J. Cleland

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Madam President, I rise today to introduce legislation that will make it a Federal criminal offense to intentionally circumvent an airport security checkpoint. This morning I chaired the first Senate Commerce Committee hearing on aviation security since the landmark aviation security bill was signed into law earlier this fall. That historic piece of legislation was enacted as a response to the events of September 11, when terrorists commandeered U.S. commercial jets filled with passengers and used them as weapons of mass destruction. Those terrorist attacks have precipitated a sea-change in attitude on how we view our homeland security. There is no such thing as ``business as usual,'' especially at our airports across this country. Immediately after the events of 9-11, the Federal Aviation Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation took steps to tighten aviation security across the country. U.S. airlines and airports put in place additional security safeguards. And Congress passed the most sweeping aviation security bill in history. Under the new law, every commercial airport will now have a Federal security manager and the manager will conduct an immediate assessment of safety procedures at the busiest airports in the country. We will have strict and uniform national standards for the hiring and training and job performance of the men and women who are on the front lines of ensuring that our airports and airplanes are not only the safest in the world, but are also the most secure. Because of this legislation, every airport screener must now be a U.S. citizen. He or she must pass a criminal background check, and they must perform well in their job. If they don't, and this includes federal screeners, they can and will be fired immediately. Cockpit doors will be fortified, the number of air marshals on airplanes will be significantly increased, and international flights must provide the U.S. Customs Service with passenger lists before they can land in this country. Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport, the world's busiest airport, Delta, with its world headquarters in Atlanta, and AirTran are key not just to Georgia's economy, but to our national aviation system as well. At the Commerce Committee hearing this morning, Spokespersons from each of these Georgia giants, told us about the security measures that have been put in place since the September 11 hijackings and what further steps they plan to take in light of the requirements of the new aviation security law. At the hearing, Hartsfield's General Manager, Mr. Benjamin DeCosta, addressed the incident of November 16 when an individual breached security at the Atlanta airport. The security breach triggered the total evacuation of Hartsfield and a temporary halt of incoming and outgoing air traffic. That action caused a ripple effect of delays and flight cancellations. I might add that I have firsthand knowledge of those delays, since I spent some ``quality time'' on the tarmac in Atlanta that day. But I want to stress that despite those delays, the system worked. Hartsfield correctly followed the FAA directive, put in place after September 11, that required airport lock-down until airport security could be assured. However, the November incident revealed a glaring loophole in the system, even after enactment of the new airline security legislation. Currently, an intentional security violation aboard an aircraft is a Federal crime, but a willful breach of an airport security checkpoint is punishable only by local criminal penalties and federal civil penalties. Just as we have at last stepped up to the plate to assure greater uniformity and greater accountability through federalizing the airport security workforce, I believe it is the responsibility of Congress to address this shortcoming in our federal laws. Accordingly, I am introducing legislation, the Airport Checkpoint Enhancement, or ACE, Act, to make willful violations of airport security checkpoints a federal crime. We should send a message loud and clear that airport business is serious business, that if you come to a U.S. airport for mischief or for folly, you will pay the consequences. My legislation addresses the all-important issue of aviation security which, as we have recently learned in the most painful way possible, is a matter of national security. Specifically, the ACE Act will amend the recently-passed Aviation and Transportation Security Act to provide a federal criminal penalty for individuals who intentionally circumvent or breach an airport security checkpoint. It was amazing to me to learn that in Georgia, an individual who willfully violates the secure area of an airport is only subject to a misdemeanor which means a maximum penalty involving a civil fine up to $1,100 and a year in jail. My legislation will mean that violators could face up to 10 years in prison. This legislation is supported by Atlanta's Hartsfield International Airport, Delta Airlines, the Air Carrier Association of America, and the Office of the Solicitor General, Clayton County, GA. We have only just begun to improve airport security and therefore, I look forward to continuing this discussion with airport officials and law enforcement officers across the country on how we can best protect passengers, airport workers, and air travel in the future. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. I thank the Chair. (The remarks of Mr. Cleland pertaining to the introduction of S. 1785 are located in today's Record under ``Statements on Introduced Bills and Joint Resolutions.'')

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I am here today, on the 60th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. My father served in World War II at Pearl Harbor after the attack, and I grew up with the legend of Pearl Harbor in my own life. I will introduce a bill urging the President to establish the White House Commission on National Military Appreciation Month. I want to begin by thanking my colleagues and cosponsors, Senators Biden, Bingaman, Carnahan, Clinton, DeWine, Hagel, Levin and Lieberman, Mikulski, Miller, and Senator Harry Reid. Thanks also are due to General Tilleli, the president of the USO, and to Ms. Alice Wax, whose support and tireless efforts on behalf of National Military Appreciation Month have made this day a reality. The bill is framed to afford the President the widest possible flexibility with regard to the recommended Commission and National Military Appreciation Month itself. There is no money authorized in this bill. The establishment of the Commission, the composition of the Commission, and the scope of the Commission's activities are framed as recommendations. I have framed it in this way to make it an easy bill to support, because I believe it is a bill we should all support, and I will tell you why. Sixty years ago today, just before 8 a.m. on a Sunday morning, the first wave of bombers began the attack on Pearl Harbor that thrust the United States into World War II. It was an unforgettable day for those who lived through it, one which called America forth from an isolationist slumber to defend itself, and in so doing, inspired a generation of Americans to rise and lead the defense of freedom around the world. In the years since that fateful day, our Nation has become the most powerful and prosperous nation in the world. A few short years ago, with the generation that secured this prosperity and power still in our midst, I and my colleagues on the Senate Armed Services Committee heard testimony from the leaders of our military concerning the difficulties they were having recruiting and retaining sufficient numbers of young Americans in our Armed Forces. We crafted a package of incentives, and began the process of restoring military compensation to a more appropriate level. Even today, with recruiting and retention back to more acceptable levels, we continue to struggle to meet the funding levels required to sustain a strong military. Eighty-seven days ago, America was attacked again, and for only the second time in modern history, American blood was shed on American soil by a foreign foe. Most of the casualties of this most recent attack were civilians, a reflection of the many ways in which the world has changed since 1941. Once again, a generation of Americans has been called to rise to the defense of our way of life--this time not against an aggressor nation but against the global terrorist networks that have targeted us. Osama bin Laden's network in Afghanistan is our target now. It is not as clear how many other networks lie in wait. Some things are clear, though. The American military has been essential in responding to this latest attack. There will continue to be challenges, but we must recognize our military in every special way we can. That is why we, as a nation, cannot afford to forget the price of our freedom. Maintaining our military and our readiness is one of the keys to our freedom. I support this National Day of Military Recognition and urge the support by this body of the Commission that recommends the month of May as National Military Appreciation Month.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I am here today, on the 60th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. My father served in World War II at Pearl Harbor after the attack, and I grew up with the legend of Pearl Harbor in my own life. I will introduce a bill urging the President to establish the White House Commission on National Military Appreciation Month. I want to begin by thanking my colleagues and cosponsors, Senators Biden, Bingaman, Carnahan, Clinton, DeWine, Hagel, Levin and Lieberman, Mikulski, Miller, and Senator Harry Reid. Thanks also are due to General Tilleli, the president of the USO, and to Ms. Alice Wax, whose support and tireless efforts on behalf of National Military Appreciation Month have made this day a reality. The bill is framed to afford the President the widest possible flexibility with regard to the recommended Commission and National Military Appreciation Month itself. There is no money authorized in this bill. The establishment of the Commission, the composition of the Commission, and the scope of the Commission's activities are framed as recommendations. I have framed it in this way to make it an easy bill to support, because I believe it is a bill we should all support, and I will tell you why. Sixty years ago today, just before 8 a.m. on a Sunday morning, the first wave of bombers began the attack on Pearl Harbor that thrust the United States into World War II. It was an unforgettable day for those who lived through it, one which called America forth from an isolationist slumber to defend itself, and in so doing, inspired a generation of Americans to rise and lead the defense of freedom around the world. In the years since that fateful day, our Nation has become the most powerful and prosperous nation in the world. A few short years ago, with the generation that secured this prosperity and power still in our midst, I and my colleagues on the Senate Armed Services Committee heard testimony from the leaders of our military concerning the difficulties they were having recruiting and retaining sufficient numbers of young Americans in our Armed Forces. We crafted a package of incentives, and began the process of restoring military compensation to a more appropriate level. Even today, with recruiting and retention back to more acceptable levels, we continue to struggle to meet the funding levels required to sustain a strong military. Eighty-seven days ago, America was attacked again, and for only the second time in modern history, American blood was shed on American soil by a foreign foe. Most of the casualties of this most recent attack were civilians, a reflection of the many ways in which the world has changed since 1941. Once again, a generation of Americans has been called to rise to the defense of our way of life--this time not against an aggressor nation but against the global terrorist networks that have targeted us. Osama bin Laden's network in Afghanistan is our target now. It is not as clear how many other networks lie in wait. Some things are clear, though. The American military has been essential in responding to this latest attack. There will continue to be challenges, but we must recognize our military in every special way we can. That is why we, as a nation, cannot afford to forget the price of our freedom. Maintaining our military and our readiness is one of the keys to our freedom. I support this National Day of Military Recognition and urge the support by this body of the Commission that recommends the month of May as National Military Appreciation Month.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that my military fellow, Steve Tryon, be granted the privilege of the floor during the Senate's consideration of the Defense Appropriations Act.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I rise today to submit a resolution that will recognize the courage and professionalism of Congressional Staff, the Capitol Police, and other members of the Capitol Hill Community following the release of anthrax in Senator Daschle's office. In the aftermath of the first-ever evacuation of the Capitol and surrounding office buildings due to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and especially after the bioterrorist attack on the Congress and the Capitol Hill Community it is important to acknowledge the approximately 30,000 legislative branch employees who work on Capitol Hill including, approximately 6,200 Senate employees, 11,500 House employees, and 12,800 additional staff from other entities who have been affected by the release of anthrax in Senator Daschle's office. Therefore, in recognition of their outstanding public service in continuing to do the public's business in defiance of the terrorist attacks I am submitting a resolution to commend Congressional employees, the Capitol Police, the Office of the Attending Physician and his health care staff, and other members of the Capitol Hill community for their dedication to public service. This legislation acknowledges the extensive grounds of the Capitol complex which consists of the Capitol building, three Senate office buildings, three House office buildings, two House annex buildings, three Library of Congress buildings, and several other facilities that comprise the Capitol complex of approximately 285 acres. The Office of the Attending Physician, in response to the release of anthrax in Senator Daschle's office, tested approximately 6,000 individuals for exposure to anthrax, 28 of whom were positive. In addition, approximately 1,000 individuals received 60-day supply of antibiotics as a precautionary measure and the Senate and House office buildings were closed while investigators and bioterrorism experts decontaminated the offices exposed to anthrax. During the closure of the Senate and House office buildings, Members and staff were forced to find alternative office space or work from their homes. Members and staff whose offices are located in the Hart Senate Office Building continue to utilize alternative office space including office space donated by other Members. Senate, House, and support staff continued to perform their duties and serve the public with courage and professionalism in spite of the threat of exposure to anthrax. In addition, Capitol Hill police officers worked 12 hour shifts in response to the September 11, attacks and have been working additional overtime since anthrax contamination in the Capitol Complex to ensure the safety of Members, staff, and visitors within the Capitol Complex. Finally, the release of anthrax and subsequent contamination of Congressional offices disrupted the daily routines of Congressional Members and their staffs and caused frustration due to dislocated offices. My legislation commends the Congressional leadership, Congressional employees, the Capitol Police, the Office of the Attending Physician and the health care professionals in his office, in particular, for their quick actions and early intervention which prevented actual cases of anthrax within the Capitol Complex. Capitol Hill employees deserve to be commended for their strength, courage, and professionalism since the September 11 attacks and this resolution asks the President to recognize them for their unwavering commitment to public service in continuing to do the public's business in defiance of the terrorist attacks. Thank you to Senators Allen, Feingold, Cochran, Miller, and Akaka who have signed on as cosponsors to this legislation. I encourage other Senators to join us in this worthy recognition of the Capitol Hill community by cosponsoring this resolution.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I would like to offer my thanks and appreciation to Mr. Bernard Marcus for his generous donation of $200 million for the construction of a five-million-gallon aquarium in the city of Atlanta, GA. This gift, made by the Marcus Foundation, is one of the largest single grants ever made by a private foundation and will provide the people of Georgia and those who visit our great State the opportunity to experience the wonders of aquatic and riparian wildlife. In addition to this most recent gesture of generosity, Mr. Marcus has contributed to causes ranging from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, vascular diseases, developmentally disabled children, and Jewish charities. Those who have benefitted from his benevolence know him to be a man dedicated to his community and friends. I thank him for his friendship and generosity and look forward to this exciting new addition to the City of Atlanta and the State of Georgia. At this time, I would like to ask that the text of two Atlanta Journal-Constitution articles be printed in the Record. The articles follow: [From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Nov. 20, 2001] Aquarium ``Will Be a Great Marvel'' Home Depot Chief Pledges $200 Million (By Shelia M. Poole) Home Depot Chairman Bernard Marcus promised that the huge Georgia Aquarium announced Monday would have ``no boundaries'' in offering top-notch entertainment and research opportunities for residents and visitors. ``It will be a great marvel,'' said Marcus, whose private Marcus Foundation will spend up to $200 million to build and endow the aquarium, which will be owned by the state. The nonprofit aquarium--at 5 million gallons and 250,000 square feet--would be among the largest and most elaborate in the nation. It will contain freshwater and saltwater fish and mammals. Marcus, the 72-year-old cofounder of Home Depot, said the aquarium is a way for him and his wife, Billi, to give back to the community in a way that is ``meaningful and will last past our lifetimes.'' The aquarium, to open in 2005, will be built on 15.5 acres adjacent to Atlantic Station, a planned $2 billion minicity under construction west of the Downtown Connector. When completed, the development will include apartments, condominiums, offices, shops and a 20-screen movie theater. The site for the aquarium is just north of Atlantic Station, east of Mecaslin Street and south of Deering Road, near the former National Lead Industries site. The developer of Atlantic Station, Jim Jacoby, who owns Marineland in Florida, is assisting in acquiring the property. On Monday, representatives of state and local government, business, academia and the tourism and convention industry attended the announcement in the Georgia Capitol's Senate chamber. Atlanta Mayor-elect Shirley Franklin called it ``a wonderful gift for the city.'' She said the aquarium would not only provide entertainment and education opportunities for residents, but also create a draw for tourists and conventioneers. City boosters have long decried the lack of attractions in downtown Atlanta. Marcus' announcement effectively supersedes other efforts to build aquariums in Atlanta. At least two proposals had been floated to build aquariums at Stone Mountain Park and near Turner Field. ``We're not in business to compete,'' but to work toward getting quality recreation facilities in the area, said Thomas Dortch, chairman of the Atlanta-Fulton County Recreation Authority, which had tried for years to find financing and a downtown site for an aquarium. ``With the commitment from Mr. Marcus and the governor, we're excited about the fact there will be a world-class aquarium.'' The aquarium is still very much a work in progress, say those associated with it. There are no renderings, site plans or economic impact figures, although attendance is projected to be between 1.5 million and 2.5 million annually. Don Harrison, a Home Depot spokesman, said Marcus planned to visit aquariums across the United States and elsewhere, including China. The design will be finalized over the next 18 months. ``Now is when all the work begins,'' said Harrison. The aquarium will be global in scope, drawing researchers and visitors from around the world, he said. ``The world is, frankly, our target.'' Former Atlantan Jeffrey Swanagan, executive director and chief executive officer of the Florida Aquarium in Tampa, has been tapped to run the project. Swanagan spent 10 years as deputy director of Zoo Atlanta and was a protege of director Terry Maple. Marcus first approached Gov. Roy Barnes about the project a year ago. The governor suggested Atlantic Station as a possible site. ``Location was key,'' Marcus said. ``In our minds it will become a destination to visitors.'' Already the city has museums, art galleries and theater. What it doesn't have, Marcus said, is an aquarium. Dan Graveline--executive director of the Georgia World Congress Center--said, ``It will be a wonderful asset for the city. One of [the city's] biggest shortcomings is that convention[-goers] lack things to do in downtown Atlanta.'' The aquarium represents the largest donation to date from the Marcus Foundation and is a departure from previous endeavors, noted Harrison, the spokesman for Home Depot. With the private funding, the Georgia aquarium will open with no debt. Other aquariums, typically funded by municipal bonds and saddled with enormous debt, have struggled to prosper. Many have had difficulty funding new exhibits critical to attracting repeat customers. A notable exception is the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California. The aquarium, which opened in October 1984, was privately financed with a $55 million gift from David and Lucile Packard of the Hewlett-Packard fortune. There were ``no bonds and no debt,'' said Ken Peterson, a spokesman for the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which attracts 1.8 million visitors annually and was expanded in 1996. ``When you're paying a mortgage plus your operating expenses, it doesn't leave a lot of extra revenue for developing special exhibitions or new exhibit galleries.'' Bob Masterson, president of Orlando-based Ripley Entertainment Inc., which operates aquariums in Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Gatlinburg, Tenn., said the size of the Atlanta Facility will make it expensive to operate. ``We spend about $30,000 a day to run the 1.3 million- gallon aquarium in Myrtle Beach and a little more than that in Gatlinburg,'' he said. ``With a 5 million-gallon tank, I'd guess it would cost at least $50,000 a day to operate. And if it fails, there is nothing else you can do with that building.''

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I rise today to address three issues on which we will be voting in the Senate on Monday: The railroad retirement reform bill, the comprehensive energy legislation, and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge legislation. First of all, I would like to express my support for the railroad retirement reform bill. As thousands of Georgians who have contacted my office in support of this legislation will state, action by the Senate on this legislation is long overdue. I was pleased to support the cloture vote that occurred yesterday to move to this legislation. The House of Representatives passed this legislation more than once by overwhelming, bipartisan majorities, and the Senate version has 74 cosponsors, including my sponsorship. I think this bill should receive the same opportunity for a vote. Not only would current and former employees benefit from this legislation but also the widows and widowers of former employees. This legislation is the result of a long effort by both industry and labor to reform the railroad retirement system. Not often does Congress have the opportunity to vote on a cooperative effort supported by virtually everybody affected in the industry. We have that opportunity now. We should take advantage of it. We would be remiss to ignore it and not support it. We have heard from the small numbers of Senators who threaten this bill's ability to make it to the President's desk. These same colleagues joined me in support of a tax break package earlier this year which cost more than $1 trillion. At that time, we supported the tax legislation because of the potential economic stimulus it could provide. I say reforming the railroad retirement system will also provide such stimulus by freeing up funds that could be reinvested in the economy by the over 1 million active and retired rail workers and their families and the rail companies. This country exploded as the railroads moved west. It was the physical incarnation of manifest destiny. Since the time these initial courageous workers linked this country, hundreds of thousands of workers have followed in their footsteps to maintain and expand their work. These workers and their families would benefit from this legislation. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of this legislation and provide long overdue reform to the railroad retirement system. However, this railroad retirement bill is not the appropriate vehicle to address comprehensive energy legislation. It is essential that we pass a comprehensive energy bill that, No. 1, provides consumers with affordable and reliable energy; No. 2, increases domestic energy supplies in a responsible manner; No. 3, invests in energy efficiency and renewable energy sources; and, No. 4, protects the environment and public health. The inclusion of renewable energy sources is vital because I believe energy sources, such as wind, geothermal, solar, hydropower, and biomass, along with energy-efficient technologies, will help offset fuel imports, create numerous employment opportunities, and actually enhance export markets. Finally, I would like to address my particular concerns about opening up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling. Earlier this year, my colleagues who supported ANWR drilling argued that U.S. gas prices were out of control and therefore ANWR needed to be drilled immediately. Since then, gas prices have fallen dramatically, despite the war in Afghanistan. In fact, over the Thanksgiving holiday, I returned to Georgia and I routinely saw gas prices in Georgia substantially below $1 a gallon. As a matter of fact, I did see some prices at 76 cents a gallon. Those prices have not been seen at the pumps in more than a year. Since September 11, the price per barrel of oil has dropped $12 to the current price of $18 per barrel. ANWR does not need to be drilled but rather protected so generations from now can see its beauty as we see it today. I will support efforts to protect ANWR from drilling, and I urge my colleagues to do the same. Mr. President, I yield the floor.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Madam President, I rise today to introduce a bill to help secure an often overlooked mode of passenger transportation, intercity buses. In the wake of the current challenge to our Nation's security, it is the duty of Congress to ensure that all modes of passenger transportation, especially mass transportation vehicles including buses, are safe and secure. Already, buses have been assaulted, and innocent passengers have died. While these attacks have not so far been directly linked to the tragic events of September 11, I believe Congress would be negligent if we do not act on this issue while we have this opportunity. Additionally, in many cities, bus terminals share facilities with rail and/or air terminals. The Congress has addressed airport security and the Senate is working on rail security, but this work will not be complete without securing the third component. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to support my legislation to accomplish this goal. Clearly, bus service, which transports almost 800 million passengers annually, deserves Congress's attention. For many people throughout the country, motorcoaches are the only viable means of transportation. Greyhound, the largest carrier, and its interline partners serve over 4,000 communities, roughly 8 times more than either the airlines or Amtrak. Many of the other bus companies that serve these communities are small businesses with fewer than ten motorcoaches, and these businesses, in particular, are more affected by the decrease in passenger demand due to concerns over safety. While many of these companies have already spent their own funds to upgrade security, they need help to finish the job so that people will feel comfortable returning to bus travel. One of the main elements of my legislation provides grants for the installation of adequate communications equipment to alert law enforcement personnel if there is an onboard problem. Not only would an alarm be sounded to law enforcement but also current technology would be employed to report the precise location of the bus in question. Speedy deployment to deal with problems as they are happening could save lives. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, CVSA, an association of State, provincial and Federal law enforcement officials, believes that improved communication capability is among the top goals to improve the safety and security of passenger buses. The legislation also will provide grants for research into methods to protect the drivers. Some of the recent security incidents involve compromising the safety of the driver. We must find out what options are available to protect and secure the drivers so that a bus can be stopped safely if there are problems. Additionally, these grants can be used to maintain the integrity of bus terminals, facilities, and coaches, and conduct passenger screening, among other things. This legislation also dedicates $3-5 million annually in funding to the Secretary of Transportation to evaluate and coordinate current public and private efforts to improve bus security and safety by establishing ``best practices,'' including efforts to isolate the driver and to detect potential chemical and biological elements. Portions of this funding could also be used to support additional research and development initiatives, and the recommendations developed could be applied to both over-the-road and transit buses. This funding is not a government ``handout'' to an industry that has not been acting on its own to improve its facilities, but rather it will supplement ongoing efforts. Since September 11, Greyhound has spent at least $5 million on enhanced security. Steps taken include screening of passengers and baggage at selected terminals; requiring ticket identification; providing cell phones to drivers as an interim emergency communications system; increasing security personnel in terminals; prohibiting passengers from sitting in the first row of seats behind the driver, and establishing information and communications systems to aid and coordinate with law enforcement. My legislation would supplement and expand these initial efforts and assist with implementing these measures at additional terminals. My legislation also provides needed assistance to an industry that is struggling along with other segments of the travel and tourism sector. After the October 3 Nashville accident that resulted in 7 passenger fatalities, Greyhound's passenger sales dropped 15 percent and remain well below last year's levels. According to a survey conducted by the Travel Business Roundtable, intercity bus transportation is the only mode of transportation that dropped in ``safety perception'' when compared with air, auto, rail, and cruise travel. Incorporating the new security costs, which are necessary to bring passengers back, while revenue is down, will make it difficult for bus companies to maintain current service levels. This Federal support will allow bus companies to dedicate resources to continuing service to smaller communities rather than reducing schedules to cut costs. Additionally, this legislation instructs the Department of Labor to ensure that grants under this section are certified in an expeditious manner in accordance with its guidelines for processing grants to bus operators. As provided for under the Department's existing guidelines, previously certified arrangements for assistance to intercity bus operators applicable to applicants for security improvement grants, shall be the basis for processing such grants by the Department. The Secretary of Transportation will have the discretion to administer this program directly or through a security administration that may be established at the Department of Transportation. This bus security legislation is supported by the American Bus Association, Greyhound, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, Coach USA, and the Amalgamated Transit Union. Protecting bus passengers is a vital part of ensuring a vibrant transportation industry, and it is the third component to the safe passenger transportation equation. I urge my Senate colleagues, all of whom have many communities in your state served by intercity buses, to support this legislation. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I rise today to announce my intention to introduce a bill to provide Federal criminal penalties for security breaches at American airports. I make this announcement on the heels of my own experience with a security breach at Hartsfield International Airport. I have no way of knowing the reasons behind the security breach at Hartsfield, but the results of it were startling. The event triggered the total evacuation of the Atlanta airport and a temporary halt of incoming and outgoing air traffic. I might say I have been marooned on the tarmac at Hartsfield many times, but never with 60 other aircraft. I spent 4 hours on the tarmac, and many more hours waiting for my connecting flight, which I basically rendezvoused with and arrived at my destination the next day. Thousands of other travelers were also stranded while the ripple effects were felt across the country. Thankfully, nobody was hurt in this instance, and people's worst fears of another terrorist attack were not realized. But a loophole in existing law has been revealed in the days since the incident, and has shown that breaches at airport security checkpoints are currently punishable by local criminal penalties and Federal civil penalties, but not Federal criminal penalties. Incidentally, the current Federal civil penalty for such a breach currently carries a fine of $1,100. In an incident that probably cost the State of Georgia, the airlines, and this country about $10 million in economic impact, that is a small pittance to pay--$1,100. As we have learned in the most painful way possible, airport security is a matter of national security, and for there to be no Federal criminal penalty for such a breach is appalling. It was relieving to find that there appeared to be no nefarious intent in the Atlanta instance, but it was very disconcerting to learn the shortcomings of our Federal laws in a situation like this. While a Federal criminal penalty does cover security violations aboard airplanes themselves, I believe similar penalties should be available for violations before a person actually boards a plane. I would like to stress that I do intend to include provisions to make distinctions between deliberate and unintentional breaches. The legislation is currently being drafted and vetted, and will be introduced in the near future. The two main intentions of this bill are to provide uniformity and accountability for breaches of security across the Nation. Congress and the President have agreed that it is the responsibility of the Federal Government to protect our airports, and the laws should reflect that. It should also provide the same penalty for breaches in New York City, Columbus, OH, and Columbus, GA. The offense is the same, and the laws should be too. Mr. President, I yield the floor.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate stand in recess until 2:15 today.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Madam President, I rise today in support of H.R. 1140, the railroad retirement reform bill. As thousands of Georgians who have contacted my office in support of this legislation will state, action by the Senate on this legislation is long overdue, and I am pleased to hear that we will hold a cloture vote on the bill this week. The House of Representatives passed this legislation more than once by overwhelming, bipartisan majorities, and the Senate version has 74 co- sponsors. Not only would current and former employees benefit from this legislation but also the widows and widowers of former employees, and this legislation is the result of a long effort by both industry and labor to reform the railroad retirement system. Not often does Congress have the opportunity to vote on a cooperative effort supported by virtually everyone in the affected industry. We have that opportunity now, and we would be remiss to ignore it or not support it. It is my understanding that a small number of Senators have stood in the way of this legislation, which has necessitated the filing of a cloture petition to shut down the filibuster. These same colleagues joined me in support of a tax break package earlier this year that costs over $1 trillion. At that time, we supported the tax legislation because of the potential economic stimulus it could provide. I say that reforming the railroad retirement system will also provide such stimulus by freeing up funds that could be reinvested in the economy by the over one million active and retired rail workers and their families. This country exploded as the railroads moved west. It was the physical incarnation of manifest destiny. Since the time these initial courageous workers linked this country, hundreds of thousands of workers have followed in their footsteps to maintain and expand their work. These workers and their families would benefit from H.R. 1140. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of this legislation and provide long overdue reform to the railroad retirement system.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Madam President, I rise today to introduce a bill to help secure an often overlooked mode of passenger transportation, intercity buses. In the wake of the current challenge to our Nation's security, it is the duty of Congress to ensure that all modes of passenger transportation, especially mass transportation vehicles including buses, are safe and secure. Already, buses have been assaulted, and innocent passengers have died. While these attacks have not so far been directly linked to the tragic events of September 11, I believe Congress would be negligent if we do not act on this issue while we have this opportunity. Additionally, in many cities, bus terminals share facilities with rail and/or air terminals. The Congress has addressed airport security and the Senate is working on rail security, but this work will not be complete without securing the third component. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to support my legislation to accomplish this goal. Clearly, bus service, which transports almost 800 million passengers annually, deserves Congress's attention. For many people throughout the country, motorcoaches are the only viable means of transportation. Greyhound, the largest carrier, and its interline partners serve over 4,000 communities, roughly 8 times more than either the airlines or Amtrak. Many of the other bus companies that serve these communities are small businesses with fewer than ten motorcoaches, and these businesses, in particular, are more affected by the decrease in passenger demand due to concerns over safety. While many of these companies have already spent their own funds to upgrade security, they need help to finish the job so that people will feel comfortable returning to bus travel. One of the main elements of my legislation provides grants for the installation of adequate communications equipment to alert law enforcement personnel if there is an onboard problem. Not only would an alarm be sounded to law enforcement but also current technology would be employed to report the precise location of the bus in question. Speedy deployment to deal with problems as they are happening could save lives. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, CVSA, an association of State, provincial and Federal law enforcement officials, believes that improved communication capability is among the top goals to improve the safety and security of passenger buses. The legislation also will provide grants for research into methods to protect the drivers. Some of the recent security incidents involve compromising the safety of the driver. We must find out what options are available to protect and secure the drivers so that a bus can be stopped safely if there are problems. Additionally, these grants can be used to maintain the integrity of bus terminals, facilities, and coaches, and conduct passenger screening, among other things. This legislation also dedicates $3-5 million annually in funding to the Secretary of Transportation to evaluate and coordinate current public and private efforts to improve bus security and safety by establishing ``best practices,'' including efforts to isolate the driver and to detect potential chemical and biological elements. Portions of this funding could also be used to support additional research and development initiatives, and the recommendations developed could be applied to both over-the-road and transit buses. This funding is not a government ``handout'' to an industry that has not been acting on its own to improve its facilities, but rather it will supplement ongoing efforts. Since September 11, Greyhound has spent at least $5 million on enhanced security. Steps taken include screening of passengers and baggage at selected terminals; requiring ticket identification; providing cell phones to drivers as an interim emergency communications system; increasing security personnel in terminals; prohibiting passengers from sitting in the first row of seats behind the driver, and establishing information and communications systems to aid and coordinate with law enforcement. My legislation would supplement and expand these initial efforts and assist with implementing these measures at additional terminals. My legislation also provides needed assistance to an industry that is struggling along with other segments of the travel and tourism sector. After the October 3 Nashville accident that resulted in 7 passenger fatalities, Greyhound's passenger sales dropped 15 percent and remain well below last year's levels. According to a survey conducted by the Travel Business Roundtable, intercity bus transportation is the only mode of transportation that dropped in ``safety perception'' when compared with air, auto, rail, and cruise travel. Incorporating the new security costs, which are necessary to bring passengers back, while revenue is down, will make it difficult for bus companies to maintain current service levels. This Federal support will allow bus companies to dedicate resources to continuing service to smaller communities rather than reducing schedules to cut costs. Additionally, this legislation instructs the Department of Labor to ensure that grants under this section are certified in an expeditious manner in accordance with its guidelines for processing grants to bus operators. As provided for under the Department's existing guidelines, previously certified arrangements for assistance to intercity bus operators applicable to applicants for security improvement grants, shall be the basis for processing such grants by the Department. The Secretary of Transportation will have the discretion to administer this program directly or through a security administration that may be established at the Department of Transportation. This bus security legislation is supported by the American Bus Association, Greyhound, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, Coach USA, and the Amalgamated Transit Union. Protecting bus passengers is a vital part of ensuring a vibrant transportation industry, and it is the third component to the safe passenger transportation equation. I urge my Senate colleagues, all of whom have many communities in your state served by intercity buses, to support this legislation. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on the Judiciary be authorized to meet to conduct a hearing on ``Department of Justice Oversight: Preserving Our Freedoms While Defending Against Terrorism,'' Wednesday, November 28, 2001 at 9 a.m. in Dirksen room 226.

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Select Committee on Intelligence be authorized to meet to conduct a closed hearing on Intelligence Matters on Wednesday, November 28, 2001 at 2:30 p.m.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I want to quickly discuss recent news that U.S. forces are engaged on the ground in Afghanistan. Though it isn't yet certain the details of this report, if this is a new assault in our war on terrorism or whether this is the continuation of our current operations, I would like to raise the attention of everyone to the outstanding service and dedication that our military men and women are showing in the war on terrorism. It is their sacrifice and selfless service that has taken the war on terrorism to the terrorists themselves. As we have seen since last week, our military is fully engaged and we are seeing the successes of their many missions. As I have always said, the backbone of our military is not technology or weapons, but the people. Our brave military men and women are waging this fight today and we need to remember them and their families in this difficult time.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. I thank the Senator from Texas, and especially thank her for the marvelous work on the bill, as well as Senator Hollings and Senator McCain and Senator Rockefeller. Madam President, this body is about to vote on an historic piece of legislation that will put in place new safeguards at airports across this land from Savannah to Seattle to Sacramento as families prepare for the biggest travel day in the Nation, they can feel assured airport security will be strengthened nationwide the very moment President Bush signs this landmark legislation into law. Aviation security will now be in the hands of the U.S. Department of Transportation where it belongs. The Federal Government will immediately begin the process to hire, train, and deploy Federal screeners, Federal security personnel, and Federal law enforcement--a move supported by 80 percent of the American people. We will finally have in place strict national standards for the hiring and training and job performance of the men and women who are on the front lines of ensuring that we have safety in aviation in America. Ever since the tragic events of September 11, the American public has been crying out for tougher security to ensure that the horrifying events of 2 months ago will never again be repeated. This bill is our response to that call. It is a comprehensive bill, a tough bill, which helps ensure the financial viability of the airline industry and enhances America's national security and restores confidence to the flying public. I am proud to support it. I am proud to be an original cosponsor. I yield the floor, Madam President.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, times of adversity have always been fertile soil in which to find triumphs of the human spirit. As an old English proverb so eloquently put it, ``A Smooth sea never made a skilled mariner. Trials are not enemies of faith but are opportunities to prove God's faithfulness.'' The events of Tuesday, September 11 will never be forgotten. Nor will we forget how this Nation has changed since that fateful day. In the weeks since the horrendous attacks on our country, there has been no shortage of stories about the heroic acts of everyday men and women who put their own lives on the line to help others. By now we've all heard the story of United flight 93 that crashed in rural Pennsylvania. By all accounts, the passengers, after discovering their hijackers sinister plan, rushed the cockpit and sacrificed their own lives in saving people on the ground. These were regular citizens placed in an unimaginable situation. They saved people, likely right here in this building, who never knew they were in danger. But then we know that whenever times have gotten tough in this country, Americans have always stepped up to answer the call. We remember the story of Clara Barton, a woman who learned about medicine, and rushed to the battlefields of the Civil War to tend to the wounded. There were also the women who filled factories and other places of business during World War II when their husbands, fathers, and brothers left to fight. These women did what, at the time, had never been done before. They provided needed support, and carried our country during an unparalleled time of need. Books of American history are full of stories about ordinary people accomplishing unbelievable things. The pages about today's events still awaiting the ink of hindsight will be no different. I would like to say now, that the men and women who work on Capitol Hill will be among the heroes history will remember. I have been amazed at the strength of the men and women, many of them recently graduated from college, on my staff who have come to work every day since the attacks, prepared and ready to serve their country in the face of possible terrorist attacks or biological warfare. These men and women have risen to the occasion and answered the call of duty. Our interns, on their tour of duty in our Nation's Capitol without pay and far from home, come each day ready to work and willing to serve. Even when the Capitol complex was shut down, the 26,000 men and women who work in the six House and Senate office buildings scrambled to find alternate workspace and were always on call. These attacks have left us feeling afraid and violated, but, my friends, our Nation has never been stronger. If that fact is ever doubted, just look up to the windows of the Dirksen Building with a flag in almost every window. Go to the offices of members whose colleagues continue to be displaced due to anthrax closings where they share conference rooms, computers and phone lines, all in the name of doing the business of the American people. If the attackers plan was to drive us apart, they have failed. I would like to thank each member of my staff for their service to me, and to this great country. At this time I would like to place into the Record the names of the men and women on my staff who have served in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. Cooper Allen, Michael Andel, Daniel Barton, Krista Boyd, Macio Cameron, Amanda Cooper, Adel Durani, Eric Easley, Eileen Force, Elizabeth Gladden, Charlie Godwin, Lori Gregory, Marilouis Hudgins, Elaine Iler, Farrar Johnston, Bill Johnstone, Tamara Jones, Lynn Kimmerly, Jamie Mackay, Neil Martin, Glen Marken, Matt McKenna, Patricia Murphy, Mark Pascu, Michel Pearis, Allison Priebe, Simon Sargent, Mark Stedham, Jane Terry, Steve Tryon, Donni Turner, Andrew Van Landingham, Charlotte Voorde, Derek Walters, and Adnan Zulfiqar.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Madam President, I rise to day to pay tribute to a great friend of the United States and a man whose unique perspective on the current events of the world is worthy of our attention. Recently, I had the rare honor of spending some time with Winston S. Churchill. His grandfather, former Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill is a hero to many Americans including myself. Sir Winston's leadership of the British people in their darkest hours are a source of inspiration for all of us in these uncertain times. His picture hangs on the wall of my office and a recording of his speeches remains ready to be played in my car should I need inspiration for the day ahead. In the face of adversity and as his country was faced with the most brutal of all enemies, Churchill steadfastly ``held the line.'' In October of 1941, just over 60 years ago, Churchill spoke these words to the young men of Harrow school: Never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never. In nothing, great or small, large or petty--never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy. Those words inspire me to keep fighting in the Senate for what is right and for what is good. Those words inspire me to keep working toward the righteous goal in the conflict in which the United States and the United Kingdom are fighting today. I have no doubt that, were Sir Winston alive today, he would be standing beside our country in this crisis, just as Prime Minister Blair has done. Last month, at a dinner hosted by the Churchill Center, I had the honor of meeting with Winston S. Churchill. Just like his grandfather, Winston S. Churchill has led a remarkable life. His experience as a former war correspondent and Member of Parliament has, I believe, given him a unique insight into our current War on Terrorism. He has traveled the globe and has a deep understanding of the different peoples and cultures of our world. In particular, my colleagues may benefit from his interesting and thought provoking assessment of the current situation he made in an address to the National Press Club on October 11, 2001. I ask unanimous consent this address be printed in the Record and, on behalf of the American people, I offer Winston S. Churchill my sincere appreciation for everything that he has done to further the ``special relationship'' between the United States and Great Britain.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Madam President, the events of the past month have presented the agencies of the Federal Government with a challenge like none we have ever seen. The anthrax attacks in Florida, New York, New Jersey, and Washington have placed unprecedented demands on both the public health and law enforcement arms of the Federal Government. Yet, in spite of the fact that the men and women of the Federal Government have never before encountered circumstances like these, I am pleased to say that, by and large, their response has been exceptional, and I would like to thank them for their courageous efforts. However, as might be expected, this latest trial has exposed a number of weaknesses in our bioterrorism response mechanism which we must now act swiftly to remedy. The Federal response to the anthrax crisis has revealed some uncertainty with regard to the precise roles assigned to each of the several Federal agencies with responsibilities in such situations and with regard to coordination between these agencies and the dissemination of public information. For example, while the CDC took the lead in testing anthrax samples from Florida, the anthrax samples found in New York and Washington were collected by the FBI and sent, not to the CDC, but to DoD labs for testing. By sending these samples to different facilities, not only are we duplicating services, but, more importantly, we run the risk of critical results not being expeditiously reviewed by the appropriate health officials thereby unacceptably increasing the response time in what is quite literally a life and death situation. I believe the uncertainty that has prevailed as to the proper role of the CDC in a bioterrorist incident, particularly vis-a-vis law enforcement agencies, is largely due to ambiguity in present statutes and regulations. Presidential Decision Directive 39 of 1995 clearly designates the FBI as the overall lead federal agency for domestic terrorism incidents. At the same time, per last year's Public Health Threats and Emergencies Act, P.L. 106-505, if the Secretary of Health and Human Services determines, after consulting with the Director of the CDC, that a public health emergency exists, the Secretary is authorized to take such action as may be appropriate to respond to the public health emergency, including conducting and supporting investigations into the cause, treatment, or prevention of a disease. Further, the Federal Response Plan designates HHS as the primary federal agency for the medical and public health response to emergencies. So it seems that, under current law and regulation, the FBI is the lead agency in the event of a terrorist attack, and HHS has significant authority to act in the event of a public health emergency. But if a terrorist attack is also a public health emergency, as has been the case of late, it is not readily evident who is in charge. Clearly, both the FBI and the CDC have essential roles in such a situation. These roles are distinct but do occasionally overlap, necessitating a clarification of how precisely the agencies are to coordinate with one another in a bioterrorism crisis. While the law enforcement and public health response to terrorist attacks are both vital, in the event of a public health emergency, the unique life and death health ramifications of such an attack mandate, in my view, that public health experts take the lead role in investigating and treating the attack. Bioterrorism is a new arena for us all, including the CDC and in such uncharted territory nothing we do can guarantee that no mistakes will be made. However, with adequate funding and armed with their training and expertise, the public health experts of the CDC constitute our best defense against this emerging threat. Therefore, the measure I am introducing today will clarify the role of the CDC and minimize the problems caused by bureaucratic infighting over agency roles, thereby preventing time from becoming an additional enemy. Law enforcement agencies and the CDC have equally important, but separate, roles in the event of a terrorist attack involving biological, chemical, or radiological weapons. Such an attack allows us absolutely no room for confusion over these roles, however, as evidenced by the tragic results of the current anthrax attacks. While I am eagerly awaiting further definition of the role of the new Office of Homeland Security and I will support giving it the necessary authority to get the job done, the American people cannot afford any delay in eliminating existing uncertainties in the federal response to bioterrorism. My Public Health Emergencies Accountability Act is an attempt to eliminate the confusion of the current system and address the immediate threats stemming from this uncertainty. In proposing this measure, I am building upon current law by clarifying the role of the CDC when acting during a public health emergency. Furthermore, my measure is consistent with the proposed Kennedy-Frist Bioterrorism Preparedness Act and builds on our work in last year's Public Health Threats and Emergencies Act. We have already had to endure the consequences of the current confusion over the important, but distinct, roles of public health and law enforcement in responding to terrorist attacks. It is our responsibility to act immediately to rectify this situation in order to assure public health, safety, and security. The Public Health Emergencies Accountability Act changes current law in several ways. First, it redefines ``public health emergency'' to include chemical and radiological attacks, in addition to bioterrorism, and to make suspected as well as proven such attacks eligible for emergency designation. Second, as under last year's Public Health Threats and Emergencies Act, the Secretary of HHS, acting in consultation with CDC, is given the authority to determine the existence of a public health emergency, and to respond to such an emergency by making grants and conducting investigations. My measure provides additional authority for the Secretary and CDC in these cases to take the lead in ``directing the response of other Federal departments and agencies'' and in ``disseminating necessary information'' to the general public. Third, the time period of the emergency is to be set by the Secretary and is not to exceed 180 days, but may be extended by the Secretary after notification of Congress and other Federal agencies. Finally, and most importantly, the determination of a public health emergency by the Secretary of HHS, in consultation with CDC, is made the defining action in clarifying who should take the lead role in handling a biological, chemical or radiological attack. Thus, when it is determined that a given situation does not rise to the level of a public health emergency, law enforcement will assume the lead position. On the other hand, when the Secretary of HHS has identified and declared a public health emergency, public health and the CDC will take the leading role. In either case, my proposal mandates that the lead agency keep all other relevant authorities, including the Congress, fully and currently informed. If there is one message that emerges time and time again about shortcomings in the Federal Government's current response to terrorism, especially bioterrorism, it is that the relevant Federal agencies don't talk to each another soon enough or completely enough. The Public Health Emergencies Accountability Act will put an end to that. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I come before you today speaking not simply for myself, but on behalf of the countless thousands of people who have frequented Sholl's Cafeteria in the seventy years since it opened. It is easy enough to use the word ``served'' when speaking of what almost any restaurant does; when speaking about Sholl's, though, the word takes on a very special and unique meaning. The history of Sholl's here in Washington is one of community, great food, and a deep caring for all patrons. Aside from established prices that afford nearly everyone an opportunity to enjoy a hot meal, Sholl's also has a policy of never turning away a hungry person. As Sholl's fights against modern economics in hopes of staying alive, it is essential that we rally to help this great institution. At this time I ask to have printed in the Record a letter from Jim McGrath to the Washington Post which I believe helps shed more light on what this establishment means to Washington and its citizens. The letter follows. As the nation mobilizes to combat the insidious foe of terrorism, another drama of a far different kind and scope is playing itself out in downtown Washington--the struggle for survival of Sholl's Cafeteria. Despite heroic sacrifice and Herculean labors by many--most notably its beloved proprietors, George and Van Fleishell--absent a substantial financial remedy, Sholl's will be forced to close its door as soon as Oct. 31. The Sholl's story could easily get lost amid the tumult of our national preoccupation and suffering in the wake of September 11, but that would be a profound shame, because the cafeteria's story has been one of special triumphs: of old- fashioned, all-American food, wonderfully prepared and wonderfully served; of human pricing, so that nearly anyone can afford to eat there; of multiculturalism, with terrific employees, many there for generations, reflecting every spectrum of the human family; of kindness, with an atmosphere that welcomes everyone. It is a story of the triumph of charity, Sholl's has given away enough free food to feed an army 100 times over. During the past several years, however, Sholl's has suffered from the decline in downtown dining. Its tour-bus trade has eroded because of the weak economy. It has endured bus-unfriendly parking restrictions. It has had to deal with prolonged building renovation and reconstruction while paying a huge rent. It has been put through the economic wringer. Now another mobilization is needed to save this beloved institution. I am not alone in expressing those sentiments. They have been voiced by many, from the high and the mighty to the mighty humble. They have come from legions of senior citizens, bus loads of squealing kids and homeless people. On August 10, 1999, for example, the World Bank wrote to the cafeteria's owners: ``You are correct to characterize Sholl's as a charitable landmark. It would be a significant loss to our neighborhood if you were to close your doors, particularly for the large number of senior citizens, young kids, disabled and homeless people whom you serve.'' On July 8, 1998, U.S. Sen. Max Cleland of Georgia read into the Congressional Record, ``Patrons of Sholl's have described members of the Sholl family, who have owned and operated Sholl's over the last 70 years, as having the biggest hearts in Washington.'' On March 7, 1999, Mike Kirwan, the late, great apostle to the homeless, said, ``The stories I've heard from people on the streets, their quiet moments of dignity, respect, warmth and a full and nourishing meal at the hands of this wonderful cafeteria could fill a book of essays.'' Possibly, the one who said it best, though, was a child who, on arrival from Pennsylvania on a school bus, told a WTOP reporter, ``If it weren't for Sholl's Cafeteria, we couldn't afford to come to Washington.'' The hour is late, and the odds are long. Although some say the time for Sholl's has past, I profoundly disagree, and I hope others do too. Long live Sholl's Cafeteria.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, almost exactly 1 month ago to the day this Nation was rocked by the most horrific act of terrorism ever leveled against the United States. Following the events of September 11, we resolved as a nation to work together to secure our borders and do all in our power to prevent a repeat of the kind of assault that shook this country 30 days ago. Key to the security of America is our ability to quickly put in place enhanced security measures at our airports and on our planes to ensure that our skies are safe and that Americans are no longer afraid to fly. Yet the legislation that is key to ensuring that America's aviation system is secure--the very measure that is our most direct legislative response to the hijacking of four U.S. airliners--has been stalled now for a week. This body is in agreement on many issues in this bill and we have compromised on others. It is time that we bring this critically important bill to the floor and openly debate the differences which remain. Whether or not to ``federalize'' airport security personnel is an issue that still deeply divides this body. I also attended the briefing by El Al officials which the distinguished Chairman of the Commerce Committee and others have referred to throughout this debate. We are all aware of the extraordinary security measures the Israeli airline has put in place and the extraordinary success of those measures. Because of the constant threat of terrorism to Israel and the Israeli people, El Al has taken the following steps to ensure the safety of its passengers and the integrity of its operations: armed, plain-clothes, in-flight guards; extensive passenger questioning and Interpol background checks; extensive luggage inspections, both visual inspection by employees and high-tech explosive detection, including the placing of luggage and cargo in decompression chambers; and secure cockpit doors that remain locked from the inside. Since the implementation of these measures, no Israeli airline has ever been hijacked. This record speaks for itself. In that briefing the El Al officials were asked if airport security personnel were government workers or contract workers. The response was telling. The El Al officials did not even know what contract workers are. They want government workers on the front line to enforce the tightest security measures possible. As others have pointed out, we want Secret Service, government employees to provide the greatest protection possible to the President of the United States. We want Federal law enforcement officers to protect the elected members of the House and Senate. Why would we want any less for the people of this Nation? There was a recent article in the Atlanta Constitution about an Atlanta-based security company which provides baggage screening for 17 of the 20 largest airports in the country, including baggage screening for Dulles and Newark airports--where two of the four hijacked planes originated on September 11. According to the Atlanta Constitution: The company has 19,000 employees and provides security for office buildings, colleges and Federal facilities. In the past year, it pled guilty to allowing untrained employees--including some with criminal backgrounds--to operate checkpoints in Philadelphia International Airport. Its parent company was fined $1.2 million. In addition, the company is also said to have falsified test scores for at least 2 dozen applicants and hired at least 14 security screeners with criminal backgrounds ranging from aggravated assault and burglary to drug and firearm possession. The highest advertised job at this company pays $7 to $8.50 an hour. Mr. President, to repeat, these workers are paid $7 to $8 an hour. With minimum wage pay like this, no wonder many of these screeners look at going to work at a fast-food restaurant as a promotion. Clearly we cannot have this attitude as our first line of defense. In the El Al briefing, there was a slide describing the onion-like layers of security in their aviation system. At the outer layer was the layer of intelligence--key to any effective protection of our skies and borders. In Israel, when there is knowledge of a possible security threat, there is immediately a line of intelligence communication from the highest levels of government down, and in that intelligence loop are the security officers at Ben Gurion Airport. This is a compelling reason why we should have Federal workers at the airport checkpoints in this country. There are over 700 of these checkpoints at over 420 airports. We need a domestic version of the Customs Service as our first line of defense against hijackers. The General Accounting Office in assessing our aviation vulnerabilities stated that ``the human element is the weakest link in the chain.'' We saw that on September 11. The airline industry is in favor of federalizing airport security personnel. More importantly, the American people support it. In a recent national poll, 82 percent of the people surveyed said they would support having the Federal Government take over security screening at U.S. airports even if it cost $2 billion a year. All of us appreciate the value of rapid response in combating terrorism. It is time to bring the aviation security bill to the floor and fulfill the number one responsibility of Congress: to work to ensure the safety and protection of the Nation and its citizens. I yield the floor.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. I yield.

Mr. CLELAND

Mr. CLELAND. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.