[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 19]
[Senate]
[Page 25201]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               AMERICAN BALD EAGLE COMMEMORATIVE COIN ACT

  Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I mention one other piece of 
legislation that may have a chance of passing. At least I can report 
there are now 68 U.S. Senators who have agreed to sponsor S. 2889 which 
will celebrate the recovery and restoration of the American bald eagle 
by making $5- and $10- and 50-cent commemorative coins.
  Very often these so called coin bills are especially parochial. That 
is why we are required to have 67 Senators agree before we do one; 
usually by practice, nearly 300 House Members. Well, 300 House Members 
have agreed and nearly 70 Senators. That is because in 1782 the 
Founding Fathers established the bald eagle as the national emblem of 
the United States. Since then, the bald eagle has come to represent the 
spirit of American freedom, democracy, and strength.
  It is my hope before we finish our business today we will honor and 
protect the symbol of America and cosponsor and enact the American Bald 
Eagle Commemorative Coin Act.
  One reason Senators have signed on is that the eagle has been roaming 
the Halls with its handler, going into different offices. A number of 
Senators have called me from their office with the eagle perched in 
front of them. The eagle is a very successful lobbyist for himself.
  If we cannot get the commemorative coin enacted today before we 
adjourn, I am sure we will be able to do so early next year.
  I thank the Senator from Minnesota and the Senator from Ohio for 
giving me an opportunity to conclude my remarks.
  I yield the floor.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The distinguished Senator from Minnesota is 
recognized on this glorious Saturday afternoon.

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