Pete Domenici: “I rise today to offer strong support for the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999. As…”

“I rise today to offer strong support for the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999. As several of my colleagues in the Senate have also recognized, we owe a great deal of gratitude to Senator Thurmond. As a soldier and as a Senator, he has fought to defend our country and safeguard our national interest. I thank Senator Thurmond his unceasing commitment and untiring service to this country and its institutions. Mr. President, this legislation contains many positive things for the state of New Mexico--both in the programs funded and the changes made to enhance research and development efforts. The most significant contribution made by this legislation to R&D efforts in our state will be realized by eliminating several barriers to cooperation between national laboratories and the private sector. The partnerships among our federal laboratories, universities, and industry provide important benefits to our nation. A substantial amount of benefits are attainable in New Mexico, given the unique assets in this state. These partnerships help to create innovative new products and services that drive our economy and improve our quality of life. I am pleased that this year's conference ruled favorably on so many of the requests for increases that I put forward.”