Orrin Hatch: “Mr. President, I believe our gang amendment is necessary and if federal law enforcement is not prepared, as the Post…”

“Mr. President, I believe our gang amendment is necessary and if federal law enforcement is not prepared, as the Post opines, the responsibility for this current erosion of Federal law enforcement rests with the Clinton administration. Our antigang amendment responds to the epidemic of gang violence which is gripping our Nation's urban and rural areas. Our Nation's heartland is witnessing an unprecedented growth in gang violence--a scourge known all too well to cities like Los Angeles and New York City. The antigang amendment makes it a Federal offense to engage in gang-related crime and subjects gang members to tough mandatory minimum penalties. I can think of no area where there is a greater Federal interest than in assisting the States in the prosecution and incarceration of violent offenders. This is especially true given that much of the drugs and firearms used by gangs in States like Utah cross State lines. The administration recognizes the need for a Federal role in this area.”