[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 35 (Thursday, March 24, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


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

 
              OPPOSITION TO CASTLE AMENDMENT TO H.R. 3345

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                   HON. MARJORIE MARGOLIES-MEZVINSKY

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 24, 1994

  Ms. MARGOLIES-MEZVINSKY. Mr. Speaker, we are all frighteningly aware 
of the crime problem our country is facing today. We are all too 
familiar with the startling statistics. Every day, more than 60 
Americans are killed by handguns. The safety of our children is indeed 
a national priority. We cannot, however, ignore the fact that our 
children will not enjoy true security until this Government addresses 
what will end up as the biggest crime of all: our national deficit.
  In voting for early buyouts in the Federal Workforce Restructuring 
Act, we are making a responsible choice. The 12-percent reduction in 
the Federal work force will save close to $36 billion over 6 years. In 
addition, we will be giving the right message to our Federal employees. 
By offering them an early buyout, we will be empowering them to decide 
their fate.
  I opposed the Castle amendment to H.R. 3345, not because I do not 
support violent crime prevention programs, but rather because I believe 
that we must guarantee true security for our children by reducing the 
national deficit. We must also continue the fight against crime and 
should seek funding sources from unchecked Federal mandates, and 
eliminating government waste. I feel very strongly that any money 
achieved by the Federal Workforce Restructuring Act should be directed 
towards deficit reduction, and not just spent elsewhere. I refuse to 
contribute to this serious financial burden we are leaving to the 
future of America.

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