Max Baucus: “I rise, along with Senator Lautenberg, to introduce upon the request of the administration, legislation to reform and…”

“I rise, along with Senator Lautenberg, to introduce upon the request of the administration, legislation to reform and reauthorize our Nation's Superfund law. President Clinton, Administrator Browner, Secretary Bentsen, and many others in the administration deserve credit for their leadership in proposing much needed reforms to Superfund. This bill represents a year long effort to study Superfund, pinpoint the problems, and evaluate alternatives for reforming the program. Administrator Browner began the process early last year when she commissioned an advisory group of public and private representatives called the NACEPT group. This group took an honest look at Superfund and made recommendations on how to improve the program. Also last year the Keystone group, an independent and diverse group of leaders from government, industry, environmental, and civil rights organizations began examining Superfund. In late December, they completed their work, reaching consensus on a proposal that would substantially reform Superfund. This bill builds on the work and recommendations of NACEPT and the Keystone groups. It recognizes the problems with the existing law and proposes fundamental solutions. It proposes changes to lower litigation costs, achieve more rational and quicker cleanups, ensure that polluters pay their fair share, and strengthen the role of the States and enhance community involvement. It represents an excellent start for congressional action.”