[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 34, Number 14 (Monday, April 6, 1998)]
[Pages 552-553]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on House Action Against Legislation Proposing a Uniform 
Standard Blood-Alcohol Level

April 1, 1998

    It is imperative that we set a uniform standard of .08 blood-alcohol 
content to protect our young people from harm, make our streets safer, 
and help us crack down on drunk driving nationwide. Our country will not 
tolerate irresponsible acts that endanger our children and our Nation.
    I am disappointed that the House Rules Committee has decided to keep 
the critical .08 legislation from coming to the floor under the BESTEA 
transportation bill. By establishing a strong but sensible limit on 
blood-alcohol content, we could save as many as 600 lives a year. Saving 
lives and promoting responsibility should not be partisan issues.
    Last month, under the leadership of Senator Lautenberg and Senator 
DeWine, the Senate overwhelmingly supported the .08 standard for 
drinking and driving. The House leadership, however, once again is 
hiding behind procedural maneuvers by blocking this effort to protect 
children and help put an end to drunk driving. The American people 
deserve better than this.
    Last night's setback was by no means final. Building on our victory 
in the Senate we will work to overcome this roadblock by the House 
leadership. We will continue the fight against drunk driving on every 
front. Today, as part of our comprehensive effort, we are announcing 
grants made possible by the leadership of Senator Byrd that will help 
combat underage drinking. I stand ready to aid Representative Lowey and 
Representative Canady as they continue their efforts to pass a sensible, 
uniform DUI standard. We will

[[Page 553]]

keep fighting to put the brakes on drunk driving.