[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 51 (Tuesday, May 3, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: May 3, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
             THE ADMINISTRATION'S PESTICIDE REFORM PROPOSAL

                                 ______


                        HON. CHARLES W. STENHOLM

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 3, 1994

  Mr. STENHOLM. Mr. Speaker, today I join Chairman de la Garza in 
introducing, by request, the administration's pesticide reform 
proposal. In my continuing effort to move this process forward, I am 
extremely interested in laying this proposal next to others currently 
on the table so that it might receive full review and consideration. I 
am introducing this legislation, not because I necessarily support the 
substance of the proposal, but because I support the process of moving 
this important issue forward.
  Although I recognize the complexity of these issues and appreciate 
the efforts of the respective agencies to produce a comprehensive 
package, I am discouraged that we are only now receiving this 
legislation--7 months after my subcommittee held hearings to review the 
administration's intentions. We should have been moving forward many 
months ago, not in the later stages of the 103d Congress.
  Today's agriculture community is extremely sensitive to the 
environmental and consumer impact of bringing food and fiber to the 
rest of the Nation. The farmer knows that he or she is successful only 
to the extent that the consumer is satisfied. Our task, however, is to 
ensure that these decisions are based on sound, practical science; not 
temporary emotional appeal.
  Although we are blessed with, and often taken advantage of a 
tremendous and wholesome food supply, today's society demands and 
deserves an updated legal framework by which to regulate that food 
supply. From improving efficiencies in the regulatory process to 
assuring consumers that there is no significant risk associated with 
our Nation's food and fiber, improvements can and should be made.
  I am anxious to move swiftly--to begin reviewing the details of this 
proposal and to work cooperatively with other committees of 
jurisdiction, the full Agriculture Committee, and this administration 
in bringing a measure of this nature to the floor of the House as soon 
as possible.

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