The conferees fully expect that the President will make every effort to retrieve the maximum amount of these funds that is possible. There was much discussion about the amendment of the Senator from South Dakota. Senator McGovER. relative to return transportation for the refugees. The House was adamant in its opposition to the provision. The Senate receded. The statement of managers. however. makes it clear that there is ample authority to pay for the return transportation of refugees and that funds made available under this bill can be used for that purpose. Also. the periodic reports to Congress must contain information about the status of refugees who wish to return to their homeland. Under the circumstances. I believe that the conference agreement will insure that refugees are both made aware of their rights and that funds are made available for the fares of those who choose to return home. Finally. the conferees agreed to a reporting requirement which Is a combination of the Senate and House provisions. The Senate conferees believe that the requirement recommended will insure that Congress is kept fully and currently Informed about the refugee program. Ma1y 21. 1975 Mr. President. I hope that this conference report will clear both the Senate and the House today. Although the appropriation bill has been signed into law. due to a prohibition in last years State Department authorization act. funds cannot be spent by the Department of State for the refugee program until this authorization bill is signed by the President. This is an urgent situation and I hope the Senate will approve the conference report promptly so that it can be sent on to the House.
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refugee refugees