[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 31, Number 13 (Monday, April 3, 1995)]
[Page 496]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Legislation for Financial Oversight of the District of 
Columbia

March 29, 1995

    I am pleased that Congressman Davis introduced legislation today to 
establish a financial oversight authority for the District of Columbia. 
My administration worked closely with the Congress in drafting the bill, 
and I hope we can continue the bipartisanship already at work to help 
the District return to fiscal health.
    The financial crisis in the District is serious and demands 
immediate attention. Although other cities have suffered similar 
problems, Washington, DC, plays a uniquely important role in the 
Nation's life. It is the Nation's Capital and is important not just to 
the people who live there but to all citizens of the United States.
    I care deeply about the District and its residents. They deserve a 
government that delivers municipal services efficiently and effectively.
    My administration stands ready to work with Congress to determine 
what help is appropriate. At my direction, my Budget Director, Alice 
Rivlin, a DC resident for 38 years, is heading a senior level, 
interagency working group to monitor the District's problems and assist 
DC in meeting its responsibilities.