[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 108 (Friday, September 2, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1747]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    OVERTURN THE BRAC COMMISSION'S DECISION REGARDING FORT MONMOUTH

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                           HON. RUSH D. HOLT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 2, 2005

  Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, today I joined a number of New Jersey 
officials and citizens in filing suit in Federal court in an effort to 
overturn the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Commission's decision 
to uphold the Pentagon's recommendation to close Fort Monmouth. This 
lawsuit is about protecting our men and women in the field. They are 
fighting for us every day, and I'm going to continue fighting for them. 
Closing Fort Monmouth would disrupt their current efforts and 
jeopardize their safety and effectiveness. Eleven generals and the BRAC 
Commission itself recognized the dangers involved.
  In making its recommendation pertaining to Fort Monmouth, the BRAC 
Commission exceeded its authority and failed to comply with statutorily 
required procedures. Our lawsuit does not ask the court to revisit the 
data or arguments reviewed by the BRAC Commission. We are simply asking 
the court to review the process and determine whether the BRAC 
Commission failed to comply with the BRAC Acts of 2005 and 1990. If we 
win, the remedy is simple: take the fort off the list.
  Even as we continue to fight for Fort Monmouth, we must also plan for 
a future that may not include it. The men and women who work at Fort 
Monmouth deserve nothing less, and I am working with Federal, State, 
and local leaders to develop a comprehensive plan for Monmouth County's 
future that will give us the best opportunity to preserve jobs, 
stimulate our economy, and enhance our quality of life.

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