[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 78 (Thursday, May 11, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1000]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


           COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 1996

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                               speech of

                           HON. NANCY PELOSI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 9, 1995

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 1361) to 
     authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1996 for the Coast 
     Guard, and for other purposes:

  Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to offer my support for H.R. 
1361, the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1996.
  Since 1915, the Coast Guard has played a critical role in the 
protection of life and property on the high seas and in the enforcement 
of all applicable federal laws on, over, and under our oceans. The 
Coast Guard has maintained coastal navigation aids, engaged in 
icebreaking activities and has protected our fragile environment. The 
Coast Guard is also responsible for the safety and security of vessels, 
ports, waterways, and their related facilities.
  Mr. Speaker, in addition to these maritime safety responsibilities, 
the Coast Guard also performs drug interdiction for the entire U.S. 
coastline, responds to all coastal oil spills, protects U.S. fisheries, 
and responds to human migration crises.
  H.R. 1361, which reflects a slight increase over this year's funding 
level, recognizes the enormous responsibilities performed by the men 
and women of the Coast Guard every day and it deserves our bipartisan 
support. I urge all of my colleagues to support this legislation.


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