Mary Landrieu

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. I thank the Senator.

Ms. LANDRIEU. I yield back whatever time I have remaining.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I rise today to bring to the attention of the Senate, the continuing beauty and appeal that flowers bring to our nation. Americans have always loved the flowers which God has chosen to decorate our land. In particular, we hold the rose dear as symbols of life, love, devotion, beauty, and eternity. For the love of man and woman, for the love of mankind and God as well as for the love of country, Americans who would speak the language of the heart do so with a rose. We see evidence of this everywhere. The study of fossils reveals that the rose has existed in America for ages. We have always cultivated roses in our gardens. Our first President, George Washington bred roses and a variety he named after his mother is still grown today. The White House itself boasts of a beautiful Rose Garden. We find roses in our art, music, and literature. We decorate our celebrations and parades with roses. Most of all, we present roses to those we love, and we lavish them on our altars, our civil shrines, and the final resting places of our honored dead. In 1986, in recognition of the high esteem roses are held, President Ronald Reagan and the Congress of the United States proclaimed the rose as the National Floral Emblem of the United States of America. This proclamation was as a result of the handiwork and dedication of the American Rose Society. The American Rose Society is the premier organization dedicated exclusively to the cultivation of roses. Since 1892, the American Rose Society has strived to enhance the enjoyment and promotion of roses to gardeners of all skill levels. In 2001, the American Rose Society, in conjunction with the 37 member countries that make up the World Federation of Rose Societies, the National Council of State Garden Clubs, and the American Nursery and Landscape Association began waging a campaign to honor our national floral emblem, the Rose. In an effort to increase support for public rose gardens in the United States; recognize the beauty and inspiration roses add to the environment and landscapes of cities, and communities around the country; to introduce the therapeutic benefits of roses to people of all ages and background; to provide educational programs designed to stimulate and teach about the joys of gardening, especially rose gardening; and to teach the great history and diversity the genus offers, the American Rose Society, whose national headquarters is located in Shreveport, Louisiana, is requesting a joint congressional resolution proclaiming the year 2002 as the Year of the Rose. The American people have long held a special place in their hearts for roses. Let us continue to cherish them, honor the love and devotion they represent and to bestow them upon all we love just as God has bestowed them on us. I ask unanimous that the text of this resolution be printed in the Record.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I rise today to bring to the attention of the Senate, the continuing beauty and appeal that flowers bring to our nation. Americans have always loved the flowers which God has chosen to decorate our land. In particular, we hold the rose dear as symbols of life, love, devotion, beauty, and eternity. For the love of man and woman, for the love of mankind and God as well as for the love of country, Americans who would speak the language of the heart do so with a rose. We see evidence of this everywhere. The study of fossils reveals that the rose has existed in America for ages. We have always cultivated roses in our gardens. Our first President, George Washington bred roses and a variety he named after his mother is still grown today. The White House itself boasts of a beautiful Rose Garden. We find roses in our art, music, and literature. We decorate our celebrations and parades with roses. Most of all, we present roses to those we love, and we lavish them on our altars, our civil shrines, and the final resting places of our honored dead. In 1986, in recognition of the high esteem roses are held, President Ronald Reagan and the Congress of the United States proclaimed the rose as the National Floral Emblem of the United States of America. This proclamation was as a result of the handiwork and dedication of the American Rose Society. The American Rose Society is the premier organization dedicated exclusively to the cultivation of roses. Since 1892, the American Rose Society has strived to enhance the enjoyment and promotion of roses to gardeners of all skill levels. In 2001, the American Rose Society, in conjunction with the 37 member countries that make up the World Federation of Rose Societies, the National Council of State Garden Clubs, and the American Nursery and Landscape Association began waging a campaign to honor our national floral emblem, the Rose. In an effort to increase support for public rose gardens in the United States; recognize the beauty and inspiration roses add to the environment and landscapes of cities, and communities around the country; to introduce the therapeutic benefits of roses to people of all ages and background; to provide educational programs designed to stimulate and teach about the joys of gardening, especially rose gardening; and to teach the great history and diversity the genus offers, the American Rose Society, whose national headquarters is located in Shreveport, Louisiana, is requesting a joint congressional resolution proclaiming the year 2002 as the Year of the Rose. The American people have long held a special place in their hearts for roses. Let us continue to cherish them, honor the love and devotion they represent and to bestow them upon all we love just as God has bestowed them on us. I ask unanimous that the text of this resolution be printed in the Record.

Mrs. LANDRIEU

Mrs. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I have received a number of letters on this subject. I ask unanimous consent that they be printed in the Record.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, today I rise as an original co-sponsor of the Nuclear Energy Electricity Supply Assurance Act of 2001. I commend the senior Senator from New Mexico for his passion and persistence on this issue. The U.S. is currently experiencing unusually high and volatile energy prices. Residents of my state of Louisiana as well as citizens across the country are facing abnormally high gas prices this winter and cannot pay their bills. While there are some steps we can take in the short run to help, the situation is complex in nature and any attempt at an overall solution will require a number of different remedies over the long run focusing on both the supply and demand side of the equation. The need to increase our domestic supply of energy is apparent. One of the great strengths of the electric supply system in this country is the contribution that comes from a variety of fuels such as coal, nuclear, natural gas, hydropower, oil and renewable energy. The diversity of available fuels we have at our disposal should enable us to balance cost, availability and environmental impacts to the best advantage. Unfortunately, we have not made adequate use of this supply. While most of the attention this winter has focused on the role of natural gas, coal and nuclear energy actually both make a larger contribution to the electricity supply system of the United States, representing approximately 55 and 20 percent respectively of our nation's electricity supply. Each of the above mentioned sources of electricity has unique advantages and disadvantages. While it would not be wise to rely too heavily on any single fuel for its electricity, we must not allow our misconceptions to dissuade us from ignoring others altogether. One source of energy which I believe we are not making proper use of is nuclear power. There are currently 103 nuclear power plants in this country but no new plants have been ordered since 1978. Two of these plants are located in my state of Louisiana where nuclear power generates 15 percent of the electricity. We have witnessed firsthand the numerous benefits of nuclear energy. First, nuclear energy is efficient and cost effective due to low operating costs and high plant performance. Also, nuclear energy is reliable in that it is not subject to unreliable weather or climate conditions, unpredictable cost fluctuations or dependence on foreign suppliers. Thirdly, contrary to popular perception, nuclear energy has perhaps the lowest impact on the environment including air, land, water and wildlife of any energy source because it emits no harmful gases into the environment, isolates its waste from the environment and requires less area to produce the same amount of electricity as other sources. Finally, although many people associate the issue of nuclear power with the accident at Three Mile Island in 1979, its safety record has been excellent, particularly in comparison with other major commercial energy technologies. The bill being introduced today will help provide nuclear power with its proper place in the energy policy debate taking place in our country. Three of the more important provisions contained in this legislation are: the encouragement of new plant construction through loan guarantees to complete unfinished plants; the assurance of a level playing field for nuclear power by making it eligible for federal ``environmentally preferable'' purchasing programs and research supporting regulations for new reactor designs with proper focus on safety and efficiency. Over the next several months the members of the United States Senate will engage in a critical debate over the future of our nation's energy policy. I look forward to participating in this discussion and advocating for the important role of nuclear power. While development of nuclear power alone will not take care of our energy needs, it should be part of the answer.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, today I rise as an original co-sponsor of the Nuclear Energy Electricity Supply Assurance Act of 2001. I commend the senior Senator from New Mexico for his passion and persistence on this issue. The U.S. is currently experiencing unusually high and volatile energy prices. Residents of my state of Louisiana as well as citizens across the country are facing abnormally high gas prices this winter and cannot pay their bills. While there are some steps we can take in the short run to help, the situation is complex in nature and any attempt at an overall solution will require a number of different remedies over the long run focusing on both the supply and demand side of the equation. The need to increase our domestic supply of energy is apparent. One of the great strengths of the electric supply system in this country is the contribution that comes from a variety of fuels such as coal, nuclear, natural gas, hydropower, oil and renewable energy. The diversity of available fuels we have at our disposal should enable us to balance cost, availability and environmental impacts to the best advantage. Unfortunately, we have not made adequate use of this supply. While most of the attention this winter has focused on the role of natural gas, coal and nuclear energy actually both make a larger contribution to the electricity supply system of the United States, representing approximately 55 and 20 percent respectively of our nation's electricity supply. Each of the above mentioned sources of electricity has unique advantages and disadvantages. While it would not be wise to rely too heavily on any single fuel for its electricity, we must not allow our misconceptions to dissuade us from ignoring others altogether. One source of energy which I believe we are not making proper use of is nuclear power. There are currently 103 nuclear power plants in this country but no new plants have been ordered since 1978. Two of these plants are located in my state of Louisiana where nuclear power generates 15 percent of the electricity. We have witnessed firsthand the numerous benefits of nuclear energy. First, nuclear energy is efficient and cost effective due to low operating costs and high plant performance. Also, nuclear energy is reliable in that it is not subject to unreliable weather or climate conditions, unpredictable cost fluctuations or dependence on foreign suppliers. Thirdly, contrary to popular perception, nuclear energy has perhaps the lowest impact on the environment including air, land, water and wildlife of any energy source because it emits no harmful gases into the environment, isolates its waste from the environment and requires less area to produce the same amount of electricity as other sources. Finally, although many people associate the issue of nuclear power with the accident at Three Mile Island in 1979, its safety record has been excellent, particularly in comparison with other major commercial energy technologies. The bill being introduced today will help provide nuclear power with its proper place in the energy policy debate taking place in our country. Three of the more important provisions contained in this legislation are: the encouragement of new plant construction through loan guarantees to complete unfinished plants; the assurance of a level playing field for nuclear power by making it eligible for federal ``environmentally preferable'' purchasing programs and research supporting regulations for new reactor designs with proper focus on safety and efficiency. Over the next several months the members of the United States Senate will engage in a critical debate over the future of our nation's energy policy. I look forward to participating in this discussion and advocating for the important role of nuclear power. While development of nuclear power alone will not take care of our energy needs, it should be part of the answer.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, on March 3rd we honor the 86th birthday of the United States Naval Reserve. Since 1915 the Naval Reserve has exemplified the highest virtues of loyalty, service, and sacrifice. They have served and fought alongside their active duty comrades from the Atlantic to the far reaches of the Pacific, to the jungles of Vietnam and across the vast expanse of the Arabian desert as a battle- tested and skilled force that is the envy of the world. Back in 1915, no one could have imagined the role that fledgling naval reserve would play in supporting the Navy today. The term ``Weekend Warrior'' no longer applies to these citizen-soldiers. As a trained, professional and well-equipped cadre of dedicated men and women, they are a key component of everything the Navy does, both in peacetime and in war. Many of them have made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of freedom and we honor their memory. They serve on ships, in squadrons, on staffs, and in hospitals performing a myriad of tasks essential to mission accomplishment. Seamlessly integrated alongside their active-duty shipmates you cannot tell the difference between them. This is the reality of today's total force and what enables our marvelous military to remain engaged around the world. They have a proud heritage and a bright future. In the spirit of the Minutemen of Lexington and Concord these great Americans stand ready to answer their Nation's call at any time, and the world is a better place because of the sacrifice they and their families make. In my hometown of New Orleans, we are fortunate enough to be rich in Naval history and tradition. We are the proud home of the Naval Reserve Headquarters where Rear Admiral John Totushek commands more than 88,000 reservists across the United States and around the world. As we set out in this new century, the importance of the Naval Reserve has never been more clear. Tomorrow, as today and for generations past, the razor sharp readiness of the United States Navy serves as a beacon to America's friends and a warning to our enemies, promising swift action, great victories and richer traditions yet to come. On this day, I offer warmest regards to all members of the Naval Reserve, and to the families who also serve by supporting them. You represent all that is wonderful about our Nation.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, today I rise, along with Senators Lincoln, Breaux, and Carnahan, to introduce a bill to establish a National Commission on the Bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase. This legislation has particularly special meaning to Senators from Louisiana because the site of the actual transfer of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the Cabildo, is a building still located in Jackson Square in New Orleans. The bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase, which occurs in 2003, marks an event that more than any other, determined the character of our national life--determined that we should be a great expanding nation instead of a relatively small and stationary one. For only $15 million, three cents an acre, a remarkable bargain, all or part of 14 states were created out of vast territory acquired in the Louisiana Purchase, virtually doubling the size of the United States. The largest peaceful land transaction in history, the Purchase opened the heartland of North America for exploration, settlement and achievement to the people of the United States and immigrant from around the world. It made possible the travels of Lewis and Clark, whose invaluable knowledge of the land and peoples beyond the Mississippi River emboldened thousands of Americans to search for a new life Out West. Around the world, the American Frontier became synonymous with the search for spiritual, economic and political freedom. The bill we are introducing today creating this Commission would require an appropriation of no more than $4,000,000. The Commission would be composed of a bipartisan group of 24 members, appointed by the President through recommendations of the Speaker of the House and the Senate majority and minority leaders. A year after enactment of this order, the Commission will submit a report to the President and Congress detailing its recommendations for activities to celebrate the event. By March 31, 2005, the Commission is to submit a final report describing all activities, programs, expenditures and donations relating to its work. Commemoration of the Louisiana Purchase and the subsequent opening of the West can enhance public understanding of the impact of westward expansion on American society and can provide lessons for democratic governance in our own time. I call on my colleagues to join us in honoring this momentous occasion in our nation's history and provide the proper ways and means for us to celebrate it appropriately. Mr. President, again, this bill is to establish a national commission on the bicentennial of the Louisiana purchase. This, hopefully, is going to be an exciting celebration for our Nation. Of course, it will take place in the year 2003. This legislation has particularly special meaning to the Senators from Louisiana because the site of the actual transfer of the Louisiana purchase, of course, which was in 1803, took place in the Cabildo, a building that still stands right there on the historic Jackson Square in New Orleans. The bicentennial of the Louisiana purchase which will occur in 2003 marks an event that more than any other determined the character of our national life. It determined that we should be a great and expanding Nation instead of a relatively small and stationary one. As we all remember from our history classes, for only $15 million, 3 cents an acre--a remarkable bargain, actually, for part or all of 14 States that were created out of this vast territory acquired in the Louisiana Purchase, virtually doubling the size of the United States-- this was, in fact, the largest peaceful land transaction in history. The purchase opened the heartland of North America for exploration, settlement, and achievement to the people of the United States and immigrants from around the world. It made possible the travel of Lewis and Clark, whose invaluable knowledge of the land and peoples beyond the Mississippi River emboldened thousands of Americans to search for a new life out West. Around the world, the American frontier became synonymous with the search for spiritual, economic, and political freedom. So the bill we are introducing today creates a commission. It would require an appropriation of no more than $4 million. The commission would be composed of a bipartisan group of 24 members appointed by the President through recommendations of the Speaker of the House and the Senate majority and minority leaders. A year after enactment of this order, according to our legislation, the commission will submit a report to the President and Congress detailing its recommendations and activities to celebrate this wonderful event. Hopefully, by March of 2005, the commission will submit a final report describing all of the activities and programs, expenditures, and donations relating to its work. The commemoration of the Louisiana Purchase and the subsequent opening of the West can enhance a public understanding of the impact of the westward expansion on American society, and, I think, provide for all of us, adults and children alike, lessons we can use each day as we press forward for more stable and robust and terrific democracy and for governance in our time. I call on colleagues today to join us in honoring this occasion in our Nation's history so we can provide the proper ways and means for us to celebrate it fully and appropriately. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce a bill which is long overdue. February is a particularly appropriate time to introduce this legislation, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Coin Act of 2001, as this month we celebrate Black History Month. Historian Carter G. Woodson began what was first called Negro History Week in 1926 when he realized schools were not teaching children about the history and achievements of black Americans. Now, for one month out of every year, we focus on the contributions of African-Americans during Black History Month. However, celebrations of the history and culture of black Americans should not be limited to just one month. By recognizing the history of black Americans every day of the year, we build the respect and perspective necessary to face the challenges before us. During the 1960s, a young and gifted preacher from Georgia gave a voice to the voiceless by bringing the struggle for freedom and civil rights into the living rooms of all Americans. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. raised his voice rather than his fists as he helped lead our nation into a new era of tolerance and understanding. He ultimately gave his life for this cause, but in the process brought America closer to his dream of a nation without racial divisions. It has been said that, ``Those who do not understand history are condemned to repeat it.'' America's history includes dark chapters-- chapters in which slavery was accepted and discrimination against African-Americans, women and other minorities was commonplace. It is in acknowledgment of that history, and in honor of Dr. King's bright beacon of hope, which has lead us to a more enlightened era of civil justice, that I introduce the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Coin Act of 2001. This bill would instruct the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of Dr. King's contributions to the United States. Revenues from the surcharge of the coin would be used by the Library of Congress to purchase and maintain historical documents and other materials associated with the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As we start the 21st century, I cannot think of a better way to honor the civil and human rights legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Today, Dr. King's message goes beyond any one group, embracing all who have been denied civil or human rights because of their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or creed. This Congress, as well as previous Congresses, has taken important steps to put these beliefs into civil code. However, upholding Dr. King's dream is a continuing struggle. As a society, we must always remember Dr. King's message, ``that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: `We hold these truths to be self-evident; that all men are created equal.' '' Dr. King's majestic and inspiring voice as he made this speech will remain in our collective memory forever. His writings and papers compliment the visual history of his legacy. Keeping Dr. King's papers available for public access will serve to remind us of what our country once was, and how a solitary voice changed the path of a nation. It also would be a constant reminder of the vigilance needed to ensure we never return to such a time. This legislation has been developed in consultation with the King family, the Library of Congress, the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory Committee, and the U.S. Mint. Similar legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by the chairman of the House Banking and Financial Services Committee, Congressman Jim Leach of Iowa. Although African-Americans have played a vital role in our nation's history, African-Americans were included on only 4 out of 157 commemorative coins: Jackie Robinson who broke baseball's color barrier and brought about a cultural revolution with the courage and dignity in which he played the great American pass time, and the way he lived his life; Booker T. Washington who founded Tuskegee Institute in Alabama and served as a role model for millions of African-Americans who thought a formal education would forever be outside of their grasp; George Washington Carver whose scientific experiments began as a way to improve the lot in life of sharecroppers, but ended up revolutionizing agriculture throughout the South; and The Black Revolutionary War Patriots, a commemorative half-dollar which recognized the 275th anniversary of the birth of Crispus Attucks, who was the first revolutionary killed in the Boston Massacre. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Coin will give us an opportunity to recognize the valuable contributions of all Americans who stood and were counted during our nation's civil rights struggle. Americans such as the late Reverend Avery C. Alexander, a patriarch of the New Orleans' civil rights movement. He championed anti- discrimination, voter registration, labor rights, and environmental regulations as a six-term state legislator and as an advisor to Governor Morrison of Louisiana in the 1950s. Heroes such as Dr. C.O. Simpkins of Shreveport, Louisiana, whose home was bombed simply because he dared to stand by Dr. King and demand that the buses in Shreveport be integrated, and Reverend T.J. Jemison of Baton Rouge--a front-line soldier and good friend of Dr. King who helped coordinate one of the earliest boycotts of the civil rights movement. Louisiana also was fortunate enough to have elected leaders such as my father Moon Landrieu and Dutch Morial, both former mayors of New Orleans during those turbulent times. They led the way when the personal and political stakes were very high. These are just a few of the great civil rights leaders from my state. However, throughout Louisiana and all across America thousands of citizens--black and white, young and old, rich and poor--listened to Dr. King, followed his voice and dreamed his dreams. It is in memory of all of our struggles that I introduce this bill. The great Dutch philosopher Baruch Spinoza said, ``If you want the present to be different from the past, study the past.'' This legislation not only ensures we are able to preserve and study our past, but also honors Dr. King, who played such an integral role in shaping both our present and our future. Most importantly, this coin would serve as a reminder every day of the year, not just during Black History Month, of the great contributions of Dr. King and all black Americans who have shaped this nation's history and future. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, today I rise, along with Senators Lincoln, Breaux, and Carnahan, to introduce a bill to establish a National Commission on the Bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase. This legislation has particularly special meaning to Senators from Louisiana because the site of the actual transfer of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the Cabildo, is a building still located in Jackson Square in New Orleans. The bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase, which occurs in 2003, marks an event that more than any other, determined the character of our national life--determined that we should be a great expanding nation instead of a relatively small and stationary one. For only $15 million, three cents an acre, a remarkable bargain, all or part of 14 states were created out of vast territory acquired in the Louisiana Purchase, virtually doubling the size of the United States. The largest peaceful land transaction in history, the Purchase opened the heartland of North America for exploration, settlement and achievement to the people of the United States and immigrant from around the world. It made possible the travels of Lewis and Clark, whose invaluable knowledge of the land and peoples beyond the Mississippi River emboldened thousands of Americans to search for a new life Out West. Around the world, the American Frontier became synonymous with the search for spiritual, economic and political freedom. The bill we are introducing today creating this Commission would require an appropriation of no more than $4,000,000. The Commission would be composed of a bipartisan group of 24 members, appointed by the President through recommendations of the Speaker of the House and the Senate majority and minority leaders. A year after enactment of this order, the Commission will submit a report to the President and Congress detailing its recommendations for activities to celebrate the event. By March 31, 2005, the Commission is to submit a final report describing all activities, programs, expenditures and donations relating to its work. Commemoration of the Louisiana Purchase and the subsequent opening of the West can enhance public understanding of the impact of westward expansion on American society and can provide lessons for democratic governance in our own time. I call on my colleagues to join us in honoring this momentous occasion in our nation's history and provide the proper ways and means for us to celebrate it appropriately. Mr. President, again, this bill is to establish a national commission on the bicentennial of the Louisiana purchase. This, hopefully, is going to be an exciting celebration for our Nation. Of course, it will take place in the year 2003. This legislation has particularly special meaning to the Senators from Louisiana because the site of the actual transfer of the Louisiana purchase, of course, which was in 1803, took place in the Cabildo, a building that still stands right there on the historic Jackson Square in New Orleans. The bicentennial of the Louisiana purchase which will occur in 2003 marks an event that more than any other determined the character of our national life. It determined that we should be a great and expanding Nation instead of a relatively small and stationary one. As we all remember from our history classes, for only $15 million, 3 cents an acre--a remarkable bargain, actually, for part or all of 14 States that were created out of this vast territory acquired in the Louisiana Purchase, virtually doubling the size of the United States-- this was, in fact, the largest peaceful land transaction in history. The purchase opened the heartland of North America for exploration, settlement, and achievement to the people of the United States and immigrants from around the world. It made possible the travel of Lewis and Clark, whose invaluable knowledge of the land and peoples beyond the Mississippi River emboldened thousands of Americans to search for a new life out West. Around the world, the American frontier became synonymous with the search for spiritual, economic, and political freedom. So the bill we are introducing today creates a commission. It would require an appropriation of no more than $4 million. The commission would be composed of a bipartisan group of 24 members appointed by the President through recommendations of the Speaker of the House and the Senate majority and minority leaders. A year after enactment of this order, according to our legislation, the commission will submit a report to the President and Congress detailing its recommendations and activities to celebrate this wonderful event. Hopefully, by March of 2005, the commission will submit a final report describing all of the activities and programs, expenditures, and donations relating to its work. The commemoration of the Louisiana Purchase and the subsequent opening of the West can enhance a public understanding of the impact of the westward expansion on American society, and, I think, provide for all of us, adults and children alike, lessons we can use each day as we press forward for more stable and robust and terrific democracy and for governance in our time. I call on colleagues today to join us in honoring this occasion in our Nation's history so we can provide the proper ways and means for us to celebrate it fully and appropriately. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Ms. LANDRIEU

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

Ms. LANDRIEU. I ask unanimous consent to speak for 10 minutes as in morning business.

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce a bill which is long overdue. February is a particularly appropriate time to introduce this legislation, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Coin Act of 2001, as this month we celebrate Black History Month. Historian Carter G. Woodson began what was first called Negro History Week in 1926 when he realized schools were not teaching children about the history and achievements of black Americans. Now, for one month out of every year, we focus on the contributions of African-Americans during Black History Month. However, celebrations of the history and culture of black Americans should not be limited to just one month. By recognizing the history of black Americans every day of the year, we build the respect and perspective necessary to face the challenges before us. During the 1960s, a young and gifted preacher from Georgia gave a voice to the voiceless by bringing the struggle for freedom and civil rights into the living rooms of all Americans. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. raised his voice rather than his fists as he helped lead our nation into a new era of tolerance and understanding. He ultimately gave his life for this cause, but in the process brought America closer to his dream of a nation without racial divisions. It has been said that, ``Those who do not understand history are condemned to repeat it.'' America's history includes dark chapters-- chapters in which slavery was accepted and discrimination against African-Americans, women and other minorities was commonplace. It is in acknowledgment of that history, and in honor of Dr. King's bright beacon of hope, which has lead us to a more enlightened era of civil justice, that I introduce the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Coin Act of 2001. This bill would instruct the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of Dr. King's contributions to the United States. Revenues from the surcharge of the coin would be used by the Library of Congress to purchase and maintain historical documents and other materials associated with the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As we start the 21st century, I cannot think of a better way to honor the civil and human rights legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Today, Dr. King's message goes beyond any one group, embracing all who have been denied civil or human rights because of their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or creed. This Congress, as well as previous Congresses, has taken important steps to put these beliefs into civil code. However, upholding Dr. King's dream is a continuing struggle. As a society, we must always remember Dr. King's message, ``that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: `We hold these truths to be self-evident; that all men are created equal.' '' Dr. King's majestic and inspiring voice as he made this speech will remain in our collective memory forever. His writings and papers compliment the visual history of his legacy. Keeping Dr. King's papers available for public access will serve to remind us of what our country once was, and how a solitary voice changed the path of a nation. It also would be a constant reminder of the vigilance needed to ensure we never return to such a time. This legislation has been developed in consultation with the King family, the Library of Congress, the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory Committee, and the U.S. Mint. Similar legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by the chairman of the House Banking and Financial Services Committee, Congressman Jim Leach of Iowa. Although African-Americans have played a vital role in our nation's history, African-Americans were included on only 4 out of 157 commemorative coins: Jackie Robinson who broke baseball's color barrier and brought about a cultural revolution with the courage and dignity in which he played the great American pass time, and the way he lived his life; Booker T. Washington who founded Tuskegee Institute in Alabama and served as a role model for millions of African-Americans who thought a formal education would forever be outside of their grasp; George Washington Carver whose scientific experiments began as a way to improve the lot in life of sharecroppers, but ended up revolutionizing agriculture throughout the South; and The Black Revolutionary War Patriots, a commemorative half-dollar which recognized the 275th anniversary of the birth of Crispus Attucks, who was the first revolutionary killed in the Boston Massacre. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Coin will give us an opportunity to recognize the valuable contributions of all Americans who stood and were counted during our nation's civil rights struggle. Americans such as the late Reverend Avery C. Alexander, a patriarch of the New Orleans' civil rights movement. He championed anti- discrimination, voter registration, labor rights, and environmental regulations as a six-term state legislator and as an advisor to Governor Morrison of Louisiana in the 1950s. Heroes such as Dr. C.O. Simpkins of Shreveport, Louisiana, whose home was bombed simply because he dared to stand by Dr. King and demand that the buses in Shreveport be integrated, and Reverend T.J. Jemison of Baton Rouge--a front-line soldier and good friend of Dr. King who helped coordinate one of the earliest boycotts of the civil rights movement. Louisiana also was fortunate enough to have elected leaders such as my father Moon Landrieu and Dutch Morial, both former mayors of New Orleans during those turbulent times. They led the way when the personal and political stakes were very high. These are just a few of the great civil rights leaders from my state. However, throughout Louisiana and all across America thousands of citizens--black and white, young and old, rich and poor--listened to Dr. King, followed his voice and dreamed his dreams. It is in memory of all of our struggles that I introduce this bill. The great Dutch philosopher Baruch Spinoza said, ``If you want the present to be different from the past, study the past.'' This legislation not only ensures we are able to preserve and study our past, but also honors Dr. King, who played such an integral role in shaping both our present and our future. Most importantly, this coin would serve as a reminder every day of the year, not just during Black History Month, of the great contributions of Dr. King and all black Americans who have shaped this nation's history and future. I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I rise today to say just a few words about Senator Durbin's measure honoring National Donor Day on February 10, 2001. I am proud to join Senator Durbin as a cosponsor of this measure. As Americans, one of the many things that we can be thankful for is the high quality of medical care. American technology, physicians, and pharmaceutical companies are often leaders in the development of new and improved healthcare equipment and techniques. But even the most cutting-edge technologies, the best doctors and nurses, and the finest facilities cannot save the life of a person in need of a transplant or transfusion. A grandfather with failing kidneys, a child with cancer, a mother who was in a car accident--any of these individuals could be saved by a gift of blood or an organ. Without these vital gifts, all of which are in great demand, many of our patients would not survive. Let me just take a moment to mention a few very telling facts. Only five percent of people who are able to donate blood do so on a regular basis. And, although donated blood can be stored for up to six weeks, is rarely is for more than ten days, because the demand is so great. And that is just for the donation of blood. There are more than 70,000 individuals awaiting organ transplants at any given time, and ten people die every day because of the shortage of these organs. Ten people a day--over the past year, 3,650 of our citizens have died, simply because there are not enough organs out there to meet the need. On a most personal level, there was a young child from my state-- Caleb Godso--who was recently admitted to St. Judge Hospital with Leukemia. Caleb, who is just over a year old now, was only five months old when he was diagnosed. He was given only a ten percent chance of surviving. But thanks to chemotherapy, a new kind of treatment, and a bone marrow transplant from his father, Caleb is in remission now, and doing well. He is only one of the thousands of individuals whose lives are saved by transplants every year, and the many more who require blood transfusions. But there are so many more who do not receive the help they need. This is why it is so vital that we make people aware of the importance of donating blood, tissue, marrow, or organs. Today, on this very special day, we focus on the impact love can have on a person's life. We shower our loved ones with gifts and flowers to show how much we truly care for them. We exchange cards and kind words with coworkers, friends, and even strangers. But what better way to show our love for others than through the simple gift of a pint of blood, or checking the box on our driver's license to become an organ donor? The majority of people are eligible to be donors, and the past three National Donor Days have made many people aware of our great need. I urge my colleagues to work and help continue to make National Donor Day a success.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I stand here today to pay tribute to four great Americans--Lieutenant Commander Brian Moore, Lieutenant Troy Beshears, Petty Officer First Class Mike Bouch and Petty Officer First Class John Green, all serving in the United States Coast Guard. Last July, these four extraordinary Guardsmen were conducting a night flight over the Gulf of Mexico when they heard a distress call from the oil rig ``Ocean Crusader.'' Immediately flying to the rig, they arrived to find it engulfed in flames from a natural gas fire. Placing themselves in imminent danger, they landed on the rig to rescue the crew of 51. To expedite the rescue, Petty Officer Green left the helicopter to coordinate rescue efforts while his crew mates began the difficult task of ferrying the rig workers to another platform in groups of four. As the helicopter began its first evacuation flight, Petty Officer Green began lowering rig workers to a rig supply boat in groups of four using a crane and gondola. After rescuing 12 workers, in three dangerous trips, the helicopter crew was forced to leave the scene to refuel while Petty Officer Green remained behind to keep lowering people to the supply boat and safety. He lowered 36 workers that way before another Coast Guard rescue helicopter arrived on the scene and landed to pick up the four men who remained on the platform. When told the helicopter could only take three safely, Petty Officer Green courageously volunteered to stay behind. Alone on that platform as the helicopter took the workers to safely, in the distance he could see his own aircraft returning when the rig erupted with fire raging from the waterline hundreds of feet in the air. Committed to rescuing their crew mate, Lieutenant Commander Moore decided to try and rescue Petty Officer Green. With Petty Officer Bouchard hanging out of their aircraft trying to spot the landing platform in the smoke, he flew the helicopter into the middle of the inferno the Ocean Crusader had become, setting down amidst the flames to pick up Petty Officer Green. Today people say we live in a world without heroes, one in which cynicism and selfishness rule the day. I am proud to say this is not the case in our United States Coast Guard. Guardsmen and Guardswomen like Lieutenant Commander Moore, Lieutenant Beshears, Petty Officer Bouch and Petty Officer Green put their lives on the line every day so that others may live. In this case, 51 men owe their lives to these four heroes who lived up to the Coast Guard's motto of ``Semper Paratus--Always Prepared.'' On behalf of those 51 men, their families, the state of Louisiana and Americans everywhere, I am proud to stand here today and say ``Thank you--job well done!'' to these extraordinary heroes.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I want to take a few minutes to recognize the contributions of a patriot, a leader, and a good friend of this institution who has departed government service to return to life as a private citizen. During, his four-year tensure as Under Secretary, Acting Secretary, and Secretary of the Air Force, F. Whitten Peters has lead his Service to new heights of achievement, and the world is better for it. At a time when the global security environment became less predictable with each passing day, Whit Peters understood the need for the Air Force to become more responsive, more versatile, and more powerful--all at the same time. With boundless energy and enthusiasm, he set out help the United States Air Force do those things and more. As the leading architect of aerospace power, Whit Peters drove a fundamental re-examination of the relationship between air, space, and information systems. As a result, the Cold War Air Force he inherited is well on its way to becoming a modern, integrated aerospace force, designed to meet the challenges of a new millennium. During Secretary Peters' tenure, in the troubled skies over Serbia, a war was won for the first time with aerospace power alone--and we did it without losing a single American to enemy action. Today, despots and dictators hesitate to act because they know America's Air Force can bring power to bear at the point of decision in a matter of minutes or hours. And, millions of people, the world over, live better lives because of the humanitarian missions undertaken by our United States Air Force in the last four years. While busy guiding the evolution of the Air Force's operational capabilities, Secretary Peters also directed significant improvements in acquisition, logistics, and sustainment programs to ensure the best possible use of defense resources. He presided over the development of the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle--a revolutionary pairing of Russian propulsion technology with the best US commercial space-launch capabilities--which will drastically lower the cost of placing commercial and defense payloads in earth orbit. He led the consolidation of five Air Force aircraft depots into three, reducing depot over-capacity by 40 percent and saving the taxpayers over $377 million a year. And, he arrested a 10-year drop in aircraft readiness rates by putting two billion dollars worth of additional spares on the shelf where they will be useful to aircraft maintainers. Most important, Whit Peters took care of his people. As every member of this body knows, he fought hard for improved pay, housing, and medical benefits for every member of America's Air Force. He fought for better re-enlistment bonuses for people in hard-to-fill skills such as air traffic control, computer network administration, and over a hundred others. He pushed relentlessly for better child-care facilities to meet the demands of working families, and today 95 percent of all Air Force child care centers meet federal accreditation standards, compared to just 10 percent of child care facilities nation-wide. No wonder the enlisted men and women of the Air Force honored him with their most prestigious recognition: induction into the Air Force Order of the Sword. In the 53-year history of America's youngest service, no other Air Force Secretary has ever been so honored. Nor has any service secretary been so respected by the men and women he leads. Like the men and women of the Total Air Force--the Air National Guard, the Air Force Reserve, and the Regular Air Force--we hate to see Whit Peters go, and I know my colleagues will join me in wishing him the fondest of farewells. He is a rare leader and an even rarer person in this town: a true gentleman who cares more about others than himself. As the Air Force slogan says, ``No one comes close.''

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I thank my colleague for his tremendous leadership in this area for many years as it relates to Latin America. He is usually the first one on the floor to outline a strategy for U.S. assistance because he knows that we share mutual benefits in opening trade lines and expanding our cultural ties to this particular part of the world. I thank him for his leadership. On behalf of the Senator from Connecticut and myself, I send a resolution to the desk and a bill that I will briefly describe. Mr. President, the resolution simply calls the attention of the Congress to this particular dilemma in El Salvador, a country that has been wracked for decades by war, only to be hit 2 years ago by one of the largest and most destructive hurricanes. And now to face an earthquake is almost too much to describe. As the Senator from Connecticut pointed out, the devastation has totaled about $1 billion. To put that into perspective, that is 5 percent of El Salvador's entire GDP. The equivalent of 5 percent of the United States' GDP is $500 billion. When hurricane Andrew struck, it was the largest natural disaster in our history at $7 billion. So it is hard for us in America to understand what a natural disaster can do to a country whose economy is so fragile. We are blessed in this Nation with an abundance of resources. We have the means and structures in place to deal manage such crises. When devastation like this hits other countries, they just reel. If we are not there quickly with assistance, it is very difficult, if not impossible, for them to recover. Let me be quick to point out that the people of El Salvador will do everything they can to help themselves; they will work hard and struggle. But the U.S. must be quick to aid them. That is what our resolution calls for. Our bill specifically calls for quite a modest amount, but a start, to aid the over 50 thousand people who lost their homes. There is an immediate need for shelter. That is how our bill will help in some way to complement what USAID is doing now. I am happy to urge my friends and Members in the Senate and the House to come quickly to the aid of a country that needs so much help. Mr. President, like many of my colleagues, I have watched the humanitarian calamity unfurl in El Salvador, with horror and sorrow. In the wake of a 7.6-size earthquake, the people of Central America are struggling to rebuild their lives. Still marred by hurricane and flood damage, they are desperate for help: to heal the wounded, feed the hungry, and shelter the displaced. And now, my colleagues, tragedy has struck these people once again. Crisis has not spared the men, women and children of El Salvador. Of course most of the destruction is difficult to quantify. The death toll is over 700, with nearly 3,000 people injured, over 50,000 estimated homeless, 46,000 evacuated, and 91,000 homes damaged or destroyed. In fact, as President Francisco Flores pleaded for international aid, he requested an additional 3,000 coffins. As our Latin American neighbors desperately seek comfort in their faith and family, let us find solace in a passage from the Second Book of Corinthians: ``Blessed be God . . . God of all comfort; Who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.'' The United States must rise to the occasion, and respond with aid. Perseverance has proven a critical trait for Salvadorans these last few weeks; we shouldn't count it to become a way of life. Already, our ties with El Salvador run deep along both cultural and historic lines. On one score, El Salvador has stood by the U.S. as a strategic ally and crucial trading partner during and after the Cold War. On another, the U.S. remains home to millions of immigrants who have sought refuge from calamity in Central America. Helping Central America rebuild is of special concern in Louisiana. It may come as some surprise to my colleagues to learn that New Orleans, with one of the largest Honduran and Salvadoran communities in the U.S., is often cited as one of the largest Central American cities outside Latin America. And with organizations like Partners of the Americas, we are continuing to foment our bonds of friendship with Central America. The Louisiana Chapter of Partners already has two Medical Assistance and Emergency Preparedness teams set up for travel to El Salvador to work in delivery of health care and work with communities on future needs. It was these strong connections and long history of humanitarian aid which induced us to respond to pleas for help after Hurricane Mitch in 1998. And for these reasons, I am introducing two pieces of legislation today. The first is a resolution to raise awareness of the circumstances in El Salvador. Simply put, I am sure that my colleagues will join me and Senator Dodd in expressing sympathy for the victims of the devastating earthquake that struck El Salvador January 13, 2001. The second piece of legislation is meant to complement USAID's current efforts to provide short term relief and establish preventative measures to prepare for future disasters. As USAID and the State Department help draft long term strategies for Central America, let us not neglect some immediate concerns. One of the most pressing problems afflicting the Honduran people is lack of shelter. In the last Congress, I authored legislation with several senators on both sides of the aisle that provided $10 million for the home building program for Central American countries affected by Hurricane Mitch. Today, I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting a similar measure to help complete the work which we began. We must do all that we can to expeditiously provide homes for the more than 50,000 displaced persons through El Salvador. Time is of the essence. In the last Congress, we witnessed a historic meeting in the Capitol's LBJ Room hosted by Senators Lott and the late Paul Coverdell. There, four Central American Presidents made it clear to us that permanent housing along with opening trade opportunities were among the highest priorities for their recovery. The Republican leader and members of his caucus were very helpful in providing housing aid after Hurricane Mitch. And yet, here we are, in the beginning of an entirely new Congress. People are once again homeless, and have no suitable means to protect themselves from future natural disasters. I will be working along with other colleagues on both sides of the aisle--to see that we do all we can in the area of housing in Central America. Let us begin today, with El Salvador. Then we shall extend our efforts throughout the region, to try and stop such devastation from occurring again. Let me assure our Central American friends of one thing, we will not turn our backs on you.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, It is an honor to take this opportunity to recognize Carol DiBattiste, under Secretary of the Air Force, who departed office last month. During her tenure, Under Secretary DiBattiste served with honor and distinction, providing exceptional leadership, and ensuring a promising future for the Department of Defense, the Air Force, and for American aerospace power. Under Secretary DiBattiste earned a respected reputation for her energy and enthusiasm, focused directly on improving quality of life for Air Force members and their families. She quickly became the Air Force's key leader in the fight against retention shortages and recruiting shortfalls; her successes in these endeavors are both impressive and renowned. Because of her immense talent and dedication, Under Secretary DiBattiste was selected to lead a special Department of Defense task force to formulate anti-harassment policy--an emotionally and politically charged subject. She delivered, as always, a brilliant solution, and then returned her sharp focus back to her visionary and aggressive campaign against recruiting shortfalls. The Air Force met its goals in recruiting last year mainly because of her visionary solutions to create an Air Force Recruiting and Retention Task Force, an Air Force Marketing and Advertising Office, and a Strategic Communications Outreach Program. Under Secretary DiBattiste is a leader we respect because she leads by example. In a short, 12-month stretch of time, she delivered almost 100 speeches; and she traveled to over 85 bases and locations throughout the world during her tenure. Carol DiBattiste has set a high standard of leadership, commitment, energy, and service to country. I know my colleagues in Congress and our grateful nation join me in thanking her for her dedication and distinguished service to our country; and we wish her continued success in the future.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. I thank the Chair. I will take 1 minute to close. President Bush endorsed this bill during the campaign, and I believe with Ms. Norton's leadership, with President Bush's leadership, and with bipartisan leadership in the Senate and House, it is an early bipartisan victory we can achieve for the environment and for our Nation. I look forward to working with her on that and many other issues. I am proud to support her nomination as our new Secretary of the Interior, and I look forward to working with her in the years ahead. I thank the Chair, and I yield back whatever time I have remaining.

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I yield myself such time as I may consume of Senator Murkowski's time, I believe. I ask for 7 minutes.

Ms. LANDRIEU. Thank you very much. With all due respect to my colleague from California--and I have the greatest respect for her as an environmental leader--I have carefully considered the nomination of Gale Norton, former attorney general of Colorado, to be our Secretary of the Interior and arrived at a different conclusion. Let me begin by saying that since the announcement for this position, there has been much debate about positions she has taken throughout the course of her career. Whether the topic has been protection of private property rights, environmental self-audits, or certain provisions of the Endangered Species Act, she has advocated for limits on Federal power while arguing for more State and local authority. In its core essence, that is not necessarily a bad thing. We need to be very sensitive to local and State governments as we craft and fashion and design environmental laws for this Nation. Frankly, I think in some instances the Federal Government has gone, you might say, overboard or has not had as much sensitivity to State and local governments as perhaps we should. We are still a work in progress here. I find her position, actually, for State and local authority, refreshing and necessary, recognizing that one size does not fit all. But I do not question her commitment to clean air, to clean water, and to finding the right ways to pursue those goals. As Secretary of the Interior, it would be her duty to manage public lands on behalf of the Federal Government and also to represent its interests in any dispute. So some legitimate concerns have been raised as to whether she would fall on the side of State and local government or Federal Government. I think she put those issues to rest clearly and squarely in her testimony before the committee as she said she would represent the interests of the Federal Government, using her sensitivity to State and local governments as an asset, but not as a barrier to fighting vigorously for and enforcing environmental laws that are on the books. One such example I would like to point out that should be in her favor is her successful advocacy for the Rocky Mountain Arsenal cleanup. When the Federal Government itself was standing in the way of efficient and effective cleanup, Gale Norton challenged the Federal Government to clean up its own hazardous waste sites and led the fight successfully in that area, and that is a project that is still going forward. In her 2 days of testimony before our committee as well as her answers to a few hundred written questions, I believe she has sufficiently indicated her honest intention to enforce the Federal laws as they are written and as the courts have interpreted them. Policy differences from time to time between Ms. Norton and the Members of this body are unavoidable. However, she has listened attentively to the concerns expressed by members of the committee, and her pledges to work with us seem genuine. In addition, I am encouraged by her comments that she was willing to give appropriate consideration to the impact of Federal laws on State and local interests, which is something I mentioned before as very important to me and many Members, Democrats and Republicans, in our body. While there are certain instances where national policy on environmental issues is necessary, as I said earlier, sometimes one size does not fit all. We would be wise to recognize that and implement different strategies for different regions and different States. In fact, Ms. Norton and I had the opportunity to discuss such a matter during her recent visit to my office--my favorite subject, actually--the Conservation and Reinvestment Act, which is a conservation program that will benefit all 50 States. She expressed an interest to learn more about this. She expressed a very keen understanding of the contribution made by coastal States, in terms of the amount of money that is sent to the Federal Government from offshore oil and gas production, that could be used more wisely to replenish and restore some of our renewable resources while we are, in fact, depleting a nonrenewable resource. Based on the crisis that we are facing in our Nation today, our energy crisis--as the chairman, Senator Murkowski, from the State of Alaska, has so ably spoken about on this floor so many times--we can really now recognize the value of producing States. Let's make sure the billions of dollars we are sending to the Federal Treasury is used not just for general government purposes but used to invest in our environment to provide parks and recreation, wildlife and conservation, and, yes, to extend help to coastal impact assistance and coastal communities everywhere. She says she understands it. Although she has not officially endorsed the bill, she will work very closely with us to carry out our work on CARA. Let me be quick to mention, though, that while she has not taken an official position and did not do so in the hearings, President Bush did in fact endorse, during the campaign, the CARA legislation. He did remind us all as Americans that you just can't keep taking; that sometimes you have to give back if you want your children and your grandchildren to enjoy the same benefits of open spaces, wildlife, and fisheries. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent for 2 more minutes to close.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, as you well know, the need for reform in the American education system is a priority for many members of Congress, as well as for President Bush and his newly assembled administration. While there still is some debate over a few remaining issues such as annual testing and private school vouchers, it is clear that there is much that we agree must be addressed if our children are to receive the type of education necessary to be competitive in the 21st century. Almost no one disagrees that focused efforts to recruit and retain qualified teachers are the key to increasing student achievement. Today, research is confirming what common sense has suggested all along. A skilled and knowledgeable teacher can make enormous difference in how well students learn. One Tennessee study found that the students who had good teachers three years in a row scored significantly higher on state tests and made far greater gains than students with a series of ineffective teachers. Another study conducted at Stanford found that the strongest indicator of how a state's students performed on National assessments was the percentage of well qualified teachers. The Department of Education estimates that 2,000,000 new teachers will have to be hired in the next decade. Yet, each year, only 60,000 college graduates enter into teaching. In my home state of Louisiana, almost one in five of our teachers has not completed the standard regimen for teaching. One of the main detractors for qualified professionals to choose to enter the profession of teaching is simply that the salaries cover little more than life's daily expenses. While the amount of salary a teacher makes is not determined by the federal government, that does not preclude us from putting forth innovative strategies to address the gaps left by these salaries. In fact, I think it is our responsibility to do all that we can to assist states in their efforts to bring the best and the brightest teachers into our nation's classrooms. The federal tax code provides us with several opportunities to acknowledge and reward teachers for the work that they do for our children everyday. I am proud to join Senator Collins in introducing the ``Teacher Support Act of 2001''. This bill allows educators to receive a tax credit for some of the costs associated with furthering their professional development. Specifically, it will allow educators to deduct professional development expenses, without requiring the deduction to be subject to the existing two percent floor. In addition, this legislation creates an above the line deduction, allowing for teachers who do not itemize their taxes to take advantage of these helpful benefits. And finally, it allows educators to claim a tax credit of up to $100 for books, supplies, and equipment that they purchase for their students. This is the first of the many steps we as a body must take toward building a system of supports for our teachers. This small investment will have an inordinate impact on their ability to provide effective instruction to our nation's school children. Henry B. Adams once said ``A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell, where his influence stops.'' With this in mind, I ask you to support this bill and others like it, so that we can truly affect the future of education in America.

Ms. LANDRIEU

Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, as you well know, the need for reform in the American education system is a priority for many members of Congress, as well as for President Bush and his newly assembled administration. While there still is some debate over a few remaining issues such as annual testing and private school vouchers, it is clear that there is much that we agree must be addressed if our children are to receive the type of education necessary to be competitive in the 21st century. Almost no one disagrees that focused efforts to recruit and retain qualified teachers are the key to increasing student achievement. Today, research is confirming what common sense has suggested all along. A skilled and knowledgeable teacher can make enormous difference in how well students learn. One Tennessee study found that the students who had good teachers three years in a row scored significantly higher on state tests and made far greater gains than students with a series of ineffective teachers. Another study conducted at Stanford found that the strongest indicator of how a state's students performed on National assessments was the percentage of well qualified teachers. The Department of Education estimates that 2,000,000 new teachers will have to be hired in the next decade. Yet, each year, only 60,000 college graduates enter into teaching. In my home state of Louisiana, almost one in five of our teachers has not completed the standard regimen for teaching. One of the main detractors for qualified professionals to choose to enter the profession of teaching is simply that the salaries cover little more than life's daily expenses. While the amount of salary a teacher makes is not determined by the federal government, that does not preclude us from putting forth innovative strategies to address the gaps left by these salaries. In fact, I think it is our responsibility to do all that we can to assist states in their efforts to bring the best and the brightest teachers into our nation's classrooms. The federal tax code provides us with several opportunities to acknowledge and reward teachers for the work that they do for our children everyday. I am proud to join Senator Collins in introducing the ``Teacher Support Act of 2001''. This bill allows educators to receive a tax credit for some of the costs associated with furthering their professional development. Specifically, it will allow educators to deduct professional development expenses, without requiring the deduction to be subject to the existing two percent floor. In addition, this legislation creates an above the line deduction, allowing for teachers who do not itemize their taxes to take advantage of these helpful benefits. And finally, it allows educators to claim a tax credit of up to $100 for books, supplies, and equipment that they purchase for their students. This is the first of the many steps we as a body must take toward building a system of supports for our teachers. This small investment will have an inordinate impact on their ability to provide effective instruction to our nation's school children. Henry B. Adams once said ``A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell, where his influence stops.'' With this in mind, I ask you to support this bill and others like it, so that we can truly affect the future of education in America.