Paul Coverdell: “first, I think we owe the authors, Senator Helms and Congressman Burton, the cosponsors, and the White House--all who…”

“first, I think we owe the authors, Senator Helms and Congressman Burton, the cosponsors, and the White House--all who participated extensively to perfect this conference report that I believe will soon become law--a great deal of support. They need to be complimented extensively for the vast work they have done to perfect this legislation over the last 2 years. Mr. President, I believe that this legislation will send a signal worldwide about this rogue regime, that it is not in the interest of business, or individuals, to be predators over confiscated and stolen property. I think the effects that I just alluded to moments ago are very positive, and I hope that all will take note and that there will be no more transactions in stolen property. I hope that we give comfort to those who have had their lifelong possessions confiscated by the Cuban Government, that we will begin to signal hope to them, that there may be light at the end of the tunnel, and that they will be compensated for that which was lost. I hope to the Cuban people we will be saying that the United States stands here ready to be an ally and ready to be an assistant to the transition to democracy and to the transition to a democratic government.”