[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 59 (Thursday, March 30, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E747]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                IN SUPPORT OF THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT

                                 ______


                           HON. NANCY PELOSI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 30, 1995
  Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my strong support for 
the Endangered Species Act. For over 20 years, this landmark 
legislation has been America's contract with nature.
  It has also ensured the survival and conservation of hundreds of 
native fish, wildlife and plant species--and with them our natural 
heritage.
  Mr. Speaker, the Endangered Species Act has helped to preserve 
biological diversity within our country by preserving species that are 
on the brink of extinction. Since 1973, 731 U.S. species have been 
listed under the Endangered Species Act. Without this vital protection, 
many listed species, including our national symbol, the bald eagle, 
would have long since become extinct.
  Mr. Speaker, the Endangered Species Act is at a decisive crossroads.
  While it has come under attack from those who contend that it places 
unnecessary roadblocks in the path of economic development, polls 
consistently show that the American people support the Endangered 
Species Act by wide margins.
  The American people know that to abandon the Endangered Species Act 
would be tantamount to an open season on endangered waterfowl, marine 
mammals, songbirds, and other federally protected wildlife. It would 
give a green light to international traffickers of fur-bearing animals, 
wild birds, elephant ivory, tigers, and other wildlife and wildlife 
products.
  The time to protect America's biological resources is now Mr. 
Speaker. I urge all of my colleagues to support re-authorization of a 
strong Endangered Species Act.


                          ____________________