Speech #970225518

I am sure everyone is aware that the 125.000 Cubans that arrived on Floridas shores during the 1980 Mariel boatlift have resulted in tremendous economic and social costs to my State. And that those costs continue to mount 2 years later. The people of Florida feel like they have been abandoned by the Federal Government. They are also concerned that there is nothing to prevent Florida from being overwhelmed again should the leader of a hostile foreign power instigate another emergency. It was a great disappointment to me when I learned that the immigration bill before us. does not address this fear. As a result. I felt compelled to offer an amendment to S. 2222 that would reassure Florida and other States that could be threatened by hostile foreign leaders.