Hon. Ken Bentsen

I believe that the bill would hurt consumers and reduce the incentive for companies to address their Year 2000 computer problems in a timely manner.

This legislation would also encourage all class action lawsuits to be considered in federal court rather than state courts.

I do not believe that we should prevent consumers from seeking their day in court if they cannot reach agreement with the other party.

I will support the Lofgren substitute amendment that would reasonably address this issue.

I also believe that we have rushed to judgment on this issue.

I believe that these hearings have shown how Congress can work on a bipartisan basis to address a critical issue.

I urge my colleagues to oppose this legislation and to support the Lofgren amendment that would protect consumers.