Mr. President. in conclusion I would emphasize the hardships which face many of our Nations urban and rural residents as a result of the crisis in health care availability. The J1 visa waiver program Is an important tool to address these needs. The reforms to the current waiver process are also critical to ensuring that any noncompliance within the program is eradicated. I urge my colleagues to support the Community Health Care Access Act of 1997 in order to ensure that the waiver program remains a viable option in addressing our countrys local health care needs for years to come.