Political Quotes

“I rise to support the measure, S. 39, which is a bill to reauthorize and revitalize the Fisheries Conservation and Management Act, also known as the Magnuson Act. This is without a doubt one of the most important conservation bills that has come before this Congress, along with the nuclear waste bill. The text of the bill before us, which was discussed at some length last night, has changed a good deal since the bill that I had the honor to cosponsor along with Senator Stevens and Senator Kerry, in the final days of the 103d Congress. And almost 2 years since that day, Senator Stevens and Senator Kerry have led, I think, a remarkable, bipartisan effort to resolve other Members' problems with the bill as originally introduced. I would like to commend both of them. I would like to also recognize the cooperation of Senator Murray, Senator Gorton, of course our leader, Senator Lott, and many others who worked to bring this about. I cannot say I am completely satisfied with all the changes that have been necessary to accommodate the interests of various Members but that how the process of legislating works. However, I can say that I have watched and participated in the evolution of this legislation with very close attention. I am confident the managers have made every possible effort to make those accommodations without violating the intent of and the integrity of the bill.”