[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 120 (Friday, September 14, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S9442]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

      By Mr. JOHNSON:
  S. 1430. A bill to authorize the issuance of Unity Bonds in response 
to the acts of terrorism perpetrated against the United States on 
September 11, 2001, and for other purposes; to the Committee on 
Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.
  Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today to offer a bill to unite our 
citizens in this time of great crisis. As Americans, we feel many 
emotions, from anger to sadness, because of the tragedy of the 
terrorist attacks this past week.
  The American people have responded with incredible acts of heroism, 
kindness and generosity. The outpouring of volunteers, blood donors and 
contributions of food and money demonstrates that America will unite to 
provide relief to the victims of these cowardly terrorist acts. This 
response is the true American spirit our country has always known.
  So many of my constituents in South Dakota have called my office this 
week to ask what they can possibly do to help their fellow Americans 
who are suffering today. Many have given blood, others have donated to 
aid organizations, and most have offered prayers for the victims and 
their families. One woman asked whether she could buy the equivalent of 
the old war bonds that allowed our citizens to contribute to the war 
effort back in World War II.
  Based on my constituent's idea, today I am introducing legislation 
that directs the United States Treasury to issue Unity Bonds. Americans 
who purchase these savings bonds will be contributing to disaster 
relief to the victims of Tuesday's attack and to our Nation's war 
against terrorism.
  We will recover from this week's attacks. We will rebuild our 
Nation's infrastructure, and we will rebuild our Nation's spirit. But 
it will take a sustained, long-term effort to stamp out terrorism 
against the United States and all other liberty-loving nations.
  Unity Bonds will allow Americans who want to show their support for 
this great country to participate in a meaningful way. I urge you to 
join me in helping to unite our citizens.
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