America should not allow the unscrupulous operation of unsafe ships with ill-trained crews to threaten the oceans, our coastlines, or our citizens.

Congressional and Administrative action is needed to strengthen the U.S. maritime industry and level the playing field in the international shipping arena.

The U.S. maritime industry has been the world leader in innovation over the last 30 years.

I hope that these remarks increase our knowledge and respect for the critical role that damage repair ships played in the Pacific campaigns.

Mr. President, today I ask the Senate to join me in commending those brave Americans who served aboard the U.S.S. Phaon.

By the war's end, the Phaon had repaired at least 96 ships and more than 2,000 vessels and crafts of all types.

The Phaon was an important part of mobile Service Squadron Ten, whose battle role was to remain within the battle area and conduct repairs.

Had it failed, the war would have lasted much longer at much greater cost in blood and dollars.

Admiral Raymond A. Spruance, Commander of the Central Pacific Force, called the record of the Phaon and Service Squadron Ten achievements of which all Americans can be justly proud.

This study is a bottom-up effort with emphasis on letting those with hands-on experience play leading roles.

I hope the President's budget proposal funds these grant activities from general revenues in full recognition of the broad public benefit that accrues from effective underground infrastructure protection.

Mr. President, the affected parties have checked their differences at the door, have worked together with openness and goodwill.

I am pleased to report that the response to the one-call legislation has been extremely positive.

This legislation, based on S.1115, the Comprehensive One-Call Notification Act, does just that.

Mr. President, the last Congress enacted legislation which protects our nation's vital underground infrastructure.

I rise to introduce legislation that will establish the Director of the Indian Health Service within the Department of Health and Human Services as an Assistant Secretary for Indian Health.

I often hear from state and local governments and constituents involved in non-profit organizations who, in an attempt to gain assistance for many worthy programs, are frustrated by the miles of red tape, regulations and duplicative…

It has been endorsed by state and local organizations such as the National Governors Association, the National Conference of State Legislators, the National Association of Counties, and the National League of Cities.