    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book II)]
    [September 13, 1994]
    [Page 1543]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Action on Banking Legislation
    September 13, 1994

        Today this country took an historic step, one that has been delayed
    for much too long, to help American banks better meet the needs of our
    people, our communities, and our economy. By joining the House in
    passing the interstate banking bill, the Senate has gone beyond gridlock
    to eliminate unnecessary barriers to the competitiveness and efficiency
    of our banking system while preserving essential prerogatives of the
    States.
        We also welcome the bill's requirement that the Treasury, with the
    assistance of a broadly representative advisory committee, study and
    make recommendations on the future shape of financial services in the
    United States. American banks have shown over the last several years
    that they can combine high quality service for all with strong financial
    performance. Enactment of the interstate bill and the community
    development and regulatory improvement legislation will help them
    continue that record.