Ben Campbell

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I am pleased to join my friend and colleague Senator Murkowski as an original cosponsor of the National Security Act of 2001. This bill represents a significant effort to define our national energy policy and it will be considered shortly. For years many Senate Republicans called on the previous administration to define our national energy policy. It is apparent that they never answered our calls. We all know that this bill must now be discussed and specific concerns need to be addressed. But, this is an important step to lay the foundation for our future energy plans. We are a Nation that uses coal, oil, hydro power, natural gas and nuclear power. This cannot be disputed. But, the previous administration would not accept this reality. And, unfortunately, they tried to stand in the way of domestic oil production by locking up public lands. Now we are in a very good position with the current administration to build a secure energy policy which is long lasting, environmentally friendly and will decrease our dependence on foreign oil. I am hopeful that this is just the starting point. Some organizations will have concerns with this bill, and I have some as well. For instance, Rural Electric Associations, commonly referred to as Co-ops, have concerns that I would like to see addressed, especially since such a big portion of my home state of Colorado is covered by Co-ops. I am confident, however that we can all come together, resolve our differences and construct a national energy policy that will ensure our future needs. The National Security Act of 2001 is an important step forward to define our national energy policy, provide relief from our energy problems and promote domestic production so that our Nation can become more self sufficient for our energy needs. I urge my colleagues to come together to build our energy future.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, it is with great sorrow that I am recognizing today the loss of one of the greatest NASCAR drivers ever to get behind the wheel, Dale Earnhardt, who tragically died at this year's Daytona 500. The Nation not only lost an icon of the racing world, but also a great man. Dale Earnhardt's career achievements are vast, better than most teams of drivers. In his 26 years of racing, Dale won 76 races and secured seven Winston Cup Championships. But, the biggest accomplishment Dale earned is the respect and admiration of his fellow drivers and his fans through his hard work and dedication to the sport he loved. Everyone involved in racing will never forget what Dale has done for the sport and how his accomplishments have forever turned racing into a way of life. He had an aggressive driving style that was rivaled by none, and revered by all. Dale Earnhardt set the standard by which every driver was measured. On the race track it was all business. Off the track he was a man with a huge heart and a tender way who always had time for fans and other racers. You can never replace a driver like Dale Earnhardt, but his legend will live on. As a motorsports enthusiast myself and co-chair of the Congressional Motorsports Caucus, it is with regret for me to make this Senate floor statement. Today I invite my Senate colleagues to join me in sending my sincere condolences to the Earnhardt family and everyone that has been touched by the man known as the Intimidator on the race track. The number 3 car will be missed on the track. But, racing will go on, Dale would have wanted it that way.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to announce that the Committee on Indian Affairs will meet on Wednesday, February 28, 2001 at 9:00 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing to receive the views of the Department of the Interior on matters of Indian Affairs. Those wishing additional information may contact Committee staff at 202/224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to be introducing a bill that provides needed clarifications in the law to improve the administration of both the Indian Reservation Roads Program and the Indian Reservation Road Bridge Program to better meet the transportation needs in native communities. There is still an enormous need for physical infrastructure on Indian lands throughout the country. This infrastructure is necessary for Indian tribes and their citizens to carry out emergency services, law enforcement, and the transportation of goods and services. Good transportation is fundamental to attracting private investment and enterprise into Native communities. When entrepreneurs or investors are calculating whether to invest in a community they first look to see if the basic building blocks exist within the community. Roads, highways, electricity, potable water, and other amenities are critical factors that investors look to before making their investment decisions. For Indian communities, efficient and effective federal road financing and construction are one factor leading to healthy economies and higher standards of living. In 1998 Congress enacted the Transportation Equity Act of the twenty- first century, ``TEA-21,'' to authorize federal surface transportation programs with the goals of improved highways, increased safety, protecting the environment, and increased economic growth. In passing TEA-21, Congress approved several Indian provisions that I was proud to have sponsored. One important provision required negotiated rule-making to develop an allocation formula that is both flexible and fair in addressing the needs of all Indian communities throughout the country. Another provision provided that all Indian reservation road monies under TEA-21 are eligible for tribes to contract and compact under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975, P.L. 93-638, as amended. In the 106th Congress, the Committee on Indian Affairs held two hearings on the Indian reservation roads program and TEA-21. From testimony and other evidence presented, it is evident that there remain serious obstacles to a more efficient functioning of TEA-21 in Indian communities. I am sorry to say that one of the obstacles appears to be the administration of the program by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, BIA, itself. Although reservation roads comprise 2.63 percent of the federal highway system, less than 1 percent of federal aid has been allocated to Indian roads. This bill would remove the so-called ``obligation limitation'' contained within TEA-21 and would allow the already- authorized funds for Indians to reach the intended beneficiaries. In fiscal year 2001, imposition of the obligation limitation diverted $34 million from the Indian Reservation Road program. This bill also authorizes the Federal Lands Highway Program, FLHP, to establish a pilot program in which up to 12 tribes may, in their discretion, contract directly with the FLHP for the administration of their roads programs. The dual goals of this pilot program are to promote a more efficient use of existing resources, and to further the policy of Indian self-determination. Under current law, the BIA is authorized to use ``up to 6 percent'' of roads funding for oversight and administration of the Indian roads program. If it was not clear in 1998, it should be clear now that these funds are not intended to be available to subsidize other BIA roads operations nor are they intended to be used for other BIA purposes. The bill I am introducing today contains a provision that clarifies the ``up to 6 percent'' language by reiterating Congress' intent that the figure was and is intended as a maximum, not a minimum, funding level with regard to the BIA's administrative costs. This bill also clarifies that tribes who are administering their Indian reservation roads program under Public Law 93-638 are authorized to receive the monies that the BIA would have used to administer these tribes' roads programs. Because tribes that are either ``638'' contractors or compactors have assumed the BIA's administrative functions, it is unnecessary for the BIA to withhold either administrative or project related funding from these tribes. Finally, this bill seeks to eliminate the redundancy that is currently required in the health and safety certification process by allowing tribes to meet statutorily required health and safety standards without the need for a second, duplicative effort by the BIA. It is important to note that the standards themselves will not change, nor will the need for tribal compliance with those standards change. 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 introducing a bill that provides needed clarifications in the law to improve the administration of both the Indian Reservation Roads Program and the Indian Reservation Road Bridge Program to better meet the transportation needs in native communities. There is still an enormous need for physical infrastructure on Indian lands throughout the country. This infrastructure is necessary for Indian tribes and their citizens to carry out emergency services, law enforcement, and the transportation of goods and services. Good transportation is fundamental to attracting private investment and enterprise into Native communities. When entrepreneurs or investors are calculating whether to invest in a community they first look to see if the basic building blocks exist within the community. Roads, highways, electricity, potable water, and other amenities are critical factors that investors look to before making their investment decisions. For Indian communities, efficient and effective federal road financing and construction are one factor leading to healthy economies and higher standards of living. In 1998 Congress enacted the Transportation Equity Act of the twenty- first century, ``TEA-21,'' to authorize federal surface transportation programs with the goals of improved highways, increased safety, protecting the environment, and increased economic growth. In passing TEA-21, Congress approved several Indian provisions that I was proud to have sponsored. One important provision required negotiated rule-making to develop an allocation formula that is both flexible and fair in addressing the needs of all Indian communities throughout the country. Another provision provided that all Indian reservation road monies under TEA-21 are eligible for tribes to contract and compact under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975, P.L. 93-638, as amended. In the 106th Congress, the Committee on Indian Affairs held two hearings on the Indian reservation roads program and TEA-21. From testimony and other evidence presented, it is evident that there remain serious obstacles to a more efficient functioning of TEA-21 in Indian communities. I am sorry to say that one of the obstacles appears to be the administration of the program by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, BIA, itself. Although reservation roads comprise 2.63 percent of the federal highway system, less than 1 percent of federal aid has been allocated to Indian roads. This bill would remove the so-called ``obligation limitation'' contained within TEA-21 and would allow the already- authorized funds for Indians to reach the intended beneficiaries. In fiscal year 2001, imposition of the obligation limitation diverted $34 million from the Indian Reservation Road program. This bill also authorizes the Federal Lands Highway Program, FLHP, to establish a pilot program in which up to 12 tribes may, in their discretion, contract directly with the FLHP for the administration of their roads programs. The dual goals of this pilot program are to promote a more efficient use of existing resources, and to further the policy of Indian self-determination. Under current law, the BIA is authorized to use ``up to 6 percent'' of roads funding for oversight and administration of the Indian roads program. If it was not clear in 1998, it should be clear now that these funds are not intended to be available to subsidize other BIA roads operations nor are they intended to be used for other BIA purposes. The bill I am introducing today contains a provision that clarifies the ``up to 6 percent'' language by reiterating Congress' intent that the figure was and is intended as a maximum, not a minimum, funding level with regard to the BIA's administrative costs. This bill also clarifies that tribes who are administering their Indian reservation roads program under Public Law 93-638 are authorized to receive the monies that the BIA would have used to administer these tribes' roads programs. Because tribes that are either ``638'' contractors or compactors have assumed the BIA's administrative functions, it is unnecessary for the BIA to withhold either administrative or project related funding from these tribes. Finally, this bill seeks to eliminate the redundancy that is currently required in the health and safety certification process by allowing tribes to meet statutorily required health and safety standards without the need for a second, duplicative effort by the BIA. It is important to note that the standards themselves will not change, nor will the need for tribal compliance with those standards change. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, though there are glimmers of hope in Native communities, most Native Americans remain racked by unemployment, mired in poverty, and rank at or near the bottom of nearly every social and economic indicator of well-being that is tallied. For years the Committee on Indian Affairs has made strengthening Indian economies a top priority. Healthy tribal economies and lower unemployment rates are imperative if tribes are to achieve the goals of self-sufficiency and true self-determination. Although federal economic development assistance has been available for years, poverty, ill-health, and unemployment remain rampant on most Indian reservations. One reason for the lack of success, despite spending billions of dollars promoting Indian economic development, is the absence of a consistent and consolidated federal mechanism that targets development resources to the areas and projects that are most promising. Indian business, economic, and community development programs span the entire federal government and for any given project undertaken by a tribe there may be 6 to 8 or more agencies involved. This fragmentation and lack of coordination is not producing the kind of results Indian country so badly needs. To begin to remedy this problem, today I am pleased to introduce legislation that builds on the most successful federal Indian policy to date, Indian self-determination, and seeks to expand the principles of self-determination, and seeks to expand the principles of self- determination to the economic development realm. The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975 authorizes Indian tribes and tribal consortia to ``step into the shoes'' of the federal government to administer programs and services historically provided by the United States. This act has worked as it was intended and has resulted in improved efficiency of program delivery and service quality; increased tribal administrative acumen; better managed tribal institutions; stronger tribal economies; and a positive and healthy shift away from federal control over Indian lives to more flexible decision making and local control. What began as a demonstration project in 1975 has blossomed into an every-increasing number of tribal governments that have come to realize the benefits of self-governance. As of 1999, nearly 48 percent of all Bureau of Indian Affairs, BIA, and 50 percent of all Indian Health Service, IHS, programs and services have been assumed by tribes pursuant to Indian Self-Determination Act contracts and compacts. The legislation I introduce today will launch the second phase of the self-determination experiment by assisting Indian tribes in their use and maximization of existing resources for purposes of economic development. By authorizing tribes and tribal consortia to consolidate and target existing funds for development purposes, this bill will promote a more efficient use of those resources. Perhaps more importantly, this legislation will lay the foundation for a coordinated development strategy that looks to employment creation, investment and improved standards of living in Indian country rather than how much money is spent by the federal government as the real measure of a successful development policy. One goal of this bill is to eliminate inconsistencies and duplication in federal policies that continue to be a barrier to Indian development through the issuance of uniform regulations and policies governing the use of funds across agencies. Similar to the demonstration project that will be authorized by this bill is the 477 Program which was created by Public Law 102-477. Under the 477 Program, tribes are eligible to consolidate all federally funded employment training and related services into a single, fully integrated program. This integration promotes tribal flexibility and efficiency, and has been one of the few successes in federal Indian economic development. By authorizing federal-tribal arrangements to combine and coordinate resources, this bill will make the best use of existing programs to assist tribes in attracting private investment and capital into Indian reservations. In the 106th Congress, the Committee on Indian Affairs held a hearing on an almost identical version of this bill. At the hearing, the committee received testimony strongly supporting the type of consolidation and coordination of federal resources represented in this legislation. I am hopeful that the legislation introduced today will signal a new day for how the federal government assists Native communities in creating jobs and building a better future for their members. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, though there are glimmers of hope in Native communities, most Native Americans remain racked by unemployment, mired in poverty, and rank at or near the bottom of nearly every social and economic indicator of well-being that is tallied. For years the Committee on Indian Affairs has made strengthening Indian economies a top priority. Healthy tribal economies and lower unemployment rates are imperative if tribes are to achieve the goals of self-sufficiency and true self-determination. Although federal economic development assistance has been available for years, poverty, ill-health, and unemployment remain rampant on most Indian reservations. One reason for the lack of success, despite spending billions of dollars promoting Indian economic development, is the absence of a consistent and consolidated federal mechanism that targets development resources to the areas and projects that are most promising. Indian business, economic, and community development programs span the entire federal government and for any given project undertaken by a tribe there may be 6 to 8 or more agencies involved. This fragmentation and lack of coordination is not producing the kind of results Indian country so badly needs. To begin to remedy this problem, today I am pleased to introduce legislation that builds on the most successful federal Indian policy to date, Indian self-determination, and seeks to expand the principles of self-determination, and seeks to expand the principles of self- determination to the economic development realm. The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975 authorizes Indian tribes and tribal consortia to ``step into the shoes'' of the federal government to administer programs and services historically provided by the United States. This act has worked as it was intended and has resulted in improved efficiency of program delivery and service quality; increased tribal administrative acumen; better managed tribal institutions; stronger tribal economies; and a positive and healthy shift away from federal control over Indian lives to more flexible decision making and local control. What began as a demonstration project in 1975 has blossomed into an every-increasing number of tribal governments that have come to realize the benefits of self-governance. As of 1999, nearly 48 percent of all Bureau of Indian Affairs, BIA, and 50 percent of all Indian Health Service, IHS, programs and services have been assumed by tribes pursuant to Indian Self-Determination Act contracts and compacts. The legislation I introduce today will launch the second phase of the self-determination experiment by assisting Indian tribes in their use and maximization of existing resources for purposes of economic development. By authorizing tribes and tribal consortia to consolidate and target existing funds for development purposes, this bill will promote a more efficient use of those resources. Perhaps more importantly, this legislation will lay the foundation for a coordinated development strategy that looks to employment creation, investment and improved standards of living in Indian country rather than how much money is spent by the federal government as the real measure of a successful development policy. One goal of this bill is to eliminate inconsistencies and duplication in federal policies that continue to be a barrier to Indian development through the issuance of uniform regulations and policies governing the use of funds across agencies. Similar to the demonstration project that will be authorized by this bill is the 477 Program which was created by Public Law 102-477. Under the 477 Program, tribes are eligible to consolidate all federally funded employment training and related services into a single, fully integrated program. This integration promotes tribal flexibility and efficiency, and has been one of the few successes in federal Indian economic development. By authorizing federal-tribal arrangements to combine and coordinate resources, this bill will make the best use of existing programs to assist tribes in attracting private investment and capital into Indian reservations. In the 106th Congress, the Committee on Indian Affairs held a hearing on an almost identical version of this bill. At the hearing, the committee received testimony strongly supporting the type of consolidation and coordination of federal resources represented in this legislation. I am hopeful that the legislation introduced today will signal a new day for how the federal government assists Native communities in creating jobs and building a better future for their members. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, for far too long, our nation has been almost silent about the needs of some of its most vulnerable families and children--those caught in the vicious cycle of child abuse. That is why, today, I am introducing a Senate concurrent resolution recognizing the first Wednesday of April as a National Day of Hope dedicated to remembering the victims of child abuse and neglect and recognizing Childhelp USA for initiating such a day. I am pleased to be joined in this effort by my friend and colleague from Wisconsin, Senator Kohl, with whom I have worked for many years on issues affecting youth at risk. This resolution expresses the sense of the Congress that we must break the cycle of child abuse and neglect by mobilizing all our resources including the faith community, nonprofit organizations and volunteers. Childhelp USA is one of our oldest national organizations dedicated to meeting the needs of abused and neglected children. By focusing its efforts on prevention and research as well as on treatment, this organization has provided help to thousands of children since it was founded in 1959. Childhelp USA and many other non-profits or faith-based organizations nationwide are performing a vital service to abused and neglected children that they would not have otherwise, and they are to be commended. I know first-hand the importance of having help when it is needed. The National Day of Hope Resolution calls on each of us to renew our duty and responsibility to the vulnerable children and families caught in the cycle of child abuse and neglect. To further observe the National Day of Hope, a cross-country ride has been organized by a group of Harley-Davidson owners in Northern Arizona. This ``Cycle of Hope'' will help turn the eyes of our entire nation to the suffering of the victims of child abuse. As a motorcycle enthusiast myself, I look forward to being a part of that effort. More than 3 million American children are reported as suspected victims of child abuse and neglect each year. That is 3 million children too many. And, it is estimated that more than 1,000 children, 78 percent under the age of 5 and 38 percent under one year of age, lose their lives as a direct result of abuse and neglect every year. That is not acceptable. We must do something to change these statistics. While I am encouraged by the efforts of many organizations nationwide, more needs to be done. That is why I urge my colleagues to act quickly on this resolution so we can move one step closer to erasing the horror of child abuse from our nation's history.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, the future of our nation rests on the small shoulders of America's school children. To help them face that challenge, we must call on all of our resources and find new and innovative ways to support our schools, right now. That is why today, I am introducing the ``Seniors As Volunteers in Our Schools Act,'' a bill that will be an important step in ensuring that our schools provide a safe and caring place for our children to learn and grow. This bill is based on legislation which I introduced in the 106th Congress, S. 1851. I am pleased to have my colleagues Senators Grassley, Akaka and Inouye as original co-sponsors. Over the past week, under the leadership of President Bush, our nation and this body have committed to improving the nature of our schools. This bill presents one common-sense approach to enhancing the safety in our schools by utilizing one of our greatest resources--our senior citizens. The bill I introduce today would encourage school administrators and teachers to use qualified seniors as volunteers in federally funded programs and activities authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, ESEA. The legislation specifically would encourage the use of seniors as volunteers in the safe and drug free schools programs, Indian education programs, the 21st Century Community before- and after-school programs and gifted and talented programs. The Seniors as Volunteers in Our Schools Act creates no new programs; rather it suggests another allowable use of funds already allocated. The discretion whether to take advantage of this new resource continues to remain solely with the school systems. In my home state of Colorado, a School Safety Summit recommended connecting each child to a caring adult as a way to reduce youth violence. Studies show that consistent guidance by a mentor or caring adult can help reduce teenage pregnancy, substance abuse and youth violence. Evidence also shows that the presence of adults on playgrounds, and in hallways and study halls, stabilizes the learning environment. I know firsthand the importance of mentoring based on my own experiences as a teacher. A mentor can have a profound and positive impact on a child's life. What better way to make our schools safer for our children than to have more caring adults visibly involved? I am pleased to note that the Colorado Association of School Boards supports the goal of this legislation. Jane Urschel, the Association's Associate Executive Director states, ``As many Colorado school districts have already discovered, having senior citizens in our classrooms helps to build inter-generational relationships and trust. It leads to a richer life for all.'' I am pleased that a number of seniors in Colorado already are helping in schools throughout my state. Many of my former and current staffers and their relatives care deeply about this issue and are very involved in volunteer and mentoring activities. I do not expect this legislation to solve all the problems confronting our schools today. But, I see it as a practical way to help make our schools safer, more caring places for our children. Mr. President, the Seniors as Volunteers in Our Schools Act of 2001 is one simple way to address the school safety issue in Colorado and nationwide. I believe that as we work to find the resources our schools require we must not overlook one of the more plentiful and accessible resources at our disposal--willing and capable adult role models. This bill provides an opportunity to immediately improve the lives of younger and older Americans alike by bringing them together in our schools. I urge my colleagues to support its passage. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, the future of our nation rests on the small shoulders of America's school children. To help them face that challenge, we must call on all of our resources and find new and innovative ways to support our schools, right now. That is why today, I am introducing the ``Seniors As Volunteers in Our Schools Act,'' a bill that will be an important step in ensuring that our schools provide a safe and caring place for our children to learn and grow. This bill is based on legislation which I introduced in the 106th Congress, S. 1851. I am pleased to have my colleagues Senators Grassley, Akaka and Inouye as original co-sponsors. Over the past week, under the leadership of President Bush, our nation and this body have committed to improving the nature of our schools. This bill presents one common-sense approach to enhancing the safety in our schools by utilizing one of our greatest resources--our senior citizens. The bill I introduce today would encourage school administrators and teachers to use qualified seniors as volunteers in federally funded programs and activities authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, ESEA. The legislation specifically would encourage the use of seniors as volunteers in the safe and drug free schools programs, Indian education programs, the 21st Century Community before- and after-school programs and gifted and talented programs. The Seniors as Volunteers in Our Schools Act creates no new programs; rather it suggests another allowable use of funds already allocated. The discretion whether to take advantage of this new resource continues to remain solely with the school systems. In my home state of Colorado, a School Safety Summit recommended connecting each child to a caring adult as a way to reduce youth violence. Studies show that consistent guidance by a mentor or caring adult can help reduce teenage pregnancy, substance abuse and youth violence. Evidence also shows that the presence of adults on playgrounds, and in hallways and study halls, stabilizes the learning environment. I know firsthand the importance of mentoring based on my own experiences as a teacher. A mentor can have a profound and positive impact on a child's life. What better way to make our schools safer for our children than to have more caring adults visibly involved? I am pleased to note that the Colorado Association of School Boards supports the goal of this legislation. Jane Urschel, the Association's Associate Executive Director states, ``As many Colorado school districts have already discovered, having senior citizens in our classrooms helps to build inter-generational relationships and trust. It leads to a richer life for all.'' I am pleased that a number of seniors in Colorado already are helping in schools throughout my state. Many of my former and current staffers and their relatives care deeply about this issue and are very involved in volunteer and mentoring activities. I do not expect this legislation to solve all the problems confronting our schools today. But, I see it as a practical way to help make our schools safer, more caring places for our children. Mr. President, the Seniors as Volunteers in Our Schools Act of 2001 is one simple way to address the school safety issue in Colorado and nationwide. I believe that as we work to find the resources our schools require we must not overlook one of the more plentiful and accessible resources at our disposal--willing and capable adult role models. This bill provides an opportunity to immediately improve the lives of younger and older Americans alike by bringing them together in our schools. I urge my colleagues to support its passage. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to be joined today by the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, and former Chairman, Senator John McCain in introducing important legislation to reauthorize the Indian Health Care Improvement Act of 1976, the ``IHCIA'' or the ``Act''. The United States first provided health services to Indians in 1824 as part of the War Department's handling of Indian affairs. In 1849 this responsibility went to the newly-created Department of the Interior where it rested until 1955 when it was transferred to the Public Health Service's Indian Health Agency. The evolution of the Indian Health Service from an ad hoc service provided to Indians by the BIA to a specialized agency within the Department of Health and Human Services was completed with the passage of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act of 1976. In 1970, President Nixon issued his now-famous ``Special Message to Congress on Indian Affairs'' laying out the rationale for a more enlightened Federal Indian Policy: Indian Self-Determination. Self-Determination is the core principle embodied in the IHCIA the main purposes of which are to improve the health status of Indian people and to increase the number of Indians involved in the health professions. The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975, the IHCIA, and the amendments to each over the years can all be traced directly to the fundamental changes first proposed in 1970. I am proud to say that legislation I proposed in the 106th Congress, the Indian Tribal Self-Governance Amendments of 2000, were enacted into law as Public Law 106-260. The bill we introduce today builds on this new law in important respects. By introducing the IHCIA reauthorization bill, we re-affirm Indian Self-Determination and the principles of the IHCIA (1) that the provision of Federal health services is consistent with the federal- tribal relationship; (2) that a goal of the U.S. is to provide the quantity and quality of services to raise the health status of Indians; (3) that Indian participation in the planning and management of health services should be maximized; and (4) that the numbers of American Indians and Alaska Natives trained in health professions be maximized. Before the passage of the Act in 1976 the mortality rate for Indian infants was 25 percent higher than that of non-Indian babies. The death rates for mothers was 82 percent higher and the mortality rates from infectious disease-causing diarrhea and dehydration was 138 percent greater. Today we can see marked improvements. Infant mortality rates have been reduced by 54 percent, maternal mortality rates have been reduced by 65 percent, tuberculosis mortality by 80 percent and overall mortality rates have been reduced by 42 percent. While encouraging, these statistics mask the fact that the health status of Native people in America is still poor and below that of all other racial and ethnic groups. While we will continue to push forward on all fronts in seeking to improve Indian health services, I believe that there are three emergent issues that we need to address; urban Indian health care; Indian health facilities construction needs; and the booming problem of diabetes. Undoubtedly the 2000 decennial census will likely show what past counts have shown--that more than one-half of the 2.3 million American Indians and Alaska Natives reside off-reservation and are referred to as ``urban Indians.'' Though the health services framework that now exists has slowly begun to acknowledge this trend, I am concerned that urban Indian health care needs require a more focused and vigorous approach. Another problem that must be addressed is the growing backlog in health care facilities construction. Recent estimates show that there is some $900 million in unmet facilities needs. The dogged approach to eliminating this backlog by relying on federal appropriations will not work, and I strongly believe that innovative proposals need to be made, refined and perfected in order to accomplish our common goal. I am heartened by the cooperative federal-tribal efforts in making the Joint Venture Program a success and look forward to building on this success in the coming years. Ailments of affluence continue to seep into Native communities and erode the quality of life and very social fabric that holds these communities together. Alcohol and substance abuse continue to take a heavy toll and diabetes is reaching alarmingly high rates. Most troubling is the increasing obesity and diabetes that is occurring with alarming frequency in Native youngsters. It is now time to make the extra effort to look at the positive things we have accomplished and build upon them. This bill is a step in the right direction on these and other health matters. The bill we introduced last year was the product of months- long consultations by a group of very dedicated individuals consisting of Indian Tribal leaders, health and legal professionals, and representatives of the private and public health care sectors. The group reviewed existing law and has proposed changes to improve the current system by stressing local flexibility and choice, and making it more responsive to the health needs of Indian people. I am hopeful that in moving forward this year we can draw from the hearing record built after no fewer than five hearings on the bill that was introduced in the 106th Congress, S. 2526. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this key measure. I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to be joined today by the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs Senator Daniel K. Inouye in introducing the Native American Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program Consolidation Act of 2001. This important legislation will authorize Indian Tribes to consolidate and integrate alcohol, substance abuse prevention and treatment and mental health programs to provide more comprehensive treatment and services to Native Americans across the country. More often than not, individuals with alcohol and substance abuse problems are also hobbled with mental health problems, and this bill authorizes tribes to make mental health services available as well. Native Americans have higher rates of alcohol and drug use than any other racial or ethnic group in the United States. Despite previous treatment and preventive efforts, alcoholism and substance abuse continue to be prevalent among Native youth: 82 percent of Native adolescents admitted to having used alcohol, compared with 66 percent of non-Native youth. Alcohol continues to be an important risk factor associated with the top three killers of Native youngsters--accidents, suicide, and homicide. Based on 1993 data, the rate of mortality due to alcoholism among Native youth ages 15 to 24 was 5.2 per 100,000, which is 17 times the rate for whites in the same age group. In a 1994 school-based study, 39 percent of Native high school seniors reported having ``gotten drunk'' and 39 percent of Native kids admitted to using marijuana. Alcohol and substance abuse also contribute to other social problems including sexually transmitted diseases, child and spousal abuse, poor school achievement and dropout, unemployment, drunk-driving and vehicular deaths, mental health problems, hopelessness and suicide. Alcohol, substance abuse, and mental health program funds are available to tribes from virtually every agency in the federal government including the Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Justice, and Transportation. To help Tribes slice through the bureaucracy, this bill authorizes Tribal governments and inter-Tribal organizations to: 1, consolidate these programs through a single federal office in the Department of Health and Human Services--Indian Health Services, IHS; and 2, use a single plan to reduce the administrative and bureaucratic processes, resulting in better services to Native Americans. This bill tries to replicate the success of the widely-hailed ``477 model'' that Tribes have used to effectively coordinate employment training and related services through the Indian Employment Training and Related Services Demonstration Act of 1992, Pub. Law 102-477. Under the ``477 model,'' and applicant Tribe files a single plan to draw and coordinate resources from the spectrum of federal agencies and administer them through one office. I am hopeful that armed with this creative tool, Tribes can begin to bring an end to the devastation of alcohol and drug abuse in their communities. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the legislation be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased today to be joined by the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, in introducing legislation to improve the education delivery systems in Indian schools so that the President's goal that ``no child be left behind'' is as true for Native youngsters as for all Americans. Grounded in the Constitution, treaties, federal statutes and court decisions, the United States has a unique role in the education of Native people. This is especially true for the Bureau of Indian Affairs school system for schools on or near reservations built and designed by the federal government. The only other school system in which the federal role is so significant is with Department of Defense schools for the children of those serving our nation in the armed forces. As a youngster from a troubled background and a former teacher myself, I firmly believe that more than ever a quality education holds the key to a brighter and more hopeful future. I also know that the life-blood of Native people and the best chance they have for improving the lives of all their members lies in a well-educated community. In short, I believe community development starts with individual development and education is the key. Like President Bush, I believe that education reform stands at the top of our national agenda. Education reform in Indian country is critical if this nation's Native people are to make the kind of advancement that is so clearly needed. The geography of much of Indian country is difficult: from wintry Alaska, to the windswept Plains, to the searing heat of the Southwest, the terrain often makes it hard to get to school, let alone do well in school. I believe this reality must be acknowledged as we work to improve Native school systems. Members of the Committee on Indian Affairs know all too well that the conditions in many, if not most, Indian schools is appalling: crumbling facilities, asbestos and PCBs, lead paint, lack of heat and other problems combine to make the schools nearly uninhabitable. Most members, indeed most Americans, would probably pull their children from school if they were subjected to these conditions. We made a solid start at facilities replacement and repair with the Fiscal Year 2001 Interior appropriations bill which provided nearly $300 million in funds for these purposes. Nevertheless, the backlog in school construction needs is still in the $800 to 900 million range. I am very encouraged by President Bush's plan to establish an Indian tribal school capital improvement fund of more than $900 million to rectify the facilities crisis. The bill I am introducing today, the Native American Educational Improvement Act of 2001, will improve education for Native people in a variety of ways. Title I of the bill will amend the Education Amendments of 1978 in several respects. This legislation was enacted to provide a comprehensive structure for the BIA funded schools system including grant, contract and BIA operated schools. The bill addresses most aspects of the BIA school system including standards and accreditation, facilities and various funding issues. It also provides guidance for how funding should be allocated by establishing a formula to effect a more equitable distribution of funds. The formula is based on weighted student units with extra weight given for such things as disabilities of gifted and talented abilities. In keeping with the policy of Indian Self Determination, the bill carves out a key role for Indian Tribes by requiring that actions undertaken pursuant to the Act be done in consultation with the Tribes. This emphasis on maximizing local, Indian involvement is witnessed in the bill in several respects including the use of negotiated rule- making in proposing and developing regulations to carry out the Act. There is no single federal policy more successful than the contracting and compacting opportunities provided by the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975, as amended. Tribes and Tribal consortia have demonstrated that when they are provided the resources and flexibility to design and implement programs and services formerly provided by the Federal government, good things happen: 1, the quality of those services is refined; 2, the Tribe or consortium enhances its administrative and managerial abilities; and 3, federal resources are used more efficiently and effectively. In keeping with this pattern, the bill authorizes Tribal contractors to perform all functions that are not inherently federal. The bill will unshackle local authorities from the constraints of centralized management by authorizing Tribes to waive BIA school standards and design and implement standards that will better meet the needs of that Tribe's students. Standards, flexibility and accreditation are important aspects of any good school system, but so is a sufficient pool of resources. This bill will help evaluate whether funding levels for BIA schools are sufficient and seeks a review by the General Accounting Office to that effect. While the core purpose of the Act is to provide a blueprint for the BIA school system, the bill I introduce today incorporates Tribal departments of education as well as early childhood development programs that provide services to meet the needs of parents and children under age six. Title II of the bill amends the Tribally Controlled Schools Act of 1988, TCSA, by expanding the opportunities for Tribal operation of schools that would otherwise be run by the BIA. Passage of the TCSA in 1988 grew out of dissatisfaction with the method of contracting educational services under the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act, P.L. 93-638, ISDEAA. While many services were being successfully contracted by Tribes under ISDEAA, education continued to be plagued with problems and Tribes were looking for an alternative to contracts. The bill I am introducing today is grounded in the concept of ``lump- sum'' financing to Indian Tribes. This approach is intended to address some of the problems faced by ISDEAA contractors. That is, if a Tribe wants to operate a school pursuant to contract, it would be forced to negotiate a separate contract for each of the various school functions. A separate contract was required for transportation, for programs, for operations and maintenance, and other functions. This bill will consolidate these and other functions into one contract. The grant schools operated by Tribes are provided considerable latitude in managing their finances provided that four specific requirements are met: As long as a grant school 1, submits an annual program report; 2, submits an evaluation report; 3, is accredited; and 4, adheres to the federal Single Audit Act, then that school may continue to enjoy the flexibility afforded it under P.L. 100-297. Last, to ensure that Tribal initiative and creativity are not thwarted unnecessarily, this bill prohibits regulations from being established unless specifically authorized. I have highlighted but a few of the major provisions included in this bill and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important initiative. I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the legislation be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to offer my wholehearted support for Gale Norton's nomination. After all the rhetoric about Ms. Norton for the last month, it only took two appearances before the Energy Committee to get an 18-2 vote. That may not be unanimous, but it is mighty close to it. It is certainly overwhelming. I believe it is evidence that an overwhelming majority of the committee knows she is an outstanding candidate for the job. She has proven she is knowledgeable, articulate, and capable of enduring round after round of detailed questions while being the object of pretty outrageous charges and mean-spirited ads paid for by her extremist detractors. She handled it, as she does everything, by simply focusing on the job at hand. The more she sat in those hearings, the more she convinced our colleagues that she is the right person for the job. My Democrat colleagues on the committee saw, as with several other Bush nominees, that getting through this nomination process is not easy. The environmental groups that focused on her simply were wrong. Her management direction and experience have been proven over and over, and I was pleased to hear some very enthusiastic and commendable words from my colleagues on the other side of the aisle and other side of the dais in our Energy Committee before we voted to send her nomination to the floor. My friend and colleague from California, Senator Dianne Feinstein, stated: Some of the things said about her are simply not correct. That is absolutely true. Some of the articles in paid-for ads in the Washington Post were simply distorted. She certainly allayed, through her testimony and her answers to 227 written questions to the committee, the fears my colleagues had. Senator Baucus, Senator Landrieu, and Senator Bingaman, all valued Members of this body, questioned her at length and came away with the same opinion I have: That she is going to be a very good Secretary of the Interior. Directly after the vote, the same people who had attacked her before did so again, and also sent kind of a warning shot to the Senate Democrats on the committee. The President of the Friends of the Earth, a prominent environmental group, said after the vote that Norton is ``a wolf in sheep's clothing'' and that ``she pulled the wool over the eyes of the Senators.'' That paragraph was in the Washington Post on January 24. These are the types of fictional jabs that I believe led to the vote for her overwhelmingly. Contrary to the Friends of the Earth, she did not pull the wool over anybody's eyes. In fact, if anything, she opened the eyes of many of the committee members who had some questions about her qualifications before she had a chance to be interviewed. I have known Gale for many years both in a professional capacity and as a friend, too. Let me state for the Record, she has a long and distinguished career of doing the right thing--always. Her consensus- building ability might be best illustrated by her 8 years as Colorado's attorney general. There she served under a Democrat Governor and still accomplished much for the betterment of Colorado, not the least of which was the cleanup of Superfund sites. For more than 20 years, she has provided leadership on environmental and public lands and has demonstrated a responsible commonsense approach to preserving our natural heritage. I listened to some of the comments of her detractors on the floor this morning, and I will tell you that is not the Gale Norton I know. In fact, the Gale Norton I know represents a balanced approach to public lands. Another significant fact to know about Ms. Norton is she is committed to enforcing the law as it is written. Throughout her questioning in front of the Energy Committee, she repeatedly stated she will enforce the letter of the law with which she is entrusted. I believed her. The majority of the committee also believed her. I think that is a novel approach. I say to the Presiding Officer, coming from the West, you, as I, have seen a Secretary of the Interior the last number of years who believes laws are passed by Congress, and they are simply an extension of what the Secretary of the Interior wants to do by rulemaking authority. Ms. Norton will follow the rule of law. She listens to common sense while she searches for common ground. Unlike many in Washington, she understands that real environmental solutions do not just come from beltway professionals or are driven by ideological purists but come by including people whose lives are going to be affected. They come from real people with honest concerns about the land and the water. She relayed this to all of the Senators she testified before and visited around the time of her confirmation hearing. She proved to 18 of the 20 Senators of the committee that she is the right person for the job. She is up to the task. She will be a very fine Secretary of the Interior. And probably above all, we have witnessed in the West in the last few years a process which certainly locks out any local input whatsoever. Ms. Norton is concerned about that. She knows that the people whose lives are affected at the local level must also be included when we talk about public lands policy. Her record as a public servant demonstrates she will work with all parties to craft reasonable solutions. That kind of evenhanded approach to public land management has been missing, and the West is worse off for it. I know she will bring to this office of Interior Secretary decisive action in the land and resource issues where we have recently seen too much photo-op and not enough solid demonstrable decisions. I believe she should be confirmed by the full Senate quickly, and by a large margin, and certainly would ask my colleagues to do so. With that, I thank the Chair and yield the floor. Mr. MURKOWSKI addressed the Chair.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to be joined today by the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs Senator Daniel K. Inouye in introducing the Native American Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program Consolidation Act of 2001. This important legislation will authorize Indian Tribes to consolidate and integrate alcohol, substance abuse prevention and treatment and mental health programs to provide more comprehensive treatment and services to Native Americans across the country. More often than not, individuals with alcohol and substance abuse problems are also hobbled with mental health problems, and this bill authorizes tribes to make mental health services available as well. Native Americans have higher rates of alcohol and drug use than any other racial or ethnic group in the United States. Despite previous treatment and preventive efforts, alcoholism and substance abuse continue to be prevalent among Native youth: 82 percent of Native adolescents admitted to having used alcohol, compared with 66 percent of non-Native youth. Alcohol continues to be an important risk factor associated with the top three killers of Native youngsters--accidents, suicide, and homicide. Based on 1993 data, the rate of mortality due to alcoholism among Native youth ages 15 to 24 was 5.2 per 100,000, which is 17 times the rate for whites in the same age group. In a 1994 school-based study, 39 percent of Native high school seniors reported having ``gotten drunk'' and 39 percent of Native kids admitted to using marijuana. Alcohol and substance abuse also contribute to other social problems including sexually transmitted diseases, child and spousal abuse, poor school achievement and dropout, unemployment, drunk-driving and vehicular deaths, mental health problems, hopelessness and suicide. Alcohol, substance abuse, and mental health program funds are available to tribes from virtually every agency in the federal government including the Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Justice, and Transportation. To help Tribes slice through the bureaucracy, this bill authorizes Tribal governments and inter-Tribal organizations to: 1, consolidate these programs through a single federal office in the Department of Health and Human Services--Indian Health Services, IHS; and 2, use a single plan to reduce the administrative and bureaucratic processes, resulting in better services to Native Americans. This bill tries to replicate the success of the widely-hailed ``477 model'' that Tribes have used to effectively coordinate employment training and related services through the Indian Employment Training and Related Services Demonstration Act of 1992, Pub. Law 102-477. Under the ``477 model,'' and applicant Tribe files a single plan to draw and coordinate resources from the spectrum of federal agencies and administer them through one office. I am hopeful that armed with this creative tool, Tribes can begin to bring an end to the devastation of alcohol and drug abuse in their communities. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the legislation be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased today to be joined by the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, in introducing legislation to improve the education delivery systems in Indian schools so that the President's goal that ``no child be left behind'' is as true for Native youngsters as for all Americans. Grounded in the Constitution, treaties, federal statutes and court decisions, the United States has a unique role in the education of Native people. This is especially true for the Bureau of Indian Affairs school system for schools on or near reservations built and designed by the federal government. The only other school system in which the federal role is so significant is with Department of Defense schools for the children of those serving our nation in the armed forces. As a youngster from a troubled background and a former teacher myself, I firmly believe that more than ever a quality education holds the key to a brighter and more hopeful future. I also know that the life-blood of Native people and the best chance they have for improving the lives of all their members lies in a well-educated community. In short, I believe community development starts with individual development and education is the key. Like President Bush, I believe that education reform stands at the top of our national agenda. Education reform in Indian country is critical if this nation's Native people are to make the kind of advancement that is so clearly needed. The geography of much of Indian country is difficult: from wintry Alaska, to the windswept Plains, to the searing heat of the Southwest, the terrain often makes it hard to get to school, let alone do well in school. I believe this reality must be acknowledged as we work to improve Native school systems. Members of the Committee on Indian Affairs know all too well that the conditions in many, if not most, Indian schools is appalling: crumbling facilities, asbestos and PCBs, lead paint, lack of heat and other problems combine to make the schools nearly uninhabitable. Most members, indeed most Americans, would probably pull their children from school if they were subjected to these conditions. We made a solid start at facilities replacement and repair with the Fiscal Year 2001 Interior appropriations bill which provided nearly $300 million in funds for these purposes. Nevertheless, the backlog in school construction needs is still in the $800 to 900 million range. I am very encouraged by President Bush's plan to establish an Indian tribal school capital improvement fund of more than $900 million to rectify the facilities crisis. The bill I am introducing today, the Native American Educational Improvement Act of 2001, will improve education for Native people in a variety of ways. Title I of the bill will amend the Education Amendments of 1978 in several respects. This legislation was enacted to provide a comprehensive structure for the BIA funded schools system including grant, contract and BIA operated schools. The bill addresses most aspects of the BIA school system including standards and accreditation, facilities and various funding issues. It also provides guidance for how funding should be allocated by establishing a formula to effect a more equitable distribution of funds. The formula is based on weighted student units with extra weight given for such things as disabilities of gifted and talented abilities. In keeping with the policy of Indian Self Determination, the bill carves out a key role for Indian Tribes by requiring that actions undertaken pursuant to the Act be done in consultation with the Tribes. This emphasis on maximizing local, Indian involvement is witnessed in the bill in several respects including the use of negotiated rule- making in proposing and developing regulations to carry out the Act. There is no single federal policy more successful than the contracting and compacting opportunities provided by the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975, as amended. Tribes and Tribal consortia have demonstrated that when they are provided the resources and flexibility to design and implement programs and services formerly provided by the Federal government, good things happen: 1, the quality of those services is refined; 2, the Tribe or consortium enhances its administrative and managerial abilities; and 3, federal resources are used more efficiently and effectively. In keeping with this pattern, the bill authorizes Tribal contractors to perform all functions that are not inherently federal. The bill will unshackle local authorities from the constraints of centralized management by authorizing Tribes to waive BIA school standards and design and implement standards that will better meet the needs of that Tribe's students. Standards, flexibility and accreditation are important aspects of any good school system, but so is a sufficient pool of resources. This bill will help evaluate whether funding levels for BIA schools are sufficient and seeks a review by the General Accounting Office to that effect. While the core purpose of the Act is to provide a blueprint for the BIA school system, the bill I introduce today incorporates Tribal departments of education as well as early childhood development programs that provide services to meet the needs of parents and children under age six. Title II of the bill amends the Tribally Controlled Schools Act of 1988, TCSA, by expanding the opportunities for Tribal operation of schools that would otherwise be run by the BIA. Passage of the TCSA in 1988 grew out of dissatisfaction with the method of contracting educational services under the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act, P.L. 93-638, ISDEAA. While many services were being successfully contracted by Tribes under ISDEAA, education continued to be plagued with problems and Tribes were looking for an alternative to contracts. The bill I am introducing today is grounded in the concept of ``lump- sum'' financing to Indian Tribes. This approach is intended to address some of the problems faced by ISDEAA contractors. That is, if a Tribe wants to operate a school pursuant to contract, it would be forced to negotiate a separate contract for each of the various school functions. A separate contract was required for transportation, for programs, for operations and maintenance, and other functions. This bill will consolidate these and other functions into one contract. The grant schools operated by Tribes are provided considerable latitude in managing their finances provided that four specific requirements are met: As long as a grant school 1, submits an annual program report; 2, submits an evaluation report; 3, is accredited; and 4, adheres to the federal Single Audit Act, then that school may continue to enjoy the flexibility afforded it under P.L. 100-297. Last, to ensure that Tribal initiative and creativity are not thwarted unnecessarily, this bill prohibits regulations from being established unless specifically authorized. I have highlighted but a few of the major provisions included in this bill and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this important initiative. I ask unanimous consent that a copy of the legislation be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to be joined today by the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Indian Affairs, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, and former Chairman, Senator John McCain in introducing important legislation to reauthorize the Indian Health Care Improvement Act of 1976, the ``IHCIA'' or the ``Act''. The United States first provided health services to Indians in 1824 as part of the War Department's handling of Indian affairs. In 1849 this responsibility went to the newly-created Department of the Interior where it rested until 1955 when it was transferred to the Public Health Service's Indian Health Agency. The evolution of the Indian Health Service from an ad hoc service provided to Indians by the BIA to a specialized agency within the Department of Health and Human Services was completed with the passage of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act of 1976. In 1970, President Nixon issued his now-famous ``Special Message to Congress on Indian Affairs'' laying out the rationale for a more enlightened Federal Indian Policy: Indian Self-Determination. Self-Determination is the core principle embodied in the IHCIA the main purposes of which are to improve the health status of Indian people and to increase the number of Indians involved in the health professions. The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975, the IHCIA, and the amendments to each over the years can all be traced directly to the fundamental changes first proposed in 1970. I am proud to say that legislation I proposed in the 106th Congress, the Indian Tribal Self-Governance Amendments of 2000, were enacted into law as Public Law 106-260. The bill we introduce today builds on this new law in important respects. By introducing the IHCIA reauthorization bill, we re-affirm Indian Self-Determination and the principles of the IHCIA (1) that the provision of Federal health services is consistent with the federal- tribal relationship; (2) that a goal of the U.S. is to provide the quantity and quality of services to raise the health status of Indians; (3) that Indian participation in the planning and management of health services should be maximized; and (4) that the numbers of American Indians and Alaska Natives trained in health professions be maximized. Before the passage of the Act in 1976 the mortality rate for Indian infants was 25 percent higher than that of non-Indian babies. The death rates for mothers was 82 percent higher and the mortality rates from infectious disease-causing diarrhea and dehydration was 138 percent greater. Today we can see marked improvements. Infant mortality rates have been reduced by 54 percent, maternal mortality rates have been reduced by 65 percent, tuberculosis mortality by 80 percent and overall mortality rates have been reduced by 42 percent. While encouraging, these statistics mask the fact that the health status of Native people in America is still poor and below that of all other racial and ethnic groups. While we will continue to push forward on all fronts in seeking to improve Indian health services, I believe that there are three emergent issues that we need to address; urban Indian health care; Indian health facilities construction needs; and the booming problem of diabetes. Undoubtedly the 2000 decennial census will likely show what past counts have shown--that more than one-half of the 2.3 million American Indians and Alaska Natives reside off-reservation and are referred to as ``urban Indians.'' Though the health services framework that now exists has slowly begun to acknowledge this trend, I am concerned that urban Indian health care needs require a more focused and vigorous approach. Another problem that must be addressed is the growing backlog in health care facilities construction. Recent estimates show that there is some $900 million in unmet facilities needs. The dogged approach to eliminating this backlog by relying on federal appropriations will not work, and I strongly believe that innovative proposals need to be made, refined and perfected in order to accomplish our common goal. I am heartened by the cooperative federal-tribal efforts in making the Joint Venture Program a success and look forward to building on this success in the coming years. Ailments of affluence continue to seep into Native communities and erode the quality of life and very social fabric that holds these communities together. Alcohol and substance abuse continue to take a heavy toll and diabetes is reaching alarmingly high rates. Most troubling is the increasing obesity and diabetes that is occurring with alarming frequency in Native youngsters. It is now time to make the extra effort to look at the positive things we have accomplished and build upon them. This bill is a step in the right direction on these and other health matters. The bill we introduced last year was the product of months- long consultations by a group of very dedicated individuals consisting of Indian Tribal leaders, health and legal professionals, and representatives of the private and public health care sectors. The group reviewed existing law and has proposed changes to improve the current system by stressing local flexibility and choice, and making it more responsive to the health needs of Indian people. I am hopeful that in moving forward this year we can draw from the hearing record built after no fewer than five hearings on the bill that was introduced in the 106th Congress, S. 2526. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this key measure. I ask unanimous consent that a copy 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, January 31, 2001 at 9:15 a.m. in room 485 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a business/organizational meeting to elect the chairman and vice chairman of the committee. Those wishing additional information may contact committee staff at 202/224-2251.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and recognize a fellow Coloradan, Mr. Jim Nicholson, the former chairman of the Republican National Committee. My friend and colleague has provided the State of Colorado, the Nation and the Republican Party outstanding service where he has devoted countless hours and tireless efforts with the Republican National Committee. I am here today to say a heartfelt ``Thank You Jim,'' on behalf of all Coloradans. He rose through the ranks of the Republican National Committee over the years. Based on his record of ability and accomplishments, he was elected Chairman where he served with honor and distinction. Jim Nicholson has definitely demonstrated his commitment to ideals and an organization that has changed so dramatically over the years. His dedication and experience in business and politics will be sorely missed, but I know he will not be far away. Also, Jim's quiet demeanor belies his gung-ho nature. As a ranger in Vietnam, he proved his dedication to a cause. And, Jim brought that same gung-ho quality to Washington where his efforts in the Republican National Committee gave us all a stronger voice and better means of resolving the hardships that all Americans face everyday. I would also like to mention his major role in helping win a trifecta in the last election, where Republicans won the White House, a majority in the House and retention of the Senate for the first time in many years. When I first heard that Jim's tenure was coming to an end I was pleased for him and his wonderful family, but I also realized that the Republican Party, the State of Colorado and the entire Nation will be losing a devoted advocate. I remember conversations with individuals telling me about his commitment and his passion for duty and honor. Well, I think Jim epitomizes duty and honor. Through boom and bust he has always been on the right side and I admire his steadfast devotion. Jim and I have shared numerous experiences in our different roles. We have attended dinners and speeches together, and we have fought side by side in Colorado and in Washington. I know that he will still be involved in our lives, and I hope that our paths soon cross again. He has been a great professional associate and a greater friend. I wish Jim only the best in his next career move.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I reintroduce a bill that I feel is of vital importance to farmers and family business owners, the Estate and Gift Tax Rate Reduction Act of 2001. This bill is based on legislation I introduced in the 105th Congress and the 106th Congress. Unfortunately, the 105th Congress adjourned before we could debate and pass this bill and President Clinton vetoed similar legislation during the 106th Congress. Since then, I have heard from numerous Coloradans and National organizations and am fully aware that the problems the bill would correct still exist. In fact, I have heard from hundreds of Coloradans and constituents from other states regarding this burdensome and overreaching tax. I believe that eliminating this tax is a fundamental issue of fairness. Death should not be an event government prospers from. Estate and gift taxes remain a burden on American families, particularly those who pursue the American dream of owning their own business. That is because family-owned businesses and farms are hit with the highest tax rate when they are handed down to descendants-- often immediately following the death of a loved one. Families ought to be encouraged, not discouraged, from building successful farms, ranches and businesses and keeping the ownership of those enterprises within the families that worked to make them successful. These taxes, and the financial burdens and difficulties they create come at the worst possible time. Making a terrible situation worse is the fact that the rate of this estate tax is crushing, reaching as high as 55 percent for the highest bracket. That's higher than even the highest income tax rate bracket of 39 percent. Furthermore, the tax is due as soon as the business is turned over to the heir, allowing no time for financial planning or the setting aside of money to pay the tax bills. Estate and gift taxes right now are one of the leading reasons why the number of family-owned farms and businesses are declining; the burden of this tax is just too much to bear. This tax sends the troubling message that families should either sell the business while they are still alive, in order to spare their descendants this huge tax after their passing, or run-down the value of the business, so that it won't make it into the higher tax brackets. This is not how America was built. Private investment and initiative have historically been a strong part of our American heritage and we should encourage those values, not tax successful family businesses into submission. That is why I again introduce this bill and will fight for its passage during the 107th Congress. It will gradually eliminate this tax by phasing it out--reducing the amount of the tax 5% each year, beginning with the highest rate bracket of 55%, until the tax rate reaches zero. Several states have already adopted similar plans, and I believe we ought to follow their example. We need to change the message we are sending to farmers and family business owners. Leading organizations agree, and have continuously endorsed this legislation. In fact, over 100 organizations, like the National Federation of Independent Business and the Farm Bureau, have joined together to form the Family Business Estate Tax Coalition, which strongly endorsed this bill during the 106th Congress. Mr. President, this tax should be eliminated across the board, and I ask my colleagues to help in working to achieve that goal. I ask unanimous consent that this bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I introduce the ``Armed Services Voting Rights Protection Act of 2001.'' This important legislation takes a two pronged approach to help address the technical problems that resulted in far too many of the ballots cast by those serving in our nation's Armed Services being thrown out in the last election. The first part of the bill would amend the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act of 1986 to help protect the voting rights of our armed services members. This first part is companion language to a bill, H.R. 159, that has been introduced in the 107th Congress by Representative Bob Riley of Alabama. Specifically, this part of the bill would prohibit a state from determining that an absentee ballot submitted by a uniformed services voter has been improperly cast unless the state finds clear and convincing evidence of fraud. It states that the lack of a witness signature, address, postmark, or other identifying information cannot not be considered clear and convincing evidence of fraud unless there is other evidence or information. Further, it is designed to have no effect on filing deadlines as determined by the states. The second part of the Armed Services Voting Rights Protection Act directs the United States Postal Service to conduct joint studies with each of the branches of our Armed Services to examine what went wrong during the last election that caused so many of the ballots cast by our nation's Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines to be thrown out, often for minor technical reasons. It directs the U.S. Postal Service and the Armed Services to report back to congress within 120 days of the enactment of this Act with recommendations about how to improve the U.S. Post Office's interface with the Armed Services and help prevent a repeat performance where so many overseas military ballots were thrown out. It also directs them to implement the changes that can be done without changing current law and recommend further changes in law that Congress may want to consider. These efforts should also help improve the overall day-to-day relationship between the Armed Services and Postal Service. The need for this bill is clear. While ballots were being counted during the most recent presidential election, an army of trial lawyers was sent out in a coordinated effort to systematically eliminate many of the votes cast by Americans serving in our nation's Armed Services overseas. These efforts to throw out ballots, usually for minor technical reasons, were all too successful. We need to do what we can to make sure it does not happen again. As a veteran and a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, I believe throwing out votes cast by those serving in the Armed Services over technicalities is simply wrong on the most fundamental level. Our nation's Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Soldiers serve on the front lines in the defense of our great nation and constitutional democracy. To toss out so many of their ballots, and especially those cast by those serving at the forefront of our defense by being underway at sea or serving in remote hardship posts, is no way to show appreciation for their service. Many Americans, myself included, are deeply concerned that the last election sent a clear signal to those serving in the Armed Forces that even though they may be putting their very lives on the line in the defense of our nation, and are duty bound to obey orders issued by their Commander in Chief, the President of the United States, there is a good chance that their right to have a voice, through a vote, in the selection of that President may be eliminated by the most minor of technicalities. This situation is made even worse by the fact that the very technical problems that may disqualify their ballots, like lack of access to postal marks, are often well beyond the control of individual Sailors, Soldiers, Marines and Airmen. In order to vote, most of our fellow Americans serving in the Armed Services already have to jump through more hoops that the average citizen. We must do what we can to make it easier for them to jump through those hoops, rather that using these hoops as a way to trip up their right to vote. Late last year, our nation witnessed an unprecedented assault on votes cast by our nation's Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines, and especially those serving overseas. The Armed Services Voting Rights Protection Act would be an important step in making sure that it does not happen again. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, today I reintroduce a bill that I feel is of vital importance to farmers and family business owners, the Estate and Gift Tax Rate Reduction Act of 2001. This bill is based on legislation I introduced in the 105th Congress and the 106th Congress. Unfortunately, the 105th Congress adjourned before we could debate and pass this bill and President Clinton vetoed similar legislation during the 106th Congress. Since then, I have heard from numerous Coloradans and National organizations and am fully aware that the problems the bill would correct still exist. In fact, I have heard from hundreds of Coloradans and constituents from other states regarding this burdensome and overreaching tax. I believe that eliminating this tax is a fundamental issue of fairness. Death should not be an event government prospers from. Estate and gift taxes remain a burden on American families, particularly those who pursue the American dream of owning their own business. That is because family-owned businesses and farms are hit with the highest tax rate when they are handed down to descendants-- often immediately following the death of a loved one. Families ought to be encouraged, not discouraged, from building successful farms, ranches and businesses and keeping the ownership of those enterprises within the families that worked to make them successful. These taxes, and the financial burdens and difficulties they create come at the worst possible time. Making a terrible situation worse is the fact that the rate of this estate tax is crushing, reaching as high as 55 percent for the highest bracket. That's higher than even the highest income tax rate bracket of 39 percent. Furthermore, the tax is due as soon as the business is turned over to the heir, allowing no time for financial planning or the setting aside of money to pay the tax bills. Estate and gift taxes right now are one of the leading reasons why the number of family-owned farms and businesses are declining; the burden of this tax is just too much to bear. This tax sends the troubling message that families should either sell the business while they are still alive, in order to spare their descendants this huge tax after their passing, or run-down the value of the business, so that it won't make it into the higher tax brackets. This is not how America was built. Private investment and initiative have historically been a strong part of our American heritage and we should encourage those values, not tax successful family businesses into submission. That is why I again introduce this bill and will fight for its passage during the 107th Congress. It will gradually eliminate this tax by phasing it out--reducing the amount of the tax 5% each year, beginning with the highest rate bracket of 55%, until the tax rate reaches zero. Several states have already adopted similar plans, and I believe we ought to follow their example. We need to change the message we are sending to farmers and family business owners. Leading organizations agree, and have continuously endorsed this legislation. In fact, over 100 organizations, like the National Federation of Independent Business and the Farm Bureau, have joined together to form the Family Business Estate Tax Coalition, which strongly endorsed this bill during the 106th Congress. Mr. President, this tax should be eliminated across the board, and I ask my colleagues to help in working to achieve that goal. I ask unanimous consent that this bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I am pleased to allow the Senator to clarify aspects of this legislation.

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, first I would like to thank my colleague from Nevada for expressing his thoughts and concerns with H.R. 5528, and I want to express my thoughts on this matter as we pass this legislation. I think that H.R. 5528 does present a unique situation in that the Torres-Martinez Tribe's lands have been inundated by the waters of the Colorado River since the beginning of the 1900s and one that I hope is not in other settlement agreements negotiated by the Department of Justice and presented to Congress for its consideration. I understand your concerns about the precedent that would be set if as part of land settlements, land-into-trust acquisitions for gaming purposes were routinely proposed in exchange for the settlement of land claims. Though IGRA clearly calls for that situation in section 2719 of the Act, I agree that if a wholesale policy of off-reservation acquisitions as part of a settlement were adopted by the Department of Justice or this Congress, that a great many Senators would call for amendments to the act. While I appreciate these concerns and would not favor inclusion of off-reservation land-into-trust acquisitions for purposes of land settlement in all cases, the IGRA is clear in providing the authority to do just that if warranted by the facts of the case in question. Although this legislation is not the most desirable option and does not provide all parties with what they want out of a legislated settlement, it does provide justice to the Torres-Martinez Tribe and I think we are right in approving the bill.

Mr. CAMPBELL

Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, I would like to take a minute to call my colleagues' attention to a conference which is convening this week here in Washington, DC. The Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America is sponsoring its National Leadership Forum XI from December 6-8, 2000. The National Leadership Forum is the largest meeting of grassroots and professional community coalition leaders in the country. CADCA expects approximately 1500 participants to participate in the Forum this year to network and learn about the most innovative programs, products and services working to reduce youth substance abuse in communities across the country. As the chairman of the Treasury and General Government Subcommittee, I have a keen interest in these programs which receive support through the Drug Free Communities Act under the Treasury subcommittee's jurisdiction. The Drug Free Communities Act has seen some great successes. This program is funded at $40 million for fiscal year 2001, which is $5 million more than the administration requested. This program provides small grants to non-profit organizations that are trying to curb the impact of drugs in our communities. One good example is in my own state of Colorado. The Drug Free Community grant recipient is called Grand Futures. This non-profit organization has implemented a program that attempts to directly influence the social behaviors that tend to lead to drug use. The basic premise is, if you can influence those activities that lead to or are related to drug use, you can impact the incidence of drug use itself. Grand Futures, which receives funding under the Drug Free Communities Act, conducts tobacco and alcohol stings. In addition, Grand Futures also works with local businesses regarding employee alcohol consumption during working hours and conducts outreach efforts regarding patrons' drinking and driving behavior. As a result of their work, Grand, Moffat and Routt counties in Colorado, the area which Grand Futures administers, has shown a significant drop in adult and juvenile violations of the state's liquor laws. For that same time and location, this area also experienced a corresponding decrease in adult and juvenile drug violations. I think you can see that if we focus on the contributing factors of drug use, we can have an impact. Also, it demonstrates that when you allow the state and local organizations to tackle an issue and provide them the resources to do so, each in its own way, they can be more successful in their grassroots efforts than a large Federal program would be. People like those working at Grand Futures live in the community, and they understand the local environment and the potential constraints that an outsider may not. This can be something as simple as knowing what the local past time is for teens. The Drug Free Communities Act demonstrates that groups like Grand Futures are well suited to tackle the drug problem with locally-based solutions tailored to address the community's unique situation. I would encourage my colleagues to look into their Drug Free Communities Act recipients in their own state. I think that they will find dedicated, hard-working organizations that are achieving success and deserve their support.