Peter Visclosky: “As we finish debate on the crime bill we must stay focused on the very serious problems it is intended to correct. The…”

“As we finish debate on the crime bill we must stay focused on the very serious problems it is intended to correct. The Clinton administration and the Democrats in Congress have produced a balanced crime bill that includes police protection, punishment, and prevention. In spite of the wisdom of this bill and the urgency of our crime problem, there are some Republican Members who would rather play politics than pass sound policy. A Republican Member of this body circulated a letter to his Republican colleagues stating: If we work together we can defeat this bill and craft a real crime bill that will give the crime issue back to Republicans for the upcoming elections. It is clear that for some Republicans the real issue is politics--not stopping crime and making our neighborhoods safe. Mr. Speaker, this crime bill will put more police on the streets, throw away the key for repeat violent criminals, and prevent crime before it happens. This is a balanced bill that the Nation wants and needs. It should pass as soon as possible.”