George Miller: “while there are many important policy matters addressed in the budget agreement before us today, I would like to take…”

“while there are many important policy matters addressed in the budget agreement before us today, I would like to take this opportunity to comment on the provisions concerning natural resources, native Americans and the environment. I am encouraged that the resolution includes several vital functions of the Department of the Interior in the category of protected domestic discretionary priorities. Specifically, the National Park Service, operations of national park system, land acquisition, and State assistance, Everglades restoration, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and tribal priority allocations are funded at levels proposed in the President's fiscal year 1998 budget. In addition, I am pleased that the resolution provides for $143 million in fiscal year 1998 to implement the California Bay-Delta Environmental Enhancement Act and $700 million for priority Federal land acquisitions, such as the Headwaters Redwoods Forest in California and the New World Mine Property bordering Yellowstone National Park. These are highly justifiable and appropriate uses of public funds.”