    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [September 27, 2006]
    [Pages 1708-1709]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on House of Representatives Passage of Military Commissions
    Legislation
    September 27, 2006

        Earlier this month, I discussed with the American people a CIA
    program that has proven to be one of our most effective tools in the war
    on terror. Under this program, suspected terrorists have been detained
    and questioned about threats against our country. Because a Supreme
    Court decision put the future of this program in question, I asked
    Congress to provide legislation to save this important tool.
        Today the House passed legislation that would allow this vital
    program to continue and help keep our country safe. The ``Military
    Commissions Act of 2006'' addresses the Supreme Court's ruling regarding
    the application of Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions and
    clarifies the standards for U.S. personnel who detain and question
    unlawful enemy combatants. The act also creates a comprehensive
    statutory structure for military commissions so that we can prosecute
    suspected terrorists.
        I appreciate the House's commitment to strengthening our national
    security. I urge

    [[Page 1709]]

    the Senate to act quickly to get a bill to my desk before Congress
    adjourns.

    Note: The statement referred to H.R. 6166.