Frank Riggs: “Mr. Chairman, I know that we are anxious to conclude the debate, but I simply could not allow, in good conscience, the…”

“Mr. Chairman, I know that we are anxious to conclude the debate, but I simply could not allow, in good conscience, the gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Hyde] and the gentleman from Texas [Mr. Paul] to mischaracterize this bill. Let me preface my remarks by saying that the gentleman from Illinois has a very well-deserved reputation for being one of the most respected, even revered Members of Congress, and the gentleman from Texas, as the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Souder], pointed out, has been absolutely consistent and constant in his views both as a private citizen and as a political leader in the country. But, Mr. Chairman, this bill empowers individuals, not government. Yes, it is based on the premise that the Federal Government, in partnership with State and local government, and the private sector, and that Federal taxpayers have a very legitimate role in helping to educate and train the most disadvantaged youth and adults and to help prepare them for the real world of work. I say again, as other speakers before me have said, this legislation consolidates over 60 separate Federal categorical education and job training programs into three block grants.”