[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 12 (Wednesday, February 4, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E120]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING STATE SENATOR JOHN L. BURTON OF CALIFORNIA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 4, 2004

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to recognize State Senator John 
L. Burton of California.
  A bellwether in American politics, Senator Burton authored policy at 
the state and federal levels for 30 years. Prior to being elected to 
the California State Senate in 1996, Senator Burton served as a Member 
of Congress from 1974 to 1983. Elected President Pro Tempore of the 
California State Senate in 1998, he proudly represents the 3rd 
Senatorial District, encompassing the City of San Francisco and other 
Bay Area counties. He also serves as Chair of the Rules Committee and 
is a member of other powerful panels such as the Appropriations, 
Constitutional Amendments, Public Safety, and Revenue and Taxation 
Committees.
  Under his leadership, Senator Burton has improved the lives of 
millions of Californians by authoring legislation that ranges from 
education to health care. He has made college accessible for thousands 
of low-income students, by guaranteeing Cal Grant scholarships of 
$9,700 for students who meet the GPA requirements. In the first state 
budget enacted during his time as President Pro Tempore, he revived 
cost of living adjustments and increased benefits for the elderly, 
disabled, and welfare-dependent mothers. In the latest budget, he 
ensured that mental health services and juvenile crime prevention 
programs receive high levels of financial support. In addition, Senator 
Burton has spearheaded legislation that allows the use of DNA testing 
to improve criminal investigations, strengthen child support collection 
and reform the campaign monetary system.
  During his illustrious political career, Senator Burton has received 
numerous honors by eminent organizations and institutions. Some of his 
past recognitions include: Legislator of the Year by the California 
Association of Mental Health Patients' Rights Advocates, the California 
State University Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Sean McBride Award 
for Human Rights Work.
  Well into his seventies, Senator John L. Burton continues to work 
hard for the people of California. He is a tireless and relentless 
leader, who I believe exemplifies the excellence in leadership today.

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