turned out to be dangerous fugitives and a large-scale man hunt was launched. Officer Claxton was tragically and prematurely taken away from his wife and four children. The Officer Dale Claxton Act would help law enforcement agencies acquire bullet resistant equipment including bullet resistant glass for law enforcement vehicles, hand-held shields and any other equipment that officers may need when they serve on the front lines of law enforcement. Specifically, this legislation would help our nation's state and local law enforcement officers acquire the bullet resistant equipment they need to protect themselves from would-be killers. This legislation would authorize the Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance to administer a $40 million matching grant program to assist these agencies purchase bullet resistant equipment. This legislation is a worthy companion, and similar in many ways, to the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act, P.L. 105-181, which I introduced and the President signed into law on June 16, 1998. The legislation I am introducing today would help state and local law enforcement agencies acquire a wider array of bullet resistant equipment to supplement bullet proof vests. As a former deputy sheriff, I am personally aware of the dangers which law enforcement officers face on the front lines every day. One way in which the federal government can improve their safety is to help them acquire bullet resistant glass and other equipment for patrol cars. These partnership grants are especially crucial for officers who serve in small local jurisdictions that often lack the funds to provide their officers with the life saving equipment they may need. The second component of this legislation would launch an expedited and targeted research and development by authorizing $3 million over 3 years for the Justice Department's National Institute of Justice, NIJ, to conduct research and development of a new bullet resistant technologies, such as bonded acrylic, polymers, polycarbons, aluminized material, and transparent ceramics. Promising new bullet resistant materials now being developed could be as revolutionary in coming years as the development of Kevlar was in the 1970s for the manufacture of body armor. These exciting new technologies promise to be lighter, more versatile and hopefully less expensive than traditional heavy bulletproof glass. Our Nation's police officers, sheriffs and deputies regularly put their lives in harm's way as they protect the people and preserve the peace. They deserve to have access to the bullet resistant equipment they need. The Officer Dale Claxton bill will both accelerate the development of new lifesaving bullet resistant technologies and then help get them deployed into the field where they are needed. Officers lives will be saved. I ask unanimous consent that the Officer Dale Claxton Bullet Resistant Police Protective Equipment Act of 2001 be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, the fourth bill I am introducing today is the ``Stolen Gun Penalty Enhancement Act of 2001'' which would increase the maximum prison sentences for violating existing stolen gun laws. Many crimes in our country are being committed with stolen guns. The extent of this problem is reflected in a number of recent studies and news reports which indicate that almost half a million guns are stolen each year. This problem is especially alarming among young people. A Justice Department study of juvenile inmates in four states shows that over 50 percent of those inmates had stolen a gun. In the same study, gang members and drug sellers were more likely to have stolen a gun. Specifically, this bill would increase the maximum penalty for violating four provisions of the firearms laws. Under title 18 of the U.S. Code, it is illegal to knowingly transport or ship a stolen firearm or stolen ammunition. It is also illegal to knowingly receive, possess, conceal, store, sell, or otherwise dispose of a stolen firearm or stolen ammunition. The penalty for violating either of these provisions is a fine, a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, or both. My bill increases the maximum prison sentence to 15 years. Mr. President, I am a strong supporter of the rights of law-abiding gun owners. However, I firmly believe we need tough penalties for the illegal use of firearms. The Stolen Gun Penalty Enhancement Act of 2001 will send a strong signal to criminals who are even thinking about stealing a firearm. I urge my colleagues to join in support of this legislation. Mr. Preisent, I ask unanimous consent that the Stolen Gun Penalty Enhancement Act of 2001 be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, the second bill I am introducing today is the ``Fallen Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters Flag Memorial Act of 2001.'' I am pleased to be joined today by my colleagues, Senators McConnell, Feingold, Inouye, Levin, Dayton, Stevens, and Lugar who are original cosponsors. This bill would help honor the sacrifice of the men and women who lost their lives in the line of duty by providing Capitol-flown flags to the families of deceased law enforcement officers and firefighters. Under this legislation, the family of a deceased law enforcement officer can request from the Attorney General a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of the slain officer. The Department of Justice shall pay the cost of the flags, including shipping, out of discretionary grant funds, and provide them to the victim's family. As a former deputy sheriff, I know firsthand the risks which law enforcement officers face everyday on the front lines protecting our communities. I also have great appreciation, as the Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Caucus, for the service that our nation's firefighters provide, day in and day out, and that all too often, they end up sacrificing their lives while saving others. I believe providing a Capitol-flown flag is a fitting way to show our appreciation for fallen officers and firefighters who make the ultimate sacrifice. It also lets their families know that Congress and the nation are grateful for their loved ones' service. I ask unanimous consent that the Fallen Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters Flag Memorial Act of 2001 be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, the third bill I am introducing today is a bill to authorize states to recognize each other's concealed weapons laws and exempt qualified current and former law enforcement officers from State laws prohibiting the carrying of concealed firearms. This legislation is designed to support the rights of States and to facilitate the right of law-abiding citizens as well as law enforcement officers to protect themselves, their families, and their property. The language of this bill is based on S. 727, which I introduced in the 106th Congress. Specifically, this bill allows States to enter into agreements, known as ``compacts,'' to recognize the concealed weapons laws of those States included in the compacts. This is not a Federal mandate; it is strictly voluntary for those States interested in this approach. States would also be allowed to include provisions which best meet their needs, such as special provisions for law enforcement personnel. Currently, a Federal standard governs the conduct of nonresidents in those States that do not have a right-to-carry statute. Many of us in this body have always worked to protect the interests of States and communities by allowing them to make important decisions on how their affairs should be conducted. We are taking to the floor almost every day to talk about mandating certain things to the States. This bill would allow States to decide for themselves. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Congressional Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, the third bill I am introducing today is a bill to authorize states to recognize each other's concealed weapons laws and exempt qualified current and former law enforcement officers from State laws prohibiting the carrying of concealed firearms. This legislation is designed to support the rights of States and to facilitate the right of law-abiding citizens as well as law enforcement officers to protect themselves, their families, and their property. The language of this bill is based on S. 727, which I introduced in the 106th Congress. Specifically, this bill allows States to enter into agreements, known as ``compacts,'' to recognize the concealed weapons laws of those States included in the compacts. This is not a Federal mandate; it is strictly voluntary for those States interested in this approach. States would also be allowed to include provisions which best meet their needs, such as special provisions for law enforcement personnel. Currently, a Federal standard governs the conduct of nonresidents in those States that do not have a right-to-carry statute. Many of us in this body have always worked to protect the interests of States and communities by allowing them to make important decisions on how their affairs should be conducted. We are taking to the floor almost every day to talk about mandating certain things to the States. This bill would allow States to decide for themselves. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Congressional Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, the second bill I am introducing today is the ``Fallen Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters Flag Memorial Act of 2001.'' I am pleased to be joined today by my colleagues, Senators McConnell, Feingold, Inouye, Levin, Dayton, Stevens, and Lugar who are original cosponsors. This bill would help honor the sacrifice of the men and women who lost their lives in the line of duty by providing Capitol-flown flags to the families of deceased law enforcement officers and firefighters. Under this legislation, the family of a deceased law enforcement officer can request from the Attorney General a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of the slain officer. The Department of Justice shall pay the cost of the flags, including shipping, out of discretionary grant funds, and provide them to the victim's family. As a former deputy sheriff, I know firsthand the risks which law enforcement officers face everyday on the front lines protecting our communities. I also have great appreciation, as the Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Caucus, for the service that our nation's firefighters provide, day in and day out, and that all too often, they end up sacrificing their lives while saving others. I believe providing a Capitol-flown flag is a fitting way to show our appreciation for fallen officers and firefighters who make the ultimate sacrifice. It also lets their families know that Congress and the nation are grateful for their loved ones' service. I ask unanimous consent that the Fallen Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters Flag Memorial Act of 2001 be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, the fourth bill I am introducing today is the ``Stolen Gun Penalty Enhancement Act of 2001'' which would increase the maximum prison sentences for violating existing stolen gun laws. Many crimes in our country are being committed with stolen guns. The extent of this problem is reflected in a number of recent studies and news reports which indicate that almost half a million guns are stolen each year. This problem is especially alarming among young people. A Justice Department study of juvenile inmates in four states shows that over 50 percent of those inmates had stolen a gun. In the same study, gang members and drug sellers were more likely to have stolen a gun. Specifically, this bill would increase the maximum penalty for violating four provisions of the firearms laws. Under title 18 of the U.S. Code, it is illegal to knowingly transport or ship a stolen firearm or stolen ammunition. It is also illegal to knowingly receive, possess, conceal, store, sell, or otherwise dispose of a stolen firearm or stolen ammunition. The penalty for violating either of these provisions is a fine, a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, or both. My bill increases the maximum prison sentence to 15 years. Mr. President, I am a strong supporter of the rights of law-abiding gun owners. However, I firmly believe we need tough penalties for the illegal use of firearms. The Stolen Gun Penalty Enhancement Act of 2001 will send a strong signal to criminals who are even thinking about stealing a firearm. I urge my colleagues to join in support of this legislation. Mr. Preisent, I ask unanimous consent that the Stolen Gun Penalty Enhancement Act of 2001 be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am introducing a package of four bills that will help improve our nation's justice system and honor those law enforcement officers and firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty. The first bill I am introducing is the Officer Dale Claxton Bullet Resistant Police Protective Equipment Act of 2001, an updated version of legislation I introduced during the last Congress. This bill is named in honor of Officer Dale Claxton of Cortez, CO, a fine law enforcement officer and family man, who was fatally shot through the windshield of his patrol car on May 29, 1998, after stopping a stolen truck. His assailants turned out to be dangerous fugitives and a large-scale man hunt was launched. Officer Claxton was tragically and prematurely taken away from his wife and four children. The Officer Dale Claxton Act would help law enforcement agencies acquire bullet resistant equipment including bullet resistant glass for law enforcement vehicles, hand-held shields and any other equipment that officers may need when they serve on the front lines of law enforcement. Specifically, this legislation would help our nation's state and local law enforcement officers acquire the bullet resistant equipment they need to protect themselves from would-be killers. This legislation would authorize the Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance to administer a $40 million matching grant program to assist these agencies purchase bullet resistant equipment. This legislation is a worthy companion, and similar in many ways, to the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act, P.L. 105-181, which I introduced and the President signed into law on June 16, 1998. The legislation I am introducing today would help state and local law enforcement agencies acquire a wider array of bullet resistant equipment to supplement bullet proof vests. As a former deputy sheriff, I am personally aware of the dangers which law enforcement officers face on the front lines every day. One way in which the federal government can improve their safety is to help them acquire bullet resistant glass and other equipment for patrol cars. These partnership grants are especially crucial for officers who serve in small local jurisdictions that often lack the funds to provide their officers with the life saving equipment they may need. The second component of this legislation would launch an expedited and targeted research and development by authorizing $3 million over 3 years for the Justice Department's National Institute of Justice, NIJ, to conduct research and development of a new bullet resistant technologies, such as bonded acrylic, polymers, polycarbons, aluminized material, and transparent ceramics. Promising new bullet resistant materials now being developed could be as revolutionary in coming years as the development of Kevlar was in the 1970s for the manufacture of body armor. These exciting new technologies promise to be lighter, more versatile and hopefully less expensive than traditional heavy bulletproof glass. Our Nation's police officers, sheriffs and deputies regularly put their lives in harm's way as they protect the people and preserve the peace. They deserve to have access to the bullet resistant equipment they need. The Officer Dale Claxton bill will both accelerate the development of new lifesaving bullet resistant technologies and then help get them deployed into the field where they are needed. Officers lives will be saved. I ask unanimous consent that the Officer Dale Claxton Bullet Resistant Police Protective Equipment Act of 2001 be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today marks a special day in the lives of tens of thousands of American families. Families who have adopted children from other nations, providing them with safe environments, good food, a good education, and most importantly, loving homes. Traditionally, adoptive families have had to endure a lengthy and expensive bureaucratic process, and navigate through a daunting maze of paperwork, as they have tried to secure U.S. citizenship for their foreign-born adopted children. All that changed first thing this morning when the Child Citizenship Act of 2000 took effect. This important act of Congress, which passed the Senate unanimously last October, cleared the way today for approximately 75,000 children adopted from abroad to become Americans. When these children went to sleep last night, they were in naturalization limbo. When they woke up this morning, they were citizens of the United States of America. I send my warmest welcome to these new young Americans. In some cases, adoptive parents were not aware of the need to file applications for citizenship for their adopted children. Many of these children grew up to discover they were not considered U.S. citizens. Some have faced the possibility of having to return to a country they have never known. The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 corrected this injustice. Today, families in Colorado and across this Nation, celebrate the automatic citizenship of foreign-adopted children who meet the requirements outlined in the act. For the O'Neil family of Englewood, Colorado among many such families across the state and our nation, it is a day of great joy. Today is a day when we greet many new U.S. citizens. I wish to extend my congratulations to our newest and youngest citizens and their families, as well as to my colleagues who worked so diligently to make this day possible.