Political Quotes

“I am happy to rise today in strong support of H.R. 188, legislation "to provide a new effective date for certain provisions of law in Public Law 105-331," introduced by the gentleman from New Jersey, Mr. Pallone. Enacted in 1998, Public Law 105-331 provided for the issuance in 2004 of the Thomas Alva Edison Commemorative Coin, commemorating the 125th anniversary of Edison's invention of the light bulb. In the years between the passage of that legislation and now, leadership of the group that operates the Edison Memorial Tower in Edison, New Jersey made plans to comply with statutory requirements to raise funds to match one-eighth of the surcharges raised from the sales of the coins--about $380,000--and thus claim the surcharge funds. Unfortunately, through a series of miscommunications, it was not made clear to the board that these must be non-governmental funds. When the error was discovered, the group moved quickly, seeking an extension of the 2-year time limit to raise those funds. Madam Speaker, on November 16 of last year, the House passed legislation similar to that which we are considering today that would have permitted an extension until the end of June. Unfortunately, during the wrap-up of the 109th Congress, the other body did not consider the legislation. However, I am confident that when the House sends this version of the bill to the Senate, it will quickly pass.”