[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 106 (Friday, July 31, 1998)]
[House]
[Page H6869]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        AMERICAN MINING INDUSTRY

  (Mr. GIBBONS asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. GIBBONS. Mr. Speaker, of all the gains of our civilization and 
this great Nation, nothing has propelled the progress of civilization 
over the centuries as have the products of the mining industry.
  A great deal of what we see around us, what we hear, what we feel or 
touch, comes from mining. Mining provides the energy and equipment to 
grow food, to develop lifesaving devices, to build highways and 
bridges, and to communicate around the globe.
  Mining and manufacturing facilities operate in every State and are a 
vital base to which America's strength and future rely upon. Studies 
have shown that nearly every Member of Congress has a direct or 
indirect representation to the mining industry in their districts.
  In order to responsibly address America's mining and industrial 
needs, and to promote its capabilities, I rise today to invite my 
colleagues to join the Mining Caucus. Together we can serve to educate 
all Members on regulatory and legislative ideas and their impact on the 
mining industry.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to help establish a strong presence 
in Congress; one that supports the mining industry, equipment 
manufacturers, and support service members. Working families in these 
vital industries are literally the backbone of America.
  Remember, if it is not grown, it has to be mined. Our life, our job, 
and our future depend upon it.

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