One of his greatest contributions to the reform movement occurred in 1974 when he proposed to the Democratic Steering Committee that all committee chairmen be voted upon separately. thus making them accountable for their committees actions and effectively eliminating the antiquated and prejudicial seniority system. In addition. JACK has always given his utmost support to Israel and to the plight of Jews around the world. As a ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. he helped enact the SovietJewish Refugee Assistance Act of 1972 which sent $264 million to Israel in aid in the resettlement of Soviet Jews. JACK has consistently raised his voice in defense of Israel whenever the situation mandated it. Furthermore.