[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 49 (Wednesday, April 23, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E727]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             EARTH DAY 1997

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. THOMAS J. MANTON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 23, 1997

  Mr. MANTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Earth Day 
1997. During this Congress it is especially crucial to emphasize the 
significance and purpose of this nationally recognized day. Since 1970, 
this country has set aside 1 day a year to highlight the importance of 
environmental conservation and preservation. But protecting the 
environment and our natural resources is not a once a year project. It 
is about the way we choose to live our lives.
  Mr. Speaker, the nationwide recognition of this day illustrates the 
overwhelming public concern over how the natural and man-made world 
should interact. While I support efforts to relieve businesses of undue 
red tape, I believe it is possible to do so without also reducing 
protection of our air, water, and other natural resources. Although 
striking a balance is often difficult, it is necessary for the long 
term health of both the environment and the economy.
  As a Member of this esteemed body, I am pleased with the role 
Congress has played over the last 27 years. Passage of legislation such 
as the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species Act, 
among others, has been instrumental in cleaning our environment and 
protecting our valuable natural resources. It is our responsibility as 
legislators to continue to respond to the public and its priorities 
through enactment and renewal of these most important environmental 
laws.
  Mr. Speaker, I am hopeful that this day will be a reminder to 
Congress that the management of our resources is of vital importance. 
The decisions we make today will impact not only our future, but all 
future generations.

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