Rob Portman: “I am pleased to speak in tribute to Jerry Solomon and his many years of service and leadership to this country. Chairman…”

“I am pleased to speak in tribute to Jerry Solomon and his many years of service and leadership to this country. Chairman Solomon is a strong, effective and passionate chairman of the Rules Committee. He is a true Leatherneck--no-nonsense, patriotic and capable of getting the job done. I had the pleasure of working closely with Jerry Solomon on the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act--which has effectively ended the irresponsible practice of Congress passing the bill to state and local governments and the taxpayers they represent. Jerry's commitment to unfunded mandates relief--and his tireless advocacy were key to passage of this landmark legislation. Jerry has also been one of the most vocal Members of Congress in the vital fight to reduce drug abuse in this country. I've been pleased to work with him on a number of issues--the Drug Free Communities Act and the recently passed Drug Demand Reduction Act. There is no member of this body more committed to reducing substance abuse than Jerry Solomon. The issue burns in his heart. The U.S. House of Representatives is losing a real fighter in Jerry Solomon. Happily, he is leaving the Rules Committee's gavel in capable hands, but we'll miss his drive, energy and determination. I know Chairman Solomon will be watching C-SPAN in upstate New York to keep an eye on us, and I hope and expect to continue to hear his firm and passionate voice on issues of concern to our country.”