    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [May 12, 1998]
    [Page 743]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Action on Agricultural Research Legislation
    May 12, 1998

        I am very pleased that the Senate today passed with an overwhelming
    majority the bipartisan conference report on the agriculture research
    bill. This vital legislation makes needed reforms and provides funding
    in several areas that are priorities for my administration. The
    legislation provides important benefits to America's farmers and to
    those who have come to this country seeking a brighter future. I would
    like to extend my warm gratitude to Senators Lugar and Harkin for their vision and
    hard work stewarding a bill that ably balances crop insurance,
    agriculture research, rural development, and Food Stamps for legal
    immigrants in need.
        The last hurdle that remains for this bill is for the House of
    Representatives to pass the conference report. I urge the House to act
    quickly on this legislation.