Jane Harman

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Madam Speaker, if the gentleman would yield for another 10 seconds, I would comment that we have been trying to do this at least since April, and the subject was raised at the Helsinki summit and it was raised in Denver, and it was raised in Moscow more recently by the Vice President, and it has been raised at other senior level meetings between us and the Russians; in addition to which we have an ambassador, Mr. Wisner, who is in Russia at this moment negotiating on this, but the results are not there, and the clock is ticking, and I think that we have to push harder.

Ms. HARMAN. Madam Speaker, my final comment, if the gentleman will continue to yield, I think the point of the gentleman from New York [Mr. Gilman], is that missile technology from any source in Iran is destabilizing and that is why he is trying to shut down the Chinese proliferation, and that is why I agree with him.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this rule and commend the gentleman from New York [Mr. Solomon], chairman of the Committee on Rules, for his care and fairness in drafting it. As a mother of four, I know that perfection is not an option, and I certainly agree with many speakers that this rule is not perfect. Nevertheless, I feel that it is timely and that it brings many important subjects to our attention. I would say to our colleagues who disagree with some of these resolutions and proposed amendments, vote against them. I may vote against some, too. But do not vote against this rule. Let me make a couple of other points. Last week, as has been noted, the President of China was here. I thought his visit was very productive. I support the economic relationship with China and have voted twice against discontinuing most-favored-nation status for China. That does not mean, however, that I think that issues concerning human rights and proliferation are unimportant. I think they are very important. And this is our opportunity to address those, too, and to address those in a timely way before we adjourn. On one subject, I would like to make a further point; and that is the language in this rule that automatically reports the text of House Concurrent Resolution 121 into House Resolution 188. Resolution 188 is offered by the gentleman from New York [Mr. Gilman], and it concerns proliferation of missile technology from China to Iran. The addition to the other language is the full text of an amendment I have offered that has been reported unanimously by the Committee on House International Relations and has also been introduced in the other body, with many cosponsors, to direct the administration to impose sanctions on Russian firms that are engaging in missile proliferation to Iran. That is as urgent a threat as the Chinese proliferation. Combining the two makes the point more effectively. I look forward to a time later today when both will be passed. In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I urge strong support of this rule and commend those involved for a very fair and complete process.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Madam Speaker, pursuant to clause 2 of rule IX, I hereby give notice of my intention to offer a resolution which raises a question of the privileges of the House. The form of the resolution is as follows: Whereas, Loretta Sanchez was issued a certificate of election as the duly elected Member of Congress from the 46th District of California by the Secretary of State of California and was seated by the U.S. House of Representatives on January 7, 1997; and whereas, in the 104th Congress, similar challenges were brought in three elections, including one involving the offeror of this resolution, winner of her election by 812 votes, duly certified by the Secretary of State of California. After 9 months of investigation at a cost of over 100,000 taxpayer dollars, no evidence of fraud being found, the challenge was withdrawn; and whereas, the Committee on House Oversight has had more than ample time to conclude its investigation, conducted at great taxpayer expense: now, therefore, be it Resolved, That unless the Committee on Oversight has sooner reported a recommendation for its final disposition, the contest of the 46th District of California is dismissed upon the expiration of November 7, 1997. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the entire resolution be printed at this point in the Record.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in paying respect to the memory of Walter Capps. Walter was an especially decent man, one of the few freshmen to make an immediate impact upon arrival. That impact was based on a strong sense of moral purpose and a grounding in the belief that Congress could solve problems without resorting to partisanship or one-ups- manship. With Walter's sudden passing yesterday, a bright light has gone out. Mr. Speaker, we are fortunate to have had Walter here in Congress, even for a brief time. Sidney and I express our deepest sympathies to his wife, Lois, and the Capps family.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Chairman, earlier this week, I voted in support of H.R. 1534, the Private Property Rights Implementation Act. As with most measure this body considers, the bill is a first broad stroke at a very important problem--helping property owners resolve as quickly as possible issues related to land use. The bill is intended to afford property owners access to Federal courts when constitutionally protected rights have been taken or affected by government actions. To be sure, the bill needs some tailoring of its provisions and, as it moves forward, I believe that in working with landowners, environmentalists, and local officials such tailoring will occur. But to vote down the bill is a mistake. It is a mistake. It is a mistake because reforms need to be made in this area of our law and we need to begin the process by which these reforms can be made. H.R. 1534 is that beginning. I very much appreciate the concerns raised by local elected officials. Dee Hardison, the mayor of Torrance, the largest city in my district, outlined in a letter to me the effect city officials believe H.R. 1534 might have. But let me point out that local governments will have no new limits imposed on their ability to zone or regulate land use. Local agencies will still have at least two and up to three opportunities, including one involving elected officials, to resolve land use controversies before their decision will be defined as final. At that point, under the bill, landowners will be afforded recourse to file private property takings cases in Federal court. Takings cases, or claims that a State or local government action reduced the value of property, take on average over 9 years of litigation before conclusion, yet it is important to point out that the legal basis for takings cases is the fifth amendment prohibition against taking private property without just compensation. Because some landowners do not have the resources to defend their cases for so long and that the current situation causes unreasonable delay in resolving takings cases, the bill allows property owners to take their cases directly to Federal courts, thereby circumventing the more lengthy and often disadvantageous State courts or local resolution processes. Under current law, the cases cannot go to Federal court until it is ripe, or local resolution processes and State court appeals have been exhausted. This bill shortens the period after which ripeness occurs. Property use decisions are appropriately the provence of local communities and States. H.R. 1534 is intended to affect a streamlining of a time-consuming process where landowners are denied a requested use but where the ultimate question is a constitutional one--has there been a taking. In my view, the opportunity to answer that question is appropriately accelerated under the bill and appropriately raised before the Federal courts. I support H.R. 1534 and look forward to making such changes as necessary to ensure it protects property rights consistent with the Constitution.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ante Perkov, who will be honored tonight at the 70th annual Keystone Awards dinner held by the Boys & Girls Club of San Pedro. In San Pedro, when you hear the phrase ``it's better to give than to receive,'' one immediately thinks of Ante Perkov. Known to the community as the kind, warm-hearted man with a carnation behind his ear, Ante has contributed significantly to all types of community activities since his arrival to San Pedro. He has spent his life building his restaurant, Ante's, into one of the finest ethnic restaurants in the South Bay, while never saying ``no'' to any charity or person in need. Ante has given his time and his talents whenever called upon because of his concern and love for people. Ante has cooked for and helped raise funds for the Mary Star of the Sea Parish, the Holy Trinity Parish, the Salvation Army, Homer Toberman Settlement House, the Boys & Girls Club of San Pedro, the San Pedro Peninsula YMCA, the Boy Scouts, and the San Pedro Lions Club. Ante also serves on the board of directors for the Salvation Army and the Boys & Girls Club of San Pedro. His personal recognitions include a doctor of philanthropy degree from Pepperdine University, Honorary Mayor of San Pedro, Citizen of the Year from the Boy Scouts of America, Man of the Year from the Lions Club, and the Steering Wheel Award from the San Pedro High School Lady Pirate Boosters, in addition to being a lifetime member of the San Pedro Elks and the San Pedro Lions Club. With his gentleness, kindness, and giving heart, Ante has touched the lives of the Harbor area community with his generous and unheralded gift of caring. I am proud to join the Boys & Girls Club of San Pedro in extending my sincere administration and appreciation to Ante Perkov. Congratulations Ante.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, at the end of the month, a distinguished leader of the Air Force will leave office and begin a new chapter in her life. Sheila E. Widnall, the first woman to serve as a service Secretary, will leave her position and I want to join her other friends and colleagues in commending her for a job well done. During her tenure, Dr. Widnall led the Air Force through a critical period of post-cold-war consolidation and modernization. She directed a time-phased modernization program to shape the future of the Air Force and further integrate space systems into military operations. Dr. Widnall championed the Department's revolution in business practices with unprecedented acquisition reform initiatives and outsourcing and privatization ventures which have assured that scarce taxpayer dollars are wisely spent. And, she helped lead the Nation's stewardship of space by partnering the Air Force with the National Reconnaissance Office, NASA, and the commercial space sector. Most notably, Dr. Widnall took care of the individuals who serve in the Air Force. She focused on core values of respect and dignity, assured opportunity for men and women, and pursued tirelessly quality of life issues during a period of personnel reductions and increasing operations temp. She made tough, but courageous decisions during her 4- year tenure, particularly a recent one involving Air Force Lt. Kelly Flynn. A sailor, jogger, and friend, I regret that I was not able to join Sheila on a trip we often discussed--a transcontinental flight aboard a C-17 cargo plane--an Air Force procurement we both worked to reform and save. I join my colleagues on behalf of a grateful nation in thanking Dr. Widnall and her husband, Bill. Dr. Widnall set a high standard of leadership and vision, and has prepared the U.S. Air Force for the challenges of the 21st century.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I was pleased to participate in the celebration of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial on Friday, October 17, when I attended a moving reunion of women veterans and current service members at the DC Armory. I ask unanimous consent to insert my remarks on that occasion in the Congressional Record. In recognition of all that women service members have done for our country, I would also ask unanimous consent to insert the attached profile of six courageous veterans that appeared in the Washington Post on Saturday, October 18, 1997. Remarks by Representative Jane Harman to the Women in Military Service for America Reunion Reception, Friday, October 17, 1997 Tomorrow, with the official dedication of the Women in Military Service Memorial, America recognizes--and remembers--women who have given so much to our country. I am inspired by your service to the cause of freedom and honored to be with you tonight. This extraordinary gathering is getting the word out. Women in all walks of life are finally learning of your sacrifices, your dedication, and your accomplishments. You and your predecessors have contributed immeasurably to the defense of our country and the preservation of our liberties. You worked as nurses and doctors, as logisticians, trainers, mechanics, pilots--and more. You did this in the face of overwhelming odds--often not enjoying the recognition you deserve. And you paved the way for other women to break into other unconventional roles in our society. For this, we are all indebted to you. As one of three women on the House National Security Committee, I have witnessed first hand the impact you pioneers have had in the military and society at large. I was there when my friend, the late Secretary of Defense Les Aspin, opened vast new roles to women in the military. His courageous act was the right thing to do, and it was because of the groundbreakers here. Now women have achieved highly visible leadership roles: I was there when Lieutenant General Claudia Kennedy received her third star--and rightly so: she is indeed a star. I am proud to point to the role of women in developing key programs that support our military. A woman is in charge of the precision-guided munitions program for the B-2 bomber. A woman heads the Tactical High Energy Laser program which protects Israel's northern border and our troops from Katyusha rockets. As a co-chair of the National Security Committee's investigation of sexual harassment and misconduct in the military, I want to ensure that women serve in safety and can contribute to their full potential. This is not about political correctness. It's about combat readiness. Unless we include women as full partners in the military, we are not fielding the best team we need to fight and win our nation's next war. I salute Brigadier General Pat Foote who played a key role in the Army's recent groundbreaking report on gender issues. I have read many moving stories of women veterans, including one of a woman who resides in the California district I represent--Gaylene McCartney. Gaylene was a medic at Oakland Naval Hospital in 1965, caring for the wounded from Vietnam, but that is only the beginning of her inspiring story. She became an attorney and then suffered a painful disability that led her to curtail her legal activities. Yet she says she wants to volunteer on behalf of veterans and others--once a leader, always a leader. I am equally inspired by the efforts of the women whose work made this week's celebration possible. First and foremost is Brigadier General Wilma Vaught. General Vaught had the herculean task of turning the dream of the first major memorial honoring all military women into a reality. With uncommon determination, imagination, and initiative she and her team have been able to bring this effort to life. Without her work over the past decade, there would be no memorial. I was also pleased to read that the on-site project manager for the Memorial is a woman, Margaret Van Voast, who has headed a team of women managers. I was doubly pleased to hear that Margaret Van Voast is a graduate of my alma mater, Smith College. No doubt Secretary Perry and General Shali agree that this really is the Women's Memorial: It honors women, it was made possible by women, and it was built by women! Let me close with a wonderful quote from President and Former Assistant Secretary of the Navy Theodore Roosevelt who speaks to ``Everywoman'' here. I have edited it for gender: ``It is not the critic who counts, not the [one] who points out how the strong [person] stumbled. . . The credit belongs to the [one] who is actually in the arena. . . who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again. . . who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends [herself] in a worthy cause; who, at the least, knows in the end the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, if [she] fails, at least fails while doing greatly, so that [her] place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.'' Thank you for your service. Thank you for your patriotism. Thank you on behalf of a grateful nation.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. As a Californian, I understand the value of the Ex-Im Bank, which supports 737 small and large businesses in my state, with a total export value of $4 billion. But not all exports have commendable objectives, and for this reason, I rise in support of the amendment offered by my friend, the gentleman from New York [Mr. Solomon]. Like him, I am especially concerned about the proliferation of technologies related to weapons of mass destruction out of the former Soviet Union. Despite reassurances from top Russian leaders that these technologies and materials are under lock and key, evidence is mounting to the contrary. An area of particular concern to me and a bipartisan group of my colleagues, including Mr. Solomon, is that Russia has failed to halt the sale of ballistic missile technology to Iran. Mr. Chairman, these Russian transactions are in violation to the Missile Control Technology Regime (MTCR) of which Russia has been a member since 1995. The Administration is working through diplomatic channels to address this problem, but the response of the Russian government so far is not satisfactory. Further, the clock is ticking, and I have very credible evidence suggesting that this problem may be getting worse. Together with 76 colleagues from the House, including the gentleman from New York, Mr. Solomon, I have introduced a concurrent resolution asking that Russia take all the necessary steps to stop these illegal transactions with Iran in accordance with its own policy, export control laws, and criminal code. If Russia fails to take appropriate action, our resolution calls on President Clinton to impose sanctions on the Russian entities responsible for this proliferation under current policy and law. It is time for the Russian government to provide evidence that its proliferating activities to Iran and elsewhere have stopped. It's time for the U.S. government to act to ensure Russia acts as well. I applaud my colleague Mr. Solomon for having raised this issue at this time.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the amendment by the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Fox] and the gentleman from West Virginia [Mr. Mollohan] to restore funding for the Legal Services Corporation. Many of us come to this House having had one or more careers. One of my prior career experiences was as chief counsel and staff director to a Senate Judiciary subcommittee concerned with access to justice. I was there when the Legal Services Corporation was created during the Nixon administration, and I was fortunate to play some role in helping to select its board, protect its funding and its functions over the years. I care very much that it survives. Residents of California's 36th Congressional District are served primarily by the Legal Aid Foundation of Long Beach. For over four decades, the foundation has provided no-cost legal services to more than 114,000 eligible low-income residents of the Long Beach-South Bay area. Annually the foundation serves over 3,200 clients at a cost of approximately $400 per client, thus demonstrating that its services are efficient and cost-effective. While the Legal Aid Foundation assists in a variety of cases, actions to prevent or curb domestic violence have long been a major focus. Recent studies show that domestic violence calls in at least one city in the South Bay occur at a rate of one each 1\1/2\ hours. The foundation's domestic violence clinic helps thousands of women and children each year obtain the protection of a restraining order and as such is highly praised and serves as a national model. It also offers training to battered women's shelter workers to make them aware of the legal avenues available to victims. Utilizing a grant, the foundation delivers the antiviolence message to the public schools in my district. This is just one example of what this foundation does; there are many others. It encourages the private bar to take pro bono cases and also offers a ``Wills on Wheels'' program assisting the elderly and disabled in preparing simple wills. But, Mr. Chairman, my view is that unless we save funding for this very, very important corporation and save the dream of those many years ago, including President Nixon, who knew that everyone deserved access to justice, we will be doing a serious injustice. In the absence of adequate funding, we may spend more money trying murder cases and dealing with the tragic effects of domestic battery on a generation of children. I urge the restoration of funding. I urge support for the Fox- Mollohan amendment and support for equal access to justice.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in praise of two outstanding young people who have been interning in my office for 2\1/2\ weeks, Christiana Hodge of Eastern High School and Calvin Wingfield of Banneker High School. Thanks to the internship program for District of Columbia high school students organized by my colleague, Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton, I have had the pleasure to work with these two bright and dedicated students whose contribution to my office has been invaluable. Mr. Speaker, I have been so impressed by Christiana and Calvin's willingness to spend 3 weeks interning on Capitol Hill--and working hard--while waiting for the school year and new challenges to begin. It is my hope that this experience has been as rewarding for them as it has for me. I know Christiana and Calvin will go far in life, because of their outstanding qualities. I thank them for their help over these past weeks, and I thank Eleanor Holmes Norton for bringing me in contact with them.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Castle-Porter substitute. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Castle-Porter substitute and against the underlying amendment. As a mother of four, including a young adult daughter and teenage daughter, I want my children to seek my advice, if not my approval on health-related matters, particularly those related to reproductive issues. But their willingness to talk to me or their father is based on trust and respect and cannot be mandated by law. At the same time, as a policymaker, I want to reduce the instances of unwanted pregnancies and cases of sexually transmitted diseases. Would requiring parental consent for family planning services achieve that goal? Clearly not. Instead, it would create a barrier and overturn statutes in 49 States by imposing a one-size-fits-all Washington policy. More importantly, studies show that 80 percent of sexually active teenagers would stop seeking family planning services if parental consent were required. The result would be more unintended pregnancies, possibly more abortions, and certainly more cases of sexually transmitted diseases. The difficulty we face as parents and policymakers is finding the balance between policies that encourage the active involvement of parents in their children's decisions and policies that reduce teen pregnancies. The substitute amendment offered by Messrs. Castle and Porter is the preferable, though far from perfect, approach. The Castle-Porter substitute requires that title X grantees encourage the involvement of parents when teens seek contraception and other family planning services. To be sure, some may claim that title X grantees could easily provide the certification required by the amendment without genuinely making the effort to encourage teenagers to discuss their situation with their parents. But I have met with many title X grantees and I know that they share the concern which has been expressed by both the proponents of the Istook-Manzullo amendment and the Castle-Porter substitute--that only through strong family bonds and only by encouraging teenagers to seek contraceptive advice can we reduce unwanted pregnancies and some of the other health risks facing sexually active young people. And they all make a very concerted effort to achieve both goals. Support the Castle-Porter substitute which will reduce unwanted pregnancies and cases of sexually transmitted diseases while encouraging to the greatest extent practicable family involvement in the decisions of our children.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join the family and friends of Jakov Ursich in wishing him a happy 100th birthday. Jakov is reportedly the oldest living Croatian in San Pedro. But clearly his age does not slow him down. Even today, he is often seen at the Dalmatian-American Club dancing the polka. Born in Selca, Brac, Croatia, Jakov came to the United States in 1921 looking for a better life. He left behind a wife, Marica, and child, Anka, and settled initially in Tacoma. In 1924, he moved to San Pedro, where he worked in the local shipyards until he became a commercial fisherman. Soon thereafter, Jakov became a United States citizen and then sent for his family. Within a few more years, Jakov's family grew with the birth of a son and another daughter. Now he enjoys the company of five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, Jakov Ursich is a member of a very vibrant Croatian community in San Pedro. In the 73 years he has lived here, he has contributed greatly to its spirit and wealth. Indeed, he still lives in the house he built for his family more than 40 years ago. On August 9th, his 100th birthday, Jakov will be surrounded by many friends and family members. I am pleased to lend my voice to the chorus of ``Happy Birthday'' that I know will be sung. And, Jakov, many happy returns.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late Deputy Jimmie Henry of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. On August 4, 1997, the city of Avalon, CA, which is in my congressional district, will be holding a memorial ceremony honoring Deputy Henry who died in the line of duty. The California Peace Officer's Association will present a medal of valor to his wife, Sue, and their only son, David J. Henry. In 1984, Deputy Jimmie Henry was assigned to police the unincorporated area of Santa Catalina Island when a U.S. Navy jet crashed in a remote part of the island. At the request of the Navy, Sheriff's Department personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene of the disaster to check for survivors and to secure the area until Navy investigators could respond and assume control of the investigation. Deputy Henry was assigned to check the wreckage for survivors at the bottom of a canyon, and sadly to say, there were none. During Deputy Henry's investigation, he was exposed to toxic chemicals that were leaking from the aircraft. It was only when Navy personnel arrived the next day and approached the wreckage that there was any indication of the seriousness of his exposure to unknown substances. Deputy Henry's state of health steadily declined following the accident, and on May 12, 1995, Deputy Henry died of his injuries heroically sustained in the line of duty. I proudly join Mayor Pro Tem Tim Winslow, the city of Avalon, and Sheriff Sherman Block in honoring the memory of this courageous fallen hero, and I offer my gratitude and support to his wife, Sue, and their son, David, on the occasion of this important memorial ceremony.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Alabama for his support and pledge to work with him, the committee and the full House and the other body to ensure that this activity is corrected.

Ms. HARMAN. I yield to the gentleman from Alabama.

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word, and I rise for the purpose of engaging in a colloquy with my friend and colleague the gentleman from Alabama [Mr. Callahan], chairman of the Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related Programs. I want to commend the committee for including in the foreign operations appropriations bill language conditioning the availability of the funds appropriated for Russia on the certification that Russia has ceased providing assistance to Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs. As my colleague is aware, in the very fluid Russian environment of today certain entities may be engaging in proliferation of ballistic missile technology without the consent of the Russian Government. The bill, as currently formulated, sends a strong message to the Russian Government about its own transactions with Iran, but it is vague on what the United States reaction will be if nongovernmental entities engage in proliferation. I seek to ensure that in further deliberations in conference and in committee my colleague will explore effective means to prevent Russian entities from engaging in further missile technology trade with Iran, whether they operate with the authorization of the Russian Government or without. For this purpose as well, Senator Kyl and I have introduced a bipartisan concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that proliferation by Russian Governmental and nongovernmental entities must stop. Our resolution calls on the President to impose sanctions if Russia does not halt these activities and to take further action regarding our cooperation with Russia. Let me clarify finally that the resolution offered by Senator Kyl and me is not intended to affect the Cooperative Threat Reduction program, which I fully support, but we need to be clear that those individuals who proliferate will be penalized with the tools the U.S. has available.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to a rule and an appropriations bill which permits continued funding for a wasteful, spiteful, and pointless challenge to the duly-certified election of our colleague, Loretta Sanchez. I faced a similar challenge in the last Congress. After 9 months and taxpayer expenditures of approximately $100,000, that challenge was finally withdrawn. The Sanchez challenge should be ended now before more taxpayer money and more Members' time is wasted. Moreover, Mr. Speaker, those of us from California--a State where a majority of our population will soon be Hispanic--should condemn the effort to intimidate legal Hispanic voters which is, in my view, a central goal of the ongoing Sanchez challenge. The right way to challenge Loretta Sanchez is the 1998 election. The wrong way is to use funding in this bill.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express deep concern about the future of American aerospace industry in light of the European Union's inappropriate and unfounded reaction to the Boeing-McDonnell Douglas merger. The EU threatens to interfere with this merger on the grounds that it impinges on fair trade. They have stated their intent to do this even after Boeing offered numerous concessions, including modification of exclusive purchasing arrangements with several American carriers. There are persistent rumors that the EU is demanding other concessions as well, including closing of aircraft plants and requiring Boeing to put McDonnell Douglas' commercial segment on the market. Giving in to such conditions could cost thousands of U.S. jobs--many of them in southern California--adversely affect the efficiency of the industry, and set a disastrous precedent. Free and fair trade is a cornerstone of our relations with Europe, but the EU's threatened actions contribute little to either and we ought to resist them. Their demands in this case are clearly unreasonable and an infringement upon U.S. sovereignty. This merger will not result in unfair trade practices as the EU contends. McDonnell Douglas' commercial aviation accounts for only 4 percent of the global market. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission's review of the merger determined that McDonnell Douglas was not a factor in the commercial aviation market. The likelihood that this merger will somehow limit competition is nonexistent. And, Boeing's offer to substantially modify its arrangements with American carriers seems to more than make up for any advantage it might theoretically gain from its acquisition of McDonnell Douglas. EU interference in the merger is unwarranted, and, if allowed to continue, is likely to redound with far reaching and adverse effects for all concerned. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution, and I urge the President to deal with the EU promptly and resolutely and defend the rights of American business to consummate mergers that have been reviewed and approved by the appropriate U.S. Government agencies.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Concurrent Resolution 81, calling for a just and peaceful resolution of the situation in Cyprus. The division of Cyprus and the emotional and physical suffering it has brought to island inhabitants and their families has gone on far too long. It is time to renew efforts to bring peace to this troubled part of the world. Mr. Speaker, I see three positive signs on the horizon which, if supported and nourished, offer hope for a settlement of the conflict in Cyprus. First, the United Nations is hosting a new set of talks between Cypriot President Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Denktash. Although similar negotiations have been brokered with little effect in the past, open channels of communication are indispensable--they cannot be discounted. Second, Cyprus is preparing to enter into negotiations with the European Union in 1998 to gain membership into the EU. The prospect of EU membership offers increased prosperity for all, and may provide an added incentive for all sides to resolve their differences. Third, there is again high-level United States engagement in the issue, with the appointment by the President of Richard Holbrooke as Special Presidential Envoy to Cyprus. Mr. Speaker, I believe these three developments provide renewed momentum toward resolving this difficult problem, with its potential for increasing tensions in an area of strategic interest to the United States. The expressed support of the U.S. Congress for a peaceful resolution is important and I join in support of House Concurrent Resolution 81.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time and commend him above all others in this body for his perseverance on behalf of this important issue. I am pleased to cosponsor this legislation, but also urge support for the motion to recommit, which contains an even more perfected version of it. As the mother of the deficit lock box, I have seen that mechanism work to reduce the deficit. Some of us insisted as a condition to supporting the 1993 budget agreement that the lock box be attached in Executive order. The result has been unprecedented growth. Similarly, for those who support the balanced budget agreement, we need an enforcement mechanism, and this is the best we can come up with on a bipartisan basis. If we are going to lengths to balance the budget, why are we not going to lengths to enforce that budget? I urge support for the motion to recommit. Failing that, I urge support for the legislation. A cut must be a cut and a balanced budget must be enforced.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing bipartisan legislation to express congressional sentiment that the proliferation of missile technology to Iran from any source in Russia be stopped. There is substantial evidence in support of allegations that Russian entities have provided assistance to Iran's missile program. According to February 1997 reports by the Los Angeles Times and the Washington Times, Russia has transferred SS-4 guidance components to Iran. In May, the Washington Times further reported that two Russian companies, the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute and Inor, had contracted with Iran to supply missile parts and technology, including a wind tunnel for missile design, missile design software, and laser equipment. In a recent unclassified report, the CIA said that Russia has been a primary source of missile-related goods to Iran. The transfer of this technology is serious. Missiles modeled on the Russian SS-4 would have a reach of 2000 km--enough to threaten United States installations in the Middle East and Persian Gulf, Israel, and our NATO ally Turkey. Ironically such capabilities also threaten the territory of Russia itself. Let's not forget the lessons of the Persian Gulf war, when Iran targeted Israel with SCUD missiles: rogue countries that have these capabilities will not be deterred. Next time they may choose to add chemical or biological warheads. I have expressed these concerns regarding Russian assistance to Iran to Vice President Gore, National Security Advisor Sandy Berger, and the Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. They assured me that the Administration would address this issue and subsequently, it did raise it with the highest levels of the Russian Government. In several meetings, I have also expressed my strong concern to Russian Ambassador Yuliy Vorontsov. The Ambassador told me that the Russian Government shares our concern about the threat of proliferation. He said it is investigating seriously these allegations to determine responsibility. Yet, we have not seen any tangible efforts so far that Russia has tried to punish those entities responsible for exporting missile technology to Iran. Mr. Speaker, this resolution expresses the sense of Congress that the Russian Government take all appropriate steps to cease the cooperation between Russian entities and Iran. The Russian Government has the legislative and regulatory tools at its disposal to stop unauthorized transactions of missile technology. We are asking that they use them. If we do not see clear evidence that Russia has taken practical steps to stop missile assistance to Iran, the resolution calls on the United States to enact the sanctions provided for in Presidential Executive Order 12938 on the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. This means freezing the assets and seizing the property of those entities responsible for proliferation. The resolution also calls for tougher standards for providing United States aid to Russia. Lastly, the resolution urges our European allies to join us in taking action against those Russian organizations and individuals responsible for exports that violate international agreements. Mr. Speaker, we are aware of the special constraints on the Russian Federation as it seeks to improve its export control system--not the least of which are the economic conditions of that country. But stopping missile technology proliferation to Iran is in everyone's interest. It is time for Russia to act. I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan concurring resolution

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Speaker, this weekend is the 80th birthday of a U.S. institution, Chesterfield Smith. A celebration to take place in Tampa, FL will no doubt include most of the luminaries of the bar over the past half century. Most luminous among them will be the birthday boy. Chesterfield Smith is truly America's lawyer. Few can imagine--let alone accomplish--many of the things he has. He was one of the first to conceptualize the national law firm. He built one, Holland and Knight, which is a Florida-based powerhouse. He was also the first to conceptualize an activist agenda for the American Bar Association which he served as president in 1973, and for many years before and since. Then he accomplished it, and that institution was forever changed. His challenge to his, and my, profession has been to provide quality, affordable legal services for all persons in need. He has fought for funding for the Legal Services Corporation, but also for personal responsibility by individuals and law firms to fill in where Government funding has been lacking. He has always been a role model. Mr. Speaker, Chesterfield will tell you in his best Southern twang that he's ``just a country lawyer.'' He certainly is. And he's a lot of other things. Probably more than anyone else, Chesterfield Smith has changed the way law is practiced and the way the world's largest law advocacy organization operates. Not bad. And, Mr. Speaker, let's not speak in the past tense. As one who has collaborated with Chesterfield for more than a quarter century, I know how much he still can do. The next generation of lawyers needs him to conceptualize ever new forms of practice and advocacy. As one of Chesterfield's many, many fortunate friends and self- appointed leader of his congressional fan club, I send warmest wishes to him, Jacqueline and his partners and colleagues on this very special milestone.

Ms. HARMAN

Ms. HARMAN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the amendment offered by my friend Mike Crapo to add the bipartisan deficit reduction lockbox amendment to the 1998 Interior appropriations bill. As the lead Democratic sponsor of the Crapo-Harman deficit reduction lockbox bill, H.R. 126, I also want to thank the Rules Committee and, in particular, its chairman, Jerry Solomon, for making the request by the gentleman from Florida, Mr. Foley, and me in order. Deficit hawks--listen up. As the mother of the deficit reduction lockbox, passage of this amendment is imperative now--at the front-end of the appropriations process, or we will again mislead our constituents who think a cut means a cut when, in fact, a cut in one spending program is reallocated to another bill's spending program. The House has on three occasions overwhelmingly passed the deficit reduction lockbox, twice as amendments to appropriations bills and once as a free-standing bill, H.R. 1162. Regrettably, the other body failed to match our efforts and the measures died with the adjournment of the 104th Congress. Mr. Chairman, the deficit reduction lockbox is a very simple mechanism. When Members vote for floor amendments to cut spending, under current budget rules, the savings generated can later be earmarked and spent by the Appropriations Committee on other programs. With the enactment of the lockbox, a separate account is created in each appropriation bill into which savings from cutting amendments are deposited. Those savings cannot be respent or reused by the Appropriations Committee. During the fiscal 1997 appropriations process, the House adopted floor amendments cutting nearly $1 billion in spending. That billion dollars could have been locked for deficit reduction as the proponents of the amendments intended. A table prepared at my request by the Congressional Research Service shows that $40 million in energy and water cuts ware reprogrammed, $543 million in national security cuts were reprogrammed, and $349 million in VA-HUD cuts were reprogrammed. Mr. Chairman, without lockbox, more than large sums of money are at stake. So are our reputations. As the Rules Committee said in its report accompanying last year's lockbox bill: Not only is (the Lock-box) important for fiscal accountability, but it is also important to the credibility of the Congress with the American people. The Committee strongly believes that our procedures should make it clear that a cut is really a cut . . . (and the Lock-box) . . . meets this requirement. The lockbox is supported by a broad bipartisan group of deficit hawks both here in the House and among the public. Fiscal watchdog groups like Americans for Tax Reform, Citizens Against Government Waste, the National Taxpayers Union, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Concord Coalition and Citizens for a Sound Economy have strongly endorsed this legislation. Mr. Chairman, show me--and our constituents--the money. Vote for the Crapo-Harman-Foley deficit reduction lockbox amendment to the Interior Appropriations Act so we can get it into conference with the Senate. Table 1. Total savings of House adopted amendments reducing budget authority, by FY 1997 regular appropriations bill [In millions of dollars] Bill Amount Agriculture..............................................(1) Commerce-Justice-State...................................(1) District of Columbia.....................................(1) Energy and Water Development....................................$40.573 Foreign Operations................................................2.525 Interior.................................................(1) Labor-Health and Human Services-Education................(1) Legislative Branch.......................................(1) Military Construction....................................(1) National Security..................................2 543.000 Transportation...........................................(1) Treasury-Postal Service..............................3 2.000 Veterans' Affairs-Housing and Urban Development....4 349.000