Political Quotes

“I think the statement of all of our colleagues points out why we really have to move this study along. I believe the committee is prepared to accept the Nelson amendment. As we move to conference, we also want to consult EPA about how long it will take them to collect their information. Here is where we are. EPA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission are in the jurisdiction of this subcommittee. We take our mandated reports to agencies very seriously because then we need them for the following year's appropriations. And the authorizers need them for the second session of the 107th Congress. So let's shoot for this 30 days because I think there is this sense of urgency, particularly at the local government rec center level. Right now they are worried about two things. They are worried about their kids being exposed to arsenic-treated wood, and they are worried about lawsuits. Local government should not be worried about either one. It is our job to stand sentry and give the best advice. I am ready to stand sentry over the bureaucracy to ensure a timely completion of this report so that not only will the concerns of Senator Nelson be settled, but really the concerns of the Nation. We thank him for being so assertive in this area. We are prepared to accept the amendment.”