Thomas Foley: “Mr. Chairman, I want to take a moment to read a quote from a former colleague of ours in California now: ``For 20 years…”

“Mr. Chairman, I want to take a moment to read a quote from a former colleague of ours in California now: ``For 20 years I have advocated the orderly economic deregulation of American transportation systems. Air and ground transportation deregulation have largely been completed, with consumers and businesses benefiting from less government and more competition. This new proposal extends deregulation to ocean transportation. It is a commonsense, balanced proposal, providing a clear road map and a schedule for ocean freight deregulation.'' Norm Mineta, June 28, 1995. Something has happened since then. Something has happened in Washington since that statement was uttered. And there is more. And my colleagues will share some of the other statements. When we look at the partisanship displayed on the floor on this issue, it is no wonder things are not happening here in Washington. I heard the last speaker say we should not grant economic opportunities to select people. Some of us in this Congress feel NAFTA and GATT granted select opportunities to certain individuals. In Florida, my agricultural industry is under great pressure from NAFTA. Tomatoes are almost being run out of business. Citrus is next.”