New Jersey — First Congressional District Message of the Day |
AS WE REVIEW THE SAFETY OF OUR CAPITOL |
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Today, we received reports that approximately thirty-one people who
came in contact with the Anthrax-contaminated package that was sent to
Senate Majority Leader Daschle's office have tested positive for exposure
to this bacteria. Thankfully, preliminary reports show that these individuals
have not contracted the disease but were exposed to the bacteria.
As a precautionary measure, the Capitol Police, in conjunction with the
leadership of the House of Representatives have decided to close all House
buildings until Tuesday, October 23, 2001 so that environmental tests can
be performed on all areas of the facility. There has not been any
confirmation of an Anthrax contamination in any of these buildings to date.
This precautionary measure is being taken to ensure the safety of the Congressional
staff who work in these offices and the general public that visit these
buildings.
During this temporary closure, my work will continue. I have met with my staff to develop a contingency plan to continue to meet the needs of our constituents while the Capitol is closed. My district offices in Haddon Heights and Woodbury will remain open to serve the residents of the First Congressional District of New Jersey. We have arranged to have all phone calls from our Washington office forwarded to our district representatives who will be at work in their offices and have taken precautions to ensure their safety as well as the safety of those of you who visit these offices. Also, emails sent to our office will be received in New Jersey. Today, I will remain in Washington to hold a press conference with Congressman
Ganske and Senators McCain, Hutchinson and Hollings to advocate for our
legislation to improve our Nation's airline security infrastructure.
The Senate version of this Bill has already passed the Senate with virtually
unanimous support. I will be returning to the district tonight and
will be meeting with my constituents through the balance of the week.
My work of public service will go on.
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