Frank Lautenberg: “this amendment follows the construct of this bill by protecting flow control authority that was in effect before May 15…”

“this amendment follows the construct of this bill by protecting flow control authority that was in effect before May 15, 1994. Its provisions will sunset in 30 years. With these limitations or restrictions, the amendment is narrowly crafted to respond to a very special situation in New Jersey, about which I spoke on the floor yesterday. I appreciate the willingness of the committee chairman, Senator Chafee, and the subcommittee chairman, Senator Smith, to accept this narrowly crafted amendment, which will avoid the need for New Jersey to export increasing volumes of waste and will permit the State to meet its self-sufficiency goals by the year 2000. While I cannot say that I share the enthusiasm that some have for the structure created by this bill, I, nevertheless, accept it. At present, I intend to support the bill and vote for it. I say at present, obviously, because if there are any amendments that are new and adopted, I reserve the right at that point to reexamine my decision. At present, as I say, I intend to support the bill. I hope and trust that the bill itself will quickly be adopted in the Senate, in conference, and sent to the President to be signed into law. Otherwise, New Jersey and many other States face a potential waste disposal crisis and serious financial disruption of the plans and the indebtedness that exists out there.”