Political Quotes

“Mr. Kerrey's proposal, the Youth Violence Prevention Block Grant, was adopted in the crime bill the other body passed last fall. I would like to encourage this body to ensure that Youth Violence Block Grant is included in the final crime package that comes out of conference. It is clear that economically disadvantaged children who start falling behind early in their schooling have a higher likelihood of skating close to trouble for a good deal of their lives. They are less likely to find good-paying jobs. And we know that cognitive skills children learn at an early age help them reason their way through stressful and dangerous situations. Young people who succeed at learning have a higher self-esteem and are more likely to think before resorting to violence. This crime bill focuses on youth violence that is related to gangs and drugs, and I think that is necessary. Nebraska has a serious and growing gang problem. But Nebraska also has a serious problem with youth violence that is unrelated to gang activity. This bill also focuses on prevention programs like the Ounce of Prevention Council and that could be very helpful to our youths.”