Louis Stokes: “I rise in support of H.R. 2880, a continuing resolution for fiscal year 1996. I join my ranking member for the full…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 2880, a continuing resolution for fiscal year 1996. I join my ranking member for the full appropriations subcommittee, the gentleman from Wisconsin [Mr. Obey] in commending our colleagues on the other side of the aisle for working so diligently to bring this much improve measure before us tonight. While I am glad to see that progress appears to be occurring with respect to a final budget agreement and the remaining appropriations bills, I am certain that no one is more delighted with any progress than the hard-working Government employees, their families, and the millions of individuals and families whose lives have been held hostage over the last few months since we have been unable to resolve these pressing matters. As ranking member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies, I have been among the most ardent opponents of the many reductions to critical programs under the subcommittee's jurisdiction, as well as the numerous and harmful riders that were included in the measure. The measure before us does not address all of the areas for which I have concern. It does, however, allow the Federal Government to continue to meet important obligations to our Nation's veterans, to safeguard our environment, provide aid to the homeless, assist families and individuals in purchasing homes, and further our scientific and technological endeavors.”