    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [March 15, 1999]
    [Page 381]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 381]]

    Statement on Senator John H. Chafee's
    Decision Not To Seek Reelection
    March 15, 1999

        For more than a generation, Senator John Chafee has been a strong
    leader for his beloved Rhode Island and for America. He has been a
    tireless champion of our environment--helping to lead the fight against
    global warming, promoting wetlands conservation, and crafting
    legislation for clean air and safe drinking water. On behalf of all
    Americans, I thank him for his many contributions, including his
    leadership in expanding health care to more women and children and
    improving services for people with disabilities. It is truly a rich
    legacy for America. Hillary and I wish John and his family all the best
    in the years to come.