Today's Press Releases

For Immediate Release: Contact: Chuck Kleeschulte, Comm Director
July 4, 2004 (202) 224-9306; H 301/292-2260; Cell 202/253-9964

MEDIA ADVISORY:
SENATOR MURKOWSKI TO INSPECT FAIRBANKS FIRES

FAIRBANKS – After a weekend in Ketchikan, U. S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski will be traveling to Fairbanks on Monday to inspect the Boundary and Chena Hot Spring fires, as well as receive briefings on efforts to battle the other wildfires that have burned more than 1 million acres of Alaska in the past week.

The Senator after arriving in Fairbanks on Monday afternoon July 5, depending on weather and wind conditions, will either fly over the Chena fire or drive directly to the incident command post for the Boundary fire, located at the NOAA facility at roughly 13 Mile on the Steese Highway. There she will speak with Alaska Commissioner of Natural Resources Tom Irwin, officials of the Alaska Bureau of Land Management and interagency incident management fire team officials. She also will meet with local government officials and state legislators to learn if any other federal resources are needed to battle the blazes.

Media are welcome to cover the Senator’s visit to the incident command center and for related briefings. She should arrive at about 3:30 p.m. Given the changing nature of the fires, press should check with Public Information Officer Wayne Johnson of the Type 1 fire incident command team for exact briefing information times and locations. His number is 907/356-5512.

As another backup media can contact the Senator’s Fairbanks staff assistant, Althea St. Martin at 456-0233 or the Senator’s Communications Director, Chuck Kleeschulte, at his home 301/292-2260. After the tour the Senator will return to Washington, D.C. for Senate business on Tuesday, July 6.

###

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell
Washington

Media Advisory
July 2, 2004
Contact:
Sam Hudzik, 202-224-8277
Jed Lewison, 206-819-8086

Public Schedule for Senator Maria Cantwell

Independence Day Weekend

July 3rd & 4th, 2004

Saturday, July 3, 2004

11:00 AM

OAK HARBOR

Cantwell to join Oak Harbor parade

Cantwell will take part in Oak Harbor’s annual Fourth of July parade.

Location: Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor

Sunday, July 4, 2004

12:00 PM

SEATTLE

Cantwell to celebrate the Fourth at naturalization ceremony, address new citizens
Cantwell will congratulate Washington state residents as they take the oath of citizenship on Independence Day at the Ethnic Heritage Council’s 20th Annual Naturalization Ceremony.

Location: Fisher Pavilion, Seattle Center

305 Harrison Street, Seattle

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jen Carrier

July 2, 2004 202.224.3254

THIRTEEN ADDITIONAL IOWA COUNTIES DESIGNATED PRESIDENTIAL DISASTER DECLARATION AREAS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has declared thirteen additional Iowa counties as federal “Presidential Disaster Declaration” areas.

“My heart goes out to the Iowa communities damaged by the devastating tornadoes, severe storms, and heavy flooding,” Harkin said. “I am pleased that FEMA has named additional counties eligible for individual assistance so that all Iowans who suffered serious losses from these storms can now get the help they need.”

The following counties were added to the list of those eligible for federal assistance: Appanoose, Davis, Des Moines, Hamilton, Henry, Louisa, Lucas, Monroe, Muscatine, Scott, Wapello, Washington and Wayne.

The counties already declared disaster areas are: Adair, Adams, Allamakee, Audubon, Benton, Black Hawk, Boone, Bremer, Buchanan, Buena Vista, Butler, Calhoun, Carroll, Cass, Cedar, Cerro Gordo, Chickasaw, Clay, Clayton, Clinton, Dallas, Delaware, Dubuque, Fayette, Floyd, Fremont, Franklin, Greene, Grundy, Guthrie, Hancock, Hardin, Howard, Humboldt, Iowa, Jackson, Jasper, Johnson, Jones, Kossuth, Linn, Madison, Marshall, Mills, Mitchell, Montgomery, Page, Palo Alto, Pocahontas, Polk, Pottawattamie, Poweshiek, Sac, Shelby, Story, Tama, Warren, Webster, Winnebago, Winneshiek, Worth and Wright Counties.

###

Congress of the United States

For Immediate Release Brian Hart (Brownback)

July 2, 2004 (202) 224-6521

Dan Scandling (Wolf)

(202) 225-5136

MEDIA ADVISORY MEDIA ADVISORY MEDIA ADVISORY

PRESS CONFERENCE

1 p.m. Eastern

Tuesday, July 6

House Radio/TV Gallery

U.S. Capitol – Room H321

SENATOR SAM BROWNBACK & REP. FRANK WOLF’S RECENT VISIT TO DARFUR IN WESTERN SUDAN

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Sam Brownback (R-KS) and U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA) recently returned from a trip to western Sudan, where more than 30,000 people have been killed and more than 1 million have been forced from their villages and are now living in refugee camps scattered across the region.

Brownback and Wolf visited five refugee camps, where they heard repeated stories of brutal attacks, rape and pillaging – all carried out by Arab militiamen called Janjaweed.

Brownback and Wolf have graphic video and photos of villages that have been burned to the ground by the Janjaweed as well as personal testimonies from victims. They also have photos and video of Janjaweed.

Brownback and Wolf will issue a report on what they saw and make a series of policy recommendations on how they best believe the crisis should be addressed.

In addition to visiting refugee camps, Brownback and Wolf talked with NGOs assisting with the humanitarian crisis in the region and met with representatives from the African Union serving in the region.

-30-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jen Carrier

July 2, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN ANNOUNCES FUNDS TO FIGHT DRUG ABUSE IN IOWA

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of his ongoing efforts against drug abuse in Iowa, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced today Iowa will receive $275,000 for the Drug-Free Communities Program to help reduce youth substance abuse and strengthen community anti-drug coalitions.

“Unfortunately, too many young Iowans continue to abuse meth and other dangerous substances,” said Harkin. “We have to do our part to help combat youth substance abuse in our rural communities. These Drug-Free Community funds can help make the difference in our efforts to win the war on drugs and keep Iowa’s youth drug-free.”

The following Iowa communities will receive funds from the Department of Justice (DOJ):

Helping Services for Northeast Iowa in Decorah – $100,000
Lamoni Area Safe Community Coalition - $100,000
Clinton Substance Abuse Council - $75,000
The funding will help these Iowa communities reduce access of tobacco products to under age youth, increase the awareness of the harm of dangerous drugs, create mentoring programs and reinforce partnerships with substance abuse agencies in the area.

Harkin has been a leader in Congress pushing to strengthen local law enforcement and youth substance abuse programs.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Howard Gantman

Friday, July 2, 2004 or Scott Gerber 202/224-9629

http://feinstein.senate.gov

Statement of Senator Feinstein on U.S. District Court Ruling Upholding the California Financial Information Privacy Act

Washington, DC – On Wednesday U.S. District Court Judge Morrison C. England Jr. upheld the California Financial Privacy Act authored by state Senator Jackie Speier (D-San Mateo) and signed into law last August.

U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) issued the following statement today in reaction to the ruling:

“This ruling is a great victory for California consumers. In an age of fast-changing technology and business consolidation, the privacy of consumers’ personal data has never been less secure. The California Financial Privacy Act addresses this problem by providing Californians with the nation’s best protection against corporations that share personal data. The law lets consumers choose not to allow companies to share consumer data with their affiliates. And it requires companies to get consumers’ express consent to share personal data with other companies.

I applaud Judge England’s ruling that California has the right to enact laws to protect the financial privacy of its residents, above and beyond what federal law allows. As Judge England wrote in upholding the Act, ‘Congress intended that states be afforded the right to regulate consumer financial privacy on behalf of their citizens.’ This law was four years in the making. Thanks to Judge England’s decision, the Act took effect on July 1, giving Californians more protection than even federal law provides.

The ruling is especially welcome given that Senator Barbara Boxer and I tried to amend the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act last year to provide the same strong consumer protections that California’s law provides. The Senate, unfortunately, failed to provide consumers nationwide with those same protections. Now, thanks to Judge England’s strongly reasoned decision, Californians, at least, will be able to protect their personal data. Once the nation sees the benefits that California’s consumers reap from the California Financial Privacy Act, I am hopeful that we will be able to provide the same protections in federal law.”

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jen Carrier

July 2, 2004 202.224.3254

Statement of Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA)

On the June Unemployment Statistics

“The June numbers are less than what is needed to keep up with population growth. The job growth of recent months has not been sustained and is in danger of dropping further.

“Over the past year, only 1.5 million jobs were created - 1.2 million fewer jobs than the President’s Council of Economic Advisors claimed would be normal, not counting the stimulus they hoped for from the 2003 tax bill. The Administration’s policies are creating trillions in government debt but few jobs. We need a new course.”

###

JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator - Texas
CONTACT: DON STEWART
(202) 224-0704 office (202) 365-6702 cell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 2, 2004

STRONG JOB GROWTH CONTINUES

112,000 New Jobs Created in June, Tenth Straight Month of Job Growth in U.S.

Audio of Sen. Cornyn’s comments are available here: http://www.senate.gov/src/radio/files/Cornyn_John_117/cornynJobs7-2.mp3

WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, a member of the Senate Budget Committee, made the following statement Friday regarding the 112,000 new jobs created in June and strong economic growth in recent months:

“The contrast between politically motivated doom and gloom and the economic reality about American job growth is stark. Pessimists on the campaign trail, who have been praying for failure as a means of political success, have failed to talk down an economy that is roaring back. This is great news for the American people, but unwelcome news for those who have pinned their political hopes on convincing Americans that the economy is headed in a downward direction.

“With ten straight months of positive jobs reports, it’s growing increasingly difficult for some of my colleagues to claim the economic sky is falling. The American people know better--and they're going back to work.

Nearly 1.2 million new payroll jobs have been created thus far in 2004, and more than 1.5 million new payroll jobs have been created since August.

The national unemployment rate stayed constant at 5.6% in June – down nearly a full percentage point from a peak of 6.3% in June 2003. The 5.6% unemployment rate is below the average of the last three decades.

Earlier this week, the Conference Board announced that its Consumer Confidence Index increased sharply in June to 101.9, up from 93.1 in May. The index now stands at a two-year high.

www.cornyn.senate.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Todd Webster

THURSDAY, July 1, 2004 Sarah Feinberg

(202)224-2939

Inspector General Agrees to Daschle Call

for Canadian Beef Investigation

Bush Administration Border Beef Policy Subject of New Probe Special permits,

Secret USDA policies may have jeopardized food safety

WASHINGTON, DC - The Inspector General at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has agreed to an investigation request made by Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle and two other members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Tom Harkin of Iowa and Mark Dayton of Minnesota. In a letter Daschle received late Thursday, Inspector General Phyllis Fong confirmed that her office would pursue a probe into the senators’ concerns that the Bush Administration’s Agriculture Department “...did not follow appropriate safety measures sometime in the fall of 2003, in allowing expanded Canadian beef imports into the United States.

“I’m pleased that the Inspector General will look into this matter,” Daschle said, “It is simply unfair that certain meatpackers and the Canadians had private knowledge about special permits granted under reduced food safety standards while the American public was kept in the dark.”

Inspector General Fong, in her letter to Daschle said, “In response to your request, we have initiated several actions. We will review the USDA’s actions pertaining to the importation of Canadian beef products, including its use of risk mitigation measures, following the Department’s regulatory action and policy announcement of August 8, 2003.” The letter also stated that, “We will conduct interviews of USDA officials and review relevant agency records as part of this inquiry.”

Daschle, who raised the issue of the Inspector General investigation with Secretary of Agriculture Ann Veneman last week urged Veneman to “embrace the investigation in order to build confidence in our food safety and border protection policies.”

“Government accountability is the first step in making a genuine effort to improve our handling of these critical food safety and border protection issues,” Daschle explained.

When the senators called for the investigation on April 24, they did so in an effort to determine why, after the discovery of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), or Mad Cow Disease, in Canadian cattle, Bush Administration officials relaxed food safety standards on imported, high-risk beef products. The Administration took these steps without informing Congress or the public.

In their letter to Inspector General Fong, the senators demanded to know why USDA disregarded two important food safety standards - one requiring that brain and spinal tissue of U.S.-bound Canadian beef be removed before shipping to the U.S., and another stipulating that the beef must be processed in facilities that are used only for the slaughter of animals eligible for export to the U.S.

“These dramatic policy changes created a risk of cross-contamination in these facilities and increased the possibility that BSE could be introduced into the United States with these imports,” the senators wrote.

The senators said in the July 24 letter that, “An investigation along with public congressional hearings are needed to explore these breaches of the public trust in an effort to learn exactly why these actions were taken and to help ensure they are not repeated.”

###

The letter from USDA's Inspector General is attached.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Susan Wheeler (202) 224-5150
July 1, 2004 Lindsay Nothern (208) 334-1776

CANCER SCREENINGS TOP 100
First day of free prostate testing brings big result

Boise - The turnout of Idahoans seeking free screenings for prostate cancer has topped the century mark as Idaho Senator Mike Crapo leads a coalition urging men to take part in free health screenings related to the “Main Street Mile - A Mile for Men’s Health” race tomorrow. Crapo will join representatives of Pfizer Incorporated, local doctors and other health care professionals tomorrow to promote the present and upcoming opportunities men and women have to get their health checked this summer.

Crapo worked with Pfizer, Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, St. Luke’s Regional Medical Center, and many others to establish the annual Mike Crapo Health Awareness Booths at the Western Idaho Fair. The health booths are also available at fairs in Blackfoot, Filer, and Coeur d’Alene. Tomorrow, Crapo and Boise Mayor Dave Bieter will kick off activities for the “Main Street Mile - A Mile for Men’s Health” run and walking event beginning about 6:00 p.m.

Crapo, cancer experts, area doctors and health professionals from Pfizer, Saint Alphonsus and St. Luke’s Regional Medical Centers and others will hold a news conference tomorrow to update the schedule of free cancer screening events:
Friday, July 2
Boise City Hall
Front Plaza
10:00 a.m.

# # #

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell
Washington

For Immediate Release
July 1, 2004
Contact:
Dan Taylor
206-220-6400
703-869-4184 (cell)

Cantwell Congratulates Washington Company on Trade Deal With Cuba

SUPERVALU International to ship grocery products

and frozen foods to Cuba

SEATTLE, WA – Sen. Maria Cantwell today congratulated SUPERVALU International, a division of SUPERVALU, Inc. operating in Washington state, on signing contracts with Cuban officials to export nearly $200,000 of grocery products and frozen foods to Cuba. She made her comments during a speech at the 9th annual Washington Council on International Trade Conference in Seattle. Cantwell, who led a successful trade mission to Cuba in 2002 assisted the company in its communications with both the United States and Cuban governments.

“I’m glad to help open the Cuban market to more Washington state products,” Cantwell said. “Trade is a linchpin of our state’s economy, and in today’s increasingly global economy, we must do everything we can to help Washington businesses bring their goods to the international marketplace.”

“This business is important as a first step toward expanding our product lines into a developing market,” said Charles K. Witzleben, President of SUPERVALU International. “Access to the Cuban market will enable SUPERVALU to further extend its expertise in international supply and distribution.”

Under the new contracts, SUPERVALU International will ship such products as evaporated milk, frozen vegetables, and instant tea to Cuba. SUPERVALU International, a division of SUPERVALU, Inc., employs 50 people in Tacoma, Washington.

This agreement builds on Cantwell's successes opening foreign markets to Washington state products:

In 2003, Cantwell led a trade mission to Mexico that resulted in the first-ever shipment of Washington potatoes to Mexico, the world’s second-largest potato market. In the last year, Washington farmers have shipped $1.7 million in potatoes to Mexico.

In 2002, Cantwell led a successful trade mission to Cuba that resulted in the historic first shipments of Washington state apples, peas, and lentils to Cuba in over forty years.

Also in 2002 Cantwell helped expand the British Columbia wine market to more than twenty Washington state wineries.

Cantwell has also been a strong advocate for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Market Access Program, which helps agriculture producers access foreign markets. She supported a successful expansion of the MAP program to $210 million annually by 2006.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Matt Hartwig

July 1, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN COMMENDS PASSAGE OF

CHILD NUTRITION BILL

Legislation that Promotes Healthier Foods in Schools becomes Law

WASHINGTON – Yesterday President Bush signed the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), ranking Democrat on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, praised passage of the bipartisan bill, which unanimously passed the Senate last week, and noted the importance of federal child nutrition programs to American children and families.

“With the President’s signature, the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 has become law,” said Harkin. “This is gratifying proof that, even in a highly-charged election year, Congress and the President can put aside our differences in the interest of our nation’s children. Our child nutrition programs better the lives of millions of American children each and every day. With this legislation we highlight the value of these programs and reaffirm our deep commitment to the health of our youngest citizens.”

Among the provisions of the law that Harkin noted were:

· An expansion of the Harkin Fruit and Vegetable Program to four new states

· The application of the simplified program rules to allow more children to participate in the Summer Food Service Program in an additional six states

· Program integrity measures in the Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

· Measures that provide automatic school meal eligibility for homeless and migrant children

· A provision under which schools establish local “school wellness policies” that include standards for the sale of foods at school as well as physical activity targets

“The facts tell the story here - students face unprecedented nutritional risk at school,” said Harkin. “Pervasive junk foods in our schools have become an established part of the school day. This bill sets the stage and empowers parents, teachers and local school districts to promote healthier foods in our school vending machines and snack bars.”

In addition to the four new states added to the Harkin Fruit and Vegetable Program, the bill also provides permanent funding for 25 schools in Iowa to participate. Under the 2002 farm bill 25 Iowan schools received funding to participate in the program for one year, but the money for those schools has since run out.

Harkin’s work on the child nutrition bill is part of his ongoing efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and sound nutrition. In June Harkin introduced comprehensive legislation on obesity, health promotion, and chronic disease prevention.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Scott Gerber (Feinstein) 202/224-9629

Thursday, July 1, 2004 or Nicole Taylor (Pombo) 202/225-1947

Senator Feinstein, Representative Pombo Praise
President’s Disaster Declaration for Delta Levee Break

Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and U.S. Representative Richard Pombo (R-Tracy) today announced that President Bush has declared the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Levee Break a major disaster for the State of California.

Senator Feinstein and Representative Pombo wrote President Bush to support Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s request for the declaration. This declaration triggers the release of Federal funds to aid communities in their recovery as a result of the levee break that occurred on June 3, 2004.

“This declaration helps put San Joaquin County on the road to recovery,” Senator Feinstein said. “The Federal funds will go a long way to help the community rebuild and clean up the damage.”

“This is great news,” said Rep. Pombo. “The federal government has stepped-up and is doing its part to repair the damage. We need to ensure Californians have a clean and safe water supply.”

Citing the $93 million in economic damage and the increased risk of water supply contamination stemming from the levee break, Senator Feinstein and Representative Pombo urged President Bush to concur with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s State declaration of a Major Disaster for the County of San Joaquin.

Following is the text of the letter Senator Feinstein and Representative Pombo sent to President Bush seeking his assistance:

June 23, 2004

The Honorable George W. Bush

President of the United States

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue

Washington, DC 20500

Dear Mr. President:

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger issued a Declaration of Major Disaster for the County of San Joaquin on June 17, 2004. This declaration was issued as a result of a levee break in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, which allowed the inundation of 12,000 acres of prime farmland and threatened the domestic water supply millions of residents. We write to you to urge the President of the United States, at the earliest time, to concur in the Governor’s designation by issuing a federal declaration of Major Disaster.

The County of San Joaquin, working closely with federal and State damage assessment experts, has identified damages totaling $93 million, of which $49 million is public and $44 million is private. Since more than 75% of the surface water flowing through the State of California passes through the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, unless the levee breech is repaired, the drinking water supply for the vast majority of households in Central and Southern California remains at risk of contamination due to the potential salt water intrusion. There is also great concern about other nearby levees. Should the wave action and erosion, greatly exacerbated by the existing break, cause adjacent levees to fail, then several communities and thousands of acres of both developed and agricultural land are in jeopardy of inundation.

San Joaquin County and the State of California need the full force and effect of the resources of the federal government to address this major disaster and put in place mechanisms to avoid its recurrence. It is for these reasons that we ask your immediate assistance in obtaining a Presidential Declaration of a Major Disaster for San Joaquin County.

Sincerely,

DIANNE FEINSTEIN RICHARD W. POMBO

United States Senate United States House of Representatives

###

THURSDAY, July 1, 2004

Statement by Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle

On the 40th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

(Washington, D.C.) - Tomorrow marks the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle issued the following statement honoring that anniversary:

"The Civil Rights Act of 1964 gave the weight of law to a fundamental promise of America: that all people are created equal. It represents a great, bipartisan political victory as well as a profound moral victory. In the 40 years since the Civil Rights Act was signed into law, America has reaffirmed its commitment to equal opportunity by passing the Voting Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the federal hate crimes act and major civil rights laws.

But we still have not reached the promised land. On Indian reservations and in other communities across America, too many people today still lack access to good jobs, decent schools, quality health care and the other essentials of genuine equal opportunity. The best way to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act is work to protect it from those who would seek to weaken it and to realize its full promise for all Americans."

###

democrats.senate.gov

For Immediate Release: Contact: Chuck Kleeschulte, Comm Director
July 1, 2004 (202) 224-9306; H 301/292-2260; Cell 202/253-9964

MURKOWSKI GAINS NORTON ASSURANCE THAT FIGHTING ALASKA FIRES IS ‘TOP PRIORITY’ FOR FEDERAL WILDLAND FIRE RESOURCES

ANCHORAGE -- U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski today won the assurances of U.S. Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton that the federal government will do everything it can to battle wildfires in Alaska, including the Boundary fire northeast of Fairbanks that is threatening communities near the state’s second largest population center.

Murkowski called Norton this morning to urge the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management to make every effort to fight all of the wildfires in Alaska’s Interior, led at the moment by the Boundary fire that is threatening Chatanika, Haystack and other communities and subdivisions along the Steese and Elliott Highways, northeast of Fairbanks.

“The Secretary assured me that battling that fire is the government’s number one priority nationwide today; that the Department will use all of its resources to protect life and property in the Fairbanks area,” said Murkowski after the telephone call.

Murkowski spoke after the Federal Emergency Management Agency at the state’s and her request had declared a fire management assistance declaration for the fire, making federal aid available to pay state costs in battling the roughly 117,000-acre wildfire. The Senator said the Secretary said she was fully briefed on the extent of the fire and Interior weather conditions on Wednesday and that the Department was focusing its resources on the fire.

Murkowski said Norton told her that a federal Type 1 Incident Management Team is being dispatched from Denver to help plot strategy against the fire – the team expecting to arrive in Fairbanks this evening.

Senator Murkowski said she is continuing to monitor fire fighting efforts statewide and will remain in close contact with federal officials. Concerning fire fighting tanker planes, Murkowski as recently as June 2 had urged the government to set up an expedited system to inspect the safety of the nation’s aging fire fighting tanker fleet to get more planes back into service faster. Murkowski said officials expect to be able to announce on Friday whether the first of the 33 planes that have undergone the expedited inspections are safe to return to fire fighting duties.

The Departments of Interior and Agriculture had cancelled its contracts for the planes – reducing the number of such planes in Alaska from four to two – after a National Transportation Safety Board investigation into two plane crashes questioned the safety of the aging planes, many of which are more than 60 years old.

While efforts to fight the fire from the air using airplanes contracted by the state are hampered by the thick smoke from the existing fires, Murkowski said recertification of more of the planes could prove helpful in battling the existing fires should the winds change or future fires in the state.

###

THURSDAY, July 1, 2004

Statement of Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle on AARP Survey Revealing Continued Skyrocketing Prescription Drug Prices

(Washington, D.C.) - Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle said today that a survey released this week by AARP shows pharmaceutical companies increased the prices they charge drug wholesalers for the top 200 brand-name drugs an average of 3.4 percent in the first three months of 2004, an increase nearly three times the rate of inflation. The AARP survey covered the period after the new Medicare law was enacted and just before the Bush administration began its pharmacy discount card program.

Senator Daschle released the following statement in response to the AARP survey:

"This survey from AARP only reinforces the truth that America's seniors have known for far too long: that the big drug companies and the HMO industry are the true beneficiaries of the new Medicare law, not the seniors who need assistance now.

Just last week, another report cited Wall Street analysts saying the new Medicare law would benefit the HMO industry more than seniors.

It's outrageous that drug companies have hiked up prices at nearly three times the rate of inflation and Wall Street analysts are discussing higher profits for HMOs as seniors in South Dakota and across the country struggle to pay for life-saving medication.

We don't need any more evidence that Congress must take action to correct the enormous flaws in this new Medicare law. There is simply no explanation - other than to protect drug company profits - for continuing to allow the pharmaceutical industry to get away with selling the exact same drug cheaper in foreign countries than in the United States. And there is no reason to prohibit the Medicare program from leveraging the purchasing power of 41 million seniors to negotiate lower drug prices from pharmaceutical companies. If the Congressional Republican leadership would end their opposition to these proposals and allow for a vote on these two critically important issues, the Senate could take significant steps toward reducing the price of prescription drugs right away. I continue to call on the Republican leadership to make these two issues top priorities."

###

democrats.senate.gov

For Immediate Release: Contact: Chuck Kleeschulte, Comm Director
July 1, 2004 (202) 224-9306; H 301/292-2260; Cell 202/253-9964

MURKOWSKI WELCOMES PROMPT FEDERAL APPROVAL TO GRANT FAIRBANKS BOUNDARY FIRE ASSISTANCE DECLARATION

ANCHORAGE -- U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski this morning welcomed a decision by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to promptly grant the state’s and her request that the federal government issue a fire management assistance declaration for the Boundary Fire northeast of Fairbanks. The declaration, issued early this morning by FEMA, makes the state eligible for federal funding to pay for up to 75 percent of its costs involved in fighting the at least 117,000-acre wildfire.

Murkowski, who Wednesday was in contact with FEMA’s Regional Director John Pennington, FEMA’s National Director Michael D. Brown and the White House Emergency Operations Office, learned this morning that the fire declaration was granted at 12:36 a.m. EDT this morning because the fire “threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.”

“It is good that the federal government understands the serious nature of all the wildfires burning in Alaska at present, but especially of the Boundary fire northeast of Fairbanks. Given the winds and the forecast, all federal aid possible to battle this fire is essential now and extremely welcome,” said Murkowski this morning.

The Fire Management Assistance Grant Program allows the government to pick up 75 percent of allowable costs. They include the:
· Costs for equipment and supplies (less insurance proceeds);
· Costs for emergency work (evacuations and sheltering, police barricading and traffic control);
· Costs for state emergency operations centers.
· Costs for the pre-positioning of federal, out-of-state resources for up to 21 days.
· Costs for personal comfort and safety items for firefighters;
· Costs for field camps and meals in lieu of per diem;
· Costs for mobilization and demobilization costs;
· Costs for the temporary repair of damage caused by firefighting;
· And the costs of mitigation, management and control of fires on co-mingled federal lands.

Senator Murkowski said FEMA granted the request since the Boundary fire last night “threatened 400 homes, 40 businesses, two public buildings and to a degree the Trans-Alaska oil pipeline as it runs through the Haystack subdivision and other subdivisions northeast of Fairbanks.”

The Senator said she will continue to monitor state and federal agency needs to battle all of the fires now burning in the state.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Rachel Reiter 202/224-4224

Thursday, July 1, 2004

Celebrating the 4th of July in Nebraska

By U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel

July 4, 2004

The United States is a country built upon the principles of democracy and freedom. The 4th of July is an occasion for all who live in this country to celebrate these founding principles and honor our common history. Events across Nebraska, such as the annual 4th of July celebration in Seward, provide an opportunity to enjoy our unique heritage and commemorate the cultural traditions that make us a strong and compassionate nation. Seward is officially recognized as America’s Small Town 4th of July City, drawing approximately 40,000 visitors to its annual celebration.

Our Independence Day tradition began in 1868. This uniquely American celebration features parades, fireworks displays, pie eating contests, and historic exhibits.

The 4th of July is a special time to honor our armed forces for the commitments and sacrifices they have made and continue to make in the defense of freedom. Over the past few months, members of the Nebraska National Guard units in Lexington, Chadron, and Lincoln have returned home from deployments in Iraq. These brave men and women risked their lives around the globe so that others may enjoy the freedom they left at home. Their bravery and dedication stands as an enduring reminder of what has made our country great for over two centuries.

The Flag and the Pledge of Allegiance are also important parts of our 4th of July celebrations. They are essential American symbols that hold a special place in the hearts of all Americans. The Flag and the Pledge of Allegiance represent what is good and decent about our country, and the 4th of July is a time to reflect upon their meaning. The Flag is a symbol so sacred to our nation that we teach our children not to let it touch the ground, and the Pledge is a spoken commitment to the ideals of liberty and justice. The Pledge is recited in Nebraska’s schools and the U.S. Senate starts each day with the Pledge of Allegiance. The 4th of July is a time to remember that the Pledge is more than words and the Flag is more than a piece of cloth. They are symbols that connect all Americans regardless of race, creed or color and we are proud of that tradition.

On the 4th of July, we as Americans and Nebraskans celebrate our great nation. It is a time when we reflect upon our nation’s history and marvel at the advances we have made over the last 228 years since our first Independence Day. Together we celebrate our nation’s past and reaffirm our confidence and optimism in America’s future.

###

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell
Washington

For Immediate Release
July 1, 2004
Contacts:
Sam Hudzik, 202-224-8277
Jed Lewison, 206-819-8086

Cantwell: Enron lawsuit could cost

Snohomish County schools $2.5 million,

enough to pay for textbooks for 40,000 students

Cantwell, Inslee meet with Snohomish County educators on financial impacts of Enron’s market manipulation to local schools

(Reminder: Cantwell, Inslee, Snohomish educators and PUD officials will be available at 1.15pm on Thursday at the Everett School District building on 4730 Colby Avenue in Everett.)

EVERETT, WA – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) today announced that Enron’s $122 million lawsuit against Snohomish PUD could cost Snohomish County Schools $2.5 million, enough to pay for textbooks for 40,000 students for a full year. Snohomish County schools have already paid more than $9 million in increased energy costs due to energy market manipulation and the western energy crisis despite cutting usage by nearly ten percent.

Cantwell joined Congressman Jay Inslee (D-WA) at the Everett School District to discuss the ongoing financial impacts of Enron’s market manipulation on local schools with Snohomish County educators and the Snohomish PUD.

“Students are still paying the price for Enron’s market manipulation,” Cantwell said. “I’m going to take their story to Washington, DC because federal regulators need to know that there are real and continuing costs to what Enron did. It’s time that federal regulators do their job to protect us from Enron’s illegal activity.”

“While Washington State schools are facing huge financial challenges, the Majority Leadership continues to prevent a vote on our efforts to reduce the energy costs for our schools and families,” Inslee said. “The House had a chance last week to provide relief to Snohomish County ratepayers, but the Leadership decided to put their friendship with Enron above common sense refunds for Snohomish County.”

Enron has filed a $122 million lawsuit against Snohomish PUD, claiming that Snohomish should be forced to pay the remaining value on a manipulated energy contract that the utility cancelled in 2001. The case is currently being considered by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) which has repeatedly refused to protect Snohomish PUD by using its power to void the contract.

The Snohomish PUD Board has not determined how to collect the $122 million from customers in the event the utility loses the litigation battle with Enron. However, if one assumes that the $122 million would be collected on a per kilowatt-hour basis (which would reflect the varying usages between various types of customers, i.e. a residential customer uses much less electricity than a large commercial business) the estimated collective financial exposure to all of the school districts is $2.5 million. Everett School District would bear approximately $480,000 of that burden and Snohomish School District $200,000.

“To put things in perspective, $2.5 million is enough to pay for textbooks for 40,000 students for a full year,” Cantwell said. “School administrators in Snohomish County have done a superb job of insulating students from the effects of higher power costs, but now we need help from the federal government to protect our schools from energy market manipulation.”

According to the Association of American Publishers, the average cost per student per year for textbooks is $60. That means that in real-world terms the cost of Enron’s lawsuit could pay for textbooks for 40,000 students for a full year.

Snohomish County schools served 105,712 students in the 2003-4 school year, 18,064 in the Everett School District and 8,904 in the Snohomish School District.

Snohomish PUD was forced to raise rates after energy market manipulation and the western energy crisis. As a result, through June 30 of this year, Snohomish schools have paid $9.4 million in increased costs, despite cutting usage by nearly 10 percent. The schools have paid approximately $30 million for electricity since January 1, 2004 and will pay nearly $10 million in 2004 on electricity alone.

# # #

For Immediate Release: Contact: Chuck Kleeschulte, Comm Director
June 30, 2004 (202) 224-9306; H 301/292-2260; Cell 202/253-9964

SENATOR MURKOWSKI MONITORING INTERIOR WILDFIRES; SEEKS AID

ANCHORAGE – Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski tonight is urging the federal government to make all necessary assistance available to help the State of Alaska combat the rash of wildfires plaguing the Interior.

All day Wednesday, the Senator’s Washington staff was in touch with officials from the BLM Alaska Fire Service, the State of Alaska Division of Forestry, the Alaska Division of Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, while staff members from the Senator’s Fairbanks office were fielding calls from concerned residents of Interior Alaska.

On Wednesday evening, Federal Emergency Management Agency Regional Director John Pennington assured Senator Murkowski that his agency is working closely with the State of Alaska and will expedite a state request for federal financial assistance to help fund fire suppression efforts. Murkowski’s office has also asked FEMA Director Michael D. Brown to stay on top of the situation.

On Thursday morning, Senator Murkowski will call Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton to ask that “she personally sees to it that the Interior Department pulls out all of the stops and makes sure that Alaska has all of the resources it needs to address the critical fire situation.” The Bureau of Land Management’s Alaska Fire Service is responsible for combating wildfires in the northern portion of the state.

Senator Murkowski urged Interior residents to pay close attention to the advice of public safety officials and to contact the Fire Information Center at Fort Wainwright at (907) 356-5511 for the latest fire information.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the firefighting crews working night and day to protect lives and property. We must never forget that firefighting is dangerous work and we hope that all of our brave wildland firefighters will return home safely,” said Murkowski.

She made special note of the people of Fort Yukon and other Yukon Flats villages who are assisting the people of Venetie fight the Pingo fire that is burning less than a mile from that Interior Alaska village and of the citizens near Chatanika, northeast of Fairbanks, who are fighting the Boundary Fire.

Senator Murkowski’s team in Washington and Alaska will continue to monitor the fire around the clock.
###

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell
Washington

Media Advisory
June 30, 3004
Contact:
Sam Hudzik, 202-224-8277
Jed Lewison, 206-819-8086

Public Schedule for Senator Maria Cantwell

Thursday, July 1, 2004

10:30 AM

SEATTLE

Cantwell to lead panel at Washington Council on International Trade

Cantwell will lead a panel titled “Trading on Our Strengths: Preemptive Strategies for a Competitive Workforce,” discussing how companies can help their employees prepare for the insecurities of the global economy.

Location: Bell Harbor International Conference Center

2211 Alaskan Way, Seattle

1:15 PM

EVERETT

Cantwell, Inslee to meet with Snohomish County educators on financial impacts of Enron’s market manipulation to local schools

Cantwell and Congressman Jay Inslee (D-WA) will meet with Snohomish County educators and the Snohomish PUD to announce the financial impacts of Enron’s market manipulation on local schools.

Location: Everett School District Building, Room C1&2

4730 Colby Avenue, Everett

5:45 PM

MOUNTAINLAKE TERRACE

Cantwell to present award at Snohomish County Workforce Development Council recognition dinner

Cantwell will present the Senator Maria Cantwell Award for Lifelong Learning. A leader in the Senate on workforce development issues, Cantwell announced legislation on Tuesday that would give individuals and businesses tax incentives to invest in continuing education and skills training opportunities for workers.

Location: Nile Golf and Country Club

6601 244th Ave SW, Mountainlake Terrace

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Mike Buttry 202/224-4224
Wednesday, June 30, 2004

Nebraska Receives $2.5 Million from Department of Energy

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R–NE) announced today that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) awarded Nebraska $2,494,014 to improve the energy efficiency of low-income households. Low-income families spend an average of 14% of their income on energy.

“During these warm summer months, this funding helps provide energy-saving improvements to low-income families. These funds will help families conserve energy and lower their energy costs,” Hagel said.

The DOE’s Weatherization Assistance Program provides energy audits to identify the most cost-effective measures for each home, including adding insulation, reducing air infiltration, and servicing heating and cooling systems. On average, weatherization reduces a home’s energy cost by $215 each year.

-30-

MEDIA ADVISORY
JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator - Texas
CONTACT: DON STEWART
(202) 224-0704 office (202) 365-6702 cell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 30, 2004

CORNYN TO CHAIR HEARING ON EFFORTS TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING, SLAVERY

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Property Rights, will hold a hearing on Wednesday, July 7 at 2:00 p.m. entitled “Examining U.S. Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking and Slavery.”

The panel will hear from administration officials and representatives of non-governmental organizations.

“These grave human rights violations are not just unconstitutional, not just criminal—they are profoundly evil, and we must do all we can to end this modern-day slavery,” Chairman Cornyn said. “At the hearing, witnesses will testify about tragic stories of exploitation from across Texas, and across America. And we will learn what the administration has been doing to protect the victims, punish the criminals, and prevent others from facing the same fate.”

WHAT: Hearing on the efforts to combat human trafficking and slavery

WHERE: 226 Senate Dirksen Office Building

WHEN: Wednesday, July 7

2:00 PM

Press avail: Immediately following hearing

WHO: Sen. John Cornyn, Chairman; Sen. Russ Feingold, Ranking Member; and Members of the Constitution Subcommittee

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 30, 2004

Contact: Rachel Reiter 202/224-4224

President Signs Flood Insurance Bill

Washington, D.C. – Today, President Bush signed into law legislation (S. 2238) co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) to re-authorize and reform the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) until 2008. The bill passed the Senate by unanimous consent June 15 and passed the House by voice vote June 21.

The bill assists communities in preparing for floods and makes policyholders’ premiums more equitable. The NFIP is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and provides more than 90 percent of flood insurance policies in the U.S. Currently, communities at low risk for flood, such as North Platte, Nebraska, pay the same NFIP rate as policyholders who experience repetitive flood damage. This bill makes the NFIP more equitable by increasing the rate paid by repetitive claimants who do not take steps to reduce their risk of future flood damage. The bill provides $40 million a year for five years to help those in high-risk areas reduce their flood risk.

"The NFIP provides important protection for flood-prone communities across America. Putting this bill into law reforms our outdated national flood insurance program and will help take some of the financial burden off of communities in Nebraska, like North Platte, who are at low-risk for flooding," Hagel said.

Flood insurance legislation introduced by First District Congressman Doug Bereuter in the House of Representatives first passed in the House on November 20, 2003.

-30 -

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Susan Wheeler (202) 224-5150
June 30, 2004 Lindsay Nothern (208) 334-1776

CRAPO TO ANNOUNCE FREE CANCER SCREENINGS
Senator also official starter for the Main Street Mile this Friday

Boise - During a news conference on Friday, Idaho Senator Mike Crapo will urge men to take part in free health screenings for prostate cancer. Crapo will be joined by representatives of Pfizer Incorporated, local doctors and other health care professionals Friday in Downtown Boise. He will be in Boise to promote the annual Mike Crapo Health Awareness Booths and act as official starter for the “Main Street Mile - A Mile for Men’s Health” run and walking event.

Crapo will host the news conference and tour a mobile health-screening unit set up by the National Prostate Cancer Coalition in front of Boise City Hall to promote the free screenings offered as part of the Main Street Mile July 1 and 2. He will also detail plans for similar health screenings during several Idaho fairs, including the Western Idaho Fair. At those screenings men can get a free check for prostate cancer and all visitors can receive a free cholesterol check.

Pfizer Incorporated, local doctors, and Saint Alphonsus and St. Luke’s Regional Medical Centers are again playing major roles in the Mike Crapo Health Awareness Booths set up this summer during the Western Idaho Fair and other fairs in Blackfoot, Filer, and Coeur d’Alene.

Crapo will also visit the site of the proposed Family Justice Center in Nampa Friday afternoon, as part of an effort to attract more federal help in the fight against domestic violence in Idaho. Crapo will be appearing in a media campaign urging victims of domestic violence in Idaho to seek help and speak out about the issue.

Highlights of Crapo’s schedule for Friday, July 2 include:
Boise
10:00 a.m. Joins health experts at the National Prostate Cancer Coalition mobile health screening van in front of Boise City Hall to discuss free health exams available during the Western Idaho Fair and the Main Street Mile events.
Noon Speaks at a luncheon for participants and sponsors for the Main Street Mile at the Cazba Restaurant in Downtown Boise.
1:30 p.m. Tours the site of the proposed Family Justice Center in Nampa with local officials and elected leaders to discuss domestic violence issues and funding for the Center. The site is near the Nampa Police Station at 1305 Third Street South in Nampa.
5:30 p.m. Official starter for the Main Street Mile events at the Boise City Hall front plaza area. Differing categories of racers begin running and walking around 6:00 p.m.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, June 30, 2004

Contact: Rachel Reiter 202/224-4224

Linehan to be Part of Carter Center Delegation to Indonesia

Washington, DC - Lou Ann Linehan, Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE), will be traveling to Indonesia as part of a delegation led by former President Jimmy Carter to monitor the presidential election in Indonesia on July 5, 2004. This will be the first time voters in Indonesia will directly choose their President. The Carter Center delegation will be in Indonesia from July 1- July 8, 2004.

"The US-Indonesian relationship is central to our national interests in Southeast Asia. The integrity of Indonesia’s election are critical to democracy and reform throughout the region. I am proud to have Lou Ann Linehan representing Nebraska and the United States on this important trip to ensure credibility in the Indonesian elections" Hagel said.

"I am honored to be a part of this important mission. The US-Indonesian relationship is of mutual importance to both countries. It is a privilege to represent Nebraska and Senator Hagel during the election process in the world’s second-largest democracy," Linehan said.

Linehan, a native of Crab Orchard, Nebraska, and 59 international observers representing eight countries will be deployed to 20 provinces, both in urban and rural areas. The delegates will meet with election officials, parties, and other election observers (both international and domestic). On election day, they will witness poll openings, balloting and initial stages of vote counting. From June 2001 to December 2002, Linehan served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Legislative Affairs.

The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by former US President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide.

- 30 -

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jen Carrier

June 30, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN ANNOUNCES FUNDS TO FIGHT DRUG ABUSE IN IOWA

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of his ongoing efforts against drug abuse in Iowa, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced today Carter Lake will receive $100,000 for the Drug-Free Communities Program to help reduce youth substance abuse and strengthen community anti-drug coalitions.

“Unfortunately, too many young Iowans continue to abuse meth and other dangerous substances,” said Harkin. “We have to do our part to help combat youth substance abuse in our rural communities. The Drug-Free Community grants can help make the difference in our efforts to win the war on drugs and keep Iowa’s youth drug-free.”

The funding from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) will help Carter Lake reduce access of tobacco products to under age youth, increase the awareness of the harm of dangerous drugs, create a mentoring program and reinforce partnerships with substance abuse agencies in the area.

Harkin has been a leader in Congress pushing to strengthen local law enforcement and youth substance abuse programs.

###

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell
Washington

Media Advisory
June 30, 2004
Contacts:
Sam Hudzik, 202-224-8277
Jed Lewison, 206-819-8086

Thursday: Cantwell, Inslee to meet with Snohomish County educators on financial impacts of Enron’s market manipulation to local schools

Cantwell to release new numbers on cost of Enron lawsuit to K-12

EVERETT, WA – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Congressman Jay Inslee (D-WA) will meet with Snohomish County educators and the Snohomish PUD to announce the financial impacts of Enron’s market manipulation on local schools. Cantwell will release new numbers of the potential additional cost to Snohomish County’s K-12 education system of Enron’s $122 million lawsuit against Snohomish PUD.

“Snohomish County students are still paying the price for Enron’s market manipulation,” Cantwell said. “I’m going to take their story to Washington, DC because federal regulators need to know that there are real and continuing costs to what Enron did. It’s time that federal regulators do their job to protect us from Enron’s illegal activity.”

When: 1:15 p.m.

Thursday, July 1st

Where: Everett School District Building, Room C1&2

4730 Colby Avenue

Everett

Who: U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA)

U.S. Rep. Jay Inslee (D-WA)

Dr. Carol Whitehead, Superintendent, Everett School District

Dr. Bill Mester, Superintendent, Snohomish School District

Cynthia First, President, Snohomish PUD Commission

Ed Hansen, General Manager, Snohomish PUD

Directions from Seattle: Take I-5 North to Exit #192, take ramp about half mile to 41st/Evergreen Way exit, take ramp 41st street, go west about half mile to Colby, take left on Colby for half-mile.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Maureen Knightly/ Jen Carrier

June 30, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN ANNOUNCES FIREFIGHTER ASSISTANCE FOR IOWA COMMUNITY

WASHINGTON – As part of his continued effort to support Iowa’s first responders, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today announced that the Lineville Volunteer Fire Department was awarded $150,000 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to increase the effectiveness of fire operations and to support fire fighter safety.

“I’m pleased these brave men and women will receive the essential fire fighting tools they need to keep our communities safe," said Harkin. “The equipment, technology and training these grants will support are the key to protecting Iowa’s volunteer firefighters and our homes and loved ones.”

Specifically, these grants will help Lineville fund the purchase of firefighting equipment and vehicles.

DHS expects to announce grants weekly, and will distribute $746 million to fire departments across the country this year. For more information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, please visit www.usfa.fema.gov.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Susan Wheeler (202) 224-5150
For the Week of July 4, 2004 Laura Thurston Goodroe (202) 224-7500

UNDIMINISHED DEVOTION
Guest opinion submitted by Idaho Senator Mike Crapo

A band of dirty, weary, but hopeful travelers on a Presidential mission of exploration and discovery celebrated the first recorded 4th of July holiday west of the Mississippi River. On a hot Kansas summer day in 1804, Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and their companions shot a gun once in the morning and once again in the evening to commemorate Independence Day.
Just 22 years later, the man responsible for sending them penned his final letter, declining an invitation to attend the 50th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In the correspondence, a gravely ill Thomas Jefferson summarizes his feelings about the famed document, most of which he wrote himself:
May it be to the world, what I believe it will be ... the signal of arousing men to burst the chains ... and to assume the blessings and security of self-government. That form, which we have substituted, restores the free right to the unbounded exercise of reason and freedom of opinion. All eyes are opened, or opening, to the rights of man. ... For ourselves, let the annual return of this day forever refresh our recollections of these rights, and an undiminished devotion to them.
Jefferson passed away a few weeks later on his birthday, July 4, 1826, the day the country celebrated 50 years of a freedom inspired by his immortal words.
The 4th of July has been commemorated in numerous ways, from a solitary gunshot in the Louisiana Purchase wilderness to the fiery beauty and deafening roar of fireworks over our nation’s capital. Barbecues, summer concerts and neighborhood streets lit up with sparklers – these are the ways we Americans reflect on our freedom and come together in solidarity and love for our great country. For many, the strains of John Phillip Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever or the beloved Star Spangled Banner bring back early memories of the 4th of July. The music stirs something within us that we can’t exactly define, but we call it patriotism. Patriotism is incredibly important, especially today. We need to teach our children about why we celebrate the 4th of July, and pass on our love for our country to the next generation. Apathy is as dangerous to freedom as terrorism, and we must fight against both.
Exercise your right to vote. Teach your children about the Founding Fathers, the Constitution and our country’s history. Teach them about equality, women’s suffrage and the civil rights movement. While you are enjoying food and festivities this year, pause to give thanks for our priceless freedom, and say a prayer for those who have defended it in the past and do so today.
A final word about what it means to be an American, love freedom and respect the sanctity of human life. A few weeks ago Hamid Karzai, the interim President of Afghanistan, spoke before a joint session of Congress. He noted the tremendous positive changes that his country has experienced over the past two years. Then he mentioned a trip he had just made to Fort Drum, New York, to pay tribute to two remarkable Army soldiers. A few weeks before, while these young men were patrolling in a city in Afghanistan, insurgents tossed a grenade into the open roof of their armored vehicle. Respect for life was so instinctive in these American soldiers that instead of throwing it back into the street, where upon detonation it would most certainly have injured or killed innocent men, women and children, they put it under their seat where it exploded. They were terribly injured, but they had acted to preserve lives—the lives of strangers--without a second thought.
These men and many more Americans in and out of uniform are doing exactly what Jefferson wrote about at the end of his life so many years ago. They are “bursting the chains” of oppression and persecution. This is our heritage and this is why we celebrate.

WORD COUNT: 653

News Release

For release: June 30, 2004 Contact: Coy Knobel, phone 202-224-3424
Web address: enzi.senate.gov Email: Coy_Knobel@enzi.senate.gov

Enzi working to improve Native American housing
Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., is working to improve housing conditions on the Wind River Reservation by improving access to housing loans for tribal members.
The ‘Homeownership Opportunities for Native Americans Act of 2004,' S. 2571, which Enzi introduced in the Senate recently, amends the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA). It would give the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) statutory authority to continue guaranteeing certain tribal housing loans at 95 percent rather than the 80 percent recently mandated by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). HUD has guaranteed the loans at 95 percent since the NAHASDA passed in 1996.
Banks and other investors have been willing in the past to invest in tribal housing projects due to the full faith guarantee offered by the federal government. The guarantee ensures that investors will be repaid 95 percent of any unpaid principal and interest due on the loan in the case of a default. Enzi said the recent order by the OMB to guarantee only 80 percent of the value of the loan would expose investors to more risk and discourage investment on Native American reservations.
“Providing safe and affordable housing on Native American reservations is a challenge that requires teamwork at every level. As Native American tribes continue to search for ways to improve housing options, flexible funding becomes all the more vital and we need to give them the tools to carry out these options,” said Enzi. “ Studies have shown that housing conditions on American Indian reservations are some of the worst in the nation, this is why I am pleased to introduce this bill to the Senate, it puts one more tool in the toolbox.”
The Title VI Tribal Housing Activities Loan Guarantee Program allows tribes to leverage certain grant money to finance new housing projects. Tribes have used these loan guarantees to construct affordable housing units, improve infrastructure needs, rehabilitate military housing for use by Tribal members, and restore old rental units, just to name a few. To date, Title VI guarantees have supported $77 million in loans to tribes or their housing entities.
-end-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jennifer Carrier

June 29, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN ANNOUNCES RURAL DEVELOPMENT FUNDING FOR IOWA

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of his continuing support for rural Iowa, Senator Tom Harkin (D -IA) announced today that several Iowa communities will receive $144,000 in grants and $4 million in loans for rural development projects from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Harkin is the ranking Democrat on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee.

“Helping provide cleaner, safer water to rural Iowa is essential for economic growth and high quality of life,” said Harkin. “These funds will help make necessary improvements to Iowa’s rural water facilities.”

Details of the grants and loans are as follows:

· City of Humeston: $144,000 grant and a $500,000 loan to construct a new main water line and to replace old water lines in the city.

· Xenia Rural Water District: $3,500,000 loan to expand rural water services into Wright County, add a maintenance facility and expand existing office spaces.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jennifer Carrier

June 29, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN ANNOUNCES BOOST FOR UNIVERSITY OF IOWA HEALTH RESEARCH

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of his ongoing efforts to boost health research, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today announced the University of Iowa is receiving more than $700,000 for research projects from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

"Funding research projects like these at the University of Iowa is the first step towards technological and scientific breakthroughs that provide hope for so many Americans suffering from different diseases and disorders," said Harkin. "The results of these projects will add to our scientific understanding and will improve the quality of life for victims in Iowa and across the county."

The investments will support the following projects at the University of Iowa:

· $322,138 for research on protection against alcohol toxicity

· $241,900 for research on the long-term outcomes of head and neck cancer

· $211,222 for clinical research on neurological disorders

As ranking Democrat on the subcommittee that funds health and education initiatives, Harkin is proud to have achieved in 2003 the historic five-year doubling of the National Institutes of Health, the federal agency responsible for medical research.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Howard Gantman

Tuesday, June 29, 2004 or Scott Gerber 202/224-9629

http://feinstein.senate.gov/

Senator Feinstein, California Officials Call for

Renewal of Federal Assault Weapons Ban

-- 76 days remain until ban expires --

San Francisco, Calif. – Two days before the 11 year anniversary of the shootings at 101 California in San Francisco, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) urged her Senate colleagues to once again approve the reauthorization of the federal assault weapons ban, which could expire on September 13, 2004.

Senator Feinstein was joined at a news conference by U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, San Francisco Police Department Chief Heather Fong and victims of the 101 California shooting.

Following is the prepared text of Senator Feinstein’s remarks:

“Ladies and gentlemen, the clock is ticking. There are 76 days left until the Federal assault weapons ban expires.

Seventy-six days before AK-47s, street-sweepers, TEC-DC 9s and the other guns banned by the law once again will be manufactured and imported into this country.

Seventy-six days until we turn back the clock to 1994, when those seeking to kill the greatest number of people in the shortest amount of time, had easy access to military-style assault weapons.

We all know what this will mean: more Columbines and more 101 Californias.

How can any of us forget the July day almost 11 years ago, when Gian Luigi Ferri walked into 101 California Street in San Francisco carrying two high-capacity TEC-9 assault pistols?

Within minutes, Ferri had murdered eight people, and wounded six others. This tragedy shook San Francisco – and the entire nation.

We saw with absolute clarity the destruction that could be inflicted with these military-style assault weapons.

Navegar’s advertising for the TEC-9 touted the gun as being for ‘paramilitary’ use and ‘resistant to fingerprints,’ with a ‘military non-glare finish,’ a ‘military blowback system,’ and ‘combat-type’ sights.

Guns like these are dangerous – because they have light triggers, you can spray fire them, you can hold them with two hands, and you don’t need to aim.

Already, the gun companies are preparing for the day when the ban is lifted.

In mid-April, Italian customs officials seized more than 8,000 AK-47 assault rifles on their way from the Romanian port of Constanta to New York, and then apparently bound to a gun store in Georgia.

According to press reports, the guns were being shipped to the United States in anticipation of the expiration of the assault weapons ban.

This is the kind of thing we can expect to happen with increasing frequency – companies gearing up to once again produce and import the deadly assault weapons we banned almost ten years ago.

Unless Congress and the President act, our streets will be flooded with assault weapons.

This should really be an easy issue. After all, this ban already passed the Senate once – by a vote of 52-47.

The President has said many times that he supports the current law, and supports renewing the current law.

Every major law enforcement organization in the country supports renewing the ban, as do countless civic organizations.

Almost three-fourths of the American people and two-thirds of gun owners support renewing the ban.

And the ban works – the rate of crimes committed with banned assault weapons has dropped by two-thirds since the ban took effect almost ten years ago.

So one might wonder: why doesn’t the Senate just pass the ban quickly, get it through the House and have it signed into law before it expires?

One very powerful interest group is stopping us – the National Rifle Association.

The NRA has used threats, distortions and bullying tactics to fight against commonsense gun control at every level and at all costs.

In March, the NRA was successful in defeating its own highest priority, the gun immunity bill, simply because the assault weapons ban was added as an amendment to that legislation.

But we will continue to fight the fight and look to amend the ban to legislation that has to pass the Senate this year.

The bottom line is this: these guns – and everyone knows it – have but one purpose, and that purpose is to kill other human beings.

Why would we want to open the floodgates again and let them back on our streets? There is simply no good reason. The time has come to renew the assault weapons ban.”

###

For Immediate Release: Contact: Chuck Kleeschulte, Comm Director
June 29, 2004 (202) 224-9306; H 301/292-2260; Cell 202/253-9964

MURKOWSKI ANNOUNCES GRANTS FOR WRANGELL MUSEUM-CIVIC CENTER AND LOAN FOR SITKA DAYCARE CENTER AT COLLEGE

ANCHORAGE-- U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Agency has agreed to fund two projects for Southeast communities, one a grant to allow Wrangell to complete a community center and art museum and a second loan to help Sitka’s Sheldon Jackson College to install a childcare center on campus.

Murkowski said the USDA will provide Wrangell with a grant for $629,000 from its community facility grant program to complete the 20,000-square-foot Wrangell Museum and Civic Center. The center, designed to help Wrangell increase tourism to the community, is being built on the waterfront and will house Native cultural displays and other historical exhibits, besides serving as a civic center.

The money will go with $3.18 million already obtained by the City of Wrangell, plus $675,000 from the Denali Commission and $50,000 from local contributions and $4.5 million from private foundations to pay for the entire $8.4 million project.

Murkowski also announced that the Department’s community facility direct loan program has granted Sheldon Jackson College in Sitka a loan for $360,000 to finish the new day care center that will provide care for the children of students, faculty and community members. The center, being built on campus, will receive a 31-year loan at 4.375 percent interest. The day care center has already received a $605,000 grant from USDA plus two smaller loans in 2002 and 2003 to get the project rolling.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Susan Wheeler (202) 224-5150

June 29, 2004 Eric Rasmussen (202) 224-7518

IDAHO STUDENT ARTWORK TO BE DISPLAYED IN CRAPO’S D.C. OFFICE

Boise, Post Falls students receive Senator’s Awards

Washington, DC – Two Idaho student artists will have their artwork displayed in Idaho Senator Mike Crapo’s Washington D.C. office, after receiving Senator’s Awards in the Idaho Space Grant Consortium “Exploring Mars” Art Contest. The works by Chase Wasden, Boise, and Dan Lawrence, Post Falls, were selected from a state-wide applicant pool and will remain on display for the duration of the year.

“The landing and successful mission of the Mars Rovers was truly a phenomenal event that focused the attention of the country on the accomplishments of our space program” Crapo said. “The ‘Exploring Mars’ Contest provides an opportunity to present the importance and potential of future space exploration. Chase and Dan have created great pieces that memorialize our successes in space. These two Idahoans are representative of the talent that exists in our state.”

The theme of this year’s contest was “Exploring Mars”. The annual competition aims to highlight NASA programs and stimulate interest throughout the state of Idaho. For this year’s contest, applicants had to be enrolled in primary or secondary school and submit artwork depicting personal interpretations of space exploration on Mars. Both of the students selected for this year’s Senator’s Awards currently attend Idaho high schools. Wasden attends Capital High School in Boise; Lawrence, Post Falls High School in Post Falls.

The Idaho Space Grant Consortium (ISGC) is a division of NASA. It serves the people of Idaho with a flexible, broad based grant program that encourages NASA-related research, special projects and K-12 initiatives across the state. Nearly $140,000 is awarded each year to faculty, college students, and schoolteachers in Idaho. The annual Idaho TECH Art Contest is one of many activities conducted by the Consortium.

For more information on the annual Idaho TECH Art Contest, visit http://www.uidaho.edu/idahotech/artcontest.html. Digital photos of the artwork are available by emailing Eric Rasmussen at eric_rasmussen@crapo.senate.gov.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contacts: Jane Andersen (Levin) 202-228-3685
June 29, 2004 Dave Lemmon (Stabenow) 202-224-4822

Senators Levin, Stabenow Announce $ 7.1 Million
in Grants for Michigan Airport Projects

Flint, Alpena, Marquette, Houghton, and Escanaba Airports to Receive Funds

WASHINGTON - Senators Carl Levin, D-Mich., and Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., announced today that $7,180,688 in grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation will help fund runway, equipment, facility, and grounds improvements as well as environmental impact and noise mitigation studies at airports around the state.

“Our airports in Michigan face many unique challenges, especially during the winter months,” Levin said. “This funding will help our airports to continue to meet those challenges while also finding new ways to be environmentally and community friendly.”

"This new equipment and these infrastructure improvements will enhance safety and efficiency at the Alpena, Escanaba, Flint, Houghton, and Marquette airports," Stabenow said. "Safe, secure and efficient air travel is a boon to Michigan families, business, industry and tourism, and it ultimately benefits everyone in the state."

The grants were awarded as follows:

· $2,738,938 to Bishop International Airport in Flint for improvements to the terminal building and snow removal equipment building. The grant also includes funds for an update to the master plan study and to conduct a noise compatibility study.

· $1,641,600 to Alpena County Regional Airport for improvements to the snow removal building and equipment, airport drainage system, and installation of apron lighting.

· $1,320,000 to Sawyer International Airport in Marquette for improvements to hangars.

· $1,123,900 to Houghton County Memorial Airport in Hancock to improve taxiway surfaces and airport drainage, restore damaged wetland area, and conduct an environmental study regarding the impact of future airport development projects.

· $356,250 to Delta County Airport in Escanaba for the replacement of outdated snow removal equipment.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Susan Wheeler (202) 224-5150
June 29, 2004 Lindsay Nothern (208) 334-1776

CRAPO: IDAHOANS CAN BREATHE EASIER
Applauds Idaho’s & Ada County air attainment announcement

Coeur d’Alene - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo today applauded a federal announcement to certify that all of Idaho has met federal air quality fine-particulate standards. Some regions of the state, including Ada County’s air quality, have been a concern over the past several years due to carbon monoxide levels. However, state and local officials have worked to reduce carbon monoxide concentrations over the years. The new designation represents a strong benchmark to make continuous improvements in our state’s air quality.

Lesser concerns had been raised over air standards near Pocatello and in Kootenai County near Coeur d’Alene related to field burning. Non-attainment of air quality standards could have cost the county federal transportation funding if not corrected.

Early in his Senate term, Crapo, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee with oversight of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), worked closely with members of the Treasure Valley community planning group COMPASS, area mayors and state and local leaders to persuade the Environmental Protection Agency to take note of Ada County’s efforts to improve air quality when the county was facing non-attainment status.

The EPA has sent Governor Kempthorne a letter certifying Idaho’s air quality statewide is in compliance with federal clean air guidelines for fine particulate matter. The PM 2.5 Particulate Matter standard refers to “fine” particulates found in the air such as dust, dirt, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets. Because they are considered “fine” particulates they present the greatest danger of being trapped in the lungs of people breathing the air.

Crapo noted the new air quality findings are a good base to build on for future improvement. “It is a relief to know that Idaho’s pristine air quality has again been recognized by the federal government,” Crapo said. “I appreciate the agency’s recognition of the Treasure Valley’s efforts to keep our air clean. Being in the valley, we will always face geological conditions that join with population growth to threaten our air quality. The efforts we have made, from air testing to burning bans to mass transit efforts show we are doing our part for clean air, and the federal government has recognized that.”

# # #

United States Senator - Texas
CONTACT: DON STEWART
(202) 224-0704 office, (202) 365-6702 cell
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2004
CONSUMER CONFIDENCE AT TWO-YEAR HIGH

‘This new consumer confidence rating is further evidence that Americans are optimistic’

WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), a member of the Senate Budget Committee and the President’s Export Council, made the following statement Tuesday regarding reports that consumer confidence in the U.S. economy is at the highest level in two years:

“Though some politicians on the campaign trail continue to preach doom and gloom, Americans aren’t buying it—they’re buying homes instead.

“Consumer confidence is at a two-year high, record job numbers show Americans are going back to work, and home-ownership is growing at an impressive pace.

“So, despite the ceaseless negativity, our economy is strong and will continue to grow. This new consumer confidence rating is further evidence that Americans are optimistic that our country and our economy are on the right track. Maybe someone should tell my colleague from Massachusetts.”

The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index increased sharply in June to 101.9, up from 93.1 in May.

-30-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jen Carrier

June 29, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN APPLAUDS BOOST FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY TRAINING AT INDIAN HILLS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As part of his ongoing support of Iowa’s biotechnology industry, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced today that Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa has been chosen to become a part of the new National Center for the Biotechnology Workforce.

“Iowa has an exceptional system of higher education, and I am proud that these funds will go towards strengthening biotechnology in Iowa,” Harkin said. “This training center is critical to the development and expansion of the biotechnology industry.”

Five community colleges throughout the United States will receive a total of $5 million to develop curriculum, training and resources to help build an educated, nationwide biotechnology workforce. Representing the Midwest, Indian Hills will lead education efforts in the fields of agriculture and food processing.

Indian Hills has become a leader in biotechnology training due to its state-of-the-art Iowa Bioprocess Training Center. The training center is used to educate and train current and future employees of biotechnology and value-added agriculture industries.

Harkin, a senior Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, secured funds in the 2003 Omnibus Appropriations Bill to equip the Iowa Bioprocess Training Center. Over the past two years, Harkin has secured a total of $1.3 million for the center.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jennifer Carrier

June 28, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN ANNOUNCES BOOST FOR CHILD CARE

FACILITIES

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of his continuing support for rural Iowa, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced today that two Iowa child care facilities will receive $100,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as part of the Community Facility Grant program.

“Access to childcare and early education centers is an important part of all communities, including those in rural Iowa,” said Harkin. “These funds will help provide the facilities and resources necessary to help children learn and grow.”

The details of the grants are as follows:

Waverly Child Care and Preschool: $50,000 grant and a $200,000 loan to be used for the construction of a new childhood learning center.

Elkader Community Child Care and Learning Center: $50,000 to be used for the purchase of educational equipment.

As the ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Harkin included a provision in the 2002 Farm Bill that ensured a proportion of funding went to rural child care centers.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Maureen Knightly/ Jennifer Carrier

June 28, 2004 202-224-3254

HARKIN ANNOUNCES BOOST FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN SIOUX CITY

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced today that $3 million has been awarded to Sioux City through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

“These funds will be of great service to the Sioux City area,” Harkin said. “The investment will give a needed boost for economic development and serving low income Iowans.”

The grant award will be used to fund CDBG activities for the Sioux City area such as economic and community development, public facilities and infrastructure, housing rehabilitation, home ownership assistance, emergency shelter, street improvements and public services.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Angela de Rocha (202) 224-5944
June 28, 2004 Stephen Myers (202 224-6207

U.S. SENATOR WAYNE ALLARD’S STATEMENT
ON TRANSFER OF SOVEREIGNTY IN IRAQ

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Wayne Allard (R-CO) made the following statement regarding Monday’s transfer of sovereignty in Iraq:

“Today's transfer of sovereignty was another step toward a free and independent Iraq. Iraqis are now in charge of their own destiny, free to determine their own priorities and goals,” said Senator Allard. “The U.S. and its coalition partners remain committed to assisting the new Iraqi government as it readies the Iraqi people for free and fair elections this coming January.”

“The road to democracy for the Iraqi people will not be easy or without strife,” added Senator Allard. “But with a commitment to freedom and coalition assistance, I believe Iraq's new government can defeat those who espouse terror and introduce democracy to the Iraqi people.”

###

***********************************************
Stephen Myers
Deputy Press Secretary
Office of Senator Wayne Allard
521 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
(202) 224-5941

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Adam Elggren, 202.224.3370
JUNE 28, 2004
HATCH STATEMENT ON UTAH MARINE HELD HOSTAGE

Washington, D.C. — Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-Utah) released the following statement on the kidnapping of Utah Marine Corporal Wassef Ali Hassoun by terrorists in the Middle East:

"Yesterday brought terrible news for all Utahns: one of our own has been taken hostage by terrorists in Iraq. I have talked to General Michael Hagee, Commandant of the Marine Corps, this morning, and was assured this incident is the Corps’s highest priority in that troubled region. I will continue to monitor the situation. In the meantime, our thoughts and prayers go to the Hassoun family in West Jordan and I know all Utahns join me in praying that our neighbor is delivered from the hands of these criminals."

# # #

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTE:
The information contained in this e-mail is legally privileged and confidential information intended only for the use of the individuals or entities named as addressees. If you, the reader of this message, are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, publication, or copying of this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please forgive the inconvenience, immediately notify the sender, and delete the original message without keeping a copy.

Thank you.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Wes Hickman or Kevin Bishop

June 28, 2004 (202) 224-5972 / (864) 250-1417

Statement from U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham on Turnover of Power in Iraq

WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made the following statement on the handover of sovereignty in Iraq to the interim Iraqi government. Graham is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

“I believe it’s smart to accelerate the handover of sovereignty to the interim Iraqi government. It highlights the fact Iraqi’s are ready and eager to assume self-governance.

“The insurgents represent the past. They are trying to hold onto power because in a free and democratic Iraq the Saddam loyalists lose big time. The terrorists see Iraq as a frontline battle in their effort to undermine liberty and destroy peace loving people throughout the world. Their ultimate goal is to create a radical fundamentalist safe haven in Iraq.

“After my recent visit to Iraq, I am convinced the Iraqi people have the will to defeat the terrorists. If we provide them with the capability, they are willing to pay a heavy price for their freedom.

“We must redouble our efforts to provide well-trained forces capable of supporting the new government and increase efforts to help improve infrastructure, schools, and health care. Now is the time for the international community to step up to plate.

“A successful democracy in Iraq is in the best interest of the world community. It is also a first step in eradicating extremism in the Middle East and terrorism around the globe.”

####

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell
Washington

For Immediate Release
Monday, June 28, 2004
Contact:
Charla Neuman
202-224-3679
202-309-3447 (c)

Supreme Court Ruling on Guantanamo Bay Detainees Upholds Democracy, Cantwell Says

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) called today’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling a victory for democracy and the rule of law because the courts ruled that detainees have a right to due process; they have a right to counsel and to be heard before a court.

Sen. Cantwell stated, “The United States is a beacon of democracy because it governs by rule of law. Today the Supreme Court reinforced that strength.”

On December 13, 2003, Sen. Cantwell wrote to Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, along with her colleagues Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) and Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), asking for assurances that detainees would not be denied a right to due process.

The senators wrote, “A serious process must be established in the very near term either to formally treat and process the detainees as war criminals or to return them to their countries for appropriate judicial action.”

The three senators sent the letter after they visited Guantanamo Bay on December 10, 2003.

Cantwell added, “Today’s decision demonstrates the Administration failed to recognize that the right to due process applies even during times of war.”

Specifically, the Supreme Court ruled, “that a citizen-detainee seeking to challenge his classification as an enemy combatant must receive notice of the factual basis for his classification, and a fair opportunity to rebut the Government’s factual assertions before a neutral decision maker.”

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jennifer Carrier

June 28, 2004 202.224.3254

Statement of Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA)

On the Transfer of Power in Iraq

“I applaud the transfer of power, but I regret that the secrecy surrounding its scheduling, as well as the general lack of security in Iraq, means that most ordinary Iraqis had little opportunity to celebrate the event.

“This Administration has consistently underestimated and understated the security problems in Iraq. Despite new assurances from NATO to provide military training for Iraqi security forces, I am afraid that American troops will continue to bear the burden for many months to come.”

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Adam Elggren 202.224.3370
JUNE 28, 2004

HATCH: IRAQ’S FUTURE NOW IN IRAQI HANDS

Washington, D.C. — The Coalition Provisional Authority today turned power over to the new Iraqi government. Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-Utah) released the following statement:

"Today, the United States did in Iraq what it said it would do from the first day of our intervention there last year: We returned sovereignty to the Iraqi people, after demolishing the regime of the dictator, Saddam Hussein.

"The Coalition Provisional Authority, under the direction of Ambassador Paul Bremer, and with the support of over 30 countries in the multinational force, succeeded in destroying the Saddam Hussein dictatorship, eliminating a regional and international threat as well as freeing 25 million Iraqis from a hideous and criminal despotism. Substantial progress has been achieved toward the development of free and federal political institutions and a strong and growing economy. The Iraqi people are free to express themselves in dignity and diversity and free to go about tapping their natural industry and enterprise.

"No one should deny that the security situation in Iraq is unsettled. Terrorists, gangsters and Saddam recidivists roam certain parts of the country, intent on destroying the gains achieved by the Coalition and the Iraqi people. But these thugs will not succeed. The President has made clear, to the American public and the Iraqi people, that the United States will remain with our coalition allies to help the Iraqis defeat the remnants of resistance.

"As of today’s transfer of sovereignty, the Iraqi people, under their Interim Government, are responsible for their fate. This was always the goal of the United States. We are a unique nation in history, for no modern nation has sacrificed as many times as we have in the last century to go overseas – not for plunder, not for domination – but to liberate foreign nations to achieve their freedom. As in our past successful missions overeas, we shall not abandon those we sacrificed to free.

"I congratulate Ambassador Bremer for the mission he led. I offer my congratulations to Prime Minister Ayad Allawi, his government and the Iraqi people on the occasion of their sovereignty. I join with my fellow Utahns in offering my congratulations and on-going prayers to the United States military, which continues to serve bravely and honorably. And I congratulate President Bush for the vision and guts it took to lead our nation in removing Saddam Hussein and taking the Iraqi nation to a path toward peace, freedom and prosperity. In so doing, the President removed a grave and gathering threat to this nation."

# # #

News Release
For release: June 28, 2004 Contact: Coy Knobel, phone 202-224-3424
Web address: enzi.senate.gov Email: Coy_Knobel@enzi.senate.gov

Enzi announces state-wide fire office grants
Washington, D.C. - The Wyoming State Fire Marshall office is receiving federal funding to develop and maintain fire prevention and safety programs according to U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, R-Wyo.
The State Fire Marshall office has been awarded a $45,970 Fire Prevention Safety grant from the Department of Homeland Security’s Office for Domestic Preparedness, in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The money awarded will help fund the installation of smoke detectors and in conducting fire safety surveys in households with small children or senior citizens that are living below the poverty level. Four to eight communities statewide with populations less than 20,000 will be eligible to take part in the program.
Family members will be polled door-to-door, agency referred and/or residents may call their local fire department to install smoke alarms in their homes. Communities interested in receiving funds for the Smoke Alarm Program can contact the State Fire Marshall office at (307) 777-7288.
The Fire Prevention and Safety program is a portion of the Assistance to Firefighter Grant program (AFG) and reserves the highest priority for projects focusing on the prevention of fire-related injuries to children.
Fire departments with questions regarding the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program can reach the fire grants help desk toll free at 1-866-274-0960, or via email at usfagrants@fema.gov. For current information regarding these grant awards available for each state, please visit www.usfa.fema.gov.
-end-

For Immediate Release: June 28, 2004 Contact: Kevin Schweers 202-224-9767

Statement of Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison on
U.S. Transfer of Sovereignty in Iraq

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) issued the following statement on the U.S. handover of power in Iraq today:

“Today's early transfer of power is an inspired step. The handover was a testament to how far the budding government has come under the leadership of President Al-Yawer and Prime Minister Allawi.

“Clearly we have more work to do, most notably to stamp out the treacherous attacks against innocent Iraqis and U.S. soldiers. But with this important event we are closer to establishing a fully democratic Iraq and sending an unequivocal message to the terrorists that their tactics will fail and their time is up.

“President Bush has rightly said U.S. forces will remain in Iraq as long as it takes to improve security and stabilize the country. Hopefully other nations will step up to the plate. While NATO’s willingness to assist with training is welcome, their leaders should also send troops to support this critical mission.”

-- END --

MEDIA ADVISORY
Contact: Michael Briggs

June 28, 2004
202-224-1545

SENATOR EDWARDS GETS READY FOR
SIXTH ANNUAL NORTH CAROLINA BEACH WALK

WASHINGTON – Senator John Edwards will visit Wrightsville Beach on Sunday, July 4 for his sixth annual beach walk to meet North Carolinians who are vacationing on Independence Day.

At 11:30 a.m., Senator Edwards will walk along Wrightsville Beach, beginning at Johnny Mercer’s Pier.

From 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m., Senator Edwards will host a reception at the Blockade Runner Resort and Hotel.

Sunday, July 4

11:30 a.m.
Beach walk begins

Johnny Mercer’s Pier
23 East Salisbury Street
Wrightsville Beach

1:00 p.m.
Reception

Dinner Deck
Blockade Runner Resort and Hotel,
275 Waynick Boulevard
Wrightsville Beach

____________

To UNSUBSCRIBE, send a blank e-mail to:

edwards-news-unsubscribe-request@email-lists.senate.gov

BEN NIGHTHORSE CAMPBELL

WAYNE ALLARD

U.S. SENATORS FOR COLORADO

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Angela de Rocha at (202) 224-5944

June 28, 2004 Kate Dando at (202) 224-5852

SENATORS CAMPBELL, ALLARD SECURE $50 MILLION

FOR PUEBLO DEPOT CLEANUP IN DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS BILL

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Wayne Allard (R-Colorado) and Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-Colorado) announced Monday that the Senate has voted to include $50 million for chemical weapons cleanup at the U.S. Army’s Pueblo Depot in the FY 2005 Department of Defense Appropriations bill.

This follows on the heels of a Senate vote last week that authorized $147 million for the cleanup. Federal funding for such projects must receive the go-ahead in two separate pieces of legislation - authorizing and appropriating – in order for the funding to be provided.

“This is a major victory for the people of Pueblo and southern Colorado,” said Senator Campbell, a member of the Appropriations Committee. “The chemical weapons stockpile in the facility needs to be disposed of for homeland security reasons, and in order to meet the 2012 Chemical Weapons Convention Treaty deadline.”

“The Senate voted to appropriate $50 million for the Pueblo cleanup, and I have secured a commitment from (Senate Appropriations) Chairman Ted Stevens that the remaining funding will be provided through the Appropriations Committee as the project proceeds,” Senator Allard said. “Bottom line here is that funding will be forthcoming so that the Pueblo Depot cleanup can move forward with destruction of the more than 700,000 rounds of chemical munitions there.”

The Department of Defense’s (DOD) initial FY2005 budget request for the project, made in February, would have resulted in a shortfall in funding and, as a result, raised the risk that the cleanup would be delayed.

Kate Dando

Press Secretary

U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell

(202) 224-5852

JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator - Texas
CONTACT: DON STEWART
(202) 224-0704 office (202) 365-6702 cell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 28, 2004

SUPREME COURT CONFIRMS PRESIDENT’S ABILITY TO DETAIN ENEMY COMBANTANTS

Court rightly confirmed what Congress and the President have long understood and agreed to: the detention of enemy combatants is a fundamental and accepted incident to war, Cornyn says

WASHINGTON –The U.S. Supreme Court’s decisions in the Hamdi and Padilla cases, though “a bit of a disappointment,” will help ensure that the President can prosecute the war on terror as Congress authorized, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, said Monday. Cornyn, chairman of the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Property Rights, filed an amicus brief in the Supreme Court in March to defend the right of the President and Congress to use “all necessary and appropriate force.”

“Though portions of the decision were disappointing, the Supreme Court today has rightly confirmed what Congress and the President have long understood and agreed to: the detention of enemy combatants is a fundamental and accepted incident to war and necessary to preserve our national security,” Cornyn said following the ruling. “I hope that lower courts will heed the Court’s admonition that, in a time of war, the constitutional prerogatives of the executive branch deserve substantial deference.”

Cornyn, though, expressed concern about what the rulings could mean to future efforts.

“We have an enemy that wants to kill us, whether that is here, or in the field of battle. So, I hope that this ends up working out, but I am a little concerned about the new constraints that the Supreme Court has placed on the President as commander in chief. I hope that they don’t represent handcuffs.”

The cases decided Monday were Donald H. Rumsfeld v. Jose Padilla and Yaser Esam Hamdi v. Donald H. Rumsfeld. The Court was asked to decide whether Jose Padilla and Yaser Hamdi, both identified by the Department of Defense as enemy combatants, can be detained under that designation.

On Sept. 18, 2001, Congress voted overwhelmingly – 98-0 in the Senate and 420-1 in the House – to authorize use of “all necessary and appropriate force” in response to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

This amicus brief stated that Sens. Cornyn and Larry Craig (R-Idaho), “Firmly believe that the Joint Resolution provides ample authorization for the detention of Yaser Hamdi and Jose Padilla as enemy combatants, and that any decision to the contrary by this Court would contradict and undermine that act of Congress.”

The brief addressed the question: “Whether the President, acting pursuant to Congressional authorization to use force in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, has the authority to detain two American citizens whom he determined were enemy combatants, presenting ongoing threats to the safety of the United States.”

“The Supreme Court has never contradicted the political branches’ determination of a state of war. Nor has it ever questioned Congress’s ability to authorize the President to conduct war,” Cornyn said. “The separation of powers and principles of justiciability require that courts leave these questions to the political branches. The federal courts have no authority to contradict a determination by the President and Congress that a state of war exists.”

In November, Cornyn filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court to defend the constitutionality of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Sen. Cornyn chairs the subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights & Property Rights, and is the only former judge on the committee. He also serves on the Armed Services, Environment and Public Works, and Budget Committees. He served previously as Texas Attorney General, Texas Supreme Court Justice, and Bexar County District Judge.

NEWS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF U.S. SENATOR LARRY CRAIG

For Immediate Release Mike Tracy (208) 342-7985
June 28, 2004 Sid Smith (202) 224-8708

CRAIG COMMENDS EARLY TRANSFER OF POWER IN IRAQ
Move demonstrates U.S. not interested in occupation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Idaho Senator Larry Craig commented on the transfer of power from the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) to the Iraqi Transitional Government, two days ahead of schedule. Craig said the early transition of power will strengthen the hand of the United States as President Bush seeks to broaden NATO involvement in Iraq.

“This historic event marks the rebirth of Iraq as a sovereign nation,” said Craig. “Once again the action taken by the Bush Administration shows the nimbleness and ability to adjust to the challenges presented during a difficult time. The new Iraqi leader, Iyad Allawi, made a strong statement against terrorism and thanked America for the freedom his countrymen now enjoy. The timing was excellent as President Bush was in Turkey gaining support from NATO to take a more formal role in working to bring stability to Iraq.”

U.S. forces will continue to provide security in Iraq until the new Iraqi army and police forces are capable of taking on that responsibility. In a statement earlier today, NATO leaders expressed support of the transfer.

Craig praised President Bush’s efforts, noting that in the three years since terrorists attacked the United States, President Bush has liberated two countries, crushed the Taliban, crippled al-Qaida, put nuclear inspectors in Libya, Iran and North Korea without firing a shot, and captured a dictator who slaughtered more than 500,000 of his own people. Bush did all this abroad while not allowing another terrorist attack at home.

[30]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Samantha Dallaire

June 28, 2004 202-224-6101

Statement of Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV) on the Transfer of Power in Iraq

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- “Transferring sovereignty to the Iraqi interim government two days early was a necessary move and I applaud the President for responding to the wishes of Prime Minister Allawi to take charge of an extremely volatile situation. NATO’s decision to help train Iraqi Security forces is also a step forward, but they must do even more to help stabilize the country.

“While we transferred sovereignty today, we need to be honest with the American people that this struggle is far from over. Security in Iraq is worse now than it was right after the fall of Baghdad and may deteriorate further. The Iraqi security forces cannot handle the challenge alone, reconstruction has barely started, and massive unemployment has left many frustrated and even desperate. While the Iraqis will now make their own decisions, they are also at their most vulnerable.

“Iraq is still a very dangerous place. What we are seeing are two forces fighting for the future of Iraq. One is the interim government that is committed to creating a stabile, democratic state that reflects Iraq’s own traditions and rich culture. I think most Iraqis -- Kurds, Sunni, and Shiia -- support that objective. Their opponents -- Ba’athists, jihadists, and criminals -- want an Iraq crippled by anarchy so they can pursue their own agendas. Regardless of how we got here, we have a stake in the success of the Interim government, and the Iraqi people and the stability of the region will suffer if the insurgents prevail.”

Senator Rockefeller is the Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

###

JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator - Texas
CONTACT: DON STEWART
(202) 224-0704 office (202) 365-6702 cell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 28, 2004

SUPREME COURT CONFIRMS PRESIDENT’S ABILITY TO DETAIN ENEMY COMBANTANTS

Court rightly confirmed what Congress and the President have long understood and agreed to: the detention of enemy combatants is a fundamental and accepted incident to war, Cornyn says

Cornyn, though, expressed concern about what the rulings could mean to future efforts.

In November, Cornyn filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court to defend the constitutionality of the Pledge of Allegiance.

For Immediate Release Contact: Michael Brumas or Nancy Wall

June 28, 2004 (202) 224-4124

Statement of Sen. Jeff Sessions On The Transfer Of Sovereignty To The Interim Iraqi Government

WASHINGTON — Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL) issued the following statement on today’s U.S. transfer of sovereignty to the interim Iraqi government:

“Today’s transfer not only avoids the danger surrounding a big celebration on June 30, but it will further impress on the Iraqi people that this is their country and they’ve got to step up and run it.”

Sessions issued the statement en route to the Middle East region Monday. He is leading a Senate Armed Services trip to the region, where the lawmakers will visit U.S. troops and meet with senior U.S. and regional officials.

Sessions, chairman of the Armed Service Committee’s Airland Subcommittee, is traveling with Sens. Joseph Lieberman (D-CT) and Don Nickles (R-OK). Lieberman is the ranking Democrat on the Airland Subcommittee, and Nickles chairs the Senate Budget Committee. Sessions also is a member of the budget panel.

The lawmakers had planned to travel to Iraq, but that portion of the trip is in doubt because of security concerns at this time.

-30-

JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator - Texas
CONTACT: DON STEWART

(202) 224-0704 office (202) 365-6702 cell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 28, 2004

CORNYN COMMENTS ON TRANSFER OF POWER TO IRAQ

‘Iraqi people now have the responsibility and the power to make their own future’

WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, made the following statement Monday regarding the transfer of power from the Coalition Provisional Authority to the Iraqis:

“The handover today is an important landmark. While it is not going to be easy going forward, we know at last that the Iraqi people now have the responsibility and the power to make their own future and to live out their own dreams.

“By completing the handover ahead of schedule, the coalition and Iraqi government have defied the attempts of terrorists to disrupt this process. Now the Iraqi people are continuing on the path to a free and secure nation.

“We’re already seeing Iraqi life beginning to return to normal with the building of hospitals and schools, young women going back to school – many for the first time – and all Iraqis enjoying the liberty that they never knew, or even dreamed of, under the terrible dictator Saddam Hussein.”

“Unfortunately, we’re still hearing the chatter of those who are trying to score political points through pessimism. The truth is we’re making great progress in Iraq. Things are improving, but we have to stay the course, not let the terrorists weaken our resolve. And I expect life for the Iraqi people to continually get better in the weeks and months to come.”

Cornyn, as chairman of the Judiciary Committee’s subcommittee on the Constitution, convened a hearing last year to discuss the issues facing the reconstruction of Iraq and the role the U.S. can and should play in ensuring a stable government and protection of human rights.

He joined eight Senate colleagues in early July for an Armed Services Committee trip to Iraq and the surrounding region. The delegation met with U.S. and Iraqi officials involved in the reconstruction effort. While there, Cornyn visited with Texas troops and received briefings from coalition forces and humanitarian organizations.

-30-

www.cornyn.senate.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Bob Stevenson (202) 224-4445

June 28, 2004 Amy Call (202) 224-1865

Nick Smith (202) 224-3355

FRIST HAILS TRANSFER OF POWER TO IRAQ

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) today made the following statement regarding the transfer of power to Iraq:

“Today’s transfer of power to the Iraqi people fulfills America’s promise to Iraq and reinforces our confidence in the ability of the interim Iraqi government. Prime Minister Allawi and the Iraqi ministries have worked hard to ensure a successful transfer of power, so hard in fact that the handing over of sovereignty falls two days ahead of schedule. The transfer date was changed at the recommendation of Prime Minister Allawi who is ready to begin improving the daily lives of the Iraqi people. The Prime Minister is also committed to dealing with the terrorist threat that plagues this new democracy and threatens the future of the Iraqi people. For too long, Iraqi families have lived in the face of fear, tyranny and despair. Today they begin the journey to freedom. My congratulations go out to all Iraqis as they begin this new chapter in their history – the support of the world is with them today and in the future.”

-30-

04-157

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Kathleen Long 202-228-3685
June 28, 2004

Statement of Senator Carl Levin on the
Transfer of Governmental Authority in Iraq

WASHINGTON - Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., issued the following statement today:

The transfer of governmental authority that took place today in Iraq was welcome news. I hope all of the Iraqi people will support this interim government and recognize that those who seek to perpetuate violence and instability are working against Iraq’s best interest.

Iraq faces some very serious security, economic and political challenges in the months ahead. One key question now is whether NATO’s favorable response to the request for assistance from the interim Iraqi government will be echoed by other nations, particularly Muslim nations.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Howard Gantman

Monday, June 28, 2004 or Scott Gerber 202/224-9629

http://feinstein.senate.gov

Senators Feinstein, Cantwell Call on CFTC to
Help Prevent Energy Market Manipulation

Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) today called on the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to take immediate action to put in place mechanisms that would prevent manipulation and fraud in the energy markets.

In a letter to Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chairman James Newsome, Senators Feinstein and Cantwell cited the most recent evidence of Enron’s blatant abuse of Western energy markets and its long-term impact on energy prices.

Following is the text of the letter:

June 25, 2004

The Honorable James Newsome

Chairman

Commodity Futures Trading Commission

Three Lafayette Centre

1155 21st Street, NW

Washington, DC 20581

Dear Chairman Newsome:

We are writing to urge the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s (CFTC) to take immediate action pursuant to its authority to prevent manipulation and fraud in the energy markets.

The CFTC has maintained that it has the authority to prevent fraud and manipulation in the over-the-counter energy markets. Yet, while more and more evidence is released that further proves that energy companies, especially Enron, intentionally gamed the Western energy markets, it appears that the CFTC either did not use its authority, or it did not have the authority, to prevent the manipulation from occurring in the first place. Furthermore, the CFTC has done very little to penalize the energy companies that manipulated the Western energy markets.

The most recent evidence is from the Enron audiotapes that demonstrate that the company recognized that it was manipulating the California market, and that those actions would impact the entire Western Interconnection. Time and again, Enron traders are heard moving power out of California to other points across the West, then moving it back into California. Similarly, Enron traders stated that long-term power prices are the direct result of prices in the dysfunctional California spot markets. This leaves little doubt that Enron’s schemes affected short- and long-term markets all across the West.

The new evidence also suggests the existence of a handful of previously-unidentified Enron schemes; points to the fact Enron maintained up to five different sets of books in order to account for variances resulting from these manipulative practices; and provides the first snapshot of the magnitude of Enron’s unjust profits—conservatively estimated as at least $1.1 billion on days in which the company was engaged in manipulation schemes.

We believe that the CFTC must actively prevent manipulation and fraud in order to prevent a repeat of the Western Energy Crisis. As you know, consumers and businesses that paid higher prices as a result of the gaming of the energy market have recovered only a small fraction of their losses. In fact, many of our customers are stuck paying for long-term, over-priced energy for the next ten years. We believe that it is better to prevent the manipulation and losses from recurring than to try to make up for losses after the fact.

The CFTC has continuously opposed legislation that we have introduced to close the Enron loophole in order to provide the Commission with authority to regulate over-the-counter trading in energy markets. Yet it is obvious that these trading mechanisms have been used to exploit our constituents. We urge the CFTC to take immediate action to put in place mechanisms that would prevent fraud and manipulation in the over-the-counter trading, and to work with us if you do not have the adequate authority to prevent additional gaming of the energy markets.

Thank you for your consideration of our request. We look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Dianne Feinstein Maria Cantwell

United States Senator United States Senator

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Howard Gantman

Monday, June 28, 2004 or Scott Gerber 202/224-9629

http://feinstein.senate.gov

Senators Feinstein, Cantwell Call for Hearings on
Western Energy Market Manipulation

Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) today requested additional Senate hearings into Enron’s manipulation of the Western energy markets.

In a letter to Senators Pete Domenici (R-N.M.) and Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.), the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Senators Feinstein and Cantwell cited inconsistencies between the new evidence that has recently come to light and the testimony Enron executives and attorneys provided the committee in 2002 as the reason to pursue further investigation into the company’s manipulative behavior.

Following is the text of the letter:

June 25, 2004

The Honorable Pete Domenici The Honorable Jeff Bingaman

Chairman Ranking Member

Energy & Natural Resources Energy & Natural Resources

364 Dirksen Senate Building 312 Dirksen Senate Building

Washington, DC 20510 Washington, DC 20510

Dear Chairman Domenici and Ranking Member Bingaman:

New evidence recently released in ongoing Enron investigations shows inconsistencies in the testimony Enron executives and attorneys provided to Congress in 2002. In particular, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a hearing related to Enron on May 15, 2002 entitled Western Energy Market Manipulation.

A review of the hearing record, depositions collected during the course of numerous ongoing federal investigations, as well as new evidence contained in recently-released audiotapes and financial documents point to inconsistencies in Enron testimony provided to the Committee. As such, we are requesting that you schedule an Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing to consider these matters, as well as the new evidence that has emerged shedding greater light on Enron’s manipulative behavior of our nation’s interstate electricity markets—the aftershocks of which ratepayers in the West continue to suffer.

In particular, a review of the May 15, 2002, committee hearing transcript shows that no fewer than four Enron officials and attorneys testified that the market manipulation schemes outlined in Enron’s December 6, 2000, and December 8, 2000, “smoking gun” memos ceased upon the memo’s circulation. On the contrary, recently-released Enron accounting data and audiotapes suggest these schemes continued for almost a year after the memos were circulated, and quite likely to within a week of the company’s bankruptcy filing, in December 2001.

In addition, there remains a significant lack of clarity as to how the “smoking gun” memos were developed. While members of the Enron legal team asserted under oath that these memos were first received at the beginning of December 2000, a review of documents and emails released as part of the discovery process in ongoing proceedings at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) point to the existence of draft documents outlining these same schemes as early as October 2000.

Meanwhile, the recently-released Enron audiotapes also demonstrate that the company itself recognized that its manipulation of the California market had impacts all across the Western Interconnection. Time and again, Enron traders are heard moving power out of California to other points across the West, then moving it back into California. Similarly, Enron traders stated that long-term power prices are the direct result of prices in the dysfunctional California spot markets. This leaves little doubt that Enron’s schemes affected short- and long-term markets all across the West. Unfortunately, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has consistently taken a view that ignores this evidence, to the detriment of ratepayers in the West.

To the extent the Committee was provided with inconsistent or incomplete testimony by Enron witnesses, we believe it is appropriate to convene new hearings to consider these matters. We do not agree with the Committee spokesperson’s assessment of Enron’s participation in the Western Energy Crisis that “this ground has been thoroughly ploughed by all branches of government.” Further, a thorough and timely consideration of the new evidence is of extreme importance to ratepayers throughout the West, where consumers continue to pay the unjust price of the energy crisis of 2000-2001.

While this month will mark the three-year anniversary of FERC’s long-overdue decision to put in place wholesale price caps, ratepayers throughout the West have yet to see relief from the many ongoing FERC proceedings that is in any way proportional to the damage that was caused. Clearly, western ratepayers would benefit from the clarity new hearings would provide.

Sincerely,

Dianne Feinstein Maria Cantwell

United States Senator United States Senator

###

June 28, 2004

Burns Comments on Iraq Handover of Sovereignty

“I am happy to see this handover occur and the effort to bring full sovereignty to the Iraqi interim government move forward,” said Burns. “This is one of the first steps on the road to a free and democratic Iraq where peace and stability truly prevail. I have faith in Iraq and its people and look forward to the growth of this new democratic nation.”

_____________________________

Jennifer O'Shea
Press Secretary
Senator Conrad Burns
187 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
202.224.6830 Phone
202.224.8594 Fax

MEDIA ADVISORY: Contact: Scott Gerber (Feinstein), 202-224-9629, 202-320-7615 (cell)

Monday, June 28, 2004 Jana Rausch (Boxer), 213-894-4995

***MEDIA ADVISORY***

FEINSTEIN, BOXER TO URGE RENEWAL OF ASSAULT WEAPONS BAN

Ban set to expire this September

Washington, DC — U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer will hold a press conference on Tuesday, June 29, at the San Francisco Office of Emergency Services, to urge renewal of the Assault Weapons Ban. The ban is set to expire on September 13 of this year.

Shortly after the 101 California shooting in July 1993, Congress, led by Senator Feinstein, passed the Assault Weapons Ban, which was signed into law as part of the 1994 Crime Bill. Senator Boxer was a co-sponsor of the ban. In the years following the enactment of the ban, crimes using assault weapons were reduced dramatically.

During the press conference, Feinstein and Boxer will be joined by San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, San Francisco Police Chief Heather Fong, Legal Community Against Violence Executive Director Sue Ann Schiff, and family members of victims of the 101 California shooting. The Legal Community Against Violence was formed following and in reaction to 101 California.

Details of the event are as follows:

EVENT: Press Conference on Renewal of Assault Weapons Ban

DATE: Tuesday, June 29, 2004

TIME: 10:00 a.m.

LOCATION: San Francisco Emergency Communications Department

Press Room (right of main entrance into building)

1011 Turk Street (between Gough and Laguna)

San Francisco, CA

###

Richard Shelby

United States Senator * Alabama

For More Information Contact:

Virginia Davis (202) 224-6518

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 28, 2004

SHELBY STATEMENT ON

HANDOVER OF POWER IN IRAQ

WASHINGTON, DC -- U. S. Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-Ala.) had the following statement regarding the handover of power to a sovereign Iraq:

“Today marks a milestone in the history of our world. Today the Iraqi people will, for the first time in their history, have the opportunity to experience a representative government – one that will allow them to determine the political and economic future of their country. This historic day ushers in a new era that will anchor the Middle East not by a brutal regime that rules by fear and intimidation, but one of democracy and freedom where all people are free to express their beliefs and exercise their free will.”

“While the path to democracy is paved with many obstacles, I am confident that the people of Iraq will remain committed to the cause of freedom. There is little doubt that this journey will be long, but the destination is filled with hope and promise for the future of Iraq and its people.”

- 30 -

Please do not respond to this email. If you require further information please contact Senator Shelby’s Press Office at (202) 224-6518.

Remarks as Prepared for Majority Leader Bill Frist, M.D.

The German Marshall Fund of the United States and

the Turkish Economic and Social Studies Foundation (TESEV)

Jointly Hosting a Conference Entitled

“The Atlantic Alliance at a New Crossroads”

Istanbul, Turkey

June 27, 2004

Good afternoon. I begin by welcoming all of our distinguished visitors, particularly the heads of state and senior officials from NATO’s newest members. It’s great to have you here with us today, and even better to have you as allies.

I also want to thank the German Marshall Fund (GMF) of the United States and the Turkish Economic and Social Studies Foundation (TESEV) for hosting this wonderful conference. This has been a superb meeting. The format, topics, and participants blended well to produce a dynamic opportunity to discuss the major issues facing the NATO alliance today.

Finally, I want to thank the people of this wonderful city, Istanbul, for their warmth and hospitality. Their eagerness to make this conference a success has been inspiring. There is no better setting in which to reflect upon the diversity of our alliance, our common history, and the great challenges and opportunities before us.

Turkey once anchored NATO’s southern flank in a struggle that divided a continent. Today, Turkey is a beacon of hope on the frontline of a war that seeks to terrorize the civilized world.

***

As Majority Leader of the United States Senate, I have listened carefully over the past two days of this conference.

In May, 2003, it was my body--the United States Senate—that voted unanimously in favor of admitting seven new nations into the NATO alliance. This is another good reason for Turkey to be in the European Union.

That vote was special. It sent a clear, resolute message to our Allies and to all who value peace, stability, and freedom in the world.

It said the American people, through their elected representatives, support NATO as an essential and expanding alliance.

It said the American people honor partners who commit to free institutions, contribute to our common defense, and are prepared to confront the threats of the 21st Century.

It said the American people believe in the vision of a transatlantic partnership with a Europe whole and free, and the hope that such a vision can be extended beyond to other parts of our global community.

It said all of this at a time when America was engaged fully in Iraq, endeavoring to stabilize Afghanistan, and fighting terrorism around the globe;

It was said at a time when, despite NATO’s achievements, some believed the Alliance was dangerously divided—not over whether Saddam Hussein was a dictator, or whether he was a threat—but over how to deal with this menace, and when.

That was a time that should now be behind us. I believe it is. Istanbul marks a time of renewal, and a new era of friendship, cooperation and optimism among old friends.

So today, as I bring greetings on behalf of the United States Senate, which represents the American people, I want to reaffirm the United States’ commitment to NATO, our commitment to expansion, and our commitment to Europe.

I also want to tell you that the Alliance is strong and growing, and that the United States is in Istanbul to discuss and to work with its friends and allies to make NATO even better.

***

Together, we have achieved a great deal over the past 18 months. I was with many of you in Prague when we laid down a bold vision for the future. Since then, the alliance has realized much of this plan. We have----

· begun standing up the NATO Response Force;

· established the Allied Command Transformation;

· reduced unnecessary overhead and force structure; and,

· conducted the first ever Alliance mission outside the NATO area of responsibility.

But the crowning achievement is that this week, together, we celebrate the admission of Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia into the NATO alliance. I stood with many of you on the White House lawn earlier this year to celebrate this same occasion. I am honored to stand with you again today.

***

All of this points to a bright and promising future for the Alliance---a positive trend as we move forward at 26. But there is much yet to be done.

Many allies have not met defense spending goals. Some have reduced disappointingly their spending further below NATO thresholds.

Most have yet to seriously pursue the Prague Capabilities Commitment;

Still others have made promises to NATO operations that have yet to be realized.

Individually, these failures are disappointing. Collectively, they weaken the alliance and NATO’s credibility in the eyes of the international community at a time when we can afford neither.

***

NATO was undoubtedly the most successful military alliance of the 20th Century.

We achieved more than our own self-defense. We defeated an adversary and an ideology that many believed could not be defeated in our lifetimes….. or perhaps ever.

Our success, however, raised questions about the future of the alliance. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, victory in the Cold War, and the supposed “end of history,” many asked what should be the role of NATO – if any at all?

Still others, such as my Senate colleague Dick Lugar—who has been with us over these past few days--had the vision and resolve to help the Alliance find its way forward.

NATO may have been forged in the crucible of the Cold War. But many recognized that the values for which NATO stood in that conflict – democracy, freedom, individual liberty, and the rule of law – are timeless.

And while those values demanded a strong transatlantic partnership between America, Canada and Europe---as they do today---it was also the NATO alliance that preserved and protected those very same values as the Soviet threat lurked.

That mission of protecting and advancing our values continues today.

But what should be the role of NATO, especially in the shocking wake of 9/11, as we seek to provide for our common defense?

First, we must accept that terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are the threats that we face today. And further, that the nexus of these two dangers could produce terror and disaster of unimaginable consequence.

Second, NATO must be able and willing to engage terrorism and other threats beyond our borders. We must be capable of projecting our strength at great distances, and winning. And we must do so in a holistic manner that addresses the political, economic, and social causes of these scourges.

Third, we must be proactive. We must take preventive measures to ensure threats find no fertile ground. We must be willing to invest the time, money, and political will to achieve these ends. That is why I hope NATO will agree this week—

· to move towards a more ambitious role in Iraq;

· to expand its support for peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan;

· to reach out to the Broader Middle East and North Africa;

· to refocus the Euro-Atlantic Partnership toward the Caucusus and Central Asia; and,

· to conclude NATO’s successful SFOR operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

To achieve these ends, however, and be prepared to operate far from home, NATO must make changes in how it does business, and how we act as alliance members. We must:

· make greater investments in defense spending;

· develop and acquire the specific capabilities needed to accomplish our missions;

· strengthen our defense planning process and increase the level of transparency;

· reduce overhead and transform our forces to better meet our force goals;

· and most importantly, we each must spend the political capital at home to make all of this a reality.

Operational problems also persist, however.

NATO remains fully committed to the KFOR in Kosovo. But if the alliance is to be more effective, countries must eliminate the national caveats and restrictions that impede our efficiency. It was a problem in war; it’s a problem in keeping the peace. Failure to do so invites trouble, and will only delay and make more costly our ultimate success.

NATO has deployed to Afghanistan to bring peace to a troubled land, and has performed well. But the Alliance needs to do better. We need to do more, and we need to do it soon. Member states need to fully live up to their commitments, and NATO needs to expand its ISAF stabilization mission throughout Afghanistan.

***

Like Central and Eastern Europe in the 20th century, the Middle East is the battleground for the advancement of democracy and freedom in the 21st century.

I hope the Istanbul Summit sees NATO rise to this challenge. It’s entirely consistent with our mission. It’s entirely consistent with our values. And it’s entirely consistent with our history.

If the great partners of the transatlantic alliance do not take up the cause of freedom where it is threatened the most, who will? Europe was not forgotten in its darkest hours; we must not forget others now.

We must encourage a free press and the free exchange of information in the Middle East. We must encourage free enterprise and a culture of social and economic equality. And we must support the efforts of nations that work towards true democratic reform and establishment of the rule of law.

NATO has an essential role to play toward these ends.

We should strengthen our Mediterranean Dialogue;

We should pursue the cause of democratization and reform in the Middle East through the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative.
***

Our central challenge now, however, is Iraq. It is the most immediate and difficult test of our resolve, and of our willingness to defeat terrorism, defend our values, and bring peace to the region.

Earlier this month, I was in Iraq to see the progress of the Coalition and visit with the Iraqi people.

The world doesn’t hear much about the successes there. But the Coalition Provisional Authority has done a lot of good for the Iraqi people, and the Iraqi people have done a lot of good for themselves.

Unemployment has been cut in half since Saddam’s rule. 85% of Iraqi children have now been immunized against deadly childhood diseases. And nearly 2,500 schools have been renovated.

Military forces from 16 NATO allies have helped achieve these and successes and many more. Their courage and commitment have helped make Iraq more stable and secure, and the United States profoundly appreciates the efforts of these allies.

On June 30th, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1546, the Coalition Provisional Authority will transfer authority to an interim Iraqi government that has the support of most Iraqis.

When I met with the new interim Iraqi Prime Minister Allawi in Baghdad a few weeks ago, he pledged to defend the values of freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.

He is a man of bold courage and conviction. He knows that tyranny works hand in hand with terrorism. He told me that, If a free Iraq succeeds, terrorism will be defeated. But if Iraq fails as a state, then terrorism may be uncontrollable.

The Prime Minister, with UN Security Council Resolution 1546 as a backdrop, and on behalf of the Iraqi people, has asked NATO for assistance. We must not hesitate. We must respond quickly and affirmatively. Not only does the future of democracy and freedom in Iraq lie in the balance, but our own security does as well.

NATO has the ability to conduct this mission. It also has the responsibility. Does it have the resolve?

We must also go to the sources of terrorism if we are to defeat it. We must offer the people of Iraq, and other countries afflicted by this scourge, a future of freedom, prosperity, and self-government.

We must invest in their future and offer them hope. We must show them a path more attractive than the false promises of extremism and violence.

As expected, the attacks have increased in violence and number over the past weeks because the terrorists are scared. They know they must defeat the Interim Government now, or they will have no future in Iraq.

If terrorism and extremism are defeated in Iraq, then hatred and violence will have suffered a major setback. If the terrorists are not defeated in Iraq, then we must prepare for additional attacks on our homelands, against our people, and against our way of life.

Fighting terrorism is not a conflict in which you seek the home field advantage. This is why NATO must become more capable and more deployable. Indeed, as the NATO Secretary General often says, NATO must become more “useable.”

***

Twenty-two years ago this month, in his now famous speech before the British Parliament, the late United States President Ronald Reagan said of the times:

The ultimate determinant in the struggle that's now going on in the world will not be bombs and rockets, but a test of wills and ideas, a trial of spiritual resolve, the values we hold, the beliefs we cherish, the ideals to which we are dedicated.

The same holds true of today’s world.

If terrorists would meet the armed forces of this alliance on the battlefield of war, we would deal them a crushing defeat. But, of course, the terrorists won’t do that.

The terrorists’ weapon is fear. They target our cities. They target our people. They target what is dear to our hearts and constitutes our souls.

They may hate some of us because of who we are. But they hate all of us for what we believe -- the values for which this alliance has stood for 55 years

We will not forfeit our values. We will stand united in defense of democracy, individual liberty, and the rule of law. This remarkable summit, the Istanbul Summit, will be our guide. It will also be our inspiration.

We must be ready, willing, and able to engage the world beyond our borders and project our strength at great distances.

We must offer the people of the Middle East a future of freedom and self-government rather than tyranny and violence.

We must continue to help the Iraq people, and all peoples of the Middle East and North Africa, build free societies, secure nations, and brighter futures.

In closing, as we vanquished the tyranny of communism in the 20th century, we will vanquish the tyranny of terrorism in the 21st century.

And millions of people now living in fear and oppression will be free, just like the peoples of NATO---as our newest allies appreciate probably better than most—are free.

Thank you. It was an honor to be with all of you here today.

***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mike Buttry 202/224-4224

Sunday, June 27, 2004

Hagel Announces Launch of New Website

Enhanced Constituent Features, Design

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) announced the launch of his new website, which is located at www.hagel.senate.gov. The website offers an easy to navigate format, helpful links to government resources and a search function that enables visitors to browse the entire website by keyword.

"This website is an important tool for providing services and information to Nebraskans. The expanded constituent services section is especially helpful for obtaining the most current grant information, casework assistance and advice for those visiting Washington, D.C.," Hagel said.

Features of the new website include:

A "Teachers and Students" page with links for virtual tours of the White House and U.S. Capitol and links to various education services;

Forms for flag requests, tour requests and internships;

Links and contacts for grant information;

Handicap accessibility for the hearing and visually impaired;

Links to information about Nebraska Tourism, the Veterans History Project and others;

Forms and frequently asked questions for casework assistance and academy nominations.

-30-

MEDIA ADVISORY: Contact: Howard Gantman

Friday, June 25, 2004 or Scott Gerber 202/224-9629

http://feinstein.senate.gov/

Senator Feinstein to Make Public Appearances in Fresno

- Feinstein to deliver Washington Report and
hold a media availability following gang briefing -

San Jose, Calif. B On Monday, June 28, 2004, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) will deliver a report from Washington and discuss key issues of concern to Fresno community and business leaders. Senator Feinstein will discuss efforts to improve the Fresno economy, federal legislation to increase California’s water supply, federal legislation to combat gang violence, and the transfer of sovereignty in Iraq.

What: Washington Report to Fresno Chamber of Commerce

Date: Monday, June 28, 2004

Time: 12:00 Noon (Feinstein to speak at approximately 12:20 p.m.)

Location: California State University Fresno

Residence Dining Hall

5200 N. Campus Drive

Fresno, CA 93740

Later Tuesday, Senator Feinstein will meet with local, state, and federal law enforcement officials to discuss steps to curb gang violence in the Fresno area. Senator Feinstein is the sponsor of federal legislation that would combat gang violence by increasing the penalties for the most serious gang crimes and by making it a federal crime to recruit minors to join a criminal street gang. The Senate Judiciary Committee approved this legislation yesterday.

What: Media Availability Following Gang Briefing

Date: Monday, June 28, 2004

Time: 2:30 p.m. (availability to occur immediately following briefing)

Location: California State University Fresno

Smittcamp House

2625 E. Keats

Fresno, CA 93740

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Howard Gantman

Friday, June 25, 2004 or Scott Gerber 202/224-9629

http://feinstein.senate.gov/

Senate Approves Cornyn-Feinstein Anti-Piracy Bill

Washington, DC – The U.S. Senate today unanimously passed legislation sponsored by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) that would crack down on video and audio piracy, which is having an increasingly damaging impact on the entertainment industry.

“The increasing piracy of movies, software and music hinders the ability of artists to be compensated for their hard work,” Senator Feinstein said. “This bill will help end the piracy of movies, music and other copyrighted materials, the most egregious form of which denies the rightful owner the opportunity to market their product first.”

Specifically, the bill makes it illegal to:

· Create unauthorized recordings of motion pictures in a movie theater or any other public motion picture exhibition facility, such as a drive-in or screening room, regardless of whether an admission fee is charged.

An offense would be punishable by up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine or up to 6 years in prison and/or a fine if it is a subsequent offense.

· Post pre-released versions of movies, music, software, or other copyrighted works (including movies that have not yet been commercially-released on DVD or video) on the Internet or other computer networks, such as a peer-to-peer file-sharing network, where the public can download or reproduce the work without the express consent of the copyright holder.

An offense would be punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine or up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine if it is a subsequent offense.

“Giving artists the economic incentive to produce cutting edge works is critical to our country,” Senator Feinstein said. “I am so pleased that the Senate has approved this bill to help prevent the illegal distribution of these ‘pre-released’ works online.”

The Register of Copyrights will issue regulations and establish procedures for pre-registration of a work being prepared for commercial distribution and that has not yet been published in order to increase the registration of copyrighted material and provide a clear civil remedy for infringement.

A work being prepared for commercial distribution is defined as:

1. A computer program, a non-dramatic musical work, a motion picture or other audiovisual work, or a sound recording, if at the time of the unauthorized distribution the copyright owner has a reasonable expectation of commercial distribution, and copies of the work have not been commercially distributed; or

2. A motion picture, if at the time of the unauthorized distribution, the motion picture has been made available for viewing in a motion picture exhibition facility, or has not been made available in copies for sale to the general public in the United States in a format intended to permit viewing outside a motion picture exhibition facility.

Following are two recent examples of video piracy:

· In September 2003, in Burbank, California, a theater employee caught Johnny Ray Gasca using sophisticated equipment, including a camera attached to a belt, to record the movie The Core. A month later, Gasca was spotted by a Universal Pictures executive at another screening recording the movie 8 Mile. FBI agents who searched Gasca's home in Hollywood later found 11 VHS recorders, video editing equipment and other devices which he used to pirate films.

· In February 2004, three former employees of a Hollywood post-production company were charged with misdemeanor counts of conspiring to violate federal copyright laws by illegally making copies of Mel Gibson's then-unreleased The Passion of the Christ and the popular Kill Bill, Volume 1 as well as other films.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Matt Hartwig

June 25, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN ANNOUNCES RURAL DEVELOPMENT FUNDING FOR IOWA

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of his continuing support for rural Iowa, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced today that several communities will receive more than $5 million in federal grants and more than $7 million in loans for rural development projects from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Harkin is the Ranking Democrat on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee.

“Helping provide cleaner, safer water to rural Iowa is essential for economic growth and high quality of life,” said Harkin. “These funds will help make necessary improvements for Iowa’s rural water facilities.”

Details of each grant award are as follows:

City of Postville: $3,330,000 grant and a $4,520,000 loan to construct additional community waste water treatment facilities to serve both business and residential needs.

Xenia Rural Water District – Southeastern Hamilton County: $1,050,000 grant and a $1,750,000 loan to construct a rural water distribution system to provide a safe source of water for the residents of the district.

City of Modale: $1,032,000 grant and a $360,000 loan to construct a sanitary waste water treatment facility to serve residential needs.

Poweshiek Water Association: $307,800 grant and a $281,200 loan to provide a sanitary public sewer system for individual residents with failing septic systems.

###

EMBARGOED Contact: Robert Gibbs

11:06am SATURDAY, June 26, 2004 Nora Moreno

(312)427-6300

Obama Delivers Weekly Democratic Radio Address

"Good morning. This is state Senator Barack Obama, the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate from Illinois.

For the past few weeks, President Bush and members of his Administration have traveled the nation to celebrate recent, improved economic statistics.

Well, I've been traveling, too. All over this large and diverse state, in cities and suburbs, Downstate and upstate, I've heard from people who say it's way too early to claim victory when it comes to our economy.

After three dismal years of job loss, we all welcome encouraging statistics.

But for most Americans, the health of our economy is measured in a different and more personal way: If I lose my job, where will I find one that pays as well and offers real benefits? Can I afford health care coverage on my own, or the cost of sending my children to college? Will I ever be able to save, and retire with dignity and security?

These are the questions I hear hardworking people asking. For them, the basic rewards of a middle class life - rewards that we once took for granted - have become an elusive dream.

It's hard to claim victory when you listen to Doug and Annette Dennison. They lost their jobs at the Maytag plant in Galesburg, Illinois, which is shutting down and moving to Mexico. They have worked at the plant most of their adult lives. In his forties, with 2 young boys, Doug says he doesn't remember having to do without when he was growing up. He believed he could raise his family the same way. But now he feels at a loss about what to do next.

Ken and Lori Griffin, of Alton, Illinois, near St. Louis, will soon lose their jobs because Hawk Motors is also moving overseas. Ken and Lori had big dreams for their five children. Now they are facing the reality that any job they find will pay half the salary without the security of knowing that they've got the health care coverage their family needs.

But it's not just those who have lost their jobs who are struggling. It's also those who have jobs, and have suffered through years where their wages haven't increased, their benefits have diminished and their health care costs have soared.

Middle class families are getting squeezed. The new jobs being created in Illinois pay an average of $15,000 less than the jobs that we've lost - and fewer offer real benefits. Health insurance premiums and the cost of a college education have skyrocketed since the beginning of the Bush Administration.

In the past three years, corporate profits have increased more than sixty percent. Workers are being paid just 3 percent more. And more companies continue to wring additional savings from employee health and pension programs, forcing a greater burden on their workers.

Now, it wouldn't be fair or accurate to blame all of this on the Bush Administration. It is fair, however, to say that they haven't done much to help.

The tax cuts they've offered have barely made a dent in reducing the burden on middle class families, while driving our nation trillions of dollars deeper into debt.

They continue to support tax breaks for corporations who export jobs overseas, and have refused to enforce provisions within existing trade agreements against countries who engage in unfair trade practices.

They've offered no real plan to deal with the growing health care crisis facing more and more American workers and businesses.

When this Administration had the chance to help, by freeing Medicare to negotiate with the big drug companies for lower prescription costs or by allowing Americans to import lower cost drugs from Canada, they sided with the special interests over the interests of the American people.

And, while college costs are exploding and more and more young people are being priced out of the educational opportunities that they need and they deserve, this Administration has opposed efforts to expand tuition assistance.

America needs a strong, vibrant middle class. And until middle class families get their heads above water, we can't declare victory.

The President attacks those who make this point as "pessimists."

He apparently believes that this is the best we can do.

We believe that we can do better. By pursuing policies that will promote American jobs, affordable health care and access to college, we can strengthen America's middle class.

This means a tax policy that rewards companies who create jobs right here in America, rather than continuing to give billions of dollars in tax breaks to those who send American jobs overseas.

We believe in robust trade. But let's write trade agreements that are fair to American workers, and then vigorously enforce them.

And for those like Doug, Annette, Ken and Lori, let's offer real assistance to workers and their hard hit communities so they get the help and training they need rather than the bureaucratic runaround so many get today.

We can help the middle class by taking the steps this administration has not. We can reduce the growth in health care costs, including prescription drugs, and make coverage easier to get and afford.

And we can take a load off of middle class families by making college more affordable for their children.

The President may feel it's time for celebration. But my travels tell me that we have a lot of work to do to restore economic security for every American.

I'm state Senator Barack Obama, the Democratic candidate for the US Senate from Illinois. Thank you for listening."

###

democrats.senate.gov

FRIDAY, June 25, 2004

Senate Adopts Funding to Provide Affordable Health Care Coverage for Members of National Guard, Reserve

(Washington, D.C.) - Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle today praised the FY 2005 Defense Appropriations bill, which passed the Senate last night, for providing the funding necessary to start offering affordable health care to military reservists and their families.

The appropriations bill contains more than $300 million to fund the program approved by the Senate on June 2 during debate on the FY 2005 Defense Authorization bill. The funding is included in the Iraq Freedom Fund, a $25 billion account designed to support military operations in Iraq for another five months, or until further supplemental funding is requested by the Defense Department. At that point, additional funds would be provided to the reservist health care program.

This week, Daschle also received a pledge of support on the Senate floor from Senator John Warner (R-VA), the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Warner will be the lead Senate negotiator when members of the Senate and House of Representatives meet to reconcile the differences between the House- and Senate-passed versions of the defense authorization bill.

"It is the intention of the senator from Virginia, as a conferee, to support the Senate positions," Warner told Daschle during an exchange on the Senate floor. The TRICARE provision "is of great importance to the men and women of our military," Warner said.

Daschle answered Warner: "Simply stated, it is our expectation that we will succeed in conference this year. This issue has overwhelming bipartisan support, not only in the Senate, but the House as well. And, obviously, it will keep coming back year after year unless we do resolve it. It would be my hope this would be the year we do so successfully."

Daschle's amendment to the FY 2005 Defense Authorization bill, which he offered with Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), was approved by a vote of 70-25 on June 2. The Daschle-Graham amendment would open TRICARE coverage to all members of the Guard and Reserve and their families for a low fee. To participate, Guard members and reservists would have to pay approximately $40 per month for individual coverage, or approximately $150 per month for family coverage.

The new program could provide health coverage to 300,000 reservists, according to the Congressional Budget Office. The Daschle-Graham amendment also would provide financial support to families who wish to maintain their private health care coverage when their family members are called to active duty.

The General Accounting Office estimates that 40 percent of the National Guard's junior enlisted personnel and 20 percent of all reservists lack health care coverage. Last year, Daschle and Graham successfully enacted a one-year program that provided access to TRICARE to members of the Guard and Reserve without employer-based health care.

###

democrats.senate.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Howard Gantman

Friday, June 25, 2004 or Scott Gerber 202/224-9629

http://feinstein.senate.gov

Senate Passes Feinstein-Pombo Tribal Forest Protection Act

Washington, DC – Today the U.S Senate passed H.R. 3846, the Tribal Forest Protection Act of 2004. House Resources Committee Chairman Richard W. Pombo (R-Calif.) and Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) introduced the legislation in both the House and Senate, respectively, in February of this year. The House unanimously approved the Act on June 21st.

"California Tribes have suffered from devastating wildfires in recent years," Senator Feinstein said. "Passage of this Act is an important step forward in preventing more of these tragedies on Tribal lands. By involving Tribes in brush-clearing projects on federal lands near their reservations, this legislation will give Native American Tribes across the country the chance to protect their ancestral lands from catastrophic fires."

In the summer of 2003, nearly 20 Indian reservations were devastated by wildfire that came from adjacent federal lands. Over half occurred in Southern California where more than 30,000 acres and 130 homes were consumed, killing 10 people. Two of the reservations were burned entirely to the ground.

H.R. 3846 establishes a process for tribes to work with federal agencies to perform hazardous fuel reduction and forest health projects on federal lands adjacent to tribal lands in order to prevent catastrophic wildfire.

"As another devastating fire season begins in the West, the Congress has acted again to protect Americans and their lands from the threat of catastrophic wildfire," Chairman Pombo said. "The Healthy Forests Restoration Act focused needed attention and assistance on serious problems concerning forest health, particularly the explosive build-up of hazardous fuels in federal forests. We emphasized community participation and protection in that bill, and that is exactly what we are doing for Native American tribes in this new legislation."

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Maureen Knightly

June 25, 2004 202-224-3254

Harkin Calls on VICE President Cheney to Come Clean on Halliburton

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As Vice President Dick Cheney campaigned in Sioux City, Iowa, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) called on him to clear the air about Halliburton and fully disclose any involvement he or his office had in directing no bid contracts in Iraq to the multi-billion dollar energy conglomerate.

“It’s long past time that the Vice President came clean with the American people. We have a right to know how our tax dollars are being spent. Instead of cursing out lawmakers on the Senate floor, the vice president should return to the civility and unifying spirit that he and the President claimed they would bring to the nation’s capitol.”

Harkin also noted that in August 2000 Cheney claimed he and the President were “…absolutely determined that [we] will restore a tone of civility and decency to the debate in Washington.”

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Howard Gantman

Friday, June 25, 2004 or Scott Gerber 202/224-9629

http://feinstein.senate.gov

Senate Passes Identity Theft Legislation

-- Senator Feinstein calls on President Bush for swift enactment --

Washington, DC – The U.S. Senate today unanimously passed legislation to increase penalties for identity theft that was first introduced by U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.).

The bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on June 23, 2004 strengthened the provisions in the original version of Senator Feinstein’s legislation, which was passed by the Senate on March 19, 2003.

“The identity theft epidemic in this country must be stopped,” Senator Feinstein said. “I hope that President Bush will sign this bill into law soon so that prosecutors will have the tools they need to suitably punish identity thieves, especially those who steal in order to commit more serious crimes, such as acts of terrorism.”

This legislation, which was developed in coordination with the Justice Department, will impose stronger penalties on identity thieves and help prosecutors target identity thieves who steal for the purpose of committing the most serious crimes, including terrorism and murder.

The Federal Trade Commission estimates that almost 10 million Americans discovered they were the victims of some form of identity theft in the last year. It is also estimated that in the last year identity theft crimes cost U.S. businesses and consumers more than $52 billion and that victims spent 297 million hours resolving issues of personal fraud. California has the second-highest rate of identity theft per capita of all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

This legislation will:

· Increases penalties by two years for anyone who commits “aggravated identity theft” in order to commit other serious Federal offenses, known as predicate crimes, such as immigration violations, false citizenship crimes, and firearms offenses; and

· Increases penalties by five years for anyone who commits identity theft for the purpose of committing a terrorist act.

· Add as a predicate crime the theft of federal funds, the theft or embezzlement of bank funds, the improper receipt of Social Security benefits, and the improper receipt of Supplemental Security Insurance benefits;

· Allow the aggregate value of stolen federal funds to be combined for felony prosecution in appropriate cases;

· Direct the Sentencing Commission to amend its guidelines in order to punish insider offenses that involve an “abuse of trust” of the offender’s position; and

· Authorize $2 million each year for fiscal years 2005 to 2009 to the Department of Justice for the investigation and prosecution of identity theft and related credit card and other fraud cases.

###

Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle Asks, "Are Americans Better Off with Regard to Health Care?"

Mr. President, on a recent visit to South Dakota, I met a couple that impressed me a great deal. Their names are Lowell and Pauline Larson. Throughout their life together, Lowell and Pauline farmed 160 acres just outside of Chester, SD. After a lifetime of hard work, they were looking forward to a well-earned retirement together.

But 2 years ago, Pauline suffered a stroke. Before the Larsons knew it, they had incurred $40,000 in medical bills. Even though they had insurance, it only covered $75 a day of Pauline's hospital costs. So Lowell did the only thing he could. He sold all his farm equipment and his cattle to pay the bills. All they are left with is the deed to their farm, and if Pauline suffers another stroke, or if the MS she has been battling for the past 15 years gets worse, the Larsons know they may have to sell their farm.

I wish I could say that the Larsons' story came as a surprise to me, but it did not. For the past 4 years, stories like the Larsons' have become commonplace. I've heard from businesses that have been forced to cut back on benefits or lay off workers in order to pay for escalating insurance premiums. I have heard from retirees who have seen their life savings evaporate due to the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs. I have heard from families forced to sell the businesses or farms that have sustained their families for generations, because a child got sick and insurance just wouldn't pay for it.

I have heard from veterans who have been forced off the rolls of the VA and have nowhere else to turn for care. I have heard from Native Americans forced to undergo a literal "life or limb" test to receive care at Indian Health Service facilities. I have heard from National Guard members who face losing their health coverage once their Iraq deployment ends.

And I have heard from citizens from all walks of life who can't afford the high cost of insurance, and who live in constant fear that an illness or an injury could throw them and their families into bankruptcy. It's no mystery what is happening. Americans are being caught in the undertow of historic increases in the cost of health care. Millions have lost their insurance. Tens of millions more know that they are just one layoff, or one illness, away from a life of poverty and poor health.

In this election year, as with every election year, Americans are asking themselves, "Am I better off than I was 4 years ago?" With the cost of doctors' visits, prescription drugs, and monthly insurance premiums moving farther out of reach, the answer for most of us is clearly no. America is enduring a health care crisis that is deepening with each passing month. And after four years of inattention from the White House, it is clear that when it comes to health care, as a nation, we are significantly worse off than we were just four years ago. The scope of this crisis is staggering.

Since 2001, the amount workers are paying for their family coverage has increased by 50 percent, and the average premium for family health care is now above $9,000 per year. Prescription drug costs rose at four times the rate of inflation last year alone. Both businesses and workers are feeling the squeeze. And, as a result, we have seen unprecedented increases in the number of uninsured.

Each month since January 2001, an average of 100,000 Americans have lost their health insurance. Today, 44 million Americans have no health insurance whatsoever. The problem is even worse among minority communities. One in six Asian and Pacific Americans lacks insurance. For African Americans, it is one in five. For Latino Americans, it is one in three. As startling as these numbers are, they do not include the tens of millions more who shuttle on and off the insurance rolls depending on unpredictable work schedules.

Nearly 82 million people lacked insurance at some point in the last 2 years. The impact of losing health insurance can be catastrophic for uninsured individuals, for families, and for our nation as a whole. According to the National Institute of Medicine, children and adults without health insurance are less likely to receive preventive care and early diagnosis of illnesses. They live sicker and die younger than those with insurance. Eighteen thousand Americans die prematurely each year because they lack health insurance.

Families suffer emotionally and financially when even one member is uninsured. Communities suffer as the cost of uncompensated care is shifted onto doctors, hospitals, and taxpayers. And our Nation pays a steep economic cost. The Institute of Medicine estimates that lack of health insurance costs America between $65 billion and $130 billion a year in lost productivity and other costs. Making the high cost and growing inequities even more troubling is that on the whole, we seem to be getting less for our health care dollar than we should be. The World Health Organization recently reported that Americans pay twice as much per capita for health as the average industrialized nation. We pay a third more than the next-highest country. But despite the high costs, we are not getting any bang for our buck.

Among industrialized nations, Americans' life expectancy is only 24th, and we have one of the highest infant mortality rates in the world. We may pay twice as much, but we don't even get in the top 20 when it comes to mortality or life expectancy. The results of the past few years beg the question, "How can we be paying the highest costs and getting so meager a return." In short, where is all the money going? Who is better off today?

A recent article in the Economist offered one answer. Noting that profit margins for health insurers are as high as they have ever been, the article notes that since 2000, the prices of many health insurers' stocks have quadrupled. And if shareholders have done well, executives have been more than amply rewarded. One CEO earned $30 million in pay in 2003 and exercised $84 million in stock options from earlier years. This left him with options worth $840 million at the company's current share price. His second-in-command earned $13.7 million in compensation and holds options worth $350 million. Another CEO of a leading insurer earned $16 million; yet another, $51 million; and still another, $27 million. While insurers and their executives are reaping billions, and Americans are fearing that their benefits will be the next to be sacrificed for the sake of even higher profits, the administration has done nothing to rein in the cost of health care.

In fact, in the recently enacted Medicare bill, the administration included tens of billions of dollars in giveaways to HMOs, not to mention the windfall created for prescription drug companies. The proposals the administration has offered would extend coverage only to a small fraction of Americans who lack insurance today. Often, their solutions extend meager coverage to a small number of vulnerable Americans at the expense of a larger group. For instance, according to the Congressional Budget Office, the President's plan to create "association health plans" would decrease the number of uninsured Americans by only about 600,000 people. Six hundred thousand out of nearly 44 million. But it would increase premiums for 80 percent of employees of small businesses.

The administration's band-aid approach to our health care crisis won't work. It is the wrong treatment, and its cost would preclude us from affording the right one. The results of the administration's so-called solutions can be seen each month as more Americans lose their insurance or feel themselves pushed closer to the point where the cost of coverage is too large a burden to bear.

As a nation, we are not better off than we were four years ago. We are losing ground. We can do better. But to do so will demand a change in direction. We need to reject the notion that we are helpless to control health care costs. We need to reject the notion that with a little tinkering around the edges, our health care system can offer the kind of care every American deserves.

Most of all, we need to reject the notion that the primary purpose of our health care system is to provide profits for health care companies and the drug industry. That is wrong. That is the thinking that brought us to the point where families such as the Larsons are forced to turn over the proceeds of their life's work, just to pay the bill for treating a single illness. There are better answers, and working together we can find them. We can find ways to ensure that every American is able to see a doctor when he or she is sick. We do not have to be the only major industrialized nation in the world that fails to guarantee health care for all its citizens. We can do better, and none of us should rest until we do.

###

democrats.senate.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Susan Wheeler (202) 224-5150

June 25, 2004 Eric Rasmussen (202) 224-7518

CRAPO: STOP STROKE ACT BENEFITS PATIENTS, TELEHEALTH PROVIDERS

Measure would increase awareness and prevention of heart stroke

Washington, DC -Idaho Senator Mike Crapo recently signed on as a co-sponsor of the STOP Stroke Act, a bill that authorizes four new programs to increase awareness and prevention of heart stroke. The bill, S. 1274, also provides a grant program to educate medical professionals about newly-developed diagnostic technologies like telehealth, presenting a unique opportunity for Idaho residents.

“In addition to addressing the need for increased awareness of heart stroke, this bill generates opportunity for more efficient diagnosis throughout rural communities like those in Idaho,” Crapo said. “Because time is crucial in the treatment of stroke, this bill encourages telehealth technologies and the usage of available electronic resources to shorten the time patients have to wait to receive treatment.”

The bill, introduced by Senator Thad Cochran (R- Mississippi), is a bipartisan effort. The first of its four programs would create a state grant program to help states ensure that all patients have access to quality stroke care. The second would authorize a national public awareness campaign to educate the public about stroke warning signs and how stroke can be prevented. A third program would create a registry and clearinghouse to collect data and share treatment practices. The final program would provide grants to educate medical professionals in newly developed diagnostic approaches, technologies and therapies.

This legislation correlates with telehealth, a procedure allowing doctors to diagnose and treat patients through various electronic mediums. Telehealth provides access to the best available physicians for rural residents throughout the United States. Through this program, physicians can use resources such as the internet or video teleconferencing to delegate appropriate treatment to patients. Telehealth facilities are eligible to apply for grants under the Stop Stroke Act.

Crapo, who recently helped to kick-off National Men’s Health Week, has been an advocate on health issues in the U.S. Senate since his successful bout with prostate cancer in January 2000. He is the sponsor of S. 1028, the Men's Health Act of 2003, a bill to form an Office of Men’s Health in the Department of Health and Human Services. Crapo is a founding member of the recently formed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Caucus. He also serves as co-Chair of the Congressional Heart-Stroke Caucus. Crapo has sponsored the Mike Crapo Health Awareness Booths at four regional fairs in Idaho for the last three years and is also the recipient of the National Prostate Cancer Coalition’s 2003 William A. Schwartz Distinguished Leadership Award.

# # #

June 25, 2004

Burns and Boxer To Examine New TV Viewer Rating System

WASHINGTON- United States Senators Conrad Burns (R-Mont.) and Barbara Boxer (D-CA) announced today that on July 15th, the Senate Communications Subcommittee will examine a new Nielsen Media research TV rating system.

Questions have been raised about the accuracy and fairness of Local People Meter (LPM) system and there are opinions on both sides. The major concern is that this system may not accurately record the viewing preferences of all viewers regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, gender or age. Despite this, Nielsen is intending to move forward with its system.

Senator Burns stated: “Nielsen should cease the use of the new LPM system in New York and delay any further rollouts until they have committed to an independent review. The public has a right to know that the rating system which defines the public airwaves is accurate and fair for all viewers. I believe this hearing will serve as the beginning of a broader dialogue that can answer important concerns and generate productive ideas for meeting the public’s need for a reliable television rating service.”

Senator Boxer said: “California’s diversity is a hallmark of my state. It is in the public interest that all Californians are fully counted in our entertainment marketplace -- as viewers, producers, and entertainers. I want to work with all parties to ensure that any new system works for everybody.”

The Senators promised that the hearing will present all views and its purpose is to ensure that accurate results will be the centerpiece of any ratings system.

###

_____________________________

Jennifer O'Shea
Press Secretary
Senator Conrad Burns
187 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
202.224.6830 Phone
202.224.8594 Fax

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell
Washington

For Immediate Release
Friday, June 25, 2004
Contact:
Charla Neuman
202-224-8277
202-309-3447 (c)

U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell on Action in the U.S. House Forcing the FERC to Release Enron Evidence

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell today made the following statement on House passage of Rep. Anna Eshoo’s amendment that requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to make public important evidence in cases of energy market manipulation like that of Enron:

“The FERC is not just sitting on its hands, it’s literally sitting on evidence that could help protect people from getting robbed by Enron again. The FERC should be put on notice that it is high time the commissioners start doing their jobs to protect consumers. The vote today in the House is a step in the right direction and I will work to support and strengthen this bill language in the Senate.”

Today also marks the one-year anniversary of the FERC’s ludicrous decision that energy contracts with Enron should be upheld, even though they were clearly fraudulent. The FERC’s decision stands in the way of the Snohomish Public Utility District (and others) being able to put an end to Enron’s lawsuit against them.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: CHRIS GALLEGOS

JUNE 25, 2004 (202) 224-7082

DOMENICI: USFS AERIAL FIREFIGHTING REFORMS

EXPECTED TO IMPROVE ABILITY TO DOUSE WILDFIRES EARLY

Senator Briefed on Program Prior to Lincoln Co. Visit Monday

WASHINGTON – In advance of his visit Monday to Lincoln County, U.S. Senator Pete Domenici today said he has been assured by the U.S. Forest Service that it has taken action to double its capacity to drop slurry and water on wildfires—and that the planes and helicopters needed to fight fires in New Mexico, Arizona and other states will be assigned as requested by fire incident commanders.

Domenici, chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, has been briefed by USFS officials on its aerial firefighting assets, which has been a somewhat contentious issue since the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) decided to ground many large slurry aircraft like the C-130A, P-3 Orion, DC-6 and DC-7.

“I believe the Forest Service has developed a sound plan to deal with fires this season. I have been assured that it now has twice the capacity to drop slurry and water on fires than before the multi-engine retardant aircraft contracts were cancelled in May,” Domenici said.

“I know weather conditions were bad during much of recent Peppin Fire in Lincoln County last month, but the inability to have more aircraft at the ready didn’t help the situation. I trust that we have moved passed that situation,” he said, referring to a wildfire that stated May 10 and eventually consumed about 65,000 acres over the next few weeks.

Domenici is scheduled to address forest health and watershed issues when he speaks at the summer meeting of the New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts on Monday in Ruidoso. (The Senator is slated to speak at 1:30 p.m., June 28, Ruidoso Convention Center, 111 Sierra Blanca Drive.)

The USFS reported to Domenici that it is in the process of reexamining the airworthiness of its multi-engine aircraft, and that results on the P-3 Orion and P-3 Neptune are expected to be completed before mid-July. It is also working with Sandia National Laboratories, DynCorp, the Federal Aviation Administration and NTSB to examine the aircraft of firms with firefighting contracts.

“I am impressed by the efforts the Forest Service and Interior Department have made to respond to the curveball the NTSB threw at them and their work to craft a credible alternative on such short notice,” Domenici said.

“Early indications are the plan is working, but the proof will be in how well it works as this fire season progresses,” he said. “I am heartened to know they are working to reexamine the multi-engine aircraft and get some of them back under contract and safely back in the air to help put down fires.”

Since reconfiguring its aerial firefighting program earlier this month, the USFS says it has increased its effectiveness in extinguishing fires during initial attack—793 of 805 fires started in New Mexico and Arizona this year have been stopped early, a rate far exceeding last year’s success rate in both states at this point in the fire season.

--30--

Friday, June 25, 2004

Montana Defense Projects Pass Senate
$90M For Montana Defense Approved By Senate

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Conrad Burns (R-Mont.) announced today $90,000,000 in projects slated for Montana received approval by the full Senate last night. Burns, a member of the Defense Subcommittee, and a senior member of the full Appropriations Committee, was able to include these projects on his request to Committee Chairman Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK).

“I was please to see $5 million added to the defense projects for Montana as this bill passed through the Senate,” said Burns. “It is clear that Montana plays an ever-increasing role in the defense of our nation, and the support for these projects is testament to the part our state plays in protecting our troops and our freedoms. I’ll continue to keep watch on these projects and help them remain in the final legislation.”

The addition $5 million includes $3 million for Mobile On-Scene Sensor Aircraft Intelligence Command, Control and Computer Center in Missoula, and $2 million for Care of Battlefield Wounds in Bozeman.

Dr. Robert Goodwin, Executive Vice President of LigoCyte Pharmaceuticals in Bozeman said “Thanks to Senator Burns' efforts, these new appropriations will have a tremendous impact on LigoCyte's ability to push our new therapeutics and vaccines into human clinical trials. These new medicines will directly enhance the security of our country, protecting both the military and the public against serious diseases. The Senator's work has been instrumental in the growth of the technology community in Bozeman.”

“This funding is a tremendous shot in the arm for TechLink and the technology sector in Montana,” said Dr. Will Swearingen, Executive Director of MSU Techlink in Bozeman. “It will enable us to continue helping Montana companies to access new technologies and business opportunities in Department of Defense laboratories nationwide. Senator Burns demonstrates once again that he is truly a champion of high-tech business in Montana.”

“This is great news for MSE, for Montana, and for our nation,” said David Micheletti, Vice President of MSE’s Advanced Energy and Aerospace Division. “These programs are advancing cutting-edge technology for our nation, and Senator Burns understands the impact this has not only on the capabilities of our country, but on the economy of Butte and we thank him for his continued support.”

Larry Farrar is President of Resodyn Corporation in Butte. “We are deeply appreciative of the work Senator Burns is doing for Montana. The contracts he provides for our company accelerate state-of-the-art research projects that translate in to more and better jobs in our community.”

"We are extremely grateful for the support that Senator Burns has acquired for MSU through the Department of Defense appropriations,” said Tom McCoy, Vice President for Research at Montana State University. “Senator Burns has a vision for economic development in Montana whereby he targets research projects for funding that can lead to new discoveries that can be commercialized in Montana. The Senator applies his vision to funding projects at MSU as well as in the private sector projects that he secures funding for. The state of Montana benefits immensely from the efforts of Senator Burns."

“This research holds great promise for improving the surgical operations on soldiers in a forward combat area,” said Dr. Mark Sanz of St. Pat’s Hospital in Missoula. “We’re thankful to Senator Burns for his efforts in getting this program included in the appropriations bill, and we appreciate his understanding the importance of this project to our men and women in uniform.”

Ralph Hutchinson, President of Scientific Materials in Bozeman said “The project funded by this legislation will provide economic development for Montana. It allows a combination of technologies from both Montana State and Scientific Materials into a major project on the S2 chip. We thank Senator Burns and his staff for securing this level of funding.”

“We are absolutely thrilled, especially in a tight budget year, to see us included in this appropriation,” said Chris Croff, President of Precision Lift, Inc. “Senator Burns and his staff, through their efforts, have helped us through the critical stages of establishing a business here in Montana, and we’re grateful for his continued support in our company.”

Greg DuMontier is President and CEO of S&K Technologies of St. Ignatius. “The technologies we’re developing are aimed at going directly to support the combat fighter in the war on terror. We’re creating technology that can be applied immediately in the support of the aircraft. Senator Burns understands the importance of this, and we are grateful for his support.”

“The Lewis and Clark expedition and the National Guard are married in history,” said Major General Gene Prendergast, Adjutant General of the Montana National Guard. “With this support from Senator Burns, the Montana National Guard can perform its appropriate role in the safety and security of visitors who come to our state in honor of the bicentennial.”

The following projects are included for Montana:

Mariah II Hypersonic Wind Tunnel – Butte $15,000,000

Bioadhesion Research to Combat Biological Warfare – Bozeman $5,500,000

Improved Materials for Optical Memories – Bozeman $5,500,000

Sierra Army Depot Cryofracture/Plasma Arc Demilitarization Program – Butte $5,000,000

Heli-basket Module Technology for the National Guard – Monarch $4,500,000

Combat Casualty Care, Battlefield Wounds – Butte $4,000,000

Advanced Metallized Gelled Propellants – Butte $3,500,000

Main Rotor and Anti-Torque Blade Erosion Resistant Ceramic Coating – Missoula $3,500,000

Portable Chemical-Biological Agent Detection System – UM Missoula $3,500,000

Mobile On-Scene Sensor Aircraft Intelligence Command, Control and Computer Center—Missoula $3,000,000

Compressor Blades Wear-Resistant Ceramic Coating – Missoula $3,000,000

Thermal Sprays for Structural Protection – Butte $3,000,000

Vaccines and Therapeutics to Counter Biological Threats – Bozeman $3,000,000

Evaluation of Vascular Grafts For Surgical Operations In Combat Settings – Missoula $2,600,000

Air Vehicle Health Management: Improved Fleet Readiness – St. Ignatius $2,500,000

Biological Detection of Unexploded Ordnance and Land Mines – MSU Bozeman $2,500,000

Lewis & Clark Bicentennial Commemoration Support – Helena $2,400,000

Care of Battlefield Wounds — Bozeman $2,000,000

Conjugate Vaccines to Prevent Shigellosis – Missoula $2,000,000

Prion Research – Great Falls $2,000,000

Defense Techlink – Bozeman $2,000,000

Free Form Low Cost Titanium Fabrication – MT Tech Butte $2,000,000

Oral Adjuvants – MSU Bozeman $1,500,000

Mil-Tech Extension – MSU Bozeman $1,500,000

Amorphous Metal Manufacturing Technology for Military Applications – Butte $1,000,000

Non-Linear Optical Materials – Bozeman $1,000,000

Waste Minimization and Pollution Prevention Program – Butte $1,000,000

Bioterrorism Agents In Military Drinking Water Systems – MSU Bozeman $1,000,000

Ground-Based Studies of Rocket Plume Signatures – MSU Bozeman $1,000,000

The Defense Appropriations Bill will now go to a joint House-Senate committee for reconciliation of differences before going back to the respective houses for final passage. Once the conference version is passed, it goes to the President for his signature into law. Defense Appropriations is one of thirteen spending bills passed annually by Congress.

###

_____________________________

Jennifer O'Shea
Press Secretary
Senator Conrad Burns
187 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
202.224.6830 Phone
202.224.8594 Fax

For Immediate Release Contact: Samantha Dallaire

June 25, 2004 202-224-6101

Statement By Intelligence Committee Vice Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV) on Press Reports that President Bush will Nominate Rep. Porter Goss to be New Head of CIA

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- “I am concerned about the recent reports regarding the President’s nomination of a new Director of Central Intelligence. There is clearly a need to fill this important position, but I believe the selection of a politician -- any politician, from either party -- would be a mistake.

“The debacle related to Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction has damaged the credibility of the intelligence community and the image of the United States around the world. We need a Director that is not only knowledgeable and capable but unquestionably independent.

“I strongly urge the President to look for an individual with unimpeachable, non-partisan national security credentials and the stature and independence to bring about much needed reform of our intelligence agencies.”

###

NEWS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICES OF U.S. SENATORS CRAIG & CRAPO

For Immediate Release Dan Whiting (Craig) (202) 224-8078
June 25, 2004 Susan Wheeler (Crapo) (202) 224-5150

CRAIG, CRAPO INTRODUCE WATER SETTLEMENT BILL
Seeks to codify the Snake River Basin Adjudication (SRBA) Settlement

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Idaho Senators Larry Craig and Mike Crapo introduced legislation late yesterday to codify the Snake River Basin Adjudication (SRBA) Settlement.

The legislation will direct the Secretary of the Interior and the heads of other Federal agencies to carry out an Agreement resolving some of the largest outstanding issues with respect to the SRBA in Idaho. It strives to achieve a fair, equitable, and final settlement of all claims of the Nez Perce Tribe and other parties with rights to Snake River water.

In order to achieve these goals, the legislation authorizes federal funds to be appropriated that are necessary for the United States to meet its obligations under the Agreement.

“Senator Crapo and I introduced legislation we hope will expedite the implementation of the carefully crafted SRBA Settlement. Given the time left in this Congress for legislative work, the challenge of getting a bill out of Committee and then to the Senate Floor is quite daunting. However, we are committed to ensuring the hard work of the Governor and the various Idaho stakeholders is supported by Congress.” said Senator Craig.

Senator Mike Crapo said, “The introduction of this bill begins the public review of a legal settlement won by several years of hard talks. Like the parties to the settlement, newcomers to this issue should strive for agreement. Agreement among Idahoans is the best governance of Idaho's economy and environmental heritage -- far more reliable than judgments in the courts.”

“This agreement is the result of several years of negotiation between state, private, tribal and U.S. representatives, and Idaho's delegation in Washington, D.C. is working hard to see that its vision becomes a reality,” Kempthorne said. “This federal legislation is essential for the State of Idaho to exercise its sovereign rights over the allocation of its water and give Idaho's water users assurances of security and flexibility to address the water challenges facing their businesses and communities.”

Please visit our websites at http://craig.senate.gov, http://crapo.senate.gov, and http://www.state.id.us.

[30]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2004
Contact: Press Office
Phone: 202.228.3685

Senators Levin, Stabenow Announce Michigan Projects Included in
Senate-passed Defense Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON â€” U.S. Senators Carl Levin, D-Mich., and Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., today
announced today that funding for many Michigan projects is included in the Department of
Defense Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2005, which the Senate passed last night by 98-0.

â€œThis bill makes critical investments in two vital areas: winning the global war on terrorism and
restoring our country's industrial and technological dominance,â€ said Levin. â€œEvery day in
military operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world, we see the contributions of
Michigan's military community and our state's industries and universities. Michigan, with its
dynamic and evolving industrial and technology sectors, continues to play a critical role in
enhancing our national security.â€

â€œFor generations Michigan industries and Michigan workers have been key suppliers of quality
materials for the nation's defense, and this bill continues that tradition,â€ Stabenow said. â€œI am
especially pleased that this bill will provide critical equipment to enhance the readiness and
capability of the Michigan National Guard.â€

The bill funds over $350 million for Army research on combat vehicle and automotive
technologies. This includes work on systems to protect Army vehicles against rocket propelled
grenades (RPGs) and improvised explosive devices (IEDs); more efficient engines; fuel cell and
hybrid electric vehicles; advanced materials for tank and HMMWV armor; robotics; computer
simulations for vehicle design and training of Army personnel; and technology partnerships
with the automotive industry. This research is performed and managed by the Army Tank and
Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Command (TARDEC) and its National
Automotive Center (NAC), both located in Warren, Michigan. TARDEC is the Department of
Defense's leading laboratory for research and development of advanced military automotive
technologies.

The bill also provides funding for the programs of the Army's Tank Automotive and Armaments
Command (TACOM) in Warren. TACOM is the Army's lead organization for the development of
ground vehicle combat, automotive, and armaments technologies and systems. TACOM
systems include the Abrams tank, Bradley fighting vehicle, Stryker Interim Armored Vehicle,
Army trucks and tactical vehicles, such as the HMMWV, and the Army's next generation of
combat vehicles, known as Future Combat Systems.

Advanced Technology Initiatives:

The bill funds over $60 million for the National Automotive Center's research and technology
programs. These programs include investigating and testing automotive technologies for the
military in close partnership with the automobile industry. NAC efforts include technology
programs in the areas of fuel efficiency; manufacturing; automotive logistics and maintenance;
integration of key commercial automotive technologies into light and heavy Army vehicle
demonstrators; engine and diagnostics technologies for tracked vehicle demonstrators; and
performance of computer simulation-based analysis in support of all areas of advanced
technology. The Senate invested over $30 million for the Army's Future Tactical Truck System
(FTTS) program, a NAC-led program that will evaluate key advanced technologies for use in the
Army's tactical wheeled vehicles. The bill also funds the Automotive Research Center university
consortium that conducts fundamental research on military and commercial ground vehicles.

In addition to the items included in the President's budget request, the bill contains a number
of important provisions to boost funding for advanced vehicle technologies, including the
following:

$10 million for developing the Army's next generation of tactical truck, as part of the
Army's Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Strategy. This work leverages advances made by the
NAC's FTTS and 21 st Century Truck programs, which have developed new vehicle
capabilities by integrating key technologies such as hybrid electric engines, advanced
lightweight materials, intelligent control systems, and embedded diagnostics into military
vehicles. This effort is managed by TACOM in Warren, Michigan.
$10 million in funds to develop lightweight, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries using
nanomaterials technologies. Such batteries could be considerably lighter, much more
capable, and more affordable that the current state-of-the-art batteries. These batteries
are being developed for use in the Army's Future Combat Systems' multi-purpose
ground vehicles. T/J Technologies of Ann Arbor is a leading innovator in the development
of these types of advanced battery systems.
$7 million for the vehicle fuel cell program that was initiated by Senator Levin in 2002 to
coordinate fuel cell activities throughout the military and to focus specifically on vehicle
technologies. This program develops and demonstrates of vehicle propulsion
technologies and fuel cell auxiliary power units. The program also includes development
of technologies necessary for a hydrogen fuel infrastructure as well as research on
reforming technologies that could enable use of JP-8 fuel in fuel cell vehicles. JP-8 is a
kerosene-type fuel that is used in both aircraft and ground vehicles that the military is
looking at as a possible single fuel for military use in order to reduce its overall logistics
footprint.
$6.2 million for the development and demonstration of advanced mobile
micro-powergrids. The program includes development of power generation technologies
such as engines, turbines, hybrid vehicles, and fuel cells for "plug and play" integration
into a mobile micro-powergrid that can be overlaid onto an existing utility grid to provide
electrical power to deployed forces, or provide backup power in the vent of a
catastrophic terrorist attack. This program would be carried out in cooperation with the
NAC, DTE Energy, and NextEnergy. An additional potential partner in this effort is
Selfridge Air National Guard Base.
$6.1 million for research, development, and demonstration of ground support equipment
powered by fuel cells. The first phase of the project will involve a large-scale field trial
using current generation proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells in ground support
equipment ranging from light carts to aircraft loaders. The second phase of the project
will include development and delivery of next-generation PEM fuel cell technology for
mobile power applications on military bases. Project partners include Ballard Power
Systems, TACOM, Kettering University and the Air Force. Testing of these systems would
take place at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.
$6 million to support continuation of the Army's effort to develop a self-contained, mobile
manufacturing center, known as the Mobile Parts Hospital, that can produce spare parts
on-demand for military vehicles on the battlefield. A joint venture between the NAC and
Detroit's Focus:HOPE, the program will allow the Army to reduce operating and support
costs while maintaining equipment readiness. A prototype of the Mobile Parts Hospital
has already been successfully deployed to Kuwait.
$5 million for N-STEP Enabled Manufacturing Cell for Future Combat Systems. These
funds will assist the N-STEP program, which will allow the Army to develop computerized
data files, like many businesses use, to reduce the cost of maintaining the Army's
existing combat and combat support vehicles. This system enables the timely and
accurate delivery of replacement parts for the Army's equipment. The National
Automotive Center (NAC) and the U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command
(TACOM) in Warren have demonstrated a need for this program.
$3.5 million for design, development and demonstration of Army light trucks powered by
a hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. The project will consist of a 16-month evaluation
of fuel cell vehicles.
$3.5 million to continue the development of an advanced thermal management system
to increase engine efficiency for Army vehicles. Engineered Machined Products in
Escanaba has partnered with TARDEC in the development of these systems.
$3 million for technical assessments and analyses of promising alternative fuel
technologies that can support military missions, as part of the Advanced Energy and
Manufacturing Technology program. Performed by TARDEC in conjunction with the
University of Michigan and the Center for Automotive Research, this work will evaluate
the potential for manufacturing a number of fuel processing technologies, which could
enable military vehicles to be powered by fuels produced from JP-8 or by liquid synthetic
fuels, synthetic gas produced from coal, and other non-traditional fuels.
$3 million for the Center for Innovative Materials and Infrastructure Security at Lawrence
Technological University. This Center will focus on the research and development of
materials to strengthen existing US military structures and vehicles against terrorist
attacks and/or natural disasters.
$2 million to continue development of technologies for the rapid prototyping of vehicle
parts at the University of Michigan at Dearborn.
$2 million for fundamental research on the effects of low temperature environments on
the performance of Army vehicles and other military equipment. Wayne State University
has been working with the Army for over 20 years in addressing these issues for military
systems.
$2 million to develop software tools to assist in the design of future Army tactical
vehicles. ThermoAnalytics, Inc. of Calumet, MI has been working with TARDEC on
developing these new engineering design tools.
$2 million to continue research efforts at Oakland University on mechanical fastening
and joining technology that is used in Army vehicles and by the automotive and
aerospace industries.
$1.5 million to continue work at Eastern Michigan University developing
nanotechnology-based coatings that could limit corrosion on ground vehicles, ships,
aircraft, and at military installations. Corrosion of military equipment costs the
Department of Defense billions of dollars in maintenance and repair each year.
$1 million for Project IMPACT (Improved Materials and Powertrain Architectures for 21 st
Century Trucks) whose funds will assist the U.S. Army TACOM, in Warren, Michigan, and
Ford Motor Company in promoting the manufacturing of military and commercial trucks
that are more environmentally compliant and fuel efficient. This program will conduct
research into lightweight steels, corrosion control and vehicle shape optimization. This
effort arose from the successful partnership between the commercial sector and the
Army, which operates an extensive truck fleet.

Michigan-Based Procurement and Research and Development Projects:

The bill includes funding for the following projects that involve Michigan-based companies,
facilities or programs:

$900 million for the Army's Stryker armored vehicle. General Dynamics Land Systems of
Sterling Heights is the prime contractor for the Stryker armored vehicle.
$117 million for the Army's Abrams tank modernization program. General Dynamics Land
Systems of Sterling Heights is also the prime contractor for the Abrams tank
modernization program.
$292 million for the Army's Systems Enhancement Program (SEP) for the Abrams tank.
General Dynamics Land Systems of Sterling Heights is also the prime contractor for the
SEP upgrade program.
$50 million for U.S. Navy procurement of sonobuoys. Sparton Electronics of Jackson,
Michigan, produces sonobuoys for anti-submarine warfare. Half the sonobuoys used by
the U.S. Navy are produced by Sparton Corp.
$15 million to fully fund the Army's requirement for the M915A3 family class of vehicles.
These vehicles are made by Freightliner and the engines are manufactured by Detroit
Diesel.
$10 million for continued development of flexible solar cells for space applications. New
technology based on amorphous silicon materials has the potential to produce solar
arrays that are ten times cheaper and three to five times lighter than current solar
arrays. Energy Conversion Devices of Troy, MI has been working with the Air Force on
this project.
$10 million for research into silicon substrates for solar cells. This program, run by DOW
Corning in Midland, Michigan, is focused on developing silicon substrates for advanced
solar cells.
$10 million for the Air Force's Metals Affordability Initiative, a government-industry
cooperative program to develop new aerospace materials and alloys. Howmet Castings
in Whitehall is developing new materials that will reduce aircraft engine maintenance
costs and help enable the next generation of fighter aircraft and unmanned air vehicles.
$9 million to continue development of an antidote to mustard gas. The University of
Michigan is a member of the consortium currently working with the Defense Department
on this research effort to protect against the potential use of this weapon of mass
destruction (WMD).
$8 million for the Army to purchase fleece liners for their Extended Cold Weather
Clothing System, $2 million for the Army National Guard to purchase the Extended Cold
Weather Clothing System and $5 million for the All Purpose Environmental Clothing
System for Marines. In addition, as part of the $25 billion Iraq Contingency Emergency
Reserve Fund, a portion of the $390 million allocated to the Army's Rapid Fielding
Initiative is for the purchase of fleece clothing. The Rapid Fielding Initiative seeks to get
items vital to soldiers into their hands in a more timely manner than possible through
traditional military procurement practices. Polartec fleece products used by the military
are assembled by Peckham Vocational Industries in Lansing.
$8 million for the Army's Flexible Display Initiative to develop lightweight, high definition,
full color displays for both soldiers and vehicles. Dow Corning in Midland is a major
participant in this industry-wide technology development program.
$6.5 million for Automated Clinical Guidelines, a coordinated program between Ford
Health Systems and Tripler Army Hospital to automate clinical practice guidelines used by
medical practitioners.
$6 million for the Army's Modular Causeway System, a system of interchangeable
components which improve military logistical operations by augmenting existing facilities
and speeding the unloading of ships at ports or beaches. Oldenburg Lakeshore, Inc. of
Iron Mountain produces the system.
$6 million for research into the advanced power electronics needed for many systems
that depend on the development of new materials capable of significantly higher power,
higher speed, and higher temperature operation. This research could help improve the
capabilities of Navy airborne radar platforms, such as the E-2 Hawkeye. Dow Corning of
Midland is a leader in producing these materials, known as wide bandgap
semiconductors.
$5.5 million for the development of a hand-held chemical-biological weapon detection
system that will be able to analyze the presence of these agents. Handylabs of Ann
Arbor, Michigan, will work with the U.S. Army to develop this product.
$5 million for research into chronic multi-symptom illnesses conducted at the University
of Michigan. The focus of this research is the development of treatments for Gulf War
illnesses and other undiagnosed post-deployment disorders. This research is conducted
by the Center for Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research, located at the University of
Michigan-Ann Arbor, and overseen by the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel
Command.
$4 million for the Army's Advanced Lightweight Structures Initiative, which develops next
generation titanium, ceramic, and aluminum materials for cannons, vehicles, and armor
systems. Howmet Castings in Whitehall and Alcoa Automotive in Fruitport are among the
partners in this initiative.
$3.5 million for the Casting Emissions Reduction Program (CERP). CERP is the largest
experimental, full production casting facility in the country and is a partnership between
private industry and the U.S. Army. A portion of these funds will be used to assist efforts
at GM's Malleable Iron Plant, located in Saginaw, Michigan, to develop new,
environmentally friendly metal casting technology.
$3.5 million to continue a collaboration between TARDEC, local health officials, and
Delphi Automotive in Shelby Township to develop a hand-held water quality sensing
device that will aid in the detection of chemical, biological and pollutant agents in
drinking water. This project, when completed, will enable the military and public health
officials to conduct real-time monitoring of water quality.
$3 million for the Shipboard Wireless Assistant which is being developed by Cybernet of
Ann Arbor. This program seeks to develop an integrated, wireless communications and
computing environment for Navy ships.
$2.9 million for the development of computer models for the Defense Department's
Chemical & Biological Defense Program to predict how long chemical agents remain
dangerous after an attack. This will help our military forces to better protect themselves
and operate in contaminated environments. Kettering University of Flint is a technology
leader role in developing these computer models.
$2.5 million for development of control, vision, and navigation systems for future Army
robotic ground vehicles. Soar Technologies in Ann Arbor is a world leader in this area of
research and engineering, and has worked extensively with TARDEC on these systems.
$2.5 million for the development of advanced manufacturing technologies for the Army.
It is important that the Army develop fully integrated, cost-efficient manufacturing
technologies that can be used to support depot operations and other Army efforts.
Focus:HOPE, of Detroit, has a worked on numerous manufacturing programs with the
U.S. Army, and is a national leader in the training of manufacturing engineers.
$2.5 million for research on nanotechnology to develop revolutionary molecular-sized
electronic circuitry. The Center for Nanomaterials Research at Michigan Technological
University in Houghton partners with the Pentagon's Defense Advanced Research
Projects Agency (DARPA) on the development on these miniaturized technologies.
$2 million for Copper Based Casting Technology. This program will develop new casting
technologies for high melting point copper and copper based alloys. A Belding, Michigan,
company, Extruded Metals, Inc., is a potential participant in this program.
$2 million for the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets, a national organization that helps young
people learn nautical skills while also building character and patriotism.
$1 million for the Soldiers Mobility and Rifle Targeting System (SMARTS) which provides
soldiers with lightweight, low power helmet mounted thermal and visible sensor for use
in close- quarter missions such as exploring caves in Afghanistan. Rockwell Collins in Ann
Arbor is creating this system.
$1 million for research on new composite materials to be used in advanced munitions.
This program will work to develop and automate manufacturing methods using a new
materials processing approach, ultrasonic consolidation, to reduce production costs of
these advanced materials, known as metal matrix composites. Solidica, an Ann Arbor
based firm, is a leader in the development of these materials and processes.
Over $1.4 billion for fundamental research to support the military at our nation's
universities and government laboratories. Many Michigan universities, including the
University of Michigan, Michigan State, Wayne State, Oakland University, Eastern
Michigan University, Kettering University, Lawrence Technological University and
Michigan Technological University, perform high quality fundamental research for the
Department of Defense in all fields of science and technology.

Michigan National Guard Projects:

This bill included funding of projects that will enable the Michigan National Guard to procure
materiel that it needs to accomplish its mission. Included among those projects are the
following items:

$30 million for F-16 Block 42 engine upgrades. These will enable the Air National Guard
to upgrade some of their fleet. Portions of the Guard's F-16 fleet is located at Selfridge
Air National Guard Base.
$15 million for Litening Precision Advanced Targeting Pods for use by the National Guard.
With the help of Senator Levin, the 127th Fighter Wing at Selfridge Air National Guard
base was among the first units in the nation to have this technology which enables
pilots to better deliver precision guided munitions. These pods have been used by
Selfridge pilots when deployed overseas, and these additional pods will be used by
National Guard units, including those at Selfridge, as they are deployed.
$10 million for research and development of engine upgrades for the A-10 aircraft which
are used to provide close air support for ground forces. The 110th Fighter Wing at W.K.
Kellogg field, in Battle Creek, is home to some of these aircraft which are scheduled to
be used until 2028. These funds will enable them to ensure that this aircraft is
modernized and able to perform its missions.
$7.5 million for Air Force joint threat emitter systems for the Air National Guard. These
systems simulate electronic combat signals produced by surface-to-air missiles and
provide realistic electronic warfare training for pilots and aircrew members. Alpena,
Michigan is home to a key Air National Guard Combat Readiness Training that employs
these types of training technologies.
$ 7 million for three dimensional modeling, design and engineering assessments of the
A-10 aircraft. These funds will also play a role in sustaining these aircraft.

Manufacturing Extension Program:

The bill includes an amendment that would make available additional fund for the
Manufacturing Extension Program (MEP). The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) helps
small and mid-sized American manufacturers modernize and stay competitive in a global
marketplace by boosting. The administration's 2004 budget reduced funding for this program
by 88 percent.

This amendment clarified that the Department of Commerce has the ability to transfer and
reprogram $21.8 million to the MEP Program in fiscal year 2004. The Department of Commerce
had argued that it was only able to reprogram up to $3.9 million for this program. This
language will enable additional funds to be provided to our nation's 60 MEP centers. These
centers are public-private partnerships that prove technical assistance and business support
services to small manufacturers so that they can compete in the global market place.

The House of Representatives passed the defense appropriations bill on June 22. The
differences between the two bills will now be worked out in a conference committee.

Democratic Members Decry GOP’s Partisan Attempts

To Skirt Committee Consideration Of Marriage Amendment

[WASHINGTON (Friday, June 25) -- The nine Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee sent a letter to Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) Friday urging him to intervene in the Republican leadership’s efforts to circumvent the Committee process by forcing a vote on a federal marriage constitutional amendment before the Judiciary Committee has a chance to consider it. Senate Republican leadership has said it plans to break with longstanding Senate tradition of the Judiciary Committee reviewing constitutional amendments in this case and force a vote on an amendment in July. The Judiciary panel, which has jurisdiction over the issue, has held hearings on various amendment proposals but has not yet voted on any proposal. The letter to Hatch follows.]

++++++

June 25, 2004

The Honorable Orrin G. Hatch

Chairman

Senate Committee on the Judiciary

224 Dirksen Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Mr. Chairman:

Last week, the Republican leadership announced that it will bring the Federal Marriage Amendment (AFMA@) to the floor of the Senate during the week of July 12. Press reports indicate that this particular date was chosen because some want to have a vote on this amendment prior to the Democratic convention at the end of the month. We urge you to prevail upon your colleagues in the leadership to allow the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Property Rights to debate and mark up the amendment prior to its being taken up on the floor. The Judiciary Committee has a long and productive tradition of considering amendments to the Constitution. We believe that breaking with that tradition in this instance would be a serious mistake.

The FMA has never before been considered by the Senate. It is a controversial measure sure to inspire heated debate on the floor and in the country. So far, four hearings have been held on this topic in both the Senate and the House. Religious leaders, legal scholars, legislators, psychologists and other health professionals, and advocates for children and families are divided on the need to amend the Constitution in this way. It seems clear to us that there is no consensus in the Senate, or in the country, that this amendment is needed or appropriate.

Furthermore, while the language of the FMA has recently been modified, there is still significant doubt as to its intent and effect. In these circumstances, we believe it is premature to consider the amendment at all, but at the very least, consideration by the Judiciary Committee may clarify and even narrow the issues for the floor.

As you know, it is highly unusual for a constitutional amendment to come to the Senate floor without committee action. In the last decade, constitutional amendments relating to a balanced budget, term limits, flag desecration, and victims rights have all gone through the Judiciary Committee prior to receiving floor consideration. The only amendment that received a floor vote without first being marked up in committee was Sen. Hollings= campaign finance constitutional amendment. That measure was discharged from committee by unanimous consent so it could be debated on the floor during debate on campaign finance reform legislation.

You will undoubtedly recall that during the 96th Congress, a constitutional amendment providing for the direct election of the President and Vice-President was brought directly to the Senate floor. You argued strenuously at that time for Aregular order@:

“As the ranking minority member of the Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on the Constitution, I feel very strongly that there are ways to propose constitutional amendments and there are ways not to propose constitutional amendments.... I think this is the way not to propose a constitutional amendment. . . . To bypass the committee is, I think, to denigrate the committee process, especially when an amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America, the most important document in the history of the Nation, is involved.”

Cong. Rec. 5003-5004 (Mar. 14, 1979). Your arguments prevailed and the Senate agreed to recommit the amendment to the Judiciary Committee.

Mr. Chairman, you were right in 1979 that the proper course to follow when an amendment to the Constitution of the United States is proposed is to allow the Judiciary Committee to consider it and report it to the floor before the full Senate is asked to debate it. That is the course that should be followed here. We hope you will continue to protect the jurisdiction of the Committee in discussions with those who want to rush the Senate into a premature vote for political reasons.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

PATRICK LEAHY EDWARD M. KENNEDY JOSEPH R. BIDEN, Jr.

United States Senator United States Senator United States Senator

HERB KOHL DIANNE FEINSTEIN RUSSELL D. FEINGOLD

United States Senator United States Senator United States Senator

CHARLES E. SCHUMER RICHARD J. DURBIN JOHN EDWARDS

United States Senator United States Senator United States Senator

cc: Majority Leader Bill Frist

Democratic Leader Tom Daschle

# # # # #

CONTACT: Tracy Schmaler / 202 224 2154

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Maureen Knightly/ Jen Carrier

June 25, 2004 202.224.3254

HARKIN ANNOUNCES BOOST FOR COUNSELING SERVICES IN IOWA SCHOOLS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced today that Des Moines and Clinton will receive federal funds from the U.S. Department of Education to expand counseling services in elementary and secondary schools.

“Counselors play an active role in Iowa’s schools as they can help detect learning disabilities, reduce behavioral problems and curb youth violence,” said Harkin. “This funding will help schools in the Des Moines and Clinton areas provide vital counseling services to their students.”

Clinton Community School District will receive $340,000 to hire qualified school counselors, social workers and high school psychiatrists.

Elementary schools in the Des Moines Independent School District will receive $400,000 to hire counselors and increase the range and availability of counseling services.

Harkin first recognized the impact of counselors in schools when the Des Moines Smoother Sailing program dramatically decreased youth violence and behavioral problems in early grades. This program then became the model for the nationwide Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Demonstration Program, which Harkin created.

As ranking member of the Education Appropriations Subcommittee, Harkin fought to increase funding for school counseling programs nationwide and succeeded in gaining an additional $1.7 million in FY2004.

###

JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator - Texas
CONTACT: DON STEWART
(202) 224-0704 office (202) 365-6702 cell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 25, 2004

SENATE PASSES CORNYN-FEINSTEIN LEGISLATION TO CURB COPYRIGHT PIRACY, PROTECT ARTISTS’ RIGHTS

ART Act will help combat online piracy of film, music, movies and other copyrighted materials

WASHINGTON –Bipartisan legislation to combat copyright piracy passed another hurdle Friday when the full Senate unanimously passed the Artists’ Rights and Theft Prevention Act (ART Act, S. 1932). The bill, sponsored by U.S. Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas and Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., is necessary, Cornyn says, “to combat the growing threat to consumers, the entertainment industry, and a U.S. economy now getting back on its feet.”

The bill increases penalties for distribution of pre-release copyrighted works, and provides a means for copyright owners to be compensated for economic harm caused by the theft and release of their work. And for the first time, use of camcorders in theaters is criminalized at the federal level.

A similar bill in the House of Representatives, H.R. 4077, was cleared in subcommittee on March 31, and will likely move to the full committee action soon. Though there are differences in the two bills, Cornyn says he is “confident this important bill will move quickly and soon be on the way to the President for his signature.”

“This important, bipartisan legislation will help stamp out what has become a growth industry in this era of rapid technological development: the theft and distribution of copyrighted material,” said Cornyn, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. “I particularly want to thank Sen. Feinstein for her leadership on this bill. Both of our states are disproportionately affected by such thefts, and I appreciate her continuing efforts to stand up for consumers, artists and the thousands of related jobs that such thefts put in jeopardy.”

The entertainment industry is one of the strongest sectors of the United States economy. U.S. copyright industries employ close to six percent of all U.S. workers, leading all major industry sectors in foreign sales and exports.

“Today, high quality, yet illegal, copies of copyrighted material can be and are distributed easily—and almost instantly—via email, peer-to-peer networks and other means to millions of users on a regular basis,” Cornyn said. “We are now one step closer to making thefts far more difficult, prosecution of criminals much easier, and the protection of consumers and artists much stronger.”

The Cornyn-Feinstein ART Act will enable copyright holders and law enforcement officials to combat the significant, negative economic impact caused by the piracy of pre-releases and the use of recording devices in movie theaters. Specifically, the ART Act:

Creates a federal law protecting artists against the use of camcorders and other recording devices in movie theaters
Strengthens NET Act provisions in light of the proliferation of peer-to-peer networks to protect against piracy of so called pre-release materials.
Facilitates prosecution of the most egregious violations of copyright – the illegal distribution of pre-release materials before the copyright holder has a chance to get the product to market.
Bolsters the ability of copyright owners to protect their copyrights by recovering damages from individuals who illegally distribute pre-release materials – action that, by definition, causes serious economic harm.

“The digital age is making rampant theft easier and more damaging, and the overlap between online file swapping and the production of counterfeit movies and CDs has become so blurred as to become indistinguishable,” Cornyn said. “These commonsense law enforcement tools are needed now, and I appreciate the Senate leadership’s effort to bring this to a vote.”

The legislation was introduced on November 22, 2003. It was passed unanimously in the Judiciary Committee on April 29. 2004. There are nine other co-sponsors: Sens. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Joseph Biden (D-Del.), Michael DeWine (R-Ohio), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.), Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Gordon Smith (R-Ore.).

For a summary of the ART Act, please visit: http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/record.cfm?id=220871

Sen. Cornyn chairs the subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights & Property Rights. He is the only former judge on the Judiciary Committee and served previously as Texas Attorney General, Texas Supreme Court Justice, and Bexar County District Judge.

- 30 -

http://cornyn.senate.gov

The Committee on Appropriations will hold a field hearing on Alaska Native Villages affected by flooding and erosion on Tuesday, June 29, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and on Wednesday, June 30, from 8:30a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Loussac Library Assembly Chamber in Anchorage, Alaska.

The scheduled witnesses are:

Tuesday, June 29, 2004

Panel One

BG Larry Davis, Division Commander, Pacific Ocean Division, U.S. Army Corp of Engineers

Mr. John Pennington, Regional Director, FEMA

Mr. Robert A. Robinson, Managing Director, Natural Resources & Environment, U.S. GAO

Mr. Patrick Poe, Alaska Regional Administrator, FAA

Panel Two

Mr. Wayne Mundy, Administrator, Native American Programs, Department of Housing and Urban Development

Mr. Edgar Blatchford, Commissioner, Department of Community & Economic Development

Mr. Dave Liebersbach, Director, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Panel Three

Dr. Tom Karl, Director of National Climatic Data Center, NOAA

Dr. Syun-Ichi Akasofu, Director, International Arctic Research Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks

Wednesday, June 30, 2004

Panel One

Representative Reggie Joule, Alaska State House of Representatives, District 40

Mr. George Ahmaogak, Mayor, North Slope Borrough, AK

Mr. Myron Naneng, President, Association of Village Council Presidents

Ms. Loretta Bullard, President, Kawerak, Inc.

Panel Two

Mr. Hugh Short, Mayor, Bethel, AK

Ms. Edith Vorderstrasse, Mayor, City of Barrow, AK

Mr. Steve Ivanoff, President, Native Corporation of Unalakleet, AK

Mr. Rex Rock, President, Village Corporation of Point Hope, AK

Panel Three

Dr. Joseph N. Suhayda, Oceangraphic Consultant, HESCO Bastion

Mr. Fenton Rexford, Tribal Administrator, Kaktovik Traditional Council

Ms. Luci Eningowuk, Chairperson, Shishmaref Erosion and Relocation Coalition

Mr. Enoch Adams, Chairman, Kivalina Relocation Planning Committee

Mr. Stanley Tom, Tribal Liaison, Newtok Traditional Council

Mr. Percy Lolnitz, Chief, Koyukuk Traditional Council (Invited)

Last night, the Senate approved the Defense Approprations Bill, which the Senate Appropriations Committee had passed out on Tuesday. Here's the release we sent to state press on Tuesday. All the numbers are the same.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 22, 2004
Contact: Lynn Becker or Zach Goldberg Phone: (202) 224-5653

KOHL ANNOUNCES $240 MILLION IN FEDERAL DEFENSE SPENDING TO BENEFIT WISCONSIN

WASHINGTON, D.C. B Wisconsin businesses and projects stand to receive over $240 million in federal dollars as part of the Senate’s fiscal year 2005 Appropriations Bill for the Department of Defense (DoD), U.S. Senator Herb Kohl announced today. Kohl, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee that approved today’s funding, had identified several Wisconsin companies as leading competitors for DoD contracts.

“We owe it to the men and women of the armed forces to provide them with quality equipment and resources. Wisconsin industries have always played an important role, and this year will be no different. I am pleased that the Senate Appropriations Committee has enabled Wisconsin to again meet the needs of national defense,” Kohl said.

The Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee this year placed an emphasis on funding for the National Guard and Reserves to upgrade and modernize their equipment. As a result, among the Wisconsin initiatives included in the defense bill, Oshkosh Truck Corporation stands to be awarded more than $152 million in contracts. This funding includes:

· $75 million for the Army’s Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck and Palletized Load System Trucks and Trailers programs to enhance vehicle sustainability and reliability by inserting onboard diagnostics and prognostics, increase mobility through advanced suspension and propulsion systems, and reduce fuel consumption.

· $30.9 million to replace the U.S. Navy Seabee’s old commercial trucks with Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement trucks, which are cost-effective, highly mobile, all-wheel drive trucks.

· $16.25 million for the U.S. Army National Guard’s Tactical Fire Fighting Trucks, which are used to fight aircraft and brush fires at ammunition storage areas in the theater of combat.

· $15 million for the U.S. Army’s Heavy Tactical Vehicles, which are fuel efficient, versatile, and low maintenance, and are important to the Army’s ongoing effort to maintain its lead in truck technology.

· $15 million to provide common bridge transporters for the U.S. Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve.

Kohl also announced that he secured $10 million for the development of high performance lightweight generators that are produced by the DRS Technologies in Milwaukee. These lightweight generators will allow the Navy to produce lighter, smaller vessels in the future. An additional $10 million was included for the development of Precision Guided Mortar Munition, produced by Alliant Techsystems of Janesville. The precision rounds provide the capability to engage point targets, including those in urban environments, with minimal collateral damage. Kohl secured another $10 million in the FY05 Defense Bill for the Metals Affordability Initiative, a government/industry collaboration of which the Ladish Co. Inc. in Cudahy participates. The initiative, for which Kohl also helped secure funding in last year=s budget, invests in new technology to provide improvements in affordability of metals used in defense and aerospace systems.

In addition, Silicon Logic in Chippewa Falls stands to receive $3.5 million, of which $2.5 million would develop a battery life indicator and $1 million would develop a low cost, reliable Radio Frequency Identification monitoring device to enable the management of energy on the battlefield. Pliant, also of Chippewa Falls, is set to receive $4 million, Kohl announced. Of that, $2 million would develop polymer batteries that will be more powerful, lighter, safer, and cheaper than what is available today. Another $2 million would develop food packaging that would increase the security of foods for troops.

Kohl also included $3 million in battery technology contracts, of which Rayovac of Madison stands to win a large share. The funding includes $1 million to develop an advanced alkaline cell for high power applications such as night vision goggles, two-way radios and digital imaging applications; $1 million to develop a high powered battery that can be recharged in only 30 minutes; and $1 million for a Zinc Air battery that is a valuable option for portable power for the military.

Additionally, Kohl secured $5.5 million for portable heating and air conditioning for Army field use, technology developed by Modine Corporation in Racine and $4.9 million for Navy carrier weapon elevators developed by Rockwell Automation in Milwaukee. He also secured $4 million for ammunition to enhance war fighter readiness and help sustain the readiness of the U.S. defense ammunition industrial base through Amron, LLC of Antigo. Also included in the bill is $1.5 million for American Plastic, of Rhinelander, to develop packaging prototype materials that will protect the food and increase its shelf life.

He also included $7.8 million to improve laser development at Alfalight in Madison, which will be used for destroying unexploded ordinance or landmines from a Humvee. In addition, Kohl secured $5 million for Air Force research of rocket boosters at KT Engineering in Madison. Orbital Technologies, also of Madison, stands to receive $5 million for the development of low-cost reusable engines that will enhance the operability of suborbital launch vehicles.

Also included in the budget is $4 million for the DOD’s “Operation Walking Shield” project, of which the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewas, located near Bayfield, participates. As a result of the funding, U.S. Military Reserve and National Guard units are scheduled to perform “Innovative Readiness Training” at the Red Cliff reservation, which will provide needed infrastructure for the community.

Finally, Kohl secured $2.1 million in the budget for advanced power trains and intelligence controls, which John Deere of Horicon develops. This is a military version of John Deere’s Gator vehicle, a small material handling vehicle. The military has used the vehicles for a variety of support, security, and combat tasks.

The defense budget bill must now be approved by the Senate.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2004 Contact: Paul Cardus (202) 224-6361

AKAKA INTRODUCES BILL TO COMBAT INVASIVE SPECIES

Comprehensive Measure Would Protect Hawaii Biodiversity

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) has introduced legislation to strengthen cooperative efforts by federal, state, and local agencies; non-governmental entities; and Indian tribes to control the spread of terrestrial invasive species through a cost-shared, cooperative grant program. The Public Land Protection and Conservation Act authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to provide grants to states, nonprofits, and tribal entities to assess, control, and eradicate invasive species on public and adjacent lands. The bill requires coordination between the National Invasive Species Council, the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the States.

"Invasive species cause devastating environmental, human health, and economic consequences throughout the nation and world," said Akaka. "They are responsible for damage to native ecosystems and vital industries such as agriculture, fisheries, and ranching. The impacts of invasive species are estimated to cost the United States at least $100 billion each year. Invasive species threaten the existence of 42 percent of threatened and endangered species in the United States, and this is an issue that must be confronted.

"Nowhere, however, are the impacts greater than in Hawaii, which has always been known for its biodiversity. For example, the Formosan ground termite, Mediterranean fruit fly, and miconia have caused tremendous and costly problems for Hawaii homeowners, our state's agricultural industry, and Hawaii's rainforests. In total, unwanted alien pests are entering Hawaii at a rate that is about two million times more rapid than the natural rate. Nonnative, invasive species comprise roughly 20 percent of the plants and animals in Hawaii."

Despite their best efforts to reduce the devastation caused by invasive species, states lack the needed funds to adequately address this issue. The General Accounting Office (GAO) issued a report on September 5, 2003, documenting gaps and barriers in federal invasive species legislation. The number one barrier identified in the report was insufficient federal funding for state efforts to control invasive species.

The Department of the Interior, in its FY 2005 budget request, acknowledges that invasive species pose an enormous threat to the ecological and economic health of the Nation. The Department of the Interior and U.S. Forest Service together received approximately $126 million in FY 2004, and the combined FY 2005 request is identical. "We need a more coordinated attack on invasive species," Akaka noted. "The attack must have robust funding if we are to work in partnership with the states."

-MORE-AKAKA
2-2-2

The Public Land Protection and Conservation Act would authorize three types of grants, only one of which requires matching funds:

• grants to states for assessment projects to identify, quantify, and prioritize invasive species threats.

• control grants to supply appropriate public or private entities or Indian tribes with funding to carry out, in partnership with a federal agency, an eradication, containment, or management project on federal land or adjacent land. Control grants are cost-shared with states. A maximum of 75 percent of funding shall be federally provided for control projects on adjacent land, with the exception of pilot or demonstration projects, or projects that conserve threatened or endangered species, which shall receive 85 percent federal funding. The federal share of control projects carried out on federal land shall be 100 percent.

• rapid response funds, designated for States facing new outbreaks of invasive species, to provide timely resources to eradicate these organisms before they gain a foothold. Rapid response funds are critical to States in order to combat newly identified invasives.

"There are increasingly severe problems and economic burdens associated with invasive species in our nation," Akaka said. "Federal support to states to combat this problem at the ground level is crucial. If ever there was a time to commit to defending the security of our domestic resources for the future, it is now. My legislation will provide states the desperately needed funding to start a serious battle against invasive species."

The legislation is supported by the State of Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources, the Conservation Council of Hawaii, and the Hawaii affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. The National Environmental Coalition on Invasive Species, a coalition of representatives from major environmental organizations, has extended its full support for this legislation.

-30-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Kathleen Long 202-228-3685

June 25, 2004

Opening Statement of Senator Carl Levin

Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing on

Transition to Sovereignty in Iraq

June 25, 2004

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for calling this important hearing. Over the last few weeks we have seen movement in Iraq on political matters with the formation of the interim Iraqi government and the planned transfer of full sovereignty next week. Although too long time in coming, there is finally a real diplomatic effort to obtain input and support of the international community, as reflected in the unanimous vote for the United Nations Security Council resolution. Now we need a major attempt to enlist Muslim countries and NATO to provide needed troops, police and security personnel.

We have recently seen major setbacks in the security environment in Iraq, including political assassinations of Iraqi government officials and car bombings and other attacks which have produced casualties among U.S. and coalition soldiers and killed scores and seriously injured hundreds of ordinary Iraqi civilians and security personnel. The U.S. effort in Iraq is truly a race against time – a race to establish a sufficient level of security that will allow the political process to go forward with the convening of the national conference in July and elections of a National Assembly in December of this year.

It is a race against time because the United States appears to be losing the war for the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people. According to press reports, a recent poll conducted by the Coalition Provisional Authority, but not released to the public, indicated that an overwhelming 92% of Iraqis view the coalition forces as occupiers, and only 2% as liberators. In fact, 55% said they would feel safer if U.S. troops left immediately. At the same time, it is interesting to note that 81% of the Iraqis polled said they had an improved opinion of Moqtada Sadr, and 64% said the actions of his militia have made Iraq more unified. While their opinion of Sadr is improving, their opinions of Americans are certainly not – 54% of Iraqis believe all Americans act like those who perpetrated the abuses at Abu Ghraib. We clearly have a problem here.

There are still more questions than answers concerning Abu Ghraib and the larger issue concerning the methods of interrogation and treatment of detainees in Iraq, Afghanistan and Guantanamo Bay. Every day there are more revelations that appear to involve senior U.S. government officials in decisions to disregard tenets of the Geneva Conventions. This has adverse affects on the future well-being of our troops and on our ability to establish security and stability in Iraq. It makes it more difficult to attract allies to help us wage a comprehensive political, economic and military campaign against the conditions and forces that breed terrorism throughout the world.

There are a large number of unresolved issues surrounding the ending of the occupation and the evolving relationship with a newly sovereign Iraqi government. Chief among those are issues concerning the operation of the Multinational Force and its relationship with Iraqi security forces. The letters from Secretary Powell and Prime Minister Allawi annexed to UN Security Council Resolution 1546 agree that unity of command will be achieved through coordination in the Iraqi Ministerial Committee for National Security and other coordinating bodies at national, regional and local levels. We need to understand how these coordinating mechanisms will operate in practice.

The letter from Secretary Powell states that the “Multinational Force must continue to function under a framework that affords the force and its personnel the status that they need to accomplish their mission, and in which the contributing states have responsibility for exercising jurisdiction over their personnel ...” He further states that the “existing framework governing these matters is sufficient for these purposes.” Our witnesses will hopefully describe specifically how U.S. soldiers and contractors will be assured legal protections as they perform their missions in Iraq.

We need to reverse the view of Iraqis of the allied forces as occupiers. That means that the interim Iraqi government must have real decision-making power and must also be able to direct reconstruction resources to projects that have immediate effect on the daily lives of Iraqis. The ordinary Iraqi must see the interim government as an entity that has a positive impact on his or her life, and as an entity that merits support. Then Iraqis will see the insurgents as a threat to their own well-being, rather than as a force against the occupier.

Only an Iraqi government which commands popular support can defeat the ongoing insurgency. With support comes intelligence that enables successful action against the insurgents. With successful action comes security and further legitimacy for the government. The challenge for the U.S. is to support that process in a way that enhances the Iraqi government’s legitimacy and promotes that security.

# # #

JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator - Texas
CONTACT: DON STEWART
(202) 224-0704 office (202) 365-6702 cell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 24, 2004

SENATE PASSES AFRICAN TRADE BILL

Bipartisan bill will help spur economic growth on African continent

WASHINGTON— The U.S. Senate unanimously passed the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Acceleration Act of 2004 (H.R. 4103) Thursday evening to help spur economic development and help integrate Africa into the world trading system. U.S. Sen. Cornyn, a member of the President’s Export Council, said the legislation was a priority for the White House, and key to economic development on the African continent.

The legislation provides authorization to grant trade preferences and other benefits to Sub-Saharan African countries that meet necessary market reform and human rights standards. A key provision of the agreement expires in September, with full expiration scheduled for 2008. Failure to reauthorize the legislation would have created uncertainty for American and other companies doing business with African companies.

“Passing this important trade bill was a priority for the President, and his leadership was critical in moving this legislation through the Senate,” Cornyn said. “I applaud Sen. Frist and Ambassador Zoelick for their efforts to move this key legislation.”

Recent trade successes include the United States-Chile Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (H. R. 2738), which was passed by the Senate on July 31 by a vote of 66-31, and the United States-Singapore Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (H. R. 2729), passed by the Senate on July 31 with a vote of 66-32.

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Zoellick signed the U.S.-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) between the United States and five Latin American countries on May 28. The agreement is now pending before the Senate.

The terms of CAFTA provide that more than 80 percent of U.S. exports of consumer and industrial goods will be duty-free in the nations involved in the treaty. Remaining tariffs will be phased out over the next 10 years. The Bush administration reached an agreement on CAFTA on December 17, 2003.

Sen. Cornyn is a member of the Congressional Oversight Group on Trade which supervises and consults with the U.S. Trade Representative. He also serves on the President’s Export Council.

-30-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Todd Webster

June 24, 2004 Sarah Feinberg

(202)224-2939

Defense Spending Bill Includes

Daschle Requests for Research Funding

(Washington, D.C.) – Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle announced today that the Senate passed its FY 2005 Defense Appropriations bill that included several of his requests for increased funding for bioterrorism research and other health initiatives.

“It’s critically important that as we move forward with our military operations around the world, we invest in research that will make our troops – and the populace they defend – safer from biological threats,” Senator Daschle said. “I’m encouraged that these critical research efforts gained the strong support of the Senate.”

Daschle’s funding requests for research include the following items.

Bioterrorism Research

$3 million for expanded anthrax research at the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID): This research would support development of improved anthrax vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. Earlier funding allowed USAMRIID to identify genes required for the anthrax organism to grow and cause disease, laying the foundation for development of better treatment and vaccines. Further work is underway to determine whether vaccine and diagnostic targets can be developed using research on the immune response of humans who survived inhalation anthrax after the 2001 bioterrorist attacks.

$4 million for agile vaccinology: Agile vaccinology induces a person’s immune system to develop flexible immune responses that allow the body to counter different strains of a pathogen. Scientists believe this will be an effective way to cope with genetically engineered biowarfare threats, for example. An agile anthrax vaccine has proven successful in animals and is ready to enter Phase I clinical trials. Other vaccines are being developed for a combination of anthrax and plague, malaria, and dengue.

$4 million for the development of large-scale, polyclonal human antibody production system: The Army Joint Vaccine Acquisition Program (JVAP) believes this Sioux Falls-based biotech research will allow rapid production of new antibodies that can provide human immunity against bioterrorism agents. The project will create a herd of cattle that will be immunized against botulinum toxin, causing them to produce antibodies. Planning is underway to use the resulting antibodies in pre-clinical animal studies and Food and Drug Administration Phase I clinical trials. Successful development of a production system will allow production and stockpiling of a variety of bioterror antidotes including, but not limited to, botulinum toxin, anthrax, ricin, and plague.

Other Health Research

$15 million for malaria prevention, treatment, and diagnosis: This funding will allow Army scientists to capitalize on promising leads identified in the past year through isolation of key genes and proteins. In addition, researchers have recently broken the genetic code of the malaria parasite, and funding would enable them to use this knowledge to model new drug molecules. Funds would also complete development artesunate, a new drug to cure severe malaria. By investing $15 million in DoD malaria research, Army researchers could attract $15 million in additional outside funding. During a deployment to Liberia last summer, one-third of the deployed Marines contracted malaria, bringing the mission to an abrupt halt. In 1993-94, 230 U.S. service members contracted the disease. Worldwide, 3 million people die each year from malaria.

$10 million for leishmaniasis prevention, treatment, and diagnosis: More than 650 Americans have been infected with cutaneous leishmaniasis since the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The disease, caused by the bite of an infected sand fly, causes permanent scarring, requires medical evacuation to the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, and requires 3-4 weeks of painful treatment using primitive medicines developed a century ago. Using per-soldier treatment costs from 1993, the most recent available, this outbreak has cost the military at least $11 million and 60,000 lost duty days. Meanwhile, leishmaniasis research activity was eliminated in FY03, and no funding is proposed in the FY05 Administration budget. Army scientists require funding to pursue Food and Drug Administration approval for a new treatment method that would be painless and brief and would bring lost duty days to zero. In addition, funding would allow development of point-of-care diagnostic methods and improved methods to detect and kill infected sand flies near soldiers.

$5 million for Gulf War illness research involving Avera McKenna Medical Center of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and the University of Michigan: This research focuses on the internal mechanisms and most effective treatment methods for Gulf War illnesses and other undiagnosed post-deployment illnesses. This sets it apart from most other Gulf War illness research, which typically attempts to determine whether a particular external environmental factor triggered the illness. This research takes on additional importance in light of the current high rate of deployment of military personnel.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Todd Webster

Thursday, June 24, 2004 Sarah Feinberg

(202)224-2939

Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle Proposes

"Politics of Common Ground"

Effort to make Congress more responsive to public good

"The result of all-or-nothing politics is too often nothing. We owe the American people better than that."

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle is proposing a new initiative to the Senate more responsive to the public good. In a statement on the Senate Floor, Daschle outlined four principles to make the institution more responsive to the needs of the country.

"The politics of common ground is pragmatic, not dogmatic," said Daschle. "It recognizes that there can be different ways to reach the same goal. It puts our common interests ahead of personal or partisan interests. Instead of narrow victories, the Politics of Common Ground seeks broad, principled compromise."

The Politics of Common Ground proposes a number of steps designed to make the Senate more responsive to the American people, enhance bipartisan communication and cooperation, and ensure that the rights of the minority are respected. Both parties, of course, have a fundamental obligation to fight for their principles. This new proposal recognizes that, but reflects a renewed commitment to finding common ground and reaching out across the aisle whenever possible to serve the national interest.

Senator Daschle's initiative consists of four fundamental principles that both parties must utilize in order to reach common ground.

· Work in good faith with the executive branch, regardless of what party holds the majority;

· Preserve and fulfill the historic role of the Senate regarding budgetary responsibilities, oversight, and advice and consent on nominees;

· Respect the rights of the minority party and seek to work in good faith them; and

· End the cycle of partisan retaliation.

"I recognize that some people may think this is strange timing to talk about searching for common ground - in the midst of a campaign season," said Daschle. "But I believe this is exactly the right time. The truth is, no one knows which party will control the Senate next year - or the House or White House - so neither party can be accused of embracing these ideas for partisan advantage."

"The result of all-or-nothing politics is too often nothing. The American people deserve better."

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Todd Webster

June 24, 2004 Sarah Feinberg

(202) 224-2939

Defense Spending Bill Includes $10 Million Sought by Daschle
to Stop Blood-Borne Parasites in Iraq and Afghanistan
Pentagon spends millions to treat rare disease, yet canceled prevention research

(WASHINGTON, DC) – The Senate today passed its FY 2005 Defense Appropriations bill, which includes Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle’s request for $10 million for research into efforts to prevent and treat a skin disease that has cost the military millions of dollars and 60,000 lost duty days in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The passage of this provision in the defense appropriations bill marked the second victory this week in Daschle’s efforts to fund research for leishmaniasis. On Tuesday, the Senate passed the FY 2005 Defense Authorization bill, which included $5 million for leishmaniasis research.

Leishmaniasis (LEESH-mah-NYE-uh-sis) is spread through the bite of infected sand flies, which feed on human blood. Although not a threat in the United States, the disease is much more common in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the 660 reported cases represent the largest epidemic for the military since World War II. U.S. troops have nicknamed it the “Baghdad Boil.”

Senator Daschle first began seeking a solution to the leishmaniasis problem in the fall of 2003. In December 2003, he contacted Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld to express concern about the elimination of leishmaniasis funding and urge him to reallocate funds from other accounts to keep the research going. As a result, the research effort received $1.2 million in March.

“I am glad the Senate has twice this week recognized the need to fund this research. Leishmaniasis research has been under-funded for several years, and our soldiers and taxpayers are now paying the price. Caused by the bite of an infected sand fly, the disease produces lesions that can aggressively spread, eventually causing disfigurement,” Senator Daschle said. “Researchers say adequate funding could allow them to develop a field treatment for leishmaniasis within two to three years.”

Current methods for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment are crude and little-changed from 100 years ago. The treatment itself is toxic, slow and painful and requires close supervision by trained staff, who are available only at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

The military has imposed a one-year ban on blood donations by anyone who has returned from Iraq because the symptoms can take months to develop and because even those who recover can still have the parasite in their blood. This disease can cause large lesions anywhere on the body, and can leave permanent, sometimes disfiguring scars.

A 1998 article in Military Medicine estimated per-patient treatment costs of $17,000, as well as 92 lost duty days per leishmaniasis case. Based on 660 cases, that aggregates to $11.2 million for leishmaniasis care and 60,000 lost duty days.

###

A copy of Senator Daschle’s letter to Secretary Rumsfeld and photos depicting the effects of leishmaniasis are attached.

June 24, 2004

SENATE APPROVES McCONNELL RESOLUTION TO RENEW
IMPORT SANCTIONS AGAINST BURMA

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell announced today that the Senate, by a vote of 96 to 1, approved his resolution to renew import sanctions against Burma. It now goes to President Bush for his signature.

The original sanctions were included in the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act, which was signed into law by President Bush on July 28, 2003.

Senator McConnell made the following remarks today on the Senate floor:

“Mr. President, I want to thank my colleagues for again acting swiftly in support of freedom in Burma.

“By considering and passing the resolution renewing import sanctions against the illegitimate State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), we match our words of support for the people of Burma with concrete deeds.

“The situation in Burma is dire: Suu Kyi and other NLD leaders remain imprisoned; a crackdown on democracy activists continues; and the SPDC’s inhumane policies of child and forced labor, rape as a weapon of war, narcotics and human trafficking, and the use of child soldiers remain unchanged.

“Despite their worst efforts over the past 14 years, the SPDC has failed to smother the flames of freedom in Burma. I continue to be inspired by reports of activists who bravely and nonviolently defy the junta’s illegitimate rule - like the handful arrested last month for distributing pamphlets in several Burmese townships marking the one-year anniversary of the Depayin massacre.

“It would be wise for the SPDC to accept the time-tested fact that Suu Kyi and the NLD are not going anywhere. They, and the ethnic minorities, are an integral part of the solution to the Burmese problem.

“To wit, the NLD and their supporters made the courageous and correct decision to boycott the sham SPDC-orchestrated constitutional convention last month. I am pleased that international condemnation by the United States, United Nations (U.N.), European Union (E.U.) and regional neighbors of the hollow convention was rightly aimed at the SPDC. The generals in Rangoon made any number of assurances to foreign diplomats that the process would be inclusive. It clearly was not.

“This only underscores the imperative to judge the SPDC not by what it says but by what it does.

“The convention turned out to be nothing more than a summer camp for SPDC sycophants. According to the Washington Times, the junta required their handpicked delegates to “bathe at reasonable times, avoid junk food and live in self-contained camps where they can enjoy karaoke, movies and golf.”

“Mr. President, import sanctions by the United States alone will not help facilitate a meaningful reconciliation process in Burma. We need the U.N., E.U., and regional neighbors to fully commit to the cause. This was made clear by the NLD in a recent plea to U.N. General-Secretary Kofi Annan to “take this matter to the Security Council”.

“The U.N. should help the NLD and the people of Burma by examining the clear and present danger Burma poses to the region. This must include narcotics production and trafficking, the spread of HIV/AIDS throughout the region, the gross human rights violations of the SPDC, the plight of Burmese refugees and IDPs, and alarming reports of the junta’s interests in North Korean missiles and Russian nuclear technology.

“The E.U. should help the NLD and the Burmese people by examining its sanctions regime and imposing further punitive measures against the junta. I am pleased that our allies in the E.U. recently canceled the upcoming Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) dialogue in Brussels over the attendance of the SPDC. The junta has no place at this multilateral table.

“Regional neighbors should help the Burmese people by reconsidering the Association of Southeast Asian Nation’s (ASEAN) outdated policy of noninterference in the internal affairs of member states.

“Asian leaders must recognize the regime for what it is - wholly illegitimate to the people of Burma, the international community and the region. The SPDC’s export of illicit drugs and HIV/AIDS is, literally, burying the children of Asia. All of Asia’s youth - not only those in Burma - face a future that is undermined by Burmese-spread drugs and disease.

“The region cannot ignore the fact of the junta’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2006. There could be no greater loss of face for that association than being under the guidance of the SPDC.

“Let me close by thanking my colleagues - all 53 - who joined me in sponsoring the sanctions resolution. I want to recognize, in particular, the efforts of Senators Feinstein and McCain and their respective staffs to support freedom and justice in Burma. The Burmese people have no greater friends in the Senate - or in Washington. I also appreciate the efforts by Senators Grassley and Baucus and their respective staffs to expedite consideration of the legislation.

“I would be remiss if I did not note the words of support of the NLD made by former Mongolian Prime Minister Tashika Elbegdorj, the Sam Rainsy Party in Cambodia, and the cross-party Burma Caucus formed by Malaysian parliamentarians. Although they are engaged in their own efforts - and, in some cases, struggles - for democracy and human rights in their respective countries, they stand in solidarity with the people of Burma.

“I would encourage other neighbors to find their voice in support of the Suu Kyi and the NLD during these troubling times.”

-30-

June 24, 2004

Contact: Courtney Schikora, 202-224-1028

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Senate Passes FY05 Defense Appropriations Bill

Measure Contains Training and Infrastructure Improvements for Alaska

And 3.5 % Pay Raise for Military Personnel

The Senate approved the approved the Fiscal Year 2005 Defense Appropriations bill. Nationally, the bill provides for a 3.5 percent average pay raise for military personnel and provides for the military readiness of our armed forces. This bill must be reconciled with its House counterpart before being sent to the President.

“This bill ensures that our military men, women and families are taken care of in this time of war by fully funding military pay, benefits and medical programs. This is a good bill that is needed by our military,” said Stevens. “This bill supports the initial deployment of National Missile Defense Programs and continues the investment in theater missile defenses. This funding will greatly enhance the capabilities of the Ground-based Midcourse Missile Defense program in Alaska,” he added.

The $416.2 billion bill includes a number of training and infrastructure improvements requested by Senator Stevens, including funding to continue the work to relocate the Alaska Railroad tracks on Elmendorf AFB and Fort Richardson, to provide enhancements for the Port of Anchorage in support of the Army and provide for an Army Deployment Staging Area, and for utilidor repairs at Fort Wainwright and Eielson AFB.

The bill also provides funding to enhance both Army and Air Force training infrastructure and equipment throughout the state. Many of these enhancements are related to the Army’s fielding of the Stryker Interim Brigade Combat Team (SBCT) at Forts Wainwright and Richardson and to the upgrade of the Air Force’s training ranges, enhancing their ability to conduct air-to-ground operations in a joint environment.

Funding is included for the Department of Defense share of the Alaska Land Mobile Radio – ALMR. This project helps correct shortfalls in communications interoperability between federal, state and municipal agencies for mutual aid, disaster response, crisis management and day-to-day operations. The bill also provides funding for risk reduction activities associated with the Ground-based Midcourse Missile Defense system at Fort Greely, including military personnel, a power plant feasibility study, and continued upgrades to Allen Army Airfield. Additionally, the bill supports several defense-related Alaskan technology development programs throughout the State.

Funding for the Alaska Federal Health Care Telemedicine Network is also included in the bill, a continuation of the FY04 program.

Other projects included in the bill:

ARMY:

Fort Richardson Biathlon Trail Upgrade

Infrastructure Upgrades at Camp Carroll

Kodiak Range Upgrades

Hybrid Electric Infrastructure at Cold Regions Test Center

AIR FORCE:

COPE THUNDER Facilities Renovation

172nd Stryker Brigade Access Road Feasibility Study

Elmendorf AFB Community Center Enhancements

Power and Fiber upgrades for 11th Air Force Training Ranges

###

For Immediate Release

June 24, 2004

Contact: Melanie Alvord (202) 224-0992

Senate Passes Fiscal Year 2005 Defense Appropriations Bill

By a vote of 98-0 the Senate today passed the fiscal year 2005 Defense Appropriations bill. The bill provides $416.2 billion in new spending authority for the Department of Defense for functions under the Defense Subcommittee’s jurisdiction, including $25 billion in a contingent emergency reserve fund requested by the President for early fiscal year 2005 costs associated with operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Senate-reported bill is $1.7 billion under the President’s amended FY 2005 budget request of $417.8 billion and reflects an increase of $22.5 billion over amounts provided in the FY 2004 Defense Appropriations Act, excluding the FY 2004 Iraq Supplemental and the FY 2005 contingent emergency reserve fund.

The bill fully funds the President’s request for a $25 billion contingent emergency reserve fund, only for operations in Iraq or Afghanistan (Title IX); funds an Army end strength increase of 20,000 soldiers; and fully funds military pay, benefits and medical programs. It provides a total of $4 billion in General Transfer Authority, the amount requested in the FY 2005 budget request.

Title I – Military Personnel: $103.9 billion

Funds overall Department of Defense end strength of 2,263,900.

Funds a 3.5 percent across-the-board pay raise for military personnel.

Funds an increase in Basic Allowance for Housing to reduce average out-of-pocket expenses for military personnel from 3.5 percent to zero in FY 2005.

Provides $14.7 million for 154 Active Guard Personnel to support 7 additional Weapons of Mass Destruction/Civil Support Teams, which will result in a total of 55 teams by the end of FY 2005.

Title II – Operation and Maintenance: $121.4 billion

Fully funds key readiness programs critical to the Global War on Terrorism: OPTEMPO flying hours and steaming days, depot maintenance, training, spare parts, base operations, and facility maintenance.

Adds $60 million for environmental cleanup at Formerly Used Defense Sites (FUDS).

Title III - Procurement: $76.5 billion

Aircraft

Fully funds acquisition of 24 F-22 raptor aircraft.

Fully funds acquisition of 14 C-17 transports.

Fully funds 27 UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters.

Fully funds V-22 acquisition of 11 aircraft.

Adds $120 million for advance procurement of F-15 Fighters.

Adds $110 million for advance procurement of Air Force tankers.

Adds $25.6 million for Shadow Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

Adds $12 million for acquisition of Joint Primary Air Training System (JPATS) aircraft.

Adds $11 million for one additional Army Predator UAV.

Adds $5 million for one additional Hunter UAV.

Adds 1 UC-35 aircraft.

Adds $25 million for Litening Targeting Pods for the Air National Guard.

Weapons/Missiles

Fully funds the PAC-3 procurement program.

Adds $50 million for modernization of Army ammunition plants.

Adds $37 million for Tactical Tomahawk missiles.

Adds $15 million for Mobile Tactical High Energy Laser.

Shipbuilding

Provides $10.2 billion for shipbuilding programs:
Funds the President’s request for the construction of one DD(X)
Adds $99.4 million to initiate procurement of a second DD(X)
Adds $175 million for advance procurement for the LHA(R)

Realigns funding for Advanced Seal Delivery System (ASDS) to Research and Development.

Vehicles/Force Protection

Fully funds Army Stryker procurement.

Adds $75 million for Army trucks.

Adds $25 million for Bradley reactive armor tiles.

Adds $15 million for M113 Infantry Carriers.

Adds $6 million for the Stryker Brigade fielding and equipment.

Other

Adds $500 million for equipment for the National Guard and Reserve.

Title IV - Research, Development, Test and Evaluation: $68.8 billion

Aircraft

Fully funds the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) at $4.5 billion.

Reduces funding for the VXX Executive Helicopter by $220 million due to delays in the program schedule.

Shipbuilding

Fully funds the budget request of $352.1 million for the Littoral Combat Ship.

Fully funds the budget request for the DD(X) destroyer program.

Missile Defense

Provides $10.2 billion for missile defense programs, an increase of $1.1 billion from the fiscal year 2004 level.

Provides an additional $100 million for risk reduction associated with the Ground-Based Midcourse program.

Adds $80 million for Arrow co-production.

Other

Adds $191.5 million for Army medical research.

Adds $107 million to the Chemical, Biological Defense Program.

Provides $3.03 billion for the Future Combat System, an increase of $1.3 billion over FY 2004; reduces $150 million from the Future Combat System (FCS) for excessive management costs.

Reduces transformational Satellite Communications by $400 million for technological risk reduction.

Reduces $200 million from the Joint Unmanned Combat Air System (J-UCAS) program.

Reduces $100 million from Air Force Space Based Radar for technological risk reduction.

Reduces funding for the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) by $100 million due to cost and schedule uncertainty.

Reduces funding from the Loitering Attack Munition.

Realigns funding for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.

Realigns $344 million for the Future Combat System Non-Line-of-Sight (FCS NLOS) Cannon.

Restructures the Land Warrior program.

Title V – Revolving and Management Funds: $2.1 billion

Provides $1.7 billion in Defense Working Capital Funds, including $1.2 billion for military commissaries.

Title VI – Other Department of Defense Programs: $20.6 billion

Defense Health Program: $18.1 billion

? Provides a $2.3 billion increase over the FY 2004 DOD Appropriations Act, and is $424 million above the FY 2005 budget request.

? Adds $200 million for peer reviewed cancer research fund.

? Adds $50 million for medical research fund.

? Adds $18.4 million for improving amputee care at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Drug Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities: $908.8 million

Provides $56.1 million above the President’s budget request.

Adds $25 million for the National Guard State Counter-Drug support programs.

Title IX - Contingency Emergency Reserve Fund : $25 billion

The Contingent Emergency Reserve Fund:

Is only for Iraq or Afghanistan
Is available upon enactment
Is available only after the President submits a formal budget request and designates the amount an emergency

Uses the Iraq Freedom Fund (IFF), a transfer account created by the Congress, to be consistent with the Administration’s request that this be a “contingent emergency reserve” fund.

By directed transfers from the IFF, provides $22.5 billion to service appropriation accounts, as follows:
o Military personnel – $.505 billion

o Operation and maintenance accounts – $17.595 billion

o Army procurement and modularity – $1.750 billion

o Marine Corps procurement – $.554 billion

o Classified programs – $1.250 billion

o Defense Health Program – $.746 billion

o Secure/destroy Iraqi captured enemy ammunition – $.100 billion

Leaves $2.5 billion, or 10 percent, remaining in the Iraq Freedom Fund to deal with unexpected contingencies, which is consistent with S. 2400, the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2005.

Consistent with S. 2400, the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2005, the bill provides $605 million to support an Army end strength increase of 20,000 soldiers. Of this amount, $378 million is provided in the military personnel accounts, and $227 million is provided in the operations and maintenance accounts.

Provides $126.6 million to fund permanent increases in Family Separation Allowance (FSA) (from $100 to $250 per month), and in Imminent Danger Pay (IDP) (from $150 to $225 per month).

Adds $865 million for force protection initiatives, including Up-Armored Humvees, Armored Security Vehicles, and bolt-on armor kits.

Adds $100 million to secure and demilitarize captured enemy ammunition in Iraq. As of June 11, 2004, approximately 340,000 tons of enemy ammunition has been discovered in Iraq. The additional funding is to help ensure that newly discovered weapons caches are secured and disposed of before they become available to enemy combatants.

Addresses concerns for increased fuel costs, National Guard & Reserve equipment, and for U.S. Coast Guard expenses:
o Provides up to $100 million for the Coast Guard in support of DOD operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

o Provides up to $100 million for the purchase of equipment for the National Guard and Reserve.

Maintains the 5-day advance notification to Congress before making any transfer.

Maintains a quarterly reporting requirement on the use of funds.

In addition, the Senate approved $95 million for Sudan famine relief.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Rachel Reiter 202/224-4224
Thursday, June 24, 2004

Senate Passes Department of Defense Appropriations Bill

Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Senate passed the Department of Defense Appropriations bill by a vote of 98-0. Funding for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, increasing Army end strength by 20,000 soldiers and pay raises for miliary personnel were included. U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE) voted in favor of the bill and worked to include $18.4 million in funds for enhanced amputee care to ensure military amputee patients are returned to the highest level of physical function.

"With today’s global threats it critical that our military has the tools and equipment they need. The increased funding for enhanced amputee care is especially important. Those who have served and sacrificed so much for this nation deserve the best care available," said Hagel.

The appropriations bill also includes funding requested by Senator Hagel:

•$7 million for Fibrinogen Bandages research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL);

•$3.2 million to develop information security solutions at the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO);

•$2.0 million for the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) for treatment research into infectious organisms that have been developed as weapons.

The appropriations included a commitment to fund $665 million in spending for the Department of State to support operations, IT costs, logistical support, and security requirements at the new U.S. Embassy in Baghdad. Hagel worked with Chairman Ted Stevens (R-AK) to ensure the final bill supports this diplomatic initiative.

The Department of Defense Appropriations bill will now go through a House-Senate conference.

- 30 -

News Release

For release: June 24, 2004 Contact: Coy Knobel, phone 202-224-3424
Web address: enzi.senate.gov Email: Coy_Knobel@enzi.senate.gov

Enzi pleased with passage of military funding bill
Two Laramie companies add to defense effort with tech developments
Washington, D.C. -The Senate passed the bill that provides funding to the Department of Defense for the next fiscal year Thursday night.
U.S. Sen. Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., was pleased by the 98-0 bipartisan vote.
“This is the first appropriations bill we have passed this year and rightfully so. Our troops are number one. They put their lives on the line in order to allow the rest of us the freedom to live our lives as we have become accustomed,” said Enzi.
The Senate amended the House version with S. 2559. The Senate bill would provide about $416 billion for the Department of Defense to pay for military personnel, operations and maintenance, research and development, the purchasing of military hardware and other items.
Enzi is helping to ensure that the Department of Defense is taking advantage of research and development and products being produced by Wyoming companies.
Included in the bill is $7 million for the purchase of the Palmtop Emergency Action for Chemical (PEAC) tool made by AristaTek in Laramie. PEAC is a hand-held device that can provide people with immediate hazardous materials and chemical and biological weapons information on the scene of any threatening situation. The PEAC tool quickly provides protective clothing requirements, respiratory recommendations and minimum safe standoff distances. The tool is already being used by some Army National Guard Civil Support Teams.
The appropriations bill also contains $5 million for further development of nano-technology to harness energy. Nanomaterials Discovery Corporation, also a Laramie company, is working with the Army Material Command at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey to develop fuel cells powered by high energy materials such as propellants and explosives. Applications of this technology include providing portable power for soldiers, enabling development of miniature power supplies for fusing and arming of munitions, and "self-sterilizing" smart land mines that render themselves harmless after a certain period of time. This technology could also enable the reuse of obsolete ammunition by converting its explosive components into electrical power.
The House passed its version of the Department of Defense appropriations bill June 22 by a 403-17 vote. The two versions of the bill will now be sent to a joint Senate-House conference committee for reconciliation.
-end-

For Immediate Release: June 24, 2004 Contact: Kevin Schweers 202-224-9767

Senate Votes to Extend U.S. Sanctions Against Burma

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Senate voted unanimously today to renew sanctions against Burma, where an oppressive military regime continues to stifle political opposition and hold democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi captive. The bipartisan legislation, H.J. Res. 97, extends for one year sanctions prohibiting the importation of any article produced in the Asian country.

“With today’s vote, the Senate is sending a clear signal that we will not tolerate this brutal regime’s suppression of human rights or its detention of Suu Kyi,” said U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, a supporter of the legislation and cosponsor of the Senate companion bill.

The National League for Democracy won a majority of seats in an election permitted by the military in 1990, but was never allowed to take power.

-- END --

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Howard Gantman

Thursday, June 24, 2004 or Scott Gerber 202/224-9629

http://feinstein.senate.gov/

Senate to Consider McConnell-Feinstein Legislation
Renewing Sanctions against Burma

Washington, DC – The U.S. Senate is set to consider a measure sponsored by Senators Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) that would renew economic sanctions against Burma.

The sanctions were first imposed by legislation Senators McConnell and Feinstein cosponsored last year, the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003. These sanctions are designed to encourage Burma to improve its record on democracy and human rights. A vote on the measure is expected later tonight.

Following is the prepared text of Senator Feinstein’s statement:

“I rise today with my colleague from Kentucky, Senator McConnell, in support of the joint resolution renewing the sanctions against Burma. The House has overwhelmingly and in a bi-partisan manner passed this resolution, and I urge the Senate to do likewise.

Last year, in response to the continued lack of progress towards the restoration of a democratic government and a brazen attack against the motorcade of Nobel Peace Prize winner and National League of Democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, the United States took a firm stand on the side of human rights and democracy for the Burmese people by passing the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act and imposing a complete ban on Burmese imports.

One year later, Suu Ky remains under house arrest and the military junta, the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), has failed to make ‘substantial and measurable progress’ towards a true dialogue on national reconciliation and recognition of the results of the 1990 parliamentary elections, decisively won by the NLD. As a result, the United States Senate has no choice but to support renewing the sanctions for another year.

Let me be clear: I do not believe sanctions are a panacea for every foreign policy dispute we have with another country. I have long supported the reform of our sanctions policy and, in my view, Congress should have the opportunity to revisit sanctions imposed on other countries on a case by case basis and in a timely fashion. I am co-sponsor of Senator Baucus’ legislation to allow Congress to vote up or down on the sanctions imposed on Cuba for that very reason. It seems clear to me that forty years later, those sanctions have not achieved our foreign policy goals. Yet, under different circumstances and conditions, sanctions can be effective.

Burma, in my view, is such a case. One year is not a sufficient period of time to judge the sanctions effectiveness and there is reason to believe that the international community is coming together to put additional pressure on the military regime.

I was disappointed that the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) did not follow the United States’ lead last year and impose tough sanctions on the military junta.

Nevertheless, the EU, for one, is beginning to realize that engagement with Rangoon has failed to achieve the desired results. Last week, the EU refused to include Burma in two lower-level meetings with ASEAN representatives and, in response to ASEAN’s demand that all of its members be allowed to attend, the EU canceled the meetings.

Supporters of freedom and democracy in Burma should welcome this move and continue to urge our allies to put additional pressure on the military regime. There is also some positive movement within ASEAN itself, including in the country that sponsored Burma’s entry into the Association and has supported ‘non-interference’ in domestic affairs of other members, Malaysia. Earlier this month, a group of parliamentarians – from the government and the opposition -- formed a committee to press for democracy in Burma. The group called on the SPDC to immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners and restore democratic government.

The parliamentary group stated: ‘The caucus also calls upon the (Burma) government to respect ASEAN and international opinion and return to the mainstream of responsible international norms and behavior’.

Of course, we would all like to see ASEAN, the EU, and others to take additional steps to put pressure on Rangoon to respect human rights and restore democracy. But we must continue to take the lead. I believe that by passing this resolution and renewing the sanctions on imports from Burma for another year, we will enhance our leadership in this area and rally the international community to our cause. Now is not the time to weaken our resolve.

Some may argue that the sanctions do no harm to the members of the military junta and instead place additional hardships on the Burmese people. The military junta itself cynically suggested that the reason why human trafficking is a rampant problem in Burma – as cited in the latest State Department report – is due to the desperate economic conditions caused by the sanctions imposed by the United States.

Let us not forget that for over fifteen the military junta has brutalized its own citizens, engaged in numerous human rights abuses including rape, forced labor, and human trafficking of young boys and girls, and run the Burmese economy into the ground. And the consequences of the regime’s repressive rule extend far beyond its borders. As Senator McConnell and I pointed out in an op-ed that appeared in the Wall Street Journal, the spread of narcotics, HIV/AIDS, and refugees across the region can be traced back to Rangoon.

As South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu stated earlier this year: ‘To dismantle apartheid [in South Africa] took not only commitment, faith, and hard work, but also intense international pressure and sanctions. In Burma, the regime has ravaged the country, and the people, to fund its illegal rule. Governments and international institutions must move past symbolic gestures and cut the lifelines to Burma’s military regime through well-implemented sanctions.’

We cannot say for certain these sanctions will work. But we can be certain that if we do nothing and allow these sanctions to expire, the military junta will strengthen its grip on power and the day of Suu Kyi’s release from house arrest and the re-birth of democracy in Burma will be put off further into the future.

We simply cannot afford to make that mistake and turn our backs on those who are looking to us for hope and inspiration. I urge my colleague to renew their support for freedom and democracy, Suu Kyi and Burmese people and support this resolution.”

###

THURSDAY, June 24, 2004

Finding Common Ground, White House Letter
Recognizes Judicial Nominations Agreement

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - White House Counsel Alberto Gonzales sent a letter to Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle today recognizing the bipartisan agreement on judicial nominations. That agreement, reached between Daschle, Senate Majority Leader Frist and the White House, stipulated that if the President agreed to no longer make judicial recess appointments, Democrats would allow up-or-down votes on 25 of the President's nominees.

"This agreement is a demonstration of what is possible when we seek common ground," Daschle said. "Once these 25 nominations have been confirmed, the Senate will have confirmed 198 of the President's nominations, more than those confirmed during the first terms of both the Reagan and Clinton administrations. I appreciate the willingness of the White House to reach this important agreement and hope it paves the way for progress on other issues of importance to the American people."

A copy of the letter from White House Counsel Alberto Gonzales is attached.

###

democrats.senate.gov

United States Senator Elizabeth Dole

United States Senate w Washington, DC 20510

News Release

Contact: Brian Nick, 224-7905

Katie Norman, 224-2999

“I find it ludicrous that anyone would suggest that no relationship existed between Saddam Hussein and terrorists. Senator Lieberman stated the case very succinctly today by saying, ‘the War in Iraq is THE central battleground in the War on Terror.’ Mistakes have been made in Iraq, but those who undermine the rationale for our mission for political gain make success even more difficult—and certainly do not boost the morale of our men and women in uniform.”

Background

In a speech earlier this afternoon, former Vice President Al Gore accused President Bush of lying about a connection between al Qaeda and Iraq. This is the same Al Gore who was a member of the Clinton White House that first made charges about the dangers of Iraq passing chemical or biological weapons to al Qaeda. Those charges formed the basis for the missile strikes against alleged terrorist targets in Sudan in August 1998—according to on the record statements from no fewer than six top Clinton Administration officials.

Brian Nick

Communications Director

Office of Senator Elizabeth Dole

202-224-7905

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Maureen Knightly/ Jennifer Carrier

202-224-3254

Statement by Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) on

Third Circuit Decision Reinstating the National Ownership Cap on Broadcast Stations

June 24, 2004

“I am pleased that the Third Circuit recognized that allowing a few companies to control access to broadcast stations in this country undermines the public interest and continues the erosion of local and regional coverage.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEWS RELEASE

Contact Brian Hart/Aaron Groote

June 24, 2004

BROWNBACK APPLAUDS INCLUSION OF $95 MILLION FOR RELIEF IN SUDAN

Joins DeWine, Frist in amendment to Defense Appropriations

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Sam Brownback today applauded Senate passage of legislation providing $95 million in emergency humanitarian aid to the Darfur region of the Sudan. The legislation passed as an amendment to the Department of Defense Appropriations bill.

“This amendment will send urgently needed aid to a region in Sudan that is suffering a humanitarian crisis of historic proportions,” Brownback said. “This additional assistance could help save the lives of many in the coming months. However, our efforts here today are not enough. The United States cannot and should not resolve this crisis alone. Thus, I would like to take this opportunity to call for greater international action. The voices of hundreds of thousands of Sudanese cry out for greater international involvement.”

Brownback joined Senator Mike DeWine and Majority Leader Bill Frist in offering the amendment. The funding will be available immediately once President Bush signs the Defense Appropriations bill into law, and will be administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development.

Brownback continued, “It is a matter of the highest moral responsibility for each of us individually, for Congress, for the United States, and for the global community, no matter race or religion, to do all we can to stop the crisis in Darfur. International support of a U.N. Security Council Resolution is needed. International support for monitoring teams, human rights investigators, humanitarian assistance organizations, and refugee assistance is urgently needed. After a 20-year north-south civil war in Sudan, it was international pressure that brought the recent signing of the final protocols in the peace talks.

“This crisis is happening before our very eyes, and when we see possible genocide occurring, the international community must act. We can act and we can stop this, if we act now.”

Brownback this weekend will travel to the Darfur region of the Sudan to view the dire human rights situation there and to press the Khartoum government to allow access for international aid workers. Brownback will be joined on the trip by U.S. Congressman Frank Wolf.

In the Darfur region of western Sudan, Arab militias known as the Janjaweed and government forces continue their violent campaign against Darfur’s Black African population. Reports indicate that some 200,000 refugees have fled to Chad, and over 1 million have been displaced inside the region. USAID Director Andrew Natsios claims that, “Even in a best-case scenario, under optimal conditions, we could see as many as 320,000 people die. Without optimal conditions, the numbers will be far greater.” Some reports estimate that the final death toll could reach 1 million if humanitarian organizations are unable to deliver aid.

-30-

Sam Brownback
United States Senator - Kansas
303 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-6521
http://brownback.senate.gov

THURSDAY, June 24, 2004

Statement of Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle

On the Gathering Crisis in Sudan

The history of the world’s response to genocide is one of long memory and poor eyesight. Each of us have, at one time or another, looked back upon the terrible history of the Holocaust and made a commitment, in public or in our hearts, not to stay silent should the first signs of a potential genocide come into view. Every one of President Bush’s six immediate predecessors gave voice to this common commitment. And yet each, during their tenure, saw a genocide somewhere in the world.

In the last quarter of the twentieth century, 1.7 million Cambodians were murdered by the Khmer Rouge; 100,000 Kurds were massacred by Saddam Hussein; 200,000 Bosnia Muslims were killed by Serb militia; and 800,000 Rwandan Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed at the hands of Hutu mobs in just 100 days. As these dangers gathered, and the cry for help went out to the world, the world stood by, each time. Our failure has not been one of moral understanding. Our failure, simply, has been one of moral courage.

Today, a tragedy of all too familiar dimensions appears to be gathering in the Darfur region of Western Sudan. Armed and protected by the Sudanese military, ethnic Arab militiamen have brought a plague of terror down on the African residents of Darfur. Villages have been razed, crops destroyed, and cattle slaughtered. Women have been raped and enslaved. More than 15,000 Sudanese men, women, and children have been killed, and a million more have been driven from their homes in fear. As they torch villages, the Arab militia have been heard to shout, “We will not allow blacks here.... This land is only for Arabs.”

On May 6, the Senate passed a resolution condemning the Sudanese government’s complicity in the terrorizing of the civilian population of Darfur and warning of a potential crisis. Since then, however, no real progress has been made either to stop the bloodshed or to bring sufficient aid to the refugees. Humanitarian assistance has not been allowed to reach all of those in need.

Meanwhile, the annual rainy season is now beginning, making transportation more difficult, and making the health of the vulnerable even more precarious. Most ominously, the people of Darfur are about to miss their planting season, raising the specter of a famine of epic proportions and rendering otherwise productive men and women dependent for at least another year. Already, USAID predicts 320,000 have been effectively sentenced to death. Unless action is taken, 1 million Sudanese men, women, and children will die this year alone.

I repeat, Mr. President, that 1 million people face death in Sudan. Let’s also be clear on this point. Most of these deaths are preventable, but only if the world chooses to act. Genocide is a crime against humanity. And all humanity shares a common responsibility to respond.

Our revulsion at genocide joins all people, in all cultures throughout the world. Unilateral action in this sense would not be sufficient. There are few clearer cases for the need to rally the world. America has both the opportunity and the obligation to unite the world community in trying to prevent yet another genocide.

My friends from Ohio and Vermont, Senators DeWine and Leahy, are urging us to take the first important step in stopping this gathering storm. This additional assistance will help thousands of people avert hunger. But we also must ensure that we do everything possible to end this crisis. The most effective tool against a potential disaster in Sudan is the United Nations.

The Bush Administration must equip our new ambassador to the United Nations with the authority and support required to provide effective leadership on Sudan. The administration should take the following steps in order to make sure that Senator Danforth is able to mobilize international action on Darfur:

First, the Administration must insist that Khartoum provide complete, unrestricted access for all humanitarian operations and aid workers.

Second, we must demand that the Sudanese government take verifiable steps to ensure that the militia forces are restrained, by allowing for the unrestricted movement and operations of observers deployed by the African Union. In addition, the Sudanese government must stop providing arms and logistical support to the Janjaweed militia.

Third, we should require that Khartoum initiate, with UN, African Union, and regional support and involvement, a dialogue with political, rebel, and civil society representatives in Darfur in order to achieve a long-term resolution of the political crisis and agreement on a plan for disarming militia forces and rebels.

Fourth, the Administration should invest Senator Danforth with the authority to start work immediately on a Security Council resolution including each of these steps and establishing verifiable benchmarks for compliance. In the event of non-compliance, we must call for Security Council sanctions, including freezing the assets and restricting the travel of Sudanese government officials. In order to be effective, however, it is vital, that these sanctions be multilateral and the world community share fully in their implementation.

Fifth, Senator Danforth should also be empowered to put Khartoum on notice, in the strongest terms, that international support for implementation of the North-South peace agreement does not represent endorsement of Khartoum’s actions in Darfur. The agreements reached between warring parties in the North and South of Sudan, which could not have been accomplished without the leadership of Senator Danforth and the Administration, are nonetheless just the first steps to bringing stability and peace to the entire country. In no way does the Sudanese government’s commitment to end hostilities with rebels in the South justify or compensate for its active support for Janjaweed militia in Darfur.

Sixth, in order to clarify Senator Danforth’s authority, the State Department should make its final determination on whether the crisis in Darfur meets the legal definition of genocide. I believe that testimony from the victims in Darfur make it very clear that it does. In order to remove any ambiguity or ambivalence from America’s moral leadership, the State Department should make its determination quickly, so that we can bring together an appropriate response from the world community.

Finally, Senator Danforth should be empowered to initiate discussions within the Security Council on planning for an intervention force, if this should be required to ensure that lives are saved and a genocide prevented. Consideration should be given to non-US troops including from Europe and Africa; the Security Council should consult with the African Union.

The main point here is that the planning must be done now – even if the decision is delayed – both to make clear to Khartoum that the international community is serious and to be ready if it is necessary to intervene. The history of genocide teaches us that this crisis needs to be addressed on several different levels.

First, on the humanitarian level, we need to provide immediate aid to refugees and to the internally displaced. Second, we must insist on full accountability for all perpetrators of crimes against humanity. In order to keep Sudan from spiraling downward into a cycle of retributive violence, all those responsible must be brought to justice. Finally, a long-term resolution demands that the world focus on bringing about a political solution to the instability and violence of Sudan.

President Bush has spoken with force and eloquence on the need to match American action to American words and values. . . . Never is that more important than in the case of genocide when the lives of hundreds of thousands hang in the balance. President Bush, like his predecessors, understands the moral imperative to take action to stop genocide.

Speaking after a tour of the Holocaust Museum in 2001, President Bush reaffirmed “America’s commitment to the memory of 6 million who died in the Holocaust [and] our commitment to averting future tragedies.” The future has arrived. A tragedy stands at the world’s doorstep. These words are engraved upon the conscience of the world: Never Again. In the months ahead, we will learn what they mean to us.

###

democrats.senate.gov

June 24, 2004

For Immediate Release

Contact: Courtney Schikora, (202)224-1028

Stevens to Hold Appropriations Committee Field Hearing in Alaska

Committee to Hear testimony on Alaska Native Villages

Affected by Flooding and Erosion

Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee has scheduled two days of hearings in Anchorage on Alaska Native Villages affected by flooding and erosion.

The hearings are scheduled to take place at the Loussac Library Assembly Chamber (3600 Denali Street, Anchorage, Alaska 99503) on Tuesday, June 29 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Wednesday, June 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION: GCI will be airing the hearing in its entirety on the Anchorage Municipality Station, Channel 10. ARCS will be airing Wednesday’s hearing, check your local listings for channels.

MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Immediately following the close of the Wednesday, June 30th hearing, Senator Ted Stevens, Senator Conrad Burns (R-MT) and Senator John Sununu (R-NH) will hold a press availability regarding the content of the hearings.

The scheduled witnesses are:

Tuesday, June 29, 2004

Panel One

BG Larry Davis, Division Commander, Pacific Ocean Division, U.S. Army Corp of Engineers

Mr. John Pennington, Regional Director, FEMA

Mr. Robert A. Robinson, Managing Director, Natural Resources & Environment, U.S. GAO

Mr. Patrick Poe, Alaska Regional Administrator, FAA

Panel Two

Mr. Wayne Mundy, Administrator, Native American Programs, Department of Housing and Urban Development

Mr. Edgar Blatchford, Commissioner, Department of Community & Economic Development

Mr. Dave Liebersbach, Director, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Panel Three

Dr. Tom Karl, Director of National Climatic Data Center, NOAA

Dr. Syun-Ichi Akasofu, Director, International Arctic Research Center, UAF

Wednesday, June 30, 2004

Panel One

Representative Reggie Joule, Alaska State House of Representatives, District 40

Mr. George Ahmaogak, Mayor, North Slope Borough, AK

Mr. Myron Naneng, President, Association of Village Council Presidents

Ms. Loretta Bullard, President, Kawerak, Inc.

Panel Two

Mr. Hugh Short, Mayor, Bethel, AK

Ms. Edith Vorderstrasse, Mayor, City of Barrow, AK

Mr. Steve Ivanoff, President, Native Corporation of Unalakleet, AK

Mr. Rex Rock, President, Village Corporation of Point Hope, AK

Panel Three

Dr. Joseph N. Suhayda, Oceangraphic Consultant, HESCO Bastion

Mr. Fenton Rexford, Tribal Administrator, Kaktovik Traditional Council

Ms. Luci Eningowuk, Chairperson, Shishmaref Erosion and Relocation Coalition

Mr. Enoch Adams, Chairman, Kivalina Relocation Planning Committee

Mr. Stanley Tom, Tribal Liaison, Newtok Traditional Council

Mr. Percy Lolnitz, Chief, Koyukuk Traditional Council (Invited)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

June 24, 2004

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Tom Steward (202) 253-4481

COLEMAN DEMANDS THAT MEXICAN AUTHORITIES HONOR THEIR COMMITMENT NOT TO PROSECUTE JAILED MINNESOTA WOMAN

Western Hemisphere Subcommittee Chairman expresses outrage in letter to President Fox and phone call to Ambassador Icaza

WASHINGTON, D.C.—After learning that Mexican authorities have apparently decided to proceed with prosecuting jailed Minnesota native Cynthia Kiecker despite President Vicente Fox’s assurances to the contrary, Senator Norm Coleman today sent pointed and terse correspondence to the Mexican leader urging him to honor his personal commitment to drop the Kiecker case. The promise was made to Coleman during Fox’s official visit last Friday to Minnesota.

“While you were in my home State of Minnesota, a firm commitment was made to me and the people of Minnesota that this case would not be prosecuted and it is my most sincere hope that Mexico will stand by your commitment,” Coleman wrote in the letter to Fox.

Cynthia Kiecker, a Minnesota native, and her husband have been held in a jail for more than a year in the Mexican state of Chihauhau in connection with the investigation into the death of a 16 year old. She has maintained her innocence and her parents, from Bloomington, Minnesota, have vocally criticized the Mexican authorities’ handling of the case, including allegations their daughter and her husband were tortured into confessing. The family of the 16 year old victim also believes in Kiecker’s innocence.

Mexican officials today stated that “a mistake was made” when they communicated to Senator Coleman that Ms. Kiecker would not be prosecuted by the state.

“Clearly, you can appreciate the outrage of the Kiecker family and all Minnesotans, including this United States Senator,” Coleman wrote.

In a phone call to Carlos de Icaza, Mexican Ambassador to the U.S., Coleman also reiterated his anger over today’s developments and requested a prompt reply from Mexican officials on this urgent matter.

Coleman is the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Narcotics, and Peace Corps, which has jurisdiction over issues pertaining to Mexico and other nations throughout the hemisphere.

“Let me be crystal clear: I will not allow this issue to go away,” Coleman commented. “My staff and I will be pursuing this case aggressively each and every day.”

The complete text of Coleman’s letter to Fox is attached.

June 24, 2004

His Excellency Vicente Fox

President of Mexico

Residencia Official de los Pinos

Col. San Miguel Chapultepec

11859 Mexico D.F.

Dear Mr. President:

I am writing to express my very deep disappointment concerning news I received today from the Mexican Embassy to the United States regarding the case of Ms. Cynthia Kiecker, a Minnesota constituent of mine.

Contrary to the information you provided me in Saint Paul last week relating to this case, it now appears the Mexican government intends to move forward and prosecute this case without regard to the very serious due process and human rights concerns involved.

In particular, you, Under Secretary Gutierrez, and Ambassador Icaza assured me that the state had decided not to prosecute the Kiecker case and that the only remaining obstacle to her release was the right of the victim's family to pursue a civil case. This was particularly encouraging for me, as reports indicate that the alleged victim's family does not believe their daughter was killed by Ms. Kiecker or her husband, Mr. Ulises Perzabal.

The revelation today from your Embassy is especially punitive to the family and friends of Ms. Kiecker who understandably relied on this information and who were relieved to hear your news. Making matters worse, the news of today from Mexico is that charges against Mexican law enforcement authorities relative to the due process and human rights violations have been dropped. Clearly, you can appreciate the outrage of the Kiecker family and all Minnesotans, including this United States Senator.

Mr. President, while you were in my home State of Minnesota, you made a firm commitment to me and the people of Minnesota that this case would not be prosecuted and it is my most sincere hope that Mexico will stand by your commitment.

I look forward to your prompt reply to this most urgent matter.

Sincerely,

Norm Coleman

Chairman

Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Peace Corps, and Narcotics Affairs

--30--

___________________________

Andy Brehm

Press Secretary

U.S. Senator Norm Coleman

Telephone: 202.224.5641

Fax: 202.224.9640

Mobile: 202.247.7636

This is what we sent earlier, as it applied to the Authorization bill. The same provision was just included in the Defense Appropriations bill which is on the floor right now.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 24, 2004
Contact: Lynn Becker or Zach Goldberg (202) 224-5653

DEFENSE BILL ALLOWS COMMERCE SECRETARY
TO TRANSFER FUNDS TO MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

Kohl-sponsored initiative to allow successful manufacturing
program to receive more funding

WASHINGTON - The FY2005 Defense Authorization Bill, which the U.S. Senate last night approved, includes a provision sponsored by U.S. Senators Herb Kohl and Jack Reed that will enable the Commerce Department to redirect unused resources to the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program in the current fiscal year. In May, Kohl, along with a bipartisan group of 55 senators, contacted Commerce Secretary Donald Evans, requesting that he reprogram funding for MEP. However, Evans has since replied, saying that the Department does not have the authority to reprogram the funds. This amendment specifically clarifies that the Department has the authority. MEP -- a cost-effective, strong public-private partnership that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy -- was appropriated $39.6 million in federal funding in FY2004, an insufficient level to maintain the existing network of MEP centers.

“With many MEP centers coming up for renewal at the end of this month, time is of the essence to ensure that they have the resources to keep going strong. We hope that the Commerce Department will recognize the contributions MEP centers make to our economy and redirect unused funds to help these centers meet the needs of our manufacturers,” Kohl said.

MEP centers located throughout the state and across the nation work directly with small- and mid-sized manufacturers to help these companies compete by streamlining operations, shortening production times and lowering costs. Through MEP efforts, companies reported sales of $2.8 billion, $681 million in cost savings, $941 million invested in new plant and equipment, and more than 35,000 manufacturing jobs created or retained during fiscal year 2002.

The Administration's budget proposal for FY2005 slashed the MEP program to $39.6 million. Kohl, a long time supporter of the program, earlier this year offered an amendment to the federal budget to fund the MEP program at $106.9 million, the amount needed to fully implement the initiative.

Additionally, Kohl included in the FY2005 Defense Appropriations Bill $2 million for Wisconsin’s MEP Program for a two-year initiative to help streamline and accelerate the production of homeland security-related products from small and mid-sized manufacturers in the Midwest. Kohl is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, which approved the FY2005 Defense Appropriations Bill Tuesday.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wendy Morigi

June 24, 2004 Contact: 202-224-6101

ROCKEFELLER PRAISES IMPLEMENTATION OF DEMONSTRATION PROJECT

TO COVER ORAL CANER DRUGS

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) praised today’s launch by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) of a Medicare demonstration project to cover oral anti-cancer drugs. Rockefeller, who authored the Access to Cancer Therapies Act with Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME), said that it was a positive step to see the demonstration project put into action.

“For far too long Americans who were suffering from cancer were unable to get oral anti-cancer drugs through Medicare. Now, with this demonstration project, these cancer patients will not have to worry about how they can afford critical cancer medications such as Tamoxifen,” Rockefeller said. “This demonstration project is the next step toward achieving the goal I put forth 15 years ago when I first introduced legislation to extend Medicare coverage to cancer therapies.”

The senator added, “I wish that HHS had taken the initiative to cover even more medications, and include more people. I also hoped this demonstration project would have been implemented sooner. If it had gone into effect by the original date of March 8th, more patients could have had access to these life-saving treatments.”

Senator Rockefeller is the Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee’s Subcommittee on Health.

###

News Release

For release: June 24, 2004 Contact: Coy Knobel, phone 202-224-3424
Web address: enzi.senate.gov Email: Coy_Knobel@enzi.senate.gov

Enzi seeks vocational education reauthorization
Washington, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., is leading the effort to renew the federal Perkins Vocational and Technical Educational Act which Enzi believes is part of an essential link between education, workforce training and economic development. Connecting these areas is "key to a competitive economy for Wyoming and the nation."
“Wyoming residents will benefit from the reauthorization of this Act because it helps provide the academic and vocational skills needed to compete successfully in a global market,”said Enzi. “Fewer and fewer jobs are available to Wyoming residents because they are either academically or educationally unprepared.”
Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chairman, Judd Gregg, R-N.H., handed over the gavel to Enzi who chaired the full committee hearing held today in Washington to discuss the reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act. The Perkins act aims to prepare youth and adults for the future by building their academic and technical skills in preparation for post-secondary education and employment. The Perkins program is the only federal education and training program that focuses on secondary and post-secondary students simultaneously.
Under the current law, Wyoming receives $4.2 million annually in Perkins funds. The most frequent use of these funds includes purchasing occupationally-relevant equipment, vocational curriculum materials, funding curriculum development or modification, staff development seminars, career counseling and guidance activities, remedial classes, and expansion of technical preparation programs.
"As we discuss reauthorizing the Perkins Act, we need to consider how we can place students on this pathway to prosperity by giving them the skills they need to succeed, even if they don’t go on to college," said Enzi. "We must also ensure that rural communities are able to take advantage of Perkins resources, whether it be through distance learning programs or involving consortia of local secondary and postsecondary providers to work together to meet the needs of rural students."
Dr. Jo Anne McFarland, President of Central Wyoming College in Riverton, Wyoming was invited by Enzi to be a panel witness. McFarland and other witnesses stressed that the Perkins program provides valuable resources for secondary and postsecondary education, which helps prepare students for additional education and the workforce.
Dr. Jo Anne McFarland, President of Central Wyoming College in Riverton, Wyoming was invited by Enzi to be a panel witness. McFarland and other witnesses stressed that the Perkins program provides valuable resources for secondary and postsecondary education, which helps prepare students for additional education and the workforce.
The full text of Enzi's statement and witness testimonies can be found on Senator Enzi’s web page (enzi.senate.gov).
-end-

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Bob Stevenson (202) 224-4445

June 24, 2004 Amy Call (202) 224-1865

Nick Smith (202) 224-3355

FRIST HAILS NEW, EXPANDED DRUG COVERAGE FOR SENIORS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) today made the following statement after the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced new, expanded drug coverage for seniors. Today’s announcement creates a demonstration program to provide prescription drug coverage for prescriptions needed to combat chronicle illnesses such as cancer, multiple sclerosis and arthritis among others. Under this initiative, Medicare will pay for certain drugs that can be taken at home, replacing the need for expensive doctor visits to administer similar drugs.

“For the first time, the new Medicare law establishes a demonstration program providing coverage of newer, more effective oral anti-cancer drugs and self-injectible biological drugs. This common-sense approach improves access to quality health care and offers significant savings for seniors – as much as 90 percent. This is a big step forward. More than 50,000 Medicare beneficiaries who suffer from debilitating chronic disease such as cancer, multiple sclerosis and arthritis, but have no prescription drug coverage, will receive coverage for essential drugs beginning now. And all Medicare beneficiaries will receive guaranteed, comprehensive drug coverage beginning in 2006. This program along with the Medicare Prescription Drug Card Program provides real and immediate relief to seniors who need affordable life saving medicines. President Bush deserves credit for recognizing this need and acting.”

This initiative was part of the Medicare Modernization Act that was introduced by Senator Frist last year. Seniors who are interested in enrolling in this demonstration project can download applications from the CMS web site at www.cms.hhs.gov/researchers/demos/drugcoveragedemo.asp or calling 1-800-MEDICARE. Applications will be accepted through September 30.

-30-

04-155

For Immediate Release CONTACT: Barry Piatt

Thursday or Rebecca Pollard

June 24, 2004 PHONE: 202-224-2551

It’s a victory for localism, ownership diversity:

DORGAN REACTS TO DECISION ON MEDIA OWNERSHIP

BY U.S. COURT OF APPEALS FOR THIRD CIRCUIT

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) --- U.S. Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) issued the following statement Thursday in reaction to the decision by the Third Circuit Court of Appeals on the issue of concentration of media ownership. Dorgan described the ruling as a “victory for localism and ownership diversity.”

Text follows:

TEXT OF STATEMENT BY

U.S. SENATOR BYRON DORGAN

June 24, 2004

The Third Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision today on the FCC’s media ownership rules is excellent news. It is a victory for localism and ownership diversity. The FCC’s action on June 2nd of last year to relax existing media concentration rules totally sacrificed the public interest in favor of media consolidation. The Court, which stayed those rules in September of last year while it considered the case, has now sent the rules back to the FCC, for the FCC to reevaluate the rules and the methodologies by which they were developed.

I support the decision of the Court, which found that the majority of the FCC acted unreasonably in relaxing media ownership limits, and extended the stay of the rules while the FCC acts on the Court’s decision. This decision ensures that we preserve a diverse media that will serve the public interest, and that the FCC’s decision-making is more open and inclusive to the public as it moves forward on this issue.

I will continue to work in Congress to ensure that the FCC gets it right this time, so that we do not sacrifice localism and diversity for consolidation and media monopolies.

-- END --

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Kate Dando

June 24, 2004 (202) 224-5852

$6 MILLION FOR COLORADO LAND ACQUISITION IN

SENATE INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS BILL

Washington, D.C. - Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-CO), the sole Appropriator in the Colorado Congressional delegation, announced today that over $6 million in federal funds targeted for a variety of Colorado projects have been included in the Senate version of the FY ’05 Interior Appropriations Bill which passed out of committee yesterday and will be debated on the Senate floor in the next few weeks.

Items in the Senate version include:

$3.4 million to complete the acquisition of the Baca Ranch and create the Great Sand Dunes National Park and the Baca National Wildlife Refuge, a 97,000-acre ecological treasure with wetlands, grasslands, and Sand Dunes that provides important habitat for Colorado's rarest species.

The U.S. Forest Service will receive $1.025 million to purchase the 38.12 acre Miller Tract in the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest. This purchase will preserve the natural landscape and open space of the Grand Lake area, prevent this forest land from being developed into housing units, and enhance the management of the area.

The U.S. Forest Service will receive $1.5 million to acquire additional land in the High Elk Conservation Corridor located within the White River National Forest. This sub-alpine valley system provides unparalleled opportunities for long-term biological research, as well as opportunities for thousands of visitors to experience the true rugged nature of Colorado’s mountain country and its history.

The U.S. Forest Service will also receive $2 million to continue the acquisition of the 5,710-acre Beaver Brook Watershed. This land adds a recreational outlet for the Denver metropolitan population, preserves a vital link in a 20-mile wildlife corridor and preserves a water supply for 500 families in Jefferson County.

The Bureau of Land Management will receive $1.5 million for land acquisition in the Colorado Canyons National Conservation Area. Located in west-central Colorado along a 23-mile stretch of the Colorado River within Colorado and Utah, the Colorado Canyons National Conservation Area contains a multitude of nationally significant resources. The diverse landscape also supports a variety of wildlife populations, including numerous threatened and endangered species.

“The intent of these funds is to make sure there are areas for visitors to enjoy the Colorado outdoors for generations to come, while also securing pristine habitats for our wildlife. I am pleased to see these funds included in the Senate version of the bill, and I will continue to fight throughout the rest of the appropriations process to keep the funding at these levels,” Campbell said.

###

Kate Dando

Press Secretary

U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell

(202) 224-5852

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Wendy Morigi

June 24, 2004 202-224-6101

ROCKEFELLER SAYS PRESIDENT MUST BACK-UP HIS WORDS WITH ACTION ON BROADBAND TECHNOLOGY

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Following President Bush’s press conference today touting broadband technology, Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) called on the president to support legislation and programs that would expand broadband internet access across the nation.

As part of the president’s press conference, he highlighted the Challenger Learning Program based at Wheeling-Jesuit University in Wheeling, West Virginia. Rockefeller, who has taken the lead in the Senate to fight to expand broadband technology, praised the work the University has done with the science program, but pointed out that education programs like this can not be expanded if the incentives aren’t there to promote broadband access.

“The Challenger Learning Program at Wheeling-Jesuit that the president highlighted today is a terrific, science-based program that needs broadband technology to work,” Rockefeller said. “This program, and others like it across the country, just highlights how children can expand their world of learning if the technology is available to them.”

“Everyday, broadband technology becomes more and more important for our nation to excel in commerce, education, and security, particularly in rural areas and inner cities. However, the president has yet to take concrete action to promote access to broadband technology, and he needs to do more to back his words up with action.”

Unfortunately, the president’s new commitment to broadband technology was not reflected in his FY2005 budget request, which eliminated the funding for several key programs to improve and promote educational opportunities through technology. They include:

Star Schools- this program provides grants to support telecommunications partnerships to improve math, science, foreign language, and other subjects in underserved areas.

Community Technology Centers – this program supports centers that offer residents in economically distressed areas access to computers in training.

Technology Opportunity Program – This Department of Commerce program supports demonstrations of how new telecommunications and information technologies can provide educational, health care, or public information in the public and non-profit centers.

In addition, the White House has not yet agreed to support a bipartisan bill introduced by Senators Rockefeller and Olympia Snowe (R-ME) that would give incentives to companies to roll-out broadband technology in rural and underserved areas.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24, 2004 Contact: Paul Cardus (202) 224-6361

NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2005 CLEARS SENATE

Senate Bill includes $366 million for military construction in Hawaii

Washington, D.C. – Late last night the Senate adopted the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2005 (H.R. 4200/S. 2400) which authorizes $422.2 billion for the Department of Defense (DOD) and national security programs of the Department of Energy (DOE). U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii), Ranking Member of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support, voted for the measure and worked to ensure that the legislation supports the readiness of U.S. military forces, improves the facilities in which our military personnel work and housing for them and their families, and enhances the efficiency of DOD operations.

The Senate-passed bill includes language inserted in Committee by Senator Akaka striking a provision which would have permanently repealed the prohibition against contracting out security guards at military installations. The provision extends the current waiver of the prohibition for an additional two years and requires the Department of Defense to submit its report on its long-term plans for meeting its increased security guard needs which was due to Congress in May 2003. "I believe that the security of our defense facilities is best served by hiring federal employees to safeguard them on a full-time basis." Akaka said. "Experience has shown that federal employees are better screened, better trained, and better supervised than contracted security guards."

The bill also included an Akaka amendment that requires the Secretary of Defense to submit to Congress a plan for expanding and improving DOD's national security foreign language workforce to meet its requirements for its foreign language workforce on both a short-term and long-term basis. The amendment acknowledges the shortages of translators and interpreters in the national security arena and a general shortfall in language proficiency levels which has adversely affected agency operations and hindered military, law enforcement, intelligence, counterterrorism and diplomatic efforts. "We must address the critical shortfalls in federal employees with foreign language proficiency. The magnitude of our reliance, for example, on the private sector for interpreters and analysts in Iraq and Afghanistan, is astounding and poses its own problems. It is imperative that we begin to address this situation."

The bill continues efforts Senator Akaka initiated in FY 2002 to enhance the Department's coordination of anti-corrosion programs. Akaka was successful in inserting language in the Senate Committee report which urges the Department's Comptroller to establish by December 1, 2004, a specific funding mechanism for use by the Department in FY06 for the Office of Corrosion Policy and Oversight. The office, which is responsible for coordinating Department of Defense policy to prevent and mitigate the corrosion of military equipment and infrastructure, was created at Akaka's urging in the FY02 National Defense Authorization Act. "The Department is spending billions of dollars to fix equipment affected by corrosion," he noted. "We must proactively address this problem and ensure that there is coordination within the Department between the services on these efforts."

-MORE-

AKAKA
2-2-2

The bill authorizes $365.7 million for military construction funding in Hawaii, an increase of $26 million over the President's budget request of $339.7 million. This increase reflects additional military construction projects requested by Senator Akaka and Senator Daniel K. Inouye. These additional projects include $10 million for Saddle Road, $7.5 million for the AEOS Mirror Recoat Facility on Maui, and $8.5 million for the Electrical Grid at Hickam AFB. "These funds will help alleviate the housing problems faced by military personnel and their families in the islands," Akaka noted. "Hawaii's strategic importance mandates a strong military presence for the foreseeable future and we need to ensure proper housing and facilities for the men and women in all services who are defending our nation."

The FY05 Defense Authorization bill includes funding authorization and statutory language Senator Akaka sought for several projects of particular interest to Hawaii. Senator Akaka successfully secured funding of over $77 million for the following projects for the State of Hawaii:

The Advanced Fusion Processor, for the amount of $4.0 million

Tissue Development on Elastin Biomatrices, for the amount of $4.0 million

CUSAS-Common Picture Advanced Technology, for the amount of $3.0 million

Autonomous Unmanned Surface Vessel (AUSV), for the amount of $3.0 million

Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell Trial, for the amount of $3.0 million

Remote Sensor Monitoring Technology Research Program, for the amount of $3.0 million

SEE-Rescue Distress Streamer, for the amount of $3.0 million

Unexploded Ordnance Detection Using Airborne Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), for the amount of $4.7 million

High Accuracy Network Determination System (HANDS), for the amount of $10.0 million

Man Overboard Identification System (MOBI), for the amount of $10.0 million

Wave Power Demonstration Project, for the amount of $4.0 million

High Performance Metal Fiber Brushes, for the amount of $5.0 million

Corrosion Prevention and Control Program for Marine Corps, for the amount of $4.0 million

Corrosion Prevention and Control Program for Army, for the amount of $8.0 million

Electrical Grid at Hickam AFB, for the amount of $8.5 million

-30-