[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 53 (Wednesday, April 25, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S3921]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        PETITIONS AND MEMORIALS

  The following petitions and memorials were laid before the Senate and 
were referred or ordered to lie on the table as indicated:

       POM-19. A resolution adopted by the House of the 
     Legislature of the State of Michigan relative to 
     nonindigenous species being released in the ballast water of 
     ships on the Great Lakes; to the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation.

                        House Resolution No. 24

       Whereas, While the problems created by the introduction of 
     nonindigenous species into the Great Lakes from ballast water 
     are not new, this situation is raising greater concerns as 
     the damage done to this freshwater network becomes more 
     apparent. The alarming rate at which the zebra mussel has 
     spread demonstrates the serious problems that can result when 
     the area's delicate ecology is thrown out of balance; and
       Whereas, In recent years, numerous proposals have been 
     advanced to halt the introduction of new species. Many of 
     these proposals involve strengthening laws and enforcement on 
     the release or treatment of ballast water; and
       Whereas, In all discussions to address the issue created by 
     ballast water discharges in the Great Lakes, it is essential 
     that a regional approach be taken. With the multiple levels 
     of government, including states, provinces, and two federal 
     governments, it is important that there be a well-coordinated 
     effort on this matter. A quilt of regulations or practices 
     developed by the individual entities could provide more harm 
     than good, not only to the environment, but also to specific 
     communities and to specific uses of the lakes; now, 
     therefore, be it
       Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we 
     memorialize the Congress of the United States to enact 
     legislation that offers a regional solution to the problems 
     of nonindigenous species being released in the ballast water 
     of ships on the Great Lakes; and be it further
       Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to 
     the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the 
     United States House of Representatives, and the members of 
     the Michigan congressional delegation.
       Adopted by the House of Representatives, March 7, 2001.

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