[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 145 (Monday, September 18, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Pages S13745-S13746]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          TRIBUTE TO AL MEIER

 Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, it is an honor for me to rise today 
to honor a distinguished citizen from my State--Iowa Commissioner of 
Labor Al Meier. When Al retired on July 28, he stepped down as the 
longest serving labor commissioner in the United States.
  Over the years, Al Meier has been an ally on the side of working 
Iowans. Before Al was named labor commissioner in 1977, he served on 
the OSHA Review Commission, and prior to that he represented the AFL-
CIO. He has also chaired the organizational committee of the Governor's 
Safety and Health Conference.
  As labor commissioner, Al was responsible for helping Iowans stay 
safe on the job and off. Accountable for all division of labor 
programs, Al's duties included safety inspections, such as elevator and 
amusement ride inspections; wage payment collection, child labor, 
minimum wage, asbestos removal, and contractor registration.
  I can tell you that no one worked harder on keeping Iowans safe in 
the workplace than Al Meier. But his work wasn't just about safety, as 
vital as that is. It was also about security--economic security--
helping Iowans live better lives, and building a better future for our 
State. He was, and still is, at his best when it comes to helping 
others fight for a better life.
  Al has been a fighter all his life. A former Golden Gloves contender, 
he never relinquished the fighting spirit it took for him to compete in 
the boxing ring. Whether it was through his work in political 
organizing, negotiating on the Hill, or representing the union, Al has 
been a fighter and a builder. He built coalitions. He built 
opportunities. He built a stronger Iowa.
  And throughout it all, Al has never compromised in his commitment to 
helping people. I know of no greater tribute, and no better legacy, 
than that.
  Mr. President, I am proud to salute the leadership and selfless 
service that 

[[Page S 13746]]
Al Meier has demonstrated throughout his life. I am especially honored 
to count Al as one of my dearest friends--a friend that I have known 
for many years. Once again I congratulate Al on his many years of 
service to Iowans, and I ask my colleagues to join with me in wishing 
him a long and happy retirement.

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