[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 135 (Thursday, September 26, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Pages S11420-S11421]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO RETIRING SENATOR DAVID PRYOR

  Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, today I salute one of my Democratic 
colleagues who is retiring at the end of this Congress, Senator David 
Pryor of Arkansas. I have been privileged to serve with David Pryor not 
only in the Senate but also on the Finance and Agriculture Committees. 
Senator Pryor is a true gentleman, a thoughtful statesman, and a 
champion for all taxpayers, farmers, and senior citizens. His presence 
in the United States Senate will be missed.
  Senator Pryor's service to his constituents in Arkansas and the 
Nation is remarkable. He was elected to the first of three terms as a 
U.S. Congressman for the Fourth District of Arkansas in 1966. He became 
Governor in 1974. In 1978, the people of Arkansas elected him to serve 
in the U.S. Senate. Senator Pryor was elected to his third Senate term 
in 1990 without a challenger.
  Through his service on the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Pryor 
has made a difference in the day-to-day life of every American. The 
Taxpayer Bill of Rights will be considered as one of Senator Pryor's 
lasting legacies. Thanks to his efforts in enacting this legislation, 
taxpayers are guaranteed certain basic rights when dealing with the 
Internal Revenue Service.
  The Agriculture Committee provided Senator Pryor with the perfect 
venue to improve the lives of America's farmers and ensure an abundant 
and safe food supply for this country and the world. He has been a 
watchdog for the interests of Arkansas farmers. His work on improving 
food quality and safety will be remembered by many future generations.
  Senator Pryor is probably best known for his work on behalf of our 
senior citizens. The Senate Special Committee on Aging was chaired by 
Senator Pryor for 6 years and he currently serves as the ranking 
minority member. Senator Pryor fought to save the Social Security 
system and reform the nursing home industry. He also focused the 
Nation's attention on the soaring prices of prescription drugs. His 
dedication to the issues facing our senior citizens is inspiring.
  Mr. President, dedication, integrity, and humility are 
characteristics that best describe Senator Pryor's presence in the 
Senate. He has worked tirelessly on behalf of his Arkansas constituents

[[Page S11421]]

and the Nation to achieve important goals in health care, aging issues, 
and agriculture. His accomplishments have been remarkable, and will be 
recognized for many years. I have been deeply honored to serve with my 
distinguished colleague Senator Pryor, and wish him every happiness and 
good health in the years to come.

                          ____________________