    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [April 1, 1998]
    [Pages 483-484]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on House Action Against Legislation To Establish a Uniform
    Blood Alcohol Content Standard To Combat Drunk Driving
    April 1, 1998

        It is imperative that we set a uniform standard of .08 blood-alcohol
    content to protect our young people from harm, make our streets safer,
    and help us crack down on drunk driving nationwide. Our country will not
    tolerate irresponsible acts that endanger our children and our Nation.
        I am disappointed that the House Rules Committee has decided to keep
    the critical .08 legislation from coming to the floor under the BESTEA
    transportation bill. By establishing a strong but sensible limit on
    blood-alcohol content, we could save as many as 600 lives a year. Saving
    lives and promoting responsibility should not be partisan issues.
        Last month, under the leadership of Senator Lautenberg and Senator DeWine, the
    Senate overwhelmingly supported the .08 standard for drinking and
    driving. The House leadership, however, once again is hiding behind
    procedural

    [[Page 484]]

    maneuvers by blocking this effort to protect children and help put an
    end to drunk driving. The American people deserve better than this.
        Last night's setback was by no means final. Building on our victory
    in the Senate we will work to overcome this roadblock by the House
    leadership. We will continue the fight against drunk driving on every
    front. Today, as part of our comprehensive effort, we are announcing
    grants made possible by the leadership of Senator Byrd that will help combat underage drinking. I stand ready to
    aid Representative Lowey and Representative
    Canady as they continue their efforts to
    pass a sensible, uniform DUI standard. We will keep fighting to put the
    brakes on drunk driving.