    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [March 29, 1995]
    [Pages 415-416]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Proposed Legislation To Establish a District of Columbia
    Financial Authority
    March 29, 1995

        I am pleased that Congressman Davis introduced legislation today to
    establish a financial oversight authority for the District of Columbia.
    My administration worked closely with the Congress in drafting the bill,
    and I hope we can continue the bipartisanship already at work to help
    the District return to fiscal health.
        The financial crisis in the District is serious and demands
    immediate attention. Although other cities have suffered similar
    problems, Washington, DC, plays a uniquely important role in the
    Nation's life. It is the Nation's Capital and is important not just to
    the people who live there but to all citizens of the United States.
        I care deeply about the District and its residents. They deserve a
    government that delivers municipal services efficiently and effectively.
        My administration stands ready to work with Congress to determine
    what help is appropriate. At my direction, my Budget Director, Alice
    Rivlin, a DC resident for 38 years, is heading a senior level,
    interagency working group to monitor the District's problems and assist
    DC in meeting its responsibilities.

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