Political Quotes

“Mr. President, during the last several years, members and staff of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources have spent thousands of hours debating, staffing, and pontificating reform of the 1872 mining law. During the 101st, 102d, and 103d Congresses, legislation to reform the 1872 mining law has been introduced, debated, and actively pursued. Last year, Congress came within striking distance of enacting comprehensive legislation. Unfortunately, negotiations on a final bill broke down during conference consideration and Senate and House leadership made the decision to pull the plug on reform in the 103d. Mr. President, I rise today to join with Senator Craig and others to begin the debate on mining law reform in the 104th Congress. I've thought long and hard about reforming the 1872 mining law. What effect will reform have on the mining industry? Will the legislation cost jobs? What impact will reform have on exploration and development in the United States? Will the environmental community support mining law reform? The bottom line is this: The voters sent a clear message to Congress in the November elections. No more delay, no more gridlock; get on with the Nation's business.”