Kendrick Meek: “I rise in support of H.R. 820-- the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1999. This much-needed bill authorizes $3.1 billion…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 820-- the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1999. This much-needed bill authorizes $3.1 billion in fiscal year 2000 and $3.2 billion in fiscal year 2001 for Coast Guard operating expenses to carry out numerous missions. Included in this authorization is funding for the Coast Guard to Participate in search and rescue missions. The Coast Guard spends about 11.6 percent of its operating expenses on search and rescue missions. This is a critical function of the Coast Guard and one that saves the lives and property of many who find themselves in peril on the open seas--particularly the perilous seas off the coast of South Florida. Recently, the Coast Guard launched a search and rescue mission off of the coast of South Florida in search of Haitian immigrants whose vessel capsized as they were trying to reach the United States. Unfortunately, although three Haitian immigrants were rescued from the Atlantic Ocean between the Bahamas and Florida, perhaps as many as 40 more Haitian immigrants were lost, despite the Coast Guard's best efforts. Over the years, the Coast Guard has rescued hundreds of Haitians, Cubans, and others seeking freedom and a better life in the United States. Unfortunately, many die trying to secure their dream of freedom. The Coast Guard serves critical role in helping to save human lives in the straits of Florida. The diverse ethnic communities in Miami are most grateful for the Coast Guard's search and rescue efforts.”