    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [June 23, 1998]
    [Page 1024]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Signing the U.S. Holocaust Assets Commission Act of 1998
    June 23, 1998

        Today I am pleased to sign into law S. 1900, the ``U.S. Holocaust
    Assets Commission Act of 1998.'' This legislation is the result of the
    bipartisan support of the Congress, and the efforts of many people
    inside and outside of government who have worked to achieve its passage.
    It represents an important step in advancing the United States
    Government's efforts to bring justice to Holocaust victims, survivors,
    and their heirs.
        The bill establishes the ``Presidential Advisory Commission on
    Holocaust Assets in the United States.'' The Commission will focus on
    two key tasks: first, it will conduct original research on the
    collection and disposition of Holocaust-era assets that came under the
    control of the United States Government after Hitler came to power in
    1933 (assets including gold, gems, bank accounts, financial instruments,
    insurance policies, and art works); and second, it will review research
    already conducted by public and private entities. The Commission will
    prepare a final report, summarizing its findings and making
    recommendations to me, which will be completed by December 31, 1999.
        As we finish the business of the 20th century, we must examine
    difficult aspects of our history in order to build a better world for
    our children in the next millennium. Establishing a Commission to study
    these issues sends a strong message, both at home and abroad, that the
    United States Government is determined to acknowledge and address the
    fate of Holocaust assets domestically.

                                                          William J. Clinton

    The White House,

    June 23, 1998.

    Note: S. 1900, approved June 23, was assigned Public Law No. 105-186.