Wayne Allard: “Finally, I want to mention my strong support for the Smith amendment, of which I am a cosponsor. This amendment would…”

“Finally, I want to mention my strong support for the Smith amendment, of which I am a cosponsor. This amendment would prohibit the granting of security clearances for DOD or contractor employees who have been convicted and sentenced for a felony, an unlawful user or addict to any controlled substance, and any other criteria. To be brief, our U.S. national security is too important to risk by granting clearances to felons. We are all concerned about personal rights, but when it comes to security issues, these must override all others. Mr. President, I thank Chairman Warner for the opportunity to point out some of the highlights in the bill which the Strategic Subcommittee has oversight of and to congratulate him and Senator Levin for the bipartisan way in which this bill was developed. I ask all Senators to strongly support S. 2549. One of Congress' main responsibilities is to provide for the common defense of the United States. I am proud of what this bill provides for our men and women in uniform. We must not be blinded by political motives when it comes to our men and women in the armed services. All of the issues that come before the Senate are critical, but I hope that when it comes to this bill, we will remember why we are doing this. This bill is not for us and our political goals, but for our young men and women in the armed services.”