[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 39 (Monday, April 3, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S2037]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              ESTUARY PARTNERSHIP RESTORATION ACT OF 1999

  Mr. ROBB. Mr. President, I would like to say just a few words about 
the Estuary Partnership Restoration Act of 1999, which was passed by 
unanimous consent on Thursday March 30th. This bill contains language 
that reauthorizes the Chesapeake Bay Program. The success of the Bay 
program, and the partnerships that have been established as a result of 
that program, have led to improved water quality in the Bay, enhanced 
the lives of those of us lucky enough to live in the Chesapeake 
watershed, and added to the body of scientific knowledge that we have 
about estuaries, fisheries, and watersheds in general.
  As Governor of Virginia I negotiated the original Chesapeake Bay 
Agreement. Last week, I had the opportunity to see that the Senate 
recognizes all the successes that have come from that program. The fact 
that the Chesapeake Bay program has enough support to be passed by 
unanimous consent is gratifying indeed. I am also excited at the 
prospect of expanding the oyster restoration program, which will 
enhance Bay water quality in a number of ways, and will continue to 
work for that expansion.
  My only regret is that John Chafee, the original architect of the 
Estuary Habitat Restoration Partnership Act, was not here with us. His 
leadership on these issues was steadfast, his ability to convince us 
all to take right action remarkable. I was thinking of John Chafee, 
last week, wishing he could have joined in the happy moment that he 
helped make possible. I was happy to have the opportunity to contribute 
to his legacy, and know that his work will be with us for years to 
come.

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