[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 145 (Friday, October 7, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: October 7, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                      ON UNFUNDED FEDERAL MANDATES

  Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, I regret that we have not been able to 
move forward on consideration of the Federal Mandate Accountability and 
Reform Act of 1994.
  Many mayors and other municipal officials from Massachusetts have 
told me about the difficulties they are having in paying for both 
federally mandated requirements and local priorities such as education 
and law enforcement. I am deeply concerned that the costs of meeting 
Federal requirements are making it harder and harder for many 
communities to hire more teachers, more police officers, or more 
firefighters. While it is important for the Federal Government to meet 
its national responsibility in protecting the environment, ensuring 
worker safety, preventing discrimination, and securing other basic 
rights for all citizens, Congress must also be sensitive to the burdens 
Federal legislation may impose on State and local governments.
  I have consistently fought for more Federal funding to help 
Massachusetts communities meet Federal requirements such as those under 
the Clean Water Act. But I also believe that the time has come for 
Congress to review the entire problem of unfunded mandates more 
carefully. That is why I support S.993, the Glenn-Kempthorne Federal 
Mandate Accountability and Reform Act of 1994.
  I appreciate the efforts of Senators Glenn and Kempthorne to craft a 
balanced and fair approach to the problem of unfunded mandates. By 
requiring Congressional Budget Office estimates of the State and local 
costs of new legislation, and providing for a specific vote if those 
expenses are not financed through savings or authorizations, their bill 
will ensure that Congress deals more effectively with the problems 
faced by States, cities, and towns in complying with new Federal laws.
  The Glenn-Kempthorne bill is supported by the Clinton administration 
and by Members of both parties. It has been strongly endorsed by the 
major organizations representing State, county, and municipal 
officials. It is a good bill that addresses a serious problem for 
States and local governments, and it deserves to pass.

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