Steve Buyer: “I include for the Record my statement in support of the fiscal year 1999 energy and water appropriations, and thank both…”

“I include for the Record my statement in support of the fiscal year 1999 energy and water appropriations, and thank both of the gentlemen for their contributions to this bill and their service to our country. I would like to thank Chairman McDade and Ranking Member Fazio for their bi-partisan and expedient work in bringing this measure to the House Floor. Included in this Energy and Water Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 1999, is a continuation of funds for the Army Corps of Engineers Feasibility Study for the Kankakee River Basin in Indiana and Illinois. The support for this project spans both political parties in Indiana and Illinois. I appreciate the cooperation of the numerous Members who have offered their support and assistance for this vitally important project. For years, Indiana and Illinois were caught up in the court system because of flooding disputes. With a joint Congressional effort, the suits were stopped and efforts were instead focused upon finding a resolution through a basin wide Army Corps of Engineers study. The reconnaissance study has been completed and the feasibility study is beginning. The $940,000 funding that is provided in this bill for the continuation of the feasibility study will provide for a long-term solution to this problem which the residents of Northwest Indiana and Northeast Illinois deserve.”