[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 17 (Thursday, February 24, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: February 24, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                        INDEPENDENT COUNSEL LAW

                                 ______


                         HON. RONALD D. COLEMAN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 24, 1994

  Mr. COLEMAN. Mr. Speaker, on February 10, 1994, my attendance was 
required in my hometown of El Paso, TX. Unfortunately, this meant that 
I was unable to participate in the debate on H.R. 811, the independent 
counsel reauthorization. If I had been in attendance I would have 
supported the Bryant amendment to H.R. 811 and final passage of the 
legislation.
  Since 1978, independent counsel investigations have cost the American 
taxpayers over $45 million. H.R. 811 contains fiscal and administrative 
controls which will restrain spending by independent counsels and 
increase oversight of their activities, while preserving their autonomy 
and ability to investigate officials in a fair and even manner. It does 
not prohibit the appointment of an independent counsel in matters 
involving Members of Congress, but leaves it to the discretion of the 
Attorney General.
  I fully support H.R. 811 and urge the conferees once appointed to 
move in an expeditious manner so that Attorney General Reno will not be 
without this important tool.

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