Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise to urge passage of this legislation. While bringing bipartisan support for this bill has not been easy, it has come about, and I believe that is both significant and important. There are several provisions of this bill that are commendable. The "such sums" authorizations, for instance, gives us room to seek a significant increase in funding for vocational education. The separate authorization for tech prep is a noteworthy accomplishment. This is a highly successful and popular program. It has done well in appropriations and should certainly grow in the years ahead. The provisions of the reserve for Indian programs are good, and I am especially encouraged that we have made bureau funded secondary schools eligible to receive funds under the within State allocation of the basic State grant. We also permit private schoolteachers to participate in professional development programs in both Goals 2000 and the Improving America's Schools Act of 1994, and I am especially glad that we permit the States and localities to do so in this legislation. The formula regarding the within State allocation of funds has been improved and refined through this reauthorization process. While I certainly support the changes that have been made, I continue to believe that the formula can be further improved and targeted. In another area, I regret very much that we have weakened current law with respect to sex equity.”