Speech #980191878

I urge my colleagues to lend their support to the BroomfieldMurtha bipartisan substitute which requires appropriate improvements in human rights. but improvements which are realistically achievable. Mr. Chairman. not only does the very real possibility of instability throughout Central America have dire consequences for our southern border and for our ability to continue our commitments to our NATO allies and allies around the world. but for my district. destabilization of Central America could mean an increase in the flow of refugees from the current 50.000 per month to as high as 500.000 per month. many of which would settle in and around my district. It is in the interest of the United States to preserve the hope of freedom and democracy in Central America and to protect our own security and economic interests by supporting the BroomfieldMurtha substitute.9