Frank Lautenberg: “Being a bulldog is not necessarily the kind of pet you want around the house, but it is not bad when it comes to a…”

“Being a bulldog is not necessarily the kind of pet you want around the house, but it is not bad when it comes to a battle. Mr. President, I rise to express my satisfaction with the conference report and hope that our colleagues will support it. The final bill will enhance both the quality of our drinking water and America's confidence in its safety. Americans are concerned about the quality of their drinking water. The sale of bottled water and water filters is skyrocketing. Fewer people believe that the water out of their taps is clean and safe. Their fears are not illusionary. Look at Milwaukee or Philadelphia. Washington, the Nation's Capital has repeatedly had to tell residents to boil their water. Something had to be done. I believe the bill we crafted will enhance both quality and confidence. This was not an easy conference, as I am sure my colleagues will agree. Both bills resulted, from a set of delicate compromises, the House bill and the Senate bill. Any changes could raise significant opposition. I am happy the conferees were able to hammer out a draft which I believe is superior to either of the individual versions of the Senate or the House.”