[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 78 (Tuesday, June 16, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1137]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     BANKRUPTCY REFORM ACT OF 1998

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. GEORGE W. GEKAS

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 10, 1998

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 3150) to 
     amend title 11 of the United States Code, and for other 
     purposes:

  Mr. GEKAS. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank my colleague Dr. Paul for 
introducing his amendment at this time. Dr. Paul is one of the foremost 
scholars on the issue of credit. His amendment emphasizes the heavy 
burden which federal taxation places on American families. Dr. Paul, 
certainly is correct in pointing out that, together with credit 
expansion, gambling, health care costs, etc., the federal burden is a 
contributing factor to bankruptcies and his foresight in bringing up 
this important topic is to be commended. I believe we should indeed 
focus further study on these concerns and make sure that future 
legislation in this area is mindful of this important fact.
  Moreover, I want to thank Dr. Paul for being east to work with and 
for his understanding of our concerns in ensuring that this landmark 
legislation is passed, and for his actions to that end. However, I am 
currently opposed to this amendment due to time constraints and the 
fact that I am not sure of its implications. I look forward to working 
with you in the future on this language and on other issues concerning 
taxes and bankruptcy.

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