Political Quotes

“I very strongly support the passage of S. 39, a bill to reauthorize and revitalize the Fishery Conservation and Management Act, also known as the Magnuson Act. This is without a doubt the single most important conservation bill that has come before this Congress. The text before us today has changed greatly since the bill I had the honor to cosponsor, along with Senator Stevens and Senator Kerry, in the final days of the 103d Congress. In the almost 2 years since that day, Senator Stevens and Senator Kerry have led a remarkable bipartisan effort to resolve other Members' problems with the bill as originally introduced. I cannot say, Mr. President, that I am completely happy with all of the changes that have been necessary to accommodate the interests of various Members. However, Mr. President, I can say that I have watched the evolution of this legislation with very close attention, and am confident that the managers have made every possible effort to make those accommodations without violating the integrity of the bill. I also want to recognize the tremendous effort that has been made by fishing industry groups, the environmental community and others, all of whom participated in bringing this bill to this point, just steps from completion.”