Tony Thurmond: “I rise in support of S. 495, the Chemical and Biological Threat Reduction Act of 1997, offered by the Senator from…”

“I rise in support of S. 495, the Chemical and Biological Threat Reduction Act of 1997, offered by the Senator from Arizona, Senator Kyl, and others. There has been criticism of this legislation by Members of the Senate as well as by the administration. The criticism largely centers around charges that it falls short as an alternative to the Chemical Weapons Convention [CWC]. I do not know what the outcome will be of the Senate vote on advice and consent to ratification of the Chemical Weapons Convention. This legislation could possibly be an alternative in the event two-thirds of the Members present do not vote for the treaty. On the other hand, it may also complement the treaty, if it passes. I want the Record to be clear, whatever the outcome of the vote on the CWC, I support efforts by the Senate to provide comprehensive criminal, civil, and other penalties for the acquisition, possession, transfer, or use of chemical or biological weapons. I also want the Record to reflect my continued support for the destruction of the U.S. unitary stockpile. I urge my colleagues to vote for S. 495.”