[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 108 (Monday, July 28, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1536]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           THE NEW MEXICO STATEHOOD AND ENABLING ACT OF 1997

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVEN SCHIFF

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 28, 1997

  Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleagues on both 
sides of the aisle, as well as in the other body, for passage of S. 430 
the New Mexico Statehood and Enabling Act of 1997.
  This bill, introduced and supported by the entire New Mexico 
delegation, approves the changes made to the State constitution by the 
voters of New Mexico on November 6, 1996, which are specific to the New 
Mexico Land Grant Permanent Fund--established by the enabling act of 
1910.
  With these changes in place, New Mexico will be able to safeguard 
against the eroding effects of inflation to ensure that the fund will 
be able to help us meet tomorrow's educational needs.
  This fund, which has grown to be the third largest educational 
endowment in the world, now comprises almost 14 percent of our State 
budget, and is a critical part of a better future for our children. So 
again, Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank my 
colleagues for their support.

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