[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 132 (Monday, September 29, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1885]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    ROLLCALL VOTES 457, 458, AND 459

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                         HON. ROBERT A. WEYGAND

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 29, 1997

  Mr. WEYGAND. Mr. Speaker, on September 26, 1997, I was unavoidably 
detained and was not, therefore, able to vote on rollcall votes 457, 
458, and 459. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted ``yea'' 457 
and ``nay'' on rollcall votes 458 and 459.
  During that time, Secretary of Defense Cohen and Assistant Secretary 
of the Navy Douglas, were visiting my district to tour Electric Boat 
and the Naval Undersea Warfare Center and to discuss current Defense 
appropriations and proposals that will affect national security.
  Due to that visit, I missed votes on amendments concerning State 
Department appropriations. As we move to complete work on the Commerce, 
Justice, State appropriations bill, it is critical that we address 
concerns regarding the use of those funds by the State Department.
  The Bartlett amendment, rollcall vote 458, would reduce payments made 
by the State Department to the United Nations, which is in the process 
of reforming itself; we should not take action that may prevent that 
reform.
  I believe it is in our Nation's best interest to continue 
participation in the activities of the United Nations and we must do so 
in good faith, and that means making good on our financial obligations.
  The Gilman amendment, rollcall vote 457, will withhold 2 percent of 
the State Department's salaries and expenses budget until the 
Department complies with the provisions of the 1996 terrorism bill. It 
is my hope that the Gilman amendment will encourage the Department to 
conform. We must ensure that the State Department is following the 
intent of the 1996 terrorism bill and designates foreign terrorists.

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