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WITHDRAWAL SHEET Ronald Reagan Library Collection: Cicconi, James W.: Files Archivist: dlb/bcb File Folder: JW Cicconi Memos to Mr.Baker, Jan-Jun 1984[3of 3] Date: 2/17/98 OA 10792 Box 4 DOCUMENT SUBJECT/TITLE DATE RESTRICTION NO. AND TYPE 1. memo J. Cicconi to James A. Baker III re President's 5/8/84 P5 Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board, 1p. 2. memo Cicconi to Baker re Cop-Killer Bullets, 2p. 5/17/84 D5 3. memo Cicconi to Baker re Raising the Drinking Age, 2p. 6/12/84 PS 4. memo Frank J.Donatelli to J.Baker re Balanced Budget 6/8/84 P5 Ammendment, 3p. 5. memo Lee L. Verstandig to J.Baker re Balanced Budget 6/13/84 .PS Ammendment in Michigan, 1p. 6. memo Merrie Spaeth to Michael A.McManus Jr. re 6/25/84 PS Questions for Upcoming Satellite Interviews, (p.1), 1p. 113/0/18/00 RESTRICTION CODES Presidential Records Act [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)] Freedom of Information Act [5 U.S.C. 552(b)] P-1 National security classified information [(a)(1) of the PRA]. F-1 National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]. P-2 Relating to appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]. F-2 Release could disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an agency [(b)(2) of the P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]. FOIA]. P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or financial information F.3 Release would violate a Federal statue [(b)(3) of the FOIA]. [(a)(4) of the PRA]. F-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or financial information P-5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President and his advisors, or [(b)(4) of the FOIA]. between such advisors [(a)(5) of the PRA). F-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy ((b)(6) of the P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(a)(6) of FOIA]. the PRA]. F-7 Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]. C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of gift. F-8 Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]. F-9 Release would disclose geological or geophysical information concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]. WITHDRAWAL SHEET Ronald Reagan Library Collection: Cicconi, James W.: Files Archivist: dlb/bcb File Folder: JW Cicconi Memos to Mr Baker, Jan-Jun 1984[3of3] Date: 2/17/98 OA 10792 DOCUMENT SUBJECT/TITLE DATE RESTRICTION NO. AND TYPE 1. memo J.W. Cicconi to James A. Baker III re President's 5/8/84 P5 Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board, 1p. 2. memo Cicconi to Baker re Cop-Killer Bullets, 2p. 5/17/84 P5 3. memo Cicconi to Baker re Raising the Drinking Age, 2p. 6/12/84 P5 4. memo Frank J.Donatelli to J.Baker re Balanced Budget 6/8/84 P5 Ammendment, 3p. 5. memo Lee L. Verstandig to J.Baker re Balanced Budget 6/13/84 P5 Ammendment in Michigan, 1p. 6. memo Merrie Spaeth to Michael A.McManus Jr. re 6/25/84 P5 Questions for Upcoming Satellite Interviews, (p.1), 1p. RESTRICTION CODES Presidential Records Act [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)] Freedom of Information Act [5 U.S.C. 552(b)] P.1 National security classified information [(a)(1) of the PRA]. F-1 National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]. P-2 Relating to appointment to Federal office ((a)(2) of the PRA]. F-2 Release could disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an agency [(b)(2) of the P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]. FOIA]. P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or financial information F-3 Release would violate a Federal statue [(b)(3) of the FOIA]. [(a)(4) of the PRA]. F-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or financial information P-5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President and his advisors, or [(b)(4) of the FOIA]. between such advisors [(a)(5) of the PRA]. F-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(a)(6) of FOIA]. the PRA]. F-7 Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes ((b)(7) of the FOIA]. C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of gift. F-8 Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]. F-9 Release would disclose geological or geophysical information concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 8, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: President's Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board Anne Armstrong called and wanted you to be aware of several points regarding PFIAB: 1. Anne argued that the membership of PFIAB, now at 21, is already unwieldy, and she feels it would be unwise to expand it further. She is especially concerned about the potential Administration turnover when we (hopefully) begin a new term, and the tendency of senior people to seek a PFIAB appointment as they leave full-time jobs. 2. Anne said that, if new appointments to PFIAB are made despite the above, she would urge we increase the number of Democrats on PFIAB. The party balance on the Board has apparently been upset as a result of expansion. 3. Anne is concerned that some PFIAB members may be working on the campaign in an official capacity without taking the leaves of absence that had been privately agreed on. This is apparently not a legal issue so much as an appearance problem, and is perhaps one we might ask the Counsel's Office to monitor. 4. PFIAB's next meeting is July 11-12, and Anne wanted to invite you to attend their lunch, or to drop-by at any point during their meeting. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 15, 1984 A much larger article was in saturiay's when. De x: TO: JAB III The attached is from Sunday's San Antonio paper. I am told that Abrams' comments got wide circulation in other Texas papers, also. As you know, Mondale and Hart have already used Abrams' words against us while campaigning among Hispanics in California, and we can expect they will be cited in the Fall. no hi ber To the best of my knowledge, however, Abrams has yet to issue any sort milling wid of apology for the implications contained in his remark. Shouldn't someone talk to him about this? (I'll be happy to follow-up thru Fuller if you concur.) Thanks. 5/15 Jc JC I've asked Fuller his (ahams) musber in explanation 7 what he mid Abm nurns, said Cot. Carlos Reynsido Lopez Nulla, when national airport, 30 miles south of the capital, director of the National Police. tely dis- quality Atlanta Several HUD official says Hispanics were to investi- 'don't mind' crowded living isolated cts to be WASHINGTON (UPI) - A top federal they prefer, some prefer, doubling up. is in the housing official said many Hispanic families "That is, as I found out, a characteristic of live in crowded conditions because of "cultur- Hispanic communities, Irrelevant to their so- the cya- al preference," the Washington Post reported cial (and) economic conditions. It's a cultural rea store yesterday. preference, I'm told." tampered Undersecretary Philip Abrams, the No. 2 official at the Department of Housing and Abrams could not be reached for comment. as found Urban Development, was quoted as saying he Rep. Robert Garcia, D-N.Y., chairman of highway does not believe Hispanics might be living in the congressional Hispanic Caucus, said, "That Michigan crowded homes because of poverty. is really a racist remark. These people have no "I don't think so," Abrams said in a Post concept of what is going on is America. Interview. "I'm told that they don't mind and really live in another world." 1 GOP? BOY'S Graduation Suits ES MOAMMAR KHADAFY mmit? No. 1 terrorist PierreCardin PARIS NEW YORK cials still are optimistic. Hafez el-Assad reportedly is Penner's hap dying from heart disease and been serving other ailments. His illness may graduates over 10 have a positive effect, this official years with exper- said, "while he reevaluates his ienred ronsul.' image in the eyes of his maker." tants to help in Syria, which is Iran's sole sup- choosing quality porter in the Arab world, was tailored suits. said to be reassessing its ties to Iran, fearful that if Iran has to sue for peace, Syria will be isolated. Libya. The fondest hope of all, of course, is for the demise of Khadafy, the man Reagan de- nounced as the world's No.1 agitator of "state-sponsored ter- THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 15, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: Steel Industry Import Relief Request For your information: As you know, the U.S. steel industry is bringing a good deal of pressure to bear in pursuit of their goal of limiting foreign steel imports. I thought you should be aware of the timing of different aspects of that effort. The industry is taking a two-track approach, with the first involving an ITC petition by the United Steelworkers and Bethlehem Steel. Filed on January 24, it seeks five years of import quotas on most categories of steel. If the ITC finds substantial injury, a recommendation for relief will be forwarded to the President by July 24; his decision on a remedy, if any, must then be made by September 24. (I have heard from good sources that Bethlehem calculated its petition filing date for maximum political pressure on the President at the time he will have to make a decision.) The other track is congressional: the industry is pushing legis- lation that would limit steel imports to 15% of the U.S. market for five years. The House Ways and Means Committee began hearings last month, and on May 2, Baldrige, Brock, and McGrath all testified against the bill. We can probably expect an attempt at floor action before November. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 16, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: Domestic Volunteer Service Act For your information: It has been recommended that the President sign the recently passed reauthorization of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act, under which ACTION's volunteer programs operate (these in- clude VISTA, Foster Grandparents, etc.). The appropriation levels in this bill are higher than our request in most areas, and Congress ignored our recommenda- tion to terminate VISTA. However, the bill passed 369-25 in the House and by voice vote in the Senate, making a veto impossible to sustain. OMB and ACTION have thus recommended approval. The President must sign the bill by next Tuesday, May 22. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 17, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI this SUBJECT: Cop-Killer Bullets Background As you know, Treasury and Justice have been meeting under the auspices of OMB in an attempt to agree on legislation that would ban cop-killer bullets. Such a ban is being earnestly sought by DOJ and the law enforcement community, and has many supporters on the Hill. At this point, the only legislation being considered is the Biaggi bill, which we feel is overly broad and which is opposed vigorously by the N.R.A. The Senate Judiciary Com- mittee, has refused to support Biaggi, but has nevertheless expressed interest in whether a more limited ban can be drafted. This point was made clear in a recent hearing when Senator Thurmond agreed with a request by Senator Biden that the Administration work out a proposal that would be more acceptable than Biaggi. (I received a follow-up call from Thurmond's aide to underline that request.) Analysis From a policy standpoint, there is little reason for not supporting a limited ban on cop-killer (i.e. armor-piercing) bullets. Treasury has already secured some industry coopera- tion in a voluntary ban on such bullets, and it is a small step to write that same narrow ban into law. Such a ban would affect only one kind of ammunition: bullets designed to penetrate protective vests or armor. The purpose of such ammunition, obviously, is to kill police or others wearing vests; in fact, some bullets are even advertised on the basis of their ability to penetrate protective vests. Another factor is the political situation: we have already seen charges in print that the President is "kowtowing" to the NRA by refusing to support a ban on cop-killer bullets. This would, of course, be a tailor-made rebuttal for Mondale to use against charges that he is too tied to special inter- ests. The issue might also be used to undermine our strong law enforcement stance. Thus, I would argue that it should be neutralized. Status Treasury and Justice have now agreed on a proposal for a limited ban on armor-piercing bullets. It will shortly be forwarded to Dick Darman for circulation. The proposal is limited to the most blatantly threatening bullets, and contains an exemption for any ammunition with a legitimate sporting purpose. While the NRA will probably oppose any ban, both Treasury and Justice feel this proposal is limited, and thus defensible. We expect it would have the support of law enforcement groups, and we would hope that legislators like Thurmond would also be able to back it. This proposal would insulate the President on an issue where he has already been attacked, and on which he would otherwise be vulnerable in the Fall. I might add one other point: if we decide to support the pro- posal, we can do so in a variety of ways. For example, we need not introduce legislation, but could instead convey our proposal in letter form or deliver it as testimony. The objective is not necessarily to pass "our" bill SO much as to be able to state accurately that the President supports a ban on cop-killer bullets. The rest can be left to the Congress' deliberations. I can go over specific details of the proposal with you at the point when a senior level White House decision is required. Thanks. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 18, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: Meeting with Charles Walker Per your request, I met with Charles Walker, who had Buck Chapoton's job under President Ford. He had some thoughts regarding our tax reform/tax simplification study. Letters we received from him are attached. In short, Walker is concerned about the process we are using. He feels that any report Treasury comes up with will be picked apart quickly by Congress and the various special interests. He argues that the report should be an initial step which sets forth a framework, and should not go into excessive detail. Walker suggests that a bipar- tisan commission then be appointed to put Treasury's study into the form of a specific legislative proposal. Only in that way, Walker says, can we have a chance of success. Walker struck me as being sincere in his desire to help, and asked that I pass on his thoughts to you. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON 5/14 MDT: CHARLES WALKER (not the lobbyist as you & I discussed last week) called again today. He really wants to see JAB. I have told him NO twice !! He wants 15 minutes to discuss tax policy. I can easily say no again, but is this something that Jim Cicconi could/would do? If not important at all to JAB, then I'll say flat out NO. Please advise. KC VHB HEREES Cicconi SEELF CAN SEE rim JAB REALY is MEMORANDUM OF CALL Previous editions usable TO: YOU WERE CALLED Kathy BY- OU WERE VISITED BY- Charles Walker OF (Organization) 212/888- m 2421 PLEASE PHONE FTS AUTOVON 5-11 -3:55 pm WILL CALL AGAIN IS WAITING TO SEE YOU RETURNED YOUR CALL WISHES AN APPOINTMENT MESSAGE Got your message re Tussday of Wad. Walker will rearrange his schadule if JAB RECEIVED could BY sea him DATE either TIME 63-110 Thursday or NSN 7540-00-634-4018 STANDARD Friday FORM 63 (Rev. 8-81) Prescribed by GSA # GPO : 1983 0 - 381-529 (205) FPMR (41 CFR) 101-116 LAW OFFICES OF PAUL, HASTINGS, JANOFSKY & WALKER or COUNSEL LEE G. PAUL A PARTNERSHIP INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS WASHINGTON, D.C. OFFICE ROBERT P. HASTINGS SIXTH FLOOR CHARLES M. WALKER FIFTH FLOOR 1050 THOMAS JEFFERSON STREET, N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20007 LOS ANGELES OFFICE 1299 OCEAN AVENUE TELEPHONE (202) 333-8500 TWENTY-SECOND FLOOR 555 SOUTH FLOWER STREET SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA 90401 ATLANTA OFFICE LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90071 ELEVENTH FLOOR TELEPHONE (213) 489-4000 TELEPHONE (213) 451-2438 230 PEACHTREE STREET, N.W. CABLE ADDRESS: PAULHAST ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30303 ORANGE COUNTY OFFICE TELEPHONE (404) 588-9900 SEVENTEENTH FLOOR TWX: 910-321-4065 695 TOWN CENTER DRIVE CONNECTICUT OFFICE COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA 92626 SECOND FLOOR TELEPHONE (714) 641-1100 March 14, 1984 THREE LANDMARK SOUARE STAMFORD, CONNECTICUT 06901 TELEPHONE (203) 357-0100 James A. Baker, III OUR FILE NO: Chief of Staff and Assistant to the President The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Jim: So as to refresh your memory and not to test it, let me say that during the last year and a half or so of the Ford administration while you were Assistant Secretary of Commerce and I was Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Tax Policy, we both attended numerous meetings of the Economic Policy Board. Incidentally, based upon my acquaintance with you at the time, I was delighted to have learned of your work on behalf of President Ford's campaign for re-election. Then, of course, during recent years, I have been admiring your role in the White House. Although after the Ford administration you remained active in politics, I returned to my profession of practicing tax law. I am now retired (am of Counsel to my firm) and am able to devote time to one of my highest priorities--doing what I can to achieve a basic restructuring of our faltering tax system. Although it is politically naive to do so, I have been impelled to address a memorandum to the Executive Branch, Tax Policymakers with a suggestion I hope they will find appeal- ing and useful. A copy is enclosed. I do, not presume to know who and how many policymakers there may be who would have an interest in these suggestions. I am, therefore, sending the memorandum only to you, to Mike Deaver and to Richard Darman. C James A. Baker, III March 14, 1984 Page Two I am in Washington frequently and would very much like to visit with you about this subject. May I call you? Sincerely, Charlie Charles M. Walker CMW:pd encl. CC: Richard G. Darman Michael K. Deaver : PAUL. HASTINGS. JANOFSKY & WALKER A PARTNERSHIP INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS MEMORANDUM TO: EXECUTIVE BRANCH DATE: March 14, 1984 TAX POLICYMAKERS FILE NO: FROM: Charles M. Walker, Esq. COPIES TO: SUBJECT: Tax Policy for 1984-1985 The suggestion set forth below comes from my perspec- tive gained as Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Tax Policy under President Ford (1975-77), a tax lawyer of some 45 years' experience and a former Chairman (and other officeholder, council member, committee officer) of the Section of Taxation of the American Bar Association. In his recent State of the Union Message, President Reagan asked Treasury for a plan of action by next December "to simplify the entire tax code, so all taxpayers, big and small, are treated more fairly Such a plan would result in that 'underground economy' being brought into the sunlight of honest tax compliance, and it could make the tax base broader so per- sonal tax rates could come down, not go up." Under date of January 17, 1977, the Treasury Department published Blueprints for Basic Tax Reform--a study and publication that received many hours of my own effort while Assistant Secre- tary. The forthcoming Treasury report doubtless will take Blue- prints into account. I know that Assistant Treasury Secretary John Chapoton is well aware of it. Blueprints did not produce any discernable explicit legislative response to simplification, let alone to basic restruc- turing of the tax system. If the new report is to have better results, something more is needed than thoughtful recommendations. A politically realistic approach to Congress must be devised. Here is the suggestion: Have the President, at some appropriate time (either during his 1984 campaign or after his re-election): 1. Urge upon Congress the critical need of a basic restructuring of the tax system. The case for this can be convincingly made but is beyond the scope of this memorandum. 555 South Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071 695 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 1299 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401 230 Peachtree Street, Atlanta. GA 30303 1050 Thomas Jefferson Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007 Four Landmark Square, Stamford, CT 06901 EXECUTIVE BRANCH TAX POLICYMAKERS March 14, 1984 Page Two 2. Acknowledge that decisions on the restructuring: a. must await the December, 1984 Treasury Report; b. must be made in a suitable delibera- tive atmosphere; C. Must afford opportunity to comment by affected taxpayers (individual and corporate) and others (such as charities); 3. Recommend that during the deliberative pro- cess (likely to require two or three years) Congress refrain from enacting any tax legislation except as needed: a. to increase revenue, and to do that merely by raising rates across the board; (i) This would avoid the addition of further complexities of the law which, like the current legis- lation being reported out by the House Ways & Means Committee, will bring the system ever nearer to collapse through non-compliance, unadministerability and inefficiency. b. to address major deficiencies in the present law, for example, to revise the principles of taxation of life insurance companies, and to prevent glaring abuses in the tax shelter area, such as use of tax straddles by offshore com- modity funds. 4. State to Congress that during the delibera- tive period he will veto any tax measure not in harmony with paragraph 3. 5. Appoint a commission to convene early in 1985 to develop and recommend explicit legislation to accomplish the basic restructuring. To assure that the commission's report and recommendations will receive congressional action, its membership should include key members of Congress, as did the Greenspan Commission on Social Security. Charas h. Macher Charles M. Walker LAW OFFICES OF PAUL, HASTINGS, JANOFSKY & WALKER OF COUNSEL A PARTNERSHIP INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS WASHINGTON, D.C. OFFICE LEE G. PAUL ROBERT P. HASTINGS SIXTH FLOOR CHARLES M. WALKER FIFTH FLOOR 1050 THOMAS JEFFERSON STREET, N.W. WASHINGTON, D. C. 20007 1299 OCEAN AVENUE TELEPHONE (202) 333-8500 LOS ANGELES OFFICE TWENTY-SECOND FLOOR SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA 90401 555 SOUTH FLOWER STREET ATLANTA OFFICE LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90071 ELEVENTH FLOOR TELEPHONE (213) 451-2438 TELEPHONE (213) 489-4000 230 PEACHTREE STREET, N.W. ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30303 CABLE ADDRESS: PAULHAST TELEPHONE (404) 588-9900 ORANGE COUNTY OFFICE SEVENTEENTH FLOOR TWX: 910-321-4065 695 TOWN CENTER DRIVE CONNECTICUT OFFICE SECOND FLOOR COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA 92626 THREE LANDMARK SQUARE TELEPHONE (714) 641-1100 March 14, 1984 STAMFORD, CONNECTICUT 06901 TELEPHONE (203) 357-0100 OUR FILE NO: Richard G. Darman Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. Darman: While you and I have not met, I would like to intro- duce myself initially at least by enclosing a copy of a letter of today's date I have written to Jim Baker. That will give you some brief background information concerning me. Based upon what I read in the press, you are "involved," shall we say, with at least that part of the President's recent State of the Union Message dealing with restructuring of the tax system. It is on the strength of that perceived involvement that I am writing to you to enclose a copy of a memorandum I have written on the subject. As you can gather from my memorandum, I feel strongly about the need to bring about a basic restructuring of the tax system. I have already devoted substantial effort to that end and am willing and able to continue the effort. I am in Washington frequently and would welcome the opportunity to visit with you. Very truly yours, Charces In macher Charles M. Walker CMW:pd encl. CC: James A. Baker, III Michael K. Deaver LAW OFFICES OF PAUL. HASTINGS, JANOFSKY & WALKER or COUNSEL A PARTNERSHIP INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS WASHINGTON, D.C. OFFICE LEE G. PAUL ROBERT P. HASTINGS SIXTH FLOOR CHARLES M. WALKER FIFTH FLOOR 1050 THOMAS JEFFERSON STREET, N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20007 1299 OCEAN AVENUE TELEPHONE (202) 333-8500 LOS ANGELES OFFICE TWENTY-SECOND FLOOR SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA 90401 555 SOUTH FLOWER STREET ATLANTA OFFICE LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90071 ELEVENTH FLOOR TELEPHONE (213) 451-2438 TELEPHONE (213) 489-4000 230 PEACHTREE STREET, N.W. ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30303 CABLE ADDRESS: PAULHAST TELEPHONE (404) 588-9900 ORANGE COUNTY OFFICE SEVENTEENTH FLOOR TWX: 910-321-4065 910 CONNECTICUT OFFICE 695 TOWN CENTER DRIVE SECONO FLOOR COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA 92626 THREE LANDMARK SOUARE TELEPHONE (714) 641-1100 March 14, 1984 STAMFORD, CONNECTICUT 06901 TELEPHONE (203) 357-0100 OUR FILE NO: Michael K. Deaver Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. Deaver: When you were in Los Angeles February 17, I was scheduled to attend the dinner for you at the Century Plaza Hotel as a guest of John Henry Dudley. Due to an emergency that arose, I was unfortunately unable to attend. During the reception period, Mr. Dudley spoke to you of my interest in finding a way to basically restructure our tax system. I understand from him that you were receptive to the idea of hearing from me on the subject. It occurred to me that the most succinct way of pre- senting my thoughts was to prepare a memorandum on the subject. I have done this. A copy is enclosed. Also enclosed is a copy of letters I am writing to Jim Baker and to Richard Darman. As mentioned in my letter to Jim I am in Washington frequently and would welcome a visit with you on this subject. Sincerely, Chams In. Walker Charles M. Walker CMW:pd encl. CC: Richard G. Darman James A. Baker, III THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 18, 1984 V MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI J. SUBJECT: Unitary Tax For your information: As I understand it, the Unitary Tax group formed by Treasury will issue its report by May 31. They will probably recom- mend that: a) The federal government, including the IRS, will assist states in making sure that corpora- tions are not cheating; b) the states, in turn, will work to stop the international application of the unitary tax (i.e. it should not be applied beyond the "water's edge") ; and c) there would be no federal law to require states to abandon use of the unitary tax. Though its terms could change, the above represents a compro- mise which we hope will be accepted, especially by the 12 states now applying a worldwide unitary tax. CC: Richard G. Darman THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 21, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONL SUBJECT: Advertisement Paid for by Donn Hopkins Per your request, I checked into the background of Mr. Donn Hopkins and the problem with USDA he cites in his full page ad in the Fairbanks paper (attached). According to Senator Stevens' office, Donn Hopkins is something of a gadfly in the Fairbanks area. He is a part-time developer and has run for a number of local offices. Several years ago, Hopkins began an effort to develop a resort in the Tongas National Forest; hence the advertisement designed to get the President's attention. Doug Riggs, who is from Alaska, points out that it is not uncommon for the state's many "ultra-individualists," like Hopkins, to ex- press themselves through paid advertisements in the Alaska news- papers. Senator Stevens' office assisted Hopkins for over two years in his efforts to secure USDA/Forest Service approval for his resort plan. The proposal, however, was repeatedly turned down by the Forest Service. Among their reasons were opposition by the local com- munity, a potentially detrimental impact on local fishing, and con- cern that Hopkins did not have the financial resources to do the job properly. The Forest Service's determination was appealed up through the agency, and eventually reached the Secretary. On September 7, 1983, Secretary Block wrote Hopkins a letter (copy attached) in which he declined to review the Forest Service's decision, thus ending the matter from USDA's standpoint. Senator Stevens' office has told us that they are convinced Mr. Hopkins was dealt with fairly throughout the department's consideration of his request. Please let me know if you need any further information on this. Itember 7 1983 ir. bohn hopkins F... Sex 89663 College, Alaska 99708 Dear Mr. Hopkins: This is in response to your May 31, 1983, correspondence regarding letters to you from Assistant Secretary John B. Crowell, Jr. dated December 6, 1982. and May U. 1983. The letters are, respectively, in response to your purported Antice of Appeal letter dated September 20, 1982, and your request for a stay of the January 20, 1983, decision by the Chief of the Forest Service, signed by Deputy Chief R. M. Housley. denying your application to build a resort at Bailey Bay Hot Springs on the Tongass National Forest in Alaska. You contend the Assistant Secretary exceeded his authority by rendering these decisions not in accordance with the appeal regulation 36 CFR 211.19. 7 CFR 2.19 (d) (18) delegates from the Secretary to the Assistant Secretary for Natural Resources and the authority to review decisions of the Chief or the Forest Service pursuant to 36 CFR 211.19 (1) (1) (1v) and 211.19 (1)(2). Therefore, in responding to your letters, the Assistant Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment acted within his authority as stated in the Code of Federal Regulations. The January 20, 1983, Decision Notice denying your application for a lease was an initial decision by the Chief. The Secretary, or his delegate, has discretion under 36 CFR 211.19(j)(1)(1v) to review an initial decision by the Chief. I have decided not to review the Chief's decision of January 20, 1983. The January 20, 1983, decision 1s therefore the final administrative determination by the Department of Agriculture. Sincerely, AUG 1988 J. Acting Hilmon, Deputy Chief John Secretar PHB Sec. Cont. 02F93327 CC: LA, Sec. Rec., R-6 Asst. Sec Crowell Feuhter Robertson/Peterson Hilmon/Housley exitialed Haug Svensen Draft FS:Rn:FFrieder:ob:6/15/83:447-7754 File Designation: 2720 Odessa Disk #4 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 21, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI Jun SUBJECT: Executive Order on Pay Adjustment For your information: An executive order has been forwarded to the President that would implement the 4% federal pay raise provided for in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act signed on April 18. As you know, the President signed an order for a 3.5% pay raise last December. The reconciliation bill provided, instead, for a 4% raise retroactive to January. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 22, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI in SUBJECT: African Development Foundation For your information: The board of the African Development Foundation today voted to remove Dr. Connie Hilliard as president of this semi- autonomous agency, effective immediately. Hilliard is a black woman and former Tower staffer who was recommended for the job by the White House. As mentioned to you yesterday, Senator Tower had weighed in to urge that we prevent Connie's removal. White House Personnel and AID were already aware of the problem, and did their best to apprise the board of the Administration's feelings. However, the board chose to ignore our suggestion that any grievances be resolved quietly, and without recourse to an abrupt termination. I have informed Tower's office of the above, and assured them that we would try to take care of Connie. (I was told the Senator may call you on this.) THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 22, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: Conversation with Anne Armstrong For your information: Anne Armstrong called and wanted to convey that PFIAB has chosen Gary Schmitt as its new executive director. The current executive director, Fred Demech, is leaving in August. Schmitt is described as a solid conservative who is com- pletely in tune with the President's foreign policy. He formerly served on Moynihan's congressional staff. Anne said she had gotten very positive feedback on Schmitt from, among others, Goldwater, Wallop, the CIA, and the military. She intends to inform Herrington of the Board's choice shortly. By the way, Anne is still anxious to either talk with you, or have an appointment to see you. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 23, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: Edith Jones Per your request, Tex Lezar contacted Edith Jones to explore with her the possibility of a judicial appointment other than the 5th Circuit. Edith emphasized that her real desire is for the 5th Circuit appointment in Houston. She is not interested in a District Court or Claims Court judgeship outside the Houston area, though Tex had the impression she might be interested in a Houston district judgeship, or perhaps something major like the D.C. Circuit. Tex told Edith that she would be placed on the Justice Department's list with a very high priority recommendation in case a Houston district judgeship opens up. He promised she would also be considered if a new vacancy occurs on the 5th Circuit (we can argue that there is still a "Houston vacancy" on the 5th Circuit since Robert Hill is from Dallas). THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 25, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: Cabinet Meeting For your information: At today's Cabinet meeting, the President was briefed on follow-up to the Grace Commission's report. In short, he was told that approximately one-fourth of the recommenda- tions have been either implemented, or proposed in our FY85 budget. Of the remainder, most will require legis- lation and/or involve controversial policy changes. Ex- amples of the "controversial" category include proposals to repeal wage protection laws ($8.0 B over 3 years), reform federal retirement ($30.0 B), and sell all federal power marketing administrations ($19.8 B). Please let me know if you would like more details on this subject. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON May 25, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI Am SUBJECT: Right-of-Way Cost Exemption for Rural Electric and Telephone Cooperatives (H.R. 2211) A bill is now before the President which would exempt REA-financed electric and telephone cooperatives from paying for the use of rights-of-way across Federal lands. Such entities would only be charged administrative costs. Under current law they are required to pay fair market value rental for such rights-of-way, with rental costs averaging below $1,000 per year. The legislation is sponsored by such people as Seiberling, Marlenee, Lujan, and Oberstar in the House; Senate sponsors in- clude Laxalt, Hecht, Andrews, Pressler, Burdick, and Baucus. The bill was opposed by the Administration, but nevertheless passed both the House and Senate on voice votes. USDA has recommended a veto, arguing that a special exemption is unfair to other right-of-way holders, and that rental costs to cooperatives are negligible. Interior and OMB still object to the bill, but recommend approval on the basis that: a) revenue loss from the exemption would amount to only $4 million over four years; b) administrative costs can still be levied (thanks to an amendment); and c) the bill has overwhelming congressional support, making it difficult to sustain a veto. Last day for action on this bill is Monday, May 28. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 11, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI I tim SUBJECT: Update on Federal Employee Reduction According to current figures, non-defense federal government employ- ment had been reduced by 72,300. Ralph Bledsoe of CCMA told me that, if traditional agency hiring patterns are followed, we may end up 5,000 short of the President's promised reduction of 75,000 in FY84. Joe Wright and Don Devine are monitoring the situation, and will be working to see that agency goals are met. However, OPM is already broaching the idea of a hiring freeze--a move traditionally opposed by OMB on the basis that agencies generally "over-hire" before any freeze can take effect. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 12, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: Raising the Drinking Age Realizing that a decision may have already been made, I would nevertheless like to offer a few thoughts on proposed legis- lation that would, in effect, compel states to raise their drinking age to 21. For the following reasons, I feel it would be unwise to support this measure, or, at very least, would not have the President "out front" on the issue: 1. The measure involves using federal funds to coerce the states into specific behavior. This is a blatant example of federal intrusion into yet another area traditionally left to the states. The Republican Party and this President are both on record as opposing such coercive use of federal funds; our position on the 55 mph speed limit is only one in a series of examples. Further, a citation of previous measures imposed on the states over our objection is no argument for accepting this bill. 2. This measure revokes a right now enjoyed by the 18 to 21 year old age group. While it is arguable whether the drinking age should have been lowered in the first place, it is very difficult to revoke such a right once it is conferred. By doing so, we as a party risk alien- ating a large segment of the young adult population. 3. The argument for raising the drinking age is tenuous. Even if we accept that drunk-driving accidents might be reduced, there is no rationale other than tradition for drawing the line at 21 - - why not raise it to 22, 23 or higher? (And if tradition itself is an argument, state decision-making in this area is an even longer-standing tradition.) 4. This measure circumvents a widespread state reassess- ment of drinking ages. A number of states, for example, have viewed high school drinking by 18 year olds to be the main problem, and have raised their drinking age to 19. A federal measure using highway funds as leverage will end this "laboratory of democracy" process which is typical of our federal system. 5. When the earlier report on this issue was released, the Administration declined to support a federally-imposed drinking age increase on the basis that such decisions should be left to the states. This measure amounts to the same thing, and our support at this stage would be viewed as a purely political action (and perhaps as a reversal). On the whole, I feel Congressional support for this bill is typical of election year desires to sign on with the "cause of the moment. " It is ill-considered, and its method is inconsistent with our philosophy of the federal government's proper role. If we cannot oppose it, I would prefer to see us acquiesce in the overwhelming will of the Congress rather than try to lead this parade. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 13, 1984 TO: JAB III Attached is a memo from Frank Donatelli re the balanced budget amendment. I sent a copy to Lee Verstandig for his comments, which are also attached. JC (A "final word" note from Donatelli is at back of This.) NOTE Told FJD & LV that nothing was to be done on This till our budget package has cleared the Hill. we 0/18 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 8, 1984 ACTION MEMORANDUM FOR: JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: Frank J. Donatelli SUBJECT: Balanced Budget Amendment This is to recommend the direct involvement of the President in support of the Balanced Budget Amendment by making a phone call to Michigan State Representatives who are now considering a Resolution for a Constitutional Convention. I. SCENARIO As you know thirty-three states have already called for a Constitutional Convention for a Balanced Budget Amendment; two more are required. The Republican-controlled Michigan Senate has already passed a resolution calling for a Constitutional Convention and it is currently in the Michigan House, in Committee. Sometime this week, the Committee should pass the Resolution and it will move to the full House for consideration. Here are two possible scenarios for a POTUS phone call: a) contact the Committee on a speaker phone just before or after passage of the resolution; b) phone a meeting of the State House Democratic and GOP leadership Of course, there are other scenarios which could be used. The actual call will depend upon the President's schedule, the timetable of the Michigan House and thoughts Lee Verstandig and other relevant officers might have. This memo is simply to get the concept approved so we can aim towards a phone call later in the week. II. ARGUMENTS FOR 1. The President Is For It This is an issue the President has repeatedly stated he is in favor of. 2. It's A Winner Simply put, the issue is a "winner" with the American people. A May poll by Market Opinion Research showed an astounding 83% of the American people favor a balanced budget amendment. 2 3. It Protects Us Where We Are Weak The Democrats have been fairly successful in placing the blame for the deficits on the Administration. This has a number of serious implications for us this year. It is the one aspect of the economic record where we are on the defensive. It makes us appear hypocritical when we talk about federal spending. The President's direct involvement in the issue shows our concern about the deficit is not just talk and when push comes to shove, the Democrats will defend the deficits. 4. Strategic Importance of Thirty-Fourth State The political battle in Michigan is not just one in a series of battles for the balanced budget amendment. Because it would be the 34th State, it assumes strategic importance. Although 35 States are required for a Constitutional Convention, the 34th approval makes a balanced budget a fait accompli. Three States have balanced budget initiatives on the ballot this fall and it is all but certain one of them will pass. Thus, if Michigan passes the resolution now, it will be assumed the Constitutional Convention will be called come November. There will be pressure on Congress to act before November to head off the Convention. The balanced budget amendment will receive major media attention and the Democrats will be put on the defensive. III. CONCERNS 1. Bad Precedent Some have expressed concerns about the President's direct involvement in an issue in a State legislature, citing state sovereignty and "opening the floodgates" of requests for issue involvement. To the State sovereignty/federalism argument, I would respond this does not hold in the instance of a call to a Constitutional Convention. Rather than dealing with a State-specific issue a Constitutional Convention is indeed a federal issue. The President's interest is certainly legitimate in this instance. Secondly, the involvement would not be a heavy-handed arm-twisting (a la cutting off state highway construction funds should the states fail to pass the ERA), but would be the President expressing his views and soliciting support for them. To the "floodgates" arguments, I point out this could be the President's only direct involvement in an issue before a state legislature during this Administration. Thus, the only precedent we will establish is one phone call per term, hardly an unmanageable goal. 3 2. Local Political Concern We must be certain we do not needlessly give credibility to the local Democratic State Representatives, nor that we do not needlessly leave the local Republican leadership out in the cold. To make sure that does not happen, we should be certain that Intergovernmental Affairs is involved with this project as soon as possible to work on the final scenario. 3. Other States More Important Montana, Washington, and California are the three states likely to have initiatives on the ballot this November and the odds on the initiative passing in at least one of these States is, as said before, all but certain. Thus, the argument goes, we could come up with an event in one of the other States -- why Michigan? My response would be Michigan is the best target precisely because the vote will take place before the November elections. Thus, as we go into the election, the likelihood of a Constitutional Convention will be very high, and the President's balanced budget work will be of strategic importance. If we wait until November for thirty-four states, it will not be until after November that the issue would assume strategic importance. 4. What If We Lose What if the President makes his phone call and the resolution is defeated, doesn't that make the President look bad? No. The beauty of the situation is that a victory would bring us to thirty-four states and be viewed as significant, but a defeat would just be another of the many defeats the balanced budget amendment has suffered. More importantly, the President wins by losing, for he shows it is the Democrats who are the obstructionists and opposed to doing anything about the deficits. IV. RECOMMENDATION That I work with Intergovernmental Affairs to present you with a specific phone call to be made by the President this week. Approve Disapprove THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 13, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: LEE L. VERSTANDIG he SUBJECT: Balanced Budget Amendment in Michigan Frank Donatelli and I have discussed the possibility of Presidential involvement in the campaign for ratification of the Balanced Budget Amendment in Michigan. I agree with Frank that Presidential involvement in this effort may well be desirable. The key elements of that involvement: timing and and the nature of the involvement need to be determined. Timing I have met with Mike Busch, the House Minority Leader in Michigan to discuss his strategy for moving the Balanced Budget Amendment in Michigan. His strategy involves holding hearings on the subject and trying to move the Balanced Budget Amendment out of committee when the Michigan House reconvenes in September. The votes are very close in committee but if the votes are not there to pass the Balanced Budget Amendment out of Committee, Busch plans to move with a discharge petition to bring the issue before the full House. This action will not occur until September. I think it would be prudent for us to hold the President's involvement until later in the Summer when it can have a more immediate impact on the House's action. Form of the President's Involvement I think a Presidential appearance in Michigan in September could well be tied into the Balanced Budget debate. It would be very advantageous to the Balanced Budget Amendment effort in Michigan for the President to personally appear. If that is not possible, then other types of involvement, possibly including telephone calls could be considered at the appropriate time in September. Frank has made the point that Michigan is the best target for Presidential involvement because its action will occur before the November elections. I agree with that and think that of the States considering the Balanced Budget Amendment at this time (Montana, Washington, California and Michigan), Michigan is the one needing the most attention. I plan to work with Frank on how fast to accomplish our strategy. CC: Frank Donatelli THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 14, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A BAKER, III FROM: Frank J. Donatelli SUBJECT: Balanced Budget Amendment in Michigan I concur with Lee Verstandig's analysis as outlined in his June 13 memorandum to you. Let's aim toward a major on-site September event, such as an address to a joint session of the Michigan House. CC: Verstandig THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 14, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: Today's CCEA Meeting At this morning's CCEA meeting, two subjects were discussed: 1. GNP "Flash" Estimates: The Council had asked for a working group study on whether the release of GNP "flash" estimates should be discontinued due to their unreliability. In today's discussion, CCEA agreed that we should continue to release this data. All of the participants recognized problems with the figure. However, they felt it was useful data, and argued that since it is compiled anyway, the figure would inevitably leak even if it is not released. Further, with the recovery slowing, discontinuing the "flash" estimates would appear to be a politi- cally motivated action. 2. REA Bailout Legislation: This bill, which involves forgive- ness of around $8 B in REA loans, continues to move on the Hill. It has already passed the House, and just recently passed the Senate Agriculture Committee by an overwhelming margin. At this point, our only hope is to keep the bill from reaching the Senate floor. Garn and Proxmire have requested concurrent juris- diction for the Banking Committee, where we might be able to delay the bill indefinitely, but their request is stalled due to Huddleston's objections (as ranking Democrat on Agriculture, his concurrence is needed; Helms has already agreed). However, it should be pointed out that the measure could still be attached to another bill as a floor amendment. Secretary Regan wanted to be certain you were aware of the immediacy of this issue, and the difficulties it poses. CC: Richard G. Darman THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 15, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI Jim SUBJECT: Cop-Killer Bullet Legislation Our legislation to ban cop-killer bullets, which was finally signed- off on last week, has been formally transmitted to the Hill by Justice and Treasury. Thurmond has agreed to be the prime Senate sponsor, with Biden, D'Amato, and Moynihan as key co-sponsors. In the House, Jack Brooks, Ham Fish, Dingell, and Conte are key sponsors. The National Rifle Association has indicated it will not oppose the legis- lation, and we have secured strong support from police and law enforce- ment organizations. In short, it looks like we have achieved something very close to a con- sensus bill. Thurmond held a press briefing at noon today to explain the legislation, and the press turnout was reportedly heavy. Even more encouraging, as of this afternoon, 75 senators have signed on as co- sponsors. Senator Thurmond feels he has a good chance of securing swift passage of our bill, and has set a hearing for next Thursday. On Wednesday, the President will travel to Connecticut to speak to the Sheriffs' Association, and we plan to include mention of the bill in his remarks. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 19, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI are SUBJECT: Meeting with Teddy Gleason Teddy Gleason, President of the International Longshoremen's Association, has requested a meeting with you in order to dis- cuss several subjects of interest to his union. Doug Riggs strongly recommends that such a meeting be scheduled, and I concur. Gleason will be in Washington June 27-29 when, among other things, he will be addressing the Republican Platform Commit- tee. If you agree, we will set up a meeting for that period next week. Thanks. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON JUne 26, 1984 TO: JAB III Thought you should be aware that MKD is apparently thinking of cancelling the satellite inter- view that Houston TV stations were planning with the President. The reason, of course, is that we will not be going to Houston after all. However, I think we'd be losing a great opportunity for uncontested media coverage in a critical state, and would urge that we go ahead. Outside of the politics of saturation coverage in Houston, it should be remembered that the Houston TV stations will probably cover the President's visit to San Antonio as they did last year. This local TV interview idea is an idea with great potential for the fall, and the Texas visit gives us a chance to test it in a major urban media market-- Houston. JC 6/22 ec. Sulsa bad prickent do y nor ging to the gAbas city THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 26, 1984 MEMORANDUM TO MICHAEL A. MCMANUS JR. FROM MERRIE SPAETH SUBJECT WHETHER TO CANCEL HOUSTON SATELLITE INTERVIEWS FOR THURSDAY Approximately $1500 in planning costs and telephone rental costs have been incurred so far (plus satellite time which would probably have to be paid for). We could force the Houston stations to eat that or pay for it ourselves. Both stations urgently plead with you to go ahead with the interviews and will agree to the following conditions in order to make the interviews worthwhile to us. 1) no questions about space 2) special packaging as a special feature interview with promotion. (Rationalizing that Texas is supposed to be one of the most important states to us: KHOU offered to use the interview when their brand new news format premieres in 10 days. They have 2 new anchors and Dan Rather will originate the evening news from KHOU that night. It's his old station. They estimate that because of the new format, which will be heavily promoted that night, and because of Dan Rather, they will double their nightly share. KTRK was doing some hasty thinking to offer an equivalent. (Recall that this was supposed to be a practice session so that we could see what you and Mr. Deaver thought of the whole idea. Given the technical complexities, that is still a critical element preceeding Monday's interviews.) I promise that if we proceed with these as one of the communications elements, that we will add the additional condition that if a city is removed from the travel plan, it loses its satellite interview claim. Please advise. Proceed Cancel THE WHITE HOUSE MREFINGTON June 25, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOF MICHAEL A. MCMANUS JR. FROM MERRIE SPAETH SUBJECT QUESTIONS FOF UPCOMING SATELLITE INTERVIEWS FOR HOUSTON Attached are the questions for the upooming interviews by satellite with the President C: Thursday. KTRE and KHOU cover (as you see' the Houston television market. Both plan IC promote the interview heavily. Following, several cbservations from FY OVI days in local television. 1) The anchors, doing the interviews, want to be thought of as serious fournalists rather than actors chaired to desks. It is critical to ther :0 be SEE: asking serious questions. The President's answer may be as short as a sentence or phrase reassuring the viewers that he is concerned and aware. 2) These interviews vill be played and re-played because each news show has E different producer. The news directors have reported that the producers are already fighting over who gets the furst play. 3 The Prerident could use the opportunity IC 1E. erthasize E topic which be feels surongly about 1000 example, nobs -- Texas is booming) cr (b) be homey and personal with the interviewers. 7. comment or compliment to ther c: tackling these important questions would send then swooning. Chese are solid journalists, but they are excited about interviewing the Fresident. HOUSTON questions and information about satellite interviews KTRK (ABC affiliate) - 713-663-4553 Jim Topping, News Director interviewer: Sylvan Rodriguez ( 1 rated personality in am news) news at: 7:00 am, 6 pm, 7 pm, 10 pm 170,000 households (595,000 people) at 6 pr. 275,000 households (962,000 people) at 10 pm 1) During the Texas primary, Democrats in Texas implied that during c 2nd term, you would be more hard-line in foreign policy because he would be free from the constraint of facing reelection; what will your attitude towards foreign policy be in your second term ? 2) Immigration is a hot issue in Texas. Will you sign the Simpson-Mazzoli bill if it reaches your desk ? Would anything cause you to veto it ? (Are you happy with it ?) 3) Mexican-American relations is important down here. You have encouraged support of the Mexican economy. Will you continue to urge positive, overt actions to help then through their economic troubles or will you wait for further developments ? 4) Continuing the focus on latin American affairs, a recent Supreme Court Decision hold that our government can send back illegal aliens unless they car show a clear and specific danger (such as threats against their own family). The Court said that just "I'm worried" wasn't sufficient justification for asylum in this country. We have a lot of illegals from El Salvador and Honcuras because of the fighting there. Will you continue tc take E liberal view of what constitutes danger tc these people back home, or will you try to have them escorted back ? 5) Is this Hispanic vote coing to be important in the coming Presidertial election ? 6) As an oil rich area, WE follow what's happening in the Straits of Hormuz. If there is an interruption in the flow of oil, what would our response be ? 7) Houston is "space center'. What are your OWL personal feelings I OV about the space platform : Will funding continue for the space programs : KHOU (CBS affiliate) Ton Kuelbs, News Director 713-521-4383 interviewers: Chip Moody Felicia Seeter (Felicia will ask the 1st question. Then it will alternate back and forth.) :) How important is Texas IC the Presidential carpaign ? (WE understand that former Vice President Mondale is considering Senator Fentsen.) 2) Immigration is = hot issue here. The New York Times estimates there are 400, 000 illegal alcens in Houston. Part cí the Sinpson-Mazoll: Bill vould authorize hiring EOC more inspectors for INF. Is that enough ? Can WE really regain control c ≤ our borders I.OV :- Hov will the huge task of identifying those qualify for amnesty actually work ? 3, Hurrican Alacia hit US in August 1983. Although some businesses have received disaster funds, the city has not. What's the hold HE and when car WE expect to receive funds ? 4) Houster 'will be IC space what Detroit was tc automobiles". Are you ES corritted as ever to the space programs -- the space station. the Iuner Garding station ? E i We have E IS year cló drinking age. Your proposal for E 21 year old age is controversial here. Please explain why you decided or that. KHOU has news at : E pr. (650,000 viewers) 30 F. : million viewers) DOC: (360,000 viewers) THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 28, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI SUBJECT: Federal Employee Reduction At today's Cabinet meeting, the President heard a report on the status of efforts to reduce federal non-defense employment by his stated goal of 75,000. Ed Meese noted that what was a major effort in the early years is now "falling apart," and said that we could finish the year short of our goal by 3,000 to 5,000. In order to meet the goal, each agency will be required to sub- mit monthly reports on their progress between now and October. Though some Cabinet members noted their difficulties, Don Devine pointed out that the government will hire 100,000 people between now and the end of the year; he stressed that if they just con- trol that hiring, our goal will be met. The Cabinet will re- visit the issue in one month. During the discussion, the Vice President questioned whether we might file suit to challenge the constitutionality of employ- ment "floors" enacted by Congress. Such provisions prevent re- ductions even though we might conclude that fewer people are needed to perform certain functions. His suggestion was not specifically addressed, but the implication was that such a suit might be helpful in other, similar areas and would also be well-received by the public. CC: Richard G. Darman THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 28, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III FROM: JAMES W. CICCONI J In SUBJECT: Cuban-American Reaction to Jackson Trip Per the request made this morning, Cathi Villalpando checked with several leaders of the Cuban-American community in south Florida for reaction to Jesse Jackson's trip. Jorge Mas Canosa, head of the Cuban-American Foundation, said that their community appreciated Jackson's success in securing the release of the 26 prisoners; however, there is also a widespread realization that Castro was using Jackson for his own purposes. The Cuban-American Foundation is paying travel expenses so that the relatives of the released Cuban prisoners can meet them on their arrival. Mas Canosa expressed confidence that families would praise the Administration for its previous efforts, and for allowing the prisoners to enter the U.S.; he said the family members would probably not praise Jesse Jackson. With regard to the 26 Cuban prisoners, Mas Canosa emphasized that they are a good group--genuine patriots who have been jailed for their criticism of Castro. He also mentioned that one of the prisoners has reportedly refused to fly to the U.S. on the same plane with Jackson. The Cuban-American Foundation has indicated willingness to pay flight expenses and provide employment assistance to any political prisoners released by Castro, including this group if necessary.

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    "ocrText": "WITHDRAWAL SHEET\nRonald Reagan Library\nCollection: Cicconi, James W.: Files\nArchivist: dlb/bcb\nFile Folder: JW Cicconi Memos to Mr.Baker, Jan-Jun 1984[3of 3]\nDate: 2/17/98\nOA\n10792\nBox\n4\nDOCUMENT\nSUBJECT/TITLE\nDATE\nRESTRICTION\nNO. AND TYPE\n1. memo\nJ. Cicconi to James A. Baker III re President's\n5/8/84\nP5\nForeign Intelligence Advisory Board, 1p.\n2. memo\nCicconi to Baker re Cop-Killer Bullets, 2p.\n5/17/84\nD5\n3. memo\nCicconi to Baker re Raising the Drinking Age, 2p.\n6/12/84\nPS\n4. memo\nFrank J.Donatelli to J.Baker re Balanced Budget\n6/8/84\nP5\nAmmendment, 3p.\n5. memo\nLee L. Verstandig to J.Baker re Balanced Budget\n6/13/84\n.PS\nAmmendment in Michigan, 1p.\n6. memo\nMerrie Spaeth to Michael A.McManus Jr. re\n6/25/84\nPS\nQuestions for Upcoming Satellite Interviews, (p.1),\n1p.\n113/0/18/00\nRESTRICTION CODES\nPresidential Records Act [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]\nFreedom of Information Act [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]\nP-1 National security classified information [(a)(1) of the PRA].\nF-1 National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA].\nP-2 Relating to appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA].\nF-2 Release could disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an agency [(b)(2) of the\nP-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA].\nFOIA].\nP-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or financial information\nF.3 Release would violate a Federal statue [(b)(3) of the FOIA].\n[(a)(4) of the PRA].\nF-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or financial information\nP-5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President and his advisors, or\n[(b)(4) of the FOIA].\nbetween such advisors [(a)(5) of the PRA).\nF-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy ((b)(6) of the\nP-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(a)(6) of\nFOIA].\nthe PRA].\nF-7 Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of\nthe FOIA].\nC. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of gift.\nF-8 Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of financial institutions\n[(b)(8) of the FOIA].\nF-9 Release would disclose geological or geophysical information concerning wells [(b)(9) of\nthe FOIA].\nWITHDRAWAL SHEET\nRonald Reagan Library\nCollection: Cicconi, James W.: Files\nArchivist: dlb/bcb\nFile Folder: JW Cicconi Memos to Mr Baker, Jan-Jun 1984[3of3]\nDate: 2/17/98\nOA 10792\nDOCUMENT\nSUBJECT/TITLE\nDATE\nRESTRICTION\nNO. AND TYPE\n1. memo\nJ.W. Cicconi to James A. Baker III re President's\n5/8/84\nP5\nForeign Intelligence Advisory Board, 1p.\n2. memo\nCicconi to Baker re Cop-Killer Bullets, 2p.\n5/17/84\nP5\n3. memo\nCicconi to Baker re Raising the Drinking Age, 2p.\n6/12/84\nP5\n4. memo\nFrank J.Donatelli to J.Baker re Balanced Budget\n6/8/84\nP5\nAmmendment, 3p.\n5. memo\nLee L. Verstandig to J.Baker re Balanced Budget\n6/13/84\nP5\nAmmendment in Michigan, 1p.\n6. memo\nMerrie Spaeth to Michael A.McManus Jr. re\n6/25/84\nP5\nQuestions for Upcoming Satellite Interviews, (p.1),\n1p.\nRESTRICTION CODES\nPresidential Records Act [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]\nFreedom of Information Act [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]\nP.1 National security classified information [(a)(1) of the PRA].\nF-1 National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA].\nP-2 Relating to appointment to Federal office ((a)(2) of the PRA].\nF-2 Release could disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an agency [(b)(2) of the\nP-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA].\nFOIA].\nP-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or financial information\nF-3 Release would violate a Federal statue [(b)(3) of the FOIA].\n[(a)(4) of the PRA].\nF-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or financial information\nP-5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President and his advisors, or\n[(b)(4) of the FOIA].\nbetween such advisors [(a)(5) of the PRA].\nF-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the\nP-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(a)(6) of\nFOIA].\nthe PRA].\nF-7 Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes ((b)(7) of\nthe FOIA].\nC. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of gift.\nF-8 Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of financial institutions\n[(b)(8) of the FOIA].\nF-9 Release would disclose geological or geophysical information concerning wells [(b)(9) of\nthe FOIA].\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 8, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nPresident's Foreign Intelligence\nAdvisory Board\nAnne Armstrong called and wanted you to be aware of several\npoints regarding PFIAB:\n1. Anne argued that the membership of PFIAB, now at 21, is\nalready unwieldy, and she feels it would be unwise to expand\nit further. She is especially concerned about the potential\nAdministration turnover when we (hopefully) begin a new term,\nand the tendency of senior people to seek a PFIAB appointment\nas they leave full-time jobs.\n2. Anne said that, if new appointments to PFIAB are made\ndespite the above, she would urge we increase the number of\nDemocrats on PFIAB. The party balance on the Board has\napparently been upset as a result of expansion.\n3. Anne is concerned that some PFIAB members may be working\non the campaign in an official capacity without taking the\nleaves of absence that had been privately agreed on. This\nis apparently not a legal issue so much as an appearance\nproblem, and is perhaps one we might ask the Counsel's\nOffice to monitor.\n4. PFIAB's next meeting is July 11-12, and Anne wanted to\ninvite you to attend their lunch, or to drop-by at any point\nduring their meeting.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 15, 1984\nA much larger article was\nin saturiay's when. De x:\nTO: JAB III\nThe attached is from Sunday's\nSan Antonio paper. I am told\nthat Abrams' comments got wide\ncirculation in other Texas papers,\nalso.\nAs you know, Mondale and Hart have\nalready used Abrams' words against\nus while campaigning among Hispanics\nin California, and we can expect\nthey will be cited in the Fall.\nno\nhi ber\nTo the best of my knowledge, however,\nAbrams has yet to issue any sort\nmilling wid\nof apology for the implications\ncontained in his remark. Shouldn't\nsomeone talk to him about this?\n(I'll be happy to follow-up thru\nFuller if you concur.)\nThanks.\n5/15 Jc\nJC\nI've asked Fuller\nhis (ahams) musber in explanation\n7 what he mid Abm\nnurns, said Cot. Carlos Reynsido Lopez Nulla,\nwhen\nnational airport, 30 miles south of the capital,\ndirector of the National Police.\ntely dis-\nquality\nAtlanta\nSeveral\nHUD official says Hispanics\nwere to\ninvesti-\n'don't mind' crowded living\nisolated\ncts to be\nWASHINGTON (UPI) - A top federal\nthey prefer, some prefer, doubling up.\nis in the\nhousing official said many Hispanic families\n\"That is, as I found out, a characteristic of\nlive in crowded conditions because of \"cultur-\nHispanic communities, Irrelevant to their so-\nthe cya-\nal preference,\" the Washington Post reported\ncial (and) economic conditions. It's a cultural\nrea store\nyesterday.\npreference, I'm told.\"\ntampered\nUndersecretary Philip Abrams, the No. 2\nofficial at the Department of Housing and\nAbrams could not be reached for comment.\nas found\nUrban Development, was quoted as saying he\nRep. Robert Garcia, D-N.Y., chairman of\nhighway\ndoes not believe Hispanics might be living in\nthe congressional Hispanic Caucus, said, \"That\nMichigan\ncrowded homes because of poverty.\nis really a racist remark. These people have no\n\"I don't think so,\" Abrams said in a Post\nconcept of what is going on is America.\nInterview. \"I'm told that they don't mind and\nreally live in another world.\"\n1 GOP?\nBOY'S\nGraduation\nSuits\nES\nMOAMMAR KHADAFY\nmmit?\nNo. 1 terrorist\nPierreCardin\nPARIS NEW YORK\ncials still are optimistic.\nHafez el-Assad reportedly is\nPenner's hap\ndying from heart disease and\nbeen serving\nother ailments. His illness may\ngraduates over 10\nhave a positive effect, this official\nyears with exper-\nsaid, \"while he reevaluates his\nienred ronsul.'\nimage in the eyes of his maker.\"\ntants to help in\nSyria, which is Iran's sole sup-\nchoosing quality\nporter in the Arab world, was\ntailored suits.\nsaid to be reassessing its ties to\nIran, fearful that if Iran has to sue\nfor peace, Syria will be isolated.\nLibya. The fondest hope of all,\nof course, is for the demise of\nKhadafy, the man Reagan de-\nnounced as the world's No.1\nagitator of \"state-sponsored ter-\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 15, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nSteel Industry Import Relief Request\nFor your information:\nAs you know, the U.S. steel industry is bringing a good deal of\npressure to bear in pursuit of their goal of limiting foreign\nsteel imports. I thought you should be aware of the timing of\ndifferent aspects of that effort.\nThe industry is taking a two-track approach, with the first\ninvolving an ITC petition by the United Steelworkers and Bethlehem\nSteel. Filed on January 24, it seeks five years of import quotas\non most categories of steel. If the ITC finds substantial injury,\na recommendation for relief will be forwarded to the President by\nJuly 24; his decision on a remedy, if any, must then be made by\nSeptember 24. (I have heard from good sources that Bethlehem\ncalculated its petition filing date for maximum political pressure\non the President at the time he will have to make a decision.)\nThe other track is congressional: the industry is pushing legis-\nlation that would limit steel imports to 15% of the U.S. market\nfor five years. The House Ways and Means Committee began hearings\nlast month, and on May 2, Baldrige, Brock, and McGrath all testified\nagainst the bill. We can probably expect an attempt at floor action\nbefore November.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 16, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nDomestic Volunteer Service Act\nFor your information:\nIt has been recommended that the President sign the recently\npassed reauthorization of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act,\nunder which ACTION's volunteer programs operate (these in-\nclude VISTA, Foster Grandparents, etc.).\nThe appropriation levels in this bill are higher than our\nrequest in most areas, and Congress ignored our recommenda-\ntion to terminate VISTA. However, the bill passed 369-25\nin the House and by voice vote in the Senate, making a veto\nimpossible to sustain. OMB and ACTION have thus recommended\napproval.\nThe President must sign the bill by next Tuesday, May 22.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 17, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI this\nSUBJECT:\nCop-Killer Bullets\nBackground\nAs you know, Treasury and Justice have been meeting under the\nauspices of OMB in an attempt to agree on legislation that\nwould ban cop-killer bullets. Such a ban is being earnestly\nsought by DOJ and the law enforcement community, and has many\nsupporters on the Hill.\nAt this point, the only legislation being considered is the\nBiaggi bill, which we feel is overly broad and which is\nopposed vigorously by the N.R.A. The Senate Judiciary Com-\nmittee, has refused to support Biaggi, but has nevertheless\nexpressed interest in whether a more limited ban can be\ndrafted. This point was made clear in a recent hearing when\nSenator Thurmond agreed with a request by Senator Biden that\nthe Administration work out a proposal that would be more\nacceptable than Biaggi. (I received a follow-up call from\nThurmond's aide to underline that request.)\nAnalysis\nFrom a policy standpoint, there is little reason for not\nsupporting a limited ban on cop-killer (i.e. armor-piercing)\nbullets. Treasury has already secured some industry coopera-\ntion in a voluntary ban on such bullets, and it is a small\nstep to write that same narrow ban into law. Such a ban\nwould affect only one kind of ammunition: bullets designed\nto penetrate protective vests or armor. The purpose of such\nammunition, obviously, is to kill police or others wearing\nvests; in fact, some bullets are even advertised on the basis\nof their ability to penetrate protective vests.\nAnother factor is the political situation: we have already\nseen charges in print that the President is \"kowtowing\" to\nthe NRA by refusing to support a ban on cop-killer bullets.\nThis would, of course, be a tailor-made rebuttal for Mondale\nto use against charges that he is too tied to special inter-\nests. The issue might also be used to undermine our strong\nlaw enforcement stance. Thus, I would argue that it should be\nneutralized.\nStatus\nTreasury and Justice have now agreed on a proposal for a limited\nban on armor-piercing bullets. It will shortly be forwarded to\nDick Darman for circulation. The proposal is limited to the\nmost blatantly threatening bullets, and contains an exemption\nfor any ammunition with a legitimate sporting purpose. While\nthe NRA will probably oppose any ban, both Treasury and Justice\nfeel this proposal is limited, and thus defensible. We expect\nit would have the support of law enforcement groups, and we\nwould hope that legislators like Thurmond would also be able to\nback it. This proposal would insulate the President on an\nissue where he has already been attacked, and on which he would\notherwise be vulnerable in the Fall.\nI might add one other point: if we decide to support the pro-\nposal, we can do so in a variety of ways. For example, we need\nnot introduce legislation, but could instead convey our proposal\nin letter form or deliver it as testimony. The objective is not\nnecessarily to pass \"our\" bill SO much as to be able to state\naccurately that the President supports a ban on cop-killer\nbullets. The rest can be left to the Congress' deliberations.\nI can go over specific details of the proposal with you at the\npoint when a senior level White House decision is required.\nThanks.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 18, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nMeeting with Charles Walker\nPer your request, I met with Charles Walker, who had Buck\nChapoton's job under President Ford. He had some thoughts\nregarding our tax reform/tax simplification study. Letters\nwe received from him are attached.\nIn short, Walker is concerned about the process we are\nusing. He feels that any report Treasury comes up with\nwill be picked apart quickly by Congress and the various\nspecial interests. He argues that the report should be an\ninitial step which sets forth a framework, and should not\ngo into excessive detail. Walker suggests that a bipar-\ntisan commission then be appointed to put Treasury's study\ninto the form of a specific legislative proposal. Only in\nthat way, Walker says, can we have a chance of success.\nWalker struck me as being sincere in his desire to help,\nand asked that I pass on his thoughts to you.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\n5/14\nMDT:\nCHARLES WALKER (not the lobbyist\nas you & I discussed last week)\ncalled again today. He really\nwants to see JAB. I have told\nhim NO twice !! He wants 15\nminutes to discuss tax policy.\nI can easily say no again, but\nis this something that Jim\nCicconi could/would do? If\nnot important at all to JAB,\nthen I'll say flat out NO.\nPlease advise.\nKC\nVHB HEREES Cicconi SEELF CAN SEE\nrim JAB REALY\nis\nMEMORANDUM\nOF CALL\nPrevious editions usable\nTO:\nYOU WERE CALLED Kathy BY-\nOU WERE VISITED BY-\nCharles Walker\nOF (Organization)\n212/888- m 2421\nPLEASE PHONE\nFTS\nAUTOVON\n5-11 -3:55 pm\nWILL CALL AGAIN\nIS WAITING TO SEE YOU\nRETURNED YOUR CALL\nWISHES AN APPOINTMENT\nMESSAGE\nGot your message\nre Tussday of Wad.\nWalker will rearrange\nhis schadule if JAB\nRECEIVED\ncould BY sea him DATE either TIME\n63-110\nThursday or NSN 7540-00-634-4018 STANDARD Friday FORM 63 (Rev. 8-81)\nPrescribed by GSA\n# GPO : 1983 0 - 381-529 (205) FPMR (41 CFR) 101-116\nLAW OFFICES OF\nPAUL, HASTINGS, JANOFSKY & WALKER\nor COUNSEL\nLEE G. PAUL\nA PARTNERSHIP INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS\nWASHINGTON, D.C. OFFICE\nROBERT P. HASTINGS\nSIXTH FLOOR\nCHARLES M. WALKER\nFIFTH FLOOR\n1050 THOMAS JEFFERSON STREET, N.W.\nWASHINGTON, D.C. 20007\nLOS ANGELES OFFICE\n1299 OCEAN AVENUE\nTELEPHONE (202) 333-8500\nTWENTY-SECOND FLOOR\n555 SOUTH FLOWER STREET\nSANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA 90401\nATLANTA OFFICE\nLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90071\nELEVENTH FLOOR\nTELEPHONE (213) 489-4000\nTELEPHONE (213) 451-2438\n230 PEACHTREE STREET, N.W.\nCABLE ADDRESS: PAULHAST\nATLANTA, GEORGIA 30303\nORANGE COUNTY OFFICE\nTELEPHONE (404) 588-9900\nSEVENTEENTH FLOOR\nTWX: 910-321-4065\n695 TOWN CENTER DRIVE\nCONNECTICUT OFFICE\nCOSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA 92626\nSECOND FLOOR\nTELEPHONE (714) 641-1100\nMarch 14, 1984\nTHREE LANDMARK SOUARE\nSTAMFORD, CONNECTICUT 06901\nTELEPHONE (203) 357-0100\nJames A. Baker, III\nOUR FILE NO:\nChief of Staff and Assistant\nto the President\nThe White House\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.\nWashington, D.C. 20500\nDear Jim:\nSo as to refresh your memory and not to test it, let\nme say that during the last year and a half or so of the Ford\nadministration while you were Assistant Secretary of Commerce\nand I was Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Tax Policy,\nwe both attended numerous meetings of the Economic Policy Board.\nIncidentally, based upon my acquaintance with you at the time,\nI was delighted to have learned of your work on behalf of\nPresident Ford's campaign for re-election. Then, of course,\nduring recent years, I have been admiring your role in the\nWhite House.\nAlthough after the Ford administration you remained\nactive in politics, I returned to my profession of practicing\ntax law. I am now retired (am of Counsel to my firm) and am\nable to devote time to one of my highest priorities--doing what\nI can to achieve a basic restructuring of our faltering tax\nsystem.\nAlthough it is politically naive to do so, I have\nbeen impelled to address a memorandum to the Executive Branch,\nTax Policymakers with a suggestion I hope they will find appeal-\ning and useful. A copy is enclosed. I do, not presume to know\nwho and how many policymakers there may be who would have an\ninterest in these suggestions. I am, therefore, sending the\nmemorandum only to you, to Mike Deaver and to Richard Darman.\nC\nJames A. Baker, III\nMarch 14, 1984\nPage Two\nI am in Washington frequently and would very much\nlike to visit with you about this subject. May I call you?\nSincerely,\nCharlie\nCharles M. Walker\nCMW:pd\nencl.\nCC: Richard G. Darman\nMichael K. Deaver\n:\nPAUL. HASTINGS. JANOFSKY & WALKER\nA PARTNERSHIP INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS\nMEMORANDUM\nTO:\nEXECUTIVE BRANCH\nDATE: March 14, 1984\nTAX POLICYMAKERS\nFILE NO:\nFROM:\nCharles M. Walker, Esq.\nCOPIES TO:\nSUBJECT:\nTax Policy for 1984-1985\nThe suggestion set forth below comes from my perspec-\ntive gained as Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Tax Policy\nunder President Ford (1975-77), a tax lawyer of some 45 years'\nexperience and a former Chairman (and other officeholder, council\nmember, committee officer) of the Section of Taxation of the\nAmerican Bar Association.\nIn his recent State of the Union Message, President\nReagan asked Treasury for a plan of action by next December \"to\nsimplify the entire tax code, so all taxpayers, big and small,\nare treated more fairly\nSuch a plan would result in that\n'underground economy' being brought into the sunlight of honest\ntax compliance, and it could make the tax base broader so per-\nsonal tax rates could come down, not go up.\"\nUnder date of January 17, 1977, the Treasury Department\npublished Blueprints for Basic Tax Reform--a study and publication\nthat received many hours of my own effort while Assistant Secre-\ntary. The forthcoming Treasury report doubtless will take Blue-\nprints into account. I know that Assistant Treasury Secretary\nJohn Chapoton is well aware of it.\nBlueprints did not produce any discernable explicit\nlegislative response to simplification, let alone to basic restruc-\nturing of the tax system. If the new report is to have better\nresults, something more is needed than thoughtful recommendations.\nA politically realistic approach to Congress must be devised.\nHere is the suggestion:\nHave the President, at some appropriate time (either\nduring his 1984 campaign or after his re-election):\n1.\nUrge upon Congress the critical need of a\nbasic restructuring of the tax system. The case for this can\nbe convincingly made but is beyond the scope of this memorandum.\n555 South Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071 695 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626\n1299 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401 230 Peachtree Street, Atlanta. GA 30303\n1050 Thomas Jefferson Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007\nFour Landmark Square, Stamford, CT 06901\nEXECUTIVE BRANCH\nTAX POLICYMAKERS\nMarch 14, 1984\nPage Two\n2. Acknowledge that decisions on the\nrestructuring:\na. must await the December, 1984 Treasury\nReport;\nb. must be made in a suitable delibera-\ntive atmosphere;\nC. Must afford opportunity to comment by\naffected taxpayers (individual and corporate) and others (such\nas charities);\n3. Recommend that during the deliberative pro-\ncess (likely to require two or three years) Congress refrain\nfrom enacting any tax legislation except as needed:\na. to increase revenue, and to do that\nmerely by raising rates across the board;\n(i) This would avoid the addition\nof further complexities of the law which, like the current legis-\nlation being reported out by the House Ways & Means Committee,\nwill bring the system ever nearer to collapse through non-compliance,\nunadministerability and inefficiency.\nb. to address major deficiencies in the\npresent law, for example, to revise the principles of taxation\nof life insurance companies, and to prevent glaring abuses in the\ntax shelter area, such as use of tax straddles by offshore com-\nmodity funds.\n4. State to Congress that during the delibera-\ntive period he will veto any tax measure not in harmony with\nparagraph 3.\n5. Appoint a commission to convene early in\n1985 to develop and recommend explicit legislation to accomplish\nthe basic restructuring. To assure that the commission's report\nand recommendations will receive congressional action, its\nmembership should include key members of Congress, as did the\nGreenspan Commission on Social Security.\nCharas h. Macher\nCharles M. Walker\nLAW OFFICES OF\nPAUL, HASTINGS, JANOFSKY & WALKER\nOF COUNSEL\nA PARTNERSHIP INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS\nWASHINGTON, D.C. OFFICE\nLEE G. PAUL\nROBERT P. HASTINGS\nSIXTH FLOOR\nCHARLES M. WALKER\nFIFTH FLOOR\n1050 THOMAS JEFFERSON STREET, N.W.\nWASHINGTON, D. C. 20007\n1299 OCEAN AVENUE\nTELEPHONE (202) 333-8500\nLOS ANGELES OFFICE\nTWENTY-SECOND FLOOR\nSANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA 90401\n555 SOUTH FLOWER STREET\nATLANTA OFFICE\nLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90071\nELEVENTH FLOOR\nTELEPHONE (213) 451-2438\nTELEPHONE (213) 489-4000\n230 PEACHTREE STREET, N.W.\nATLANTA, GEORGIA 30303\nCABLE ADDRESS: PAULHAST\nTELEPHONE (404) 588-9900\nORANGE COUNTY OFFICE\nSEVENTEENTH FLOOR\nTWX: 910-321-4065\n695 TOWN CENTER DRIVE\nCONNECTICUT OFFICE\nSECOND FLOOR\nCOSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA 92626\nTHREE LANDMARK SQUARE\nTELEPHONE (714) 641-1100\nMarch 14, 1984\nSTAMFORD, CONNECTICUT 06901\nTELEPHONE (203) 357-0100\nOUR FILE NO:\nRichard G. Darman\nAssistant to the President and\nDeputy to the Chief of Staff\nThe White House\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.\nWashington, D.C. 20500\nDear Mr. Darman:\nWhile you and I have not met, I would like to intro-\nduce myself initially at least by enclosing a copy of a letter\nof today's date I have written to Jim Baker. That will give\nyou some brief background information concerning me.\nBased upon what I read in the press, you are \"involved,\"\nshall we say, with at least that part of the President's recent\nState of the Union Message dealing with restructuring of the tax\nsystem. It is on the strength of that perceived involvement that\nI am writing to you to enclose a copy of a memorandum I have\nwritten on the subject.\nAs you can gather from my memorandum, I feel strongly\nabout the need to bring about a basic restructuring of the tax\nsystem. I have already devoted substantial effort to that end\nand am willing and able to continue the effort.\nI am in Washington frequently and would welcome the\nopportunity to visit with you.\nVery truly yours,\nCharces In macher\nCharles M. Walker\nCMW:pd\nencl.\nCC: James A. Baker, III\nMichael K. Deaver\nLAW OFFICES OF\nPAUL. HASTINGS, JANOFSKY & WALKER\nor COUNSEL\nA PARTNERSHIP INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS\nWASHINGTON, D.C. OFFICE\nLEE G. PAUL\nROBERT P. HASTINGS\nSIXTH FLOOR\nCHARLES M. WALKER\nFIFTH FLOOR\n1050 THOMAS JEFFERSON STREET, N.W.\nWASHINGTON, D.C. 20007\n1299 OCEAN AVENUE\nTELEPHONE (202) 333-8500\nLOS ANGELES OFFICE\nTWENTY-SECOND FLOOR\nSANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA 90401\n555 SOUTH FLOWER STREET\nATLANTA OFFICE\nLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90071\nELEVENTH FLOOR\nTELEPHONE (213) 451-2438\nTELEPHONE (213) 489-4000\n230 PEACHTREE STREET, N.W.\nATLANTA, GEORGIA 30303\nCABLE ADDRESS: PAULHAST\nTELEPHONE (404) 588-9900\nORANGE COUNTY OFFICE\nSEVENTEENTH FLOOR\nTWX: 910-321-4065 910\nCONNECTICUT OFFICE\n695 TOWN CENTER DRIVE\nSECONO FLOOR\nCOSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA 92626\nTHREE LANDMARK SOUARE\nTELEPHONE (714) 641-1100\nMarch 14, 1984\nSTAMFORD, CONNECTICUT 06901\nTELEPHONE (203) 357-0100\nOUR FILE NO:\nMichael K. Deaver\nAssistant to the President and\nDeputy Chief of Staff\nThe White House\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.\nWashington, D.C. 20500\nDear Mr. Deaver:\nWhen you were in Los Angeles February 17, I was\nscheduled to attend the dinner for you at the Century Plaza\nHotel as a guest of John Henry Dudley. Due to an emergency\nthat arose, I was unfortunately unable to attend.\nDuring the reception period, Mr. Dudley spoke to you\nof my interest in finding a way to basically restructure our\ntax system. I understand from him that you were receptive to\nthe idea of hearing from me on the subject.\nIt occurred to me that the most succinct way of pre-\nsenting my thoughts was to prepare a memorandum on the subject.\nI have done this. A copy is enclosed. Also enclosed is a\ncopy of letters I am writing to Jim Baker and to Richard Darman.\nAs mentioned in my letter to Jim I am in Washington frequently\nand would welcome a visit with you on this subject.\nSincerely,\nChams In. Walker\nCharles M. Walker\nCMW:pd\nencl.\nCC: Richard G. Darman\nJames A. Baker, III\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 18, 1984\nV\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nJ.\nSUBJECT:\nUnitary Tax\nFor your information:\nAs I understand it, the Unitary Tax group formed by Treasury\nwill issue its report by May 31. They will probably recom-\nmend that:\na) The federal government, including the IRS,\nwill assist states in making sure that corpora-\ntions are not cheating;\nb) the states, in turn, will work to stop the\ninternational application of the unitary tax\n(i.e. it should not be applied beyond the\n\"water's edge\") ; and\nc) there would be no federal law to require\nstates to abandon use of the unitary tax.\nThough its terms could change, the above represents a compro-\nmise which we hope will be accepted, especially by the 12 states\nnow applying a worldwide unitary tax.\nCC: Richard G. Darman\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 21, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONL\nSUBJECT:\nAdvertisement Paid for by Donn Hopkins\nPer your request, I checked into the background of Mr. Donn Hopkins\nand the problem with USDA he cites in his full page ad in the\nFairbanks paper (attached).\nAccording to Senator Stevens' office, Donn Hopkins is something of\na gadfly in the Fairbanks area. He is a part-time developer and\nhas run for a number of local offices. Several years ago, Hopkins\nbegan an effort to develop a resort in the Tongas National Forest;\nhence the advertisement designed to get the President's attention.\nDoug Riggs, who is from Alaska, points out that it is not uncommon\nfor the state's many \"ultra-individualists,\" like Hopkins, to ex-\npress themselves through paid advertisements in the Alaska news-\npapers.\nSenator Stevens' office assisted Hopkins for over two years in his\nefforts to secure USDA/Forest Service approval for his resort plan.\nThe proposal, however, was repeatedly turned down by the Forest\nService. Among their reasons were opposition by the local com-\nmunity, a potentially detrimental impact on local fishing, and con-\ncern that Hopkins did not have the financial resources to do the\njob properly.\nThe Forest Service's determination was appealed up through the\nagency, and eventually reached the Secretary. On September 7, 1983,\nSecretary Block wrote Hopkins a letter (copy attached) in which he\ndeclined to review the Forest Service's decision, thus ending the\nmatter from USDA's standpoint. Senator Stevens' office has told us\nthat they are convinced Mr. Hopkins was dealt with fairly throughout\nthe department's consideration of his request.\nPlease let me know if you need any further information on this.\nItember 7 1983\nir. bohn hopkins\nF... Sex 89663\nCollege, Alaska 99708\nDear Mr. Hopkins:\nThis is in response to your May 31, 1983, correspondence regarding letters\nto you from Assistant Secretary John B. Crowell, Jr. dated December 6, 1982.\nand May U. 1983. The letters are, respectively, in response to your purported\nAntice of Appeal letter dated September 20, 1982, and your request for a stay\nof the January 20, 1983, decision by the Chief of the Forest Service, signed\nby Deputy Chief R. M. Housley. denying your application to build a resort\nat Bailey Bay Hot Springs on the Tongass National Forest in Alaska.\nYou contend the Assistant Secretary exceeded his authority by rendering\nthese decisions not in accordance with the appeal regulation 36 CFR 211.19.\n7 CFR 2.19 (d) (18) delegates from the Secretary to the Assistant Secretary\nfor Natural Resources and the authority to review decisions of\nthe Chief or the Forest Service pursuant to 36 CFR 211.19 (1) (1) (1v) and\n211.19 (1)(2). Therefore, in responding to your letters, the Assistant\nSecretary for Natural Resources and Environment acted within his authority\nas stated in the Code of Federal Regulations.\nThe January 20, 1983, Decision Notice denying your application for a lease\nwas an initial decision by the Chief. The Secretary, or his delegate,\nhas discretion under 36 CFR 211.19(j)(1)(1v) to review an initial decision\nby the Chief. I have decided not to review the Chief's decision of\nJanuary 20, 1983. The January 20, 1983, decision 1s therefore the final\nadministrative determination by the Department of Agriculture.\nSincerely,\nAUG 1988\nJ. Acting Hilmon, Deputy Chief\nJohn\nSecretar\nPHB\nSec. Cont. 02F93327\nCC: LA, Sec. Rec., R-6\nAsst. Sec Crowell\nFeuhter\nRobertson/Peterson\nHilmon/Housley\nexitialed\nHaug\nSvensen\nDraft\nFS:Rn:FFrieder:ob:6/15/83:447-7754\nFile Designation: 2720\nOdessa Disk #4\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 21, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI Jun\nSUBJECT:\nExecutive Order on Pay Adjustment\nFor your information:\nAn executive order has been forwarded to the President that\nwould implement the 4% federal pay raise provided for in\nthe Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act signed on April 18.\nAs you know, the President signed an order for a 3.5% pay\nraise last December. The reconciliation bill provided,\ninstead, for a 4% raise retroactive to January.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 22, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI in\nSUBJECT:\nAfrican Development Foundation\nFor your information:\nThe board of the African Development Foundation today voted\nto remove Dr. Connie Hilliard as president of this semi-\nautonomous agency, effective immediately. Hilliard is a\nblack woman and former Tower staffer who was recommended for\nthe job by the White House.\nAs mentioned to you yesterday, Senator Tower had weighed in\nto urge that we prevent Connie's removal. White House\nPersonnel and AID were already aware of the problem, and did\ntheir best to apprise the board of the Administration's\nfeelings. However, the board chose to ignore our suggestion\nthat any grievances be resolved quietly, and without recourse\nto an abrupt termination.\nI have informed Tower's office of the above, and assured\nthem that we would try to take care of Connie. (I was told\nthe Senator may call you on this.)\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 22, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nConversation with Anne Armstrong\nFor your information:\nAnne Armstrong called and wanted to convey that PFIAB has\nchosen Gary Schmitt as its new executive director. The\ncurrent executive director, Fred Demech, is leaving in\nAugust.\nSchmitt is described as a solid conservative who is com-\npletely in tune with the President's foreign policy. He\nformerly served on Moynihan's congressional staff. Anne\nsaid she had gotten very positive feedback on Schmitt\nfrom, among others, Goldwater, Wallop, the CIA, and the\nmilitary. She intends to inform Herrington of the Board's\nchoice shortly.\nBy the way, Anne is still anxious to either talk with you,\nor have an appointment to see you.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 23, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nEdith Jones\nPer your request, Tex Lezar contacted Edith Jones to explore\nwith her the possibility of a judicial appointment other\nthan the 5th Circuit.\nEdith emphasized that her real desire is for the 5th Circuit\nappointment in Houston. She is not interested in a District\nCourt or Claims Court judgeship outside the Houston area,\nthough Tex had the impression she might be interested in a\nHouston district judgeship, or perhaps something major like\nthe D.C. Circuit.\nTex told Edith that she would be placed on the Justice\nDepartment's list with a very high priority recommendation\nin case a Houston district judgeship opens up. He promised\nshe would also be considered if a new vacancy occurs on the\n5th Circuit (we can argue that there is still a \"Houston\nvacancy\" on the 5th Circuit since Robert Hill is from Dallas).\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 25, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nCabinet Meeting\nFor your information:\nAt today's Cabinet meeting, the President was briefed on\nfollow-up to the Grace Commission's report. In short, he\nwas told that approximately one-fourth of the recommenda-\ntions have been either implemented, or proposed in our\nFY85 budget. Of the remainder, most will require legis-\nlation and/or involve controversial policy changes. Ex-\namples of the \"controversial\" category include proposals\nto repeal wage protection laws ($8.0 B over 3 years),\nreform federal retirement ($30.0 B), and sell all federal\npower marketing administrations ($19.8 B).\nPlease let me know if you would like more details on this\nsubject.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nMay 25, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nAm\nSUBJECT:\nRight-of-Way Cost Exemption for Rural\nElectric and Telephone Cooperatives (H.R. 2211)\nA bill is now before the President which would exempt REA-financed\nelectric and telephone cooperatives from paying for the use of\nrights-of-way across Federal lands. Such entities would only be\ncharged administrative costs. Under current law they are required\nto pay fair market value rental for such rights-of-way, with\nrental costs averaging below $1,000 per year.\nThe legislation is sponsored by such people as Seiberling,\nMarlenee, Lujan, and Oberstar in the House; Senate sponsors in-\nclude Laxalt, Hecht, Andrews, Pressler, Burdick, and Baucus. The\nbill was opposed by the Administration, but nevertheless passed\nboth the House and Senate on voice votes.\nUSDA has recommended a veto, arguing that a special exemption is\nunfair to other right-of-way holders, and that rental costs to\ncooperatives are negligible. Interior and OMB still object to the\nbill, but recommend approval on the basis that:\na) revenue loss from the exemption would amount to\nonly $4 million over four years;\nb) administrative costs can still be levied (thanks\nto an amendment); and\nc) the bill has overwhelming congressional support,\nmaking it difficult to sustain a veto.\nLast day for action on this bill is Monday, May 28.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 11, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nI tim\nSUBJECT:\nUpdate on Federal Employee Reduction\nAccording to current figures, non-defense federal government employ-\nment had been reduced by 72,300. Ralph Bledsoe of CCMA told me that,\nif traditional agency hiring patterns are followed, we may end up\n5,000 short of the President's promised reduction of 75,000 in FY84.\nJoe Wright and Don Devine are monitoring the situation, and will be\nworking to see that agency goals are met. However, OPM is already\nbroaching the idea of a hiring freeze--a move traditionally opposed\nby OMB on the basis that agencies generally \"over-hire\" before any\nfreeze can take effect.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 12, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nRaising the Drinking Age\nRealizing that a decision may have already been made, I would\nnevertheless like to offer a few thoughts on proposed legis-\nlation that would, in effect, compel states to raise their\ndrinking age to 21. For the following reasons, I feel it would\nbe unwise to support this measure, or, at very least, would not\nhave the President \"out front\" on the issue:\n1. The measure involves using federal funds to coerce\nthe states into specific behavior. This is a blatant\nexample of federal intrusion into yet another area\ntraditionally left to the states. The Republican Party\nand this President are both on record as opposing such\ncoercive use of federal funds; our position on the 55\nmph speed limit is only one in a series of examples.\nFurther, a citation of previous measures imposed on the\nstates over our objection is no argument for accepting\nthis bill.\n2. This measure revokes a right now enjoyed by the 18\nto 21 year old age group. While it is arguable whether\nthe drinking age should have been lowered in the first\nplace, it is very difficult to revoke such a right once\nit is conferred. By doing so, we as a party risk alien-\nating a large segment of the young adult population.\n3. The argument for raising the drinking age is tenuous.\nEven if we accept that drunk-driving accidents might be\nreduced, there is no rationale other than tradition for\ndrawing the line at 21 - - why not raise it to 22, 23 or\nhigher? (And if tradition itself is an argument, state\ndecision-making in this area is an even longer-standing\ntradition.)\n4. This measure circumvents a widespread state reassess-\nment of drinking ages. A number of states, for example,\nhave viewed high school drinking by 18 year olds to be\nthe main problem, and have raised their drinking age to\n19. A federal measure using highway funds as leverage\nwill end this \"laboratory of democracy\" process which is\ntypical of our federal system.\n5. When the earlier report on this issue was released,\nthe Administration declined to support a federally-imposed\ndrinking age increase on the basis that such decisions\nshould be left to the states. This measure amounts to\nthe same thing, and our support at this stage would be\nviewed as a purely political action (and perhaps as a\nreversal).\nOn the whole, I feel Congressional support for this bill is typical\nof election year desires to sign on with the \"cause of the moment. \"\nIt is ill-considered, and its method is inconsistent with our\nphilosophy of the federal government's proper role. If we cannot\noppose it, I would prefer to see us acquiesce in the overwhelming\nwill of the Congress rather than try to lead this parade.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 13, 1984\nTO: JAB III\nAttached is a memo from Frank\nDonatelli re the balanced budget\namendment. I sent a copy to Lee\nVerstandig for his comments, which\nare also attached.\nJC\n(A \"final word\" note from\nDonatelli is at back of This.)\nNOTE\nTold FJD & LV that nothing\nwas to be done on This till\nour budget package has cleared\nthe Hill.\nwe\n0/18\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 8, 1984\nACTION MEMORANDUM FOR: JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nFrank J. Donatelli\nSUBJECT:\nBalanced Budget Amendment\nThis is to recommend the direct involvement of the President in\nsupport of the Balanced Budget Amendment by making a phone call\nto Michigan State Representatives who are now considering a\nResolution for a Constitutional Convention.\nI. SCENARIO\nAs you know thirty-three states have already called for a\nConstitutional Convention for a Balanced Budget Amendment; two\nmore are required. The Republican-controlled Michigan Senate has\nalready passed a resolution calling for a Constitutional\nConvention and it is currently in the Michigan House, in\nCommittee.\nSometime this week, the Committee should pass the Resolution and\nit will move to the full House for consideration. Here are two\npossible scenarios for a POTUS phone call:\na) contact the Committee on a speaker phone just before or\nafter passage of the resolution;\nb) phone a meeting of the State House Democratic and GOP\nleadership\nOf course, there are other scenarios which could be used. The\nactual call will depend upon the President's schedule, the\ntimetable of the Michigan House and thoughts Lee Verstandig and\nother relevant officers might have. This memo is simply to get\nthe concept approved so we can aim towards a phone call later in\nthe week.\nII. ARGUMENTS FOR\n1. The President Is For It\nThis is an issue the President has repeatedly stated he is\nin favor of.\n2. It's A Winner\nSimply put, the issue is a \"winner\" with the American\npeople. A May poll by Market Opinion Research showed an\nastounding 83% of the American people favor a balanced budget\namendment.\n2\n3. It Protects Us Where We Are Weak\nThe Democrats have been fairly successful in placing the\nblame for the deficits on the Administration. This has a number\nof serious implications for us this year. It is the one aspect\nof the economic record where we are on the defensive. It makes\nus appear hypocritical when we talk about federal spending. The\nPresident's direct involvement in the issue shows our concern\nabout the deficit is not just talk and when push comes to shove,\nthe Democrats will defend the deficits.\n4. Strategic Importance of Thirty-Fourth State\nThe political battle in Michigan is not just one in a series\nof battles for the balanced budget amendment. Because it would\nbe the 34th State, it assumes strategic importance. Although 35\nStates are required for a Constitutional Convention, the 34th\napproval makes a balanced budget a fait accompli. Three States\nhave balanced budget initiatives on the ballot this fall and it\nis all but certain one of them will pass. Thus, if Michigan\npasses the resolution now, it will be assumed the Constitutional\nConvention will be called come November. There will be pressure\non Congress to act before November to head off the Convention.\nThe balanced budget amendment will receive major media attention\nand the Democrats will be put on the defensive.\nIII. CONCERNS\n1. Bad Precedent\nSome have expressed concerns about the President's direct\ninvolvement in an issue in a State legislature, citing state\nsovereignty and \"opening the floodgates\" of requests for issue\ninvolvement.\nTo the State sovereignty/federalism argument, I would respond\nthis does not hold in the instance of a call to a Constitutional\nConvention. Rather than dealing with a State-specific issue a\nConstitutional Convention is indeed a federal issue. The\nPresident's interest is certainly legitimate in this instance.\nSecondly, the involvement would not be a heavy-handed\narm-twisting (a la cutting off state highway construction funds\nshould the states fail to pass the ERA), but would be the\nPresident expressing his views and soliciting support for them.\nTo the \"floodgates\" arguments, I point out this could be the\nPresident's only direct involvement in an issue before a state\nlegislature during this Administration. Thus, the only precedent\nwe will establish is one phone call per term, hardly an\nunmanageable goal.\n3\n2. Local Political Concern\nWe must be certain we do not needlessly give credibility to\nthe local Democratic State Representatives, nor that we do not\nneedlessly leave the local Republican leadership out in the cold.\nTo make sure that does not happen, we should be certain that\nIntergovernmental Affairs is involved with this project as soon\nas possible to work on the final scenario.\n3. Other States More Important\nMontana, Washington, and California are the three states\nlikely to have initiatives on the ballot this November and the\nodds on the initiative passing in at least one of these States\nis, as said before, all but certain. Thus, the argument goes, we\ncould come up with an event in one of the other States -- why\nMichigan?\nMy response would be Michigan is the best target precisely\nbecause the vote will take place before the November elections.\nThus, as we go into the election, the likelihood of a\nConstitutional Convention will be very high, and the President's\nbalanced budget work will be of strategic importance. If we\nwait until November for thirty-four states, it will not be until\nafter November that the issue would assume strategic importance.\n4. What If We Lose\nWhat if the President makes his phone call and the resolution\nis defeated, doesn't that make the President look bad?\nNo. The beauty of the situation is that a victory would bring us\nto thirty-four states and be viewed as significant, but a defeat\nwould just be another of the many defeats the balanced budget\namendment has suffered.\nMore importantly, the President wins by losing, for he shows it\nis the Democrats who are the obstructionists and opposed to doing\nanything about the deficits.\nIV. RECOMMENDATION\nThat I work with Intergovernmental Affairs to present you\nwith a specific phone call to be made by the President this week.\nApprove\nDisapprove\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 13, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nLEE L. VERSTANDIG he\nSUBJECT:\nBalanced Budget Amendment in Michigan\nFrank Donatelli and I have discussed the possibility of\nPresidential involvement in the campaign for ratification of the\nBalanced Budget Amendment in Michigan. I agree with Frank that\nPresidential involvement in this effort may well be desirable.\nThe key elements of that involvement: timing and and the nature\nof the involvement need to be determined.\nTiming\nI have met with Mike Busch, the House Minority Leader in Michigan\nto discuss his strategy for moving the Balanced Budget Amendment\nin Michigan. His strategy involves holding hearings on the\nsubject and trying to move the Balanced Budget Amendment out of\ncommittee when the Michigan House reconvenes in September. The\nvotes are very close in committee but if the votes are not there\nto pass the Balanced Budget Amendment out of Committee, Busch\nplans to move with a discharge petition to bring the issue before\nthe full House. This action will not occur until September. I\nthink it would be prudent for us to hold the President's\ninvolvement until later in the Summer when it can have a more\nimmediate impact on the House's action.\nForm of the President's Involvement\nI think a Presidential appearance in Michigan in September could\nwell be tied into the Balanced Budget debate. It would be very\nadvantageous to the Balanced Budget Amendment effort in Michigan\nfor the President to personally appear. If that is not possible,\nthen other types of involvement, possibly including telephone\ncalls could be considered at the appropriate time in September.\nFrank has made the point that Michigan is the best target for\nPresidential involvement because its action will occur before the\nNovember elections. I agree with that and think that of the\nStates considering the Balanced Budget Amendment at this time\n(Montana, Washington, California and Michigan), Michigan is the\none needing the most attention. I plan to work with Frank on how\nfast to accomplish our strategy.\nCC: Frank Donatelli\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 14, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A BAKER, III\nFROM:\nFrank J. Donatelli\nSUBJECT:\nBalanced Budget Amendment in Michigan\nI concur with Lee Verstandig's analysis as outlined in\nhis June 13 memorandum to you. Let's aim toward a major\non-site September event, such as an address to a joint\nsession of the Michigan House.\nCC: Verstandig\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 14, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nToday's CCEA Meeting\nAt this morning's CCEA meeting, two subjects were discussed:\n1. GNP \"Flash\" Estimates: The Council had asked for a working\ngroup study on whether the release of GNP \"flash\" estimates\nshould be discontinued due to their unreliability. In today's\ndiscussion, CCEA agreed that we should continue to release this\ndata. All of the participants recognized problems with the\nfigure. However, they felt it was useful data, and argued that\nsince it is compiled anyway, the figure would inevitably leak\neven if it is not released. Further, with the recovery slowing,\ndiscontinuing the \"flash\" estimates would appear to be a politi-\ncally motivated action.\n2. REA Bailout Legislation: This bill, which involves forgive-\nness of around $8 B in REA loans, continues to move on the Hill.\nIt has already passed the House, and just recently passed the\nSenate Agriculture Committee by an overwhelming margin. At this\npoint, our only hope is to keep the bill from reaching the\nSenate floor. Garn and Proxmire have requested concurrent juris-\ndiction for the Banking Committee, where we might be able to\ndelay the bill indefinitely, but their request is stalled due to\nHuddleston's objections (as ranking Democrat on Agriculture, his\nconcurrence is needed; Helms has already agreed). However, it\nshould be pointed out that the measure could still be attached\nto another bill as a floor amendment. Secretary Regan wanted to\nbe certain you were aware of the immediacy of this issue, and the\ndifficulties it poses.\nCC: Richard G. Darman\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 15, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nJim\nSUBJECT:\nCop-Killer Bullet Legislation\nOur legislation to ban cop-killer bullets, which was finally signed-\noff on last week, has been formally transmitted to the Hill by Justice\nand Treasury. Thurmond has agreed to be the prime Senate sponsor,\nwith Biden, D'Amato, and Moynihan as key co-sponsors. In the House,\nJack Brooks, Ham Fish, Dingell, and Conte are key sponsors. The\nNational Rifle Association has indicated it will not oppose the legis-\nlation, and we have secured strong support from police and law enforce-\nment organizations.\nIn short, it looks like we have achieved something very close to a con-\nsensus bill. Thurmond held a press briefing at noon today to explain\nthe legislation, and the press turnout was reportedly heavy. Even more\nencouraging, as of this afternoon, 75 senators have signed on as co-\nsponsors.\nSenator Thurmond feels he has a good chance of securing swift passage\nof our bill, and has set a hearing for next Thursday. On Wednesday,\nthe President will travel to Connecticut to speak to the Sheriffs'\nAssociation, and we plan to include mention of the bill in his remarks.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 19, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nare\nSUBJECT:\nMeeting with Teddy Gleason\nTeddy Gleason, President of the International Longshoremen's\nAssociation, has requested a meeting with you in order to dis-\ncuss several subjects of interest to his union. Doug Riggs\nstrongly recommends that such a meeting be scheduled, and I\nconcur.\nGleason will be in Washington June 27-29 when, among other\nthings, he will be addressing the Republican Platform Commit-\ntee. If you agree, we will set up a meeting for that period\nnext week.\nThanks.\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJUne 26, 1984\nTO: JAB III\nThought you should be aware that\nMKD is apparently thinking of\ncancelling the satellite inter-\nview that Houston TV stations\nwere planning with the President.\nThe reason, of course, is that\nwe will not be going to Houston\nafter all.\nHowever, I think we'd be losing a\ngreat opportunity for uncontested\nmedia coverage in a critical state,\nand would urge that we go ahead.\nOutside of the politics of saturation\ncoverage in Houston, it should be\nremembered that the Houston TV\nstations will probably cover the\nPresident's visit to San Antonio\nas they did last year.\nThis local TV interview idea is an\nidea with great potential for the\nfall, and the Texas visit gives us\na chance to test it in a major urban\nmedia market-- Houston.\nJC\n6/22 ec.\nSulsa bad prickent\ndo y nor ging to the gAbas city\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 26, 1984\nMEMORANDUM TO\nMICHAEL A. MCMANUS JR.\nFROM\nMERRIE SPAETH\nSUBJECT\nWHETHER TO CANCEL HOUSTON SATELLITE\nINTERVIEWS FOR THURSDAY\nApproximately $1500 in planning costs and telephone rental costs\nhave been incurred so far (plus satellite time which would\nprobably have to be paid for). We could force the Houston\nstations to eat that or pay for it ourselves.\nBoth stations urgently plead with you to go ahead with the\ninterviews and will agree to the following conditions in order to\nmake the interviews worthwhile to us.\n1) no questions about space\n2) special packaging as a special feature interview with\npromotion. (Rationalizing that Texas is supposed to be one of\nthe most important states to us: KHOU offered to use the\ninterview when their brand new news format premieres in 10 days.\nThey have 2 new anchors and Dan Rather will originate the evening\nnews from KHOU that night. It's his old station. They estimate\nthat because of the new format, which will be heavily promoted\nthat night, and because of Dan Rather, they will double their\nnightly share.\nKTRK was doing some hasty thinking to offer an equivalent.\n(Recall that this was supposed to be a practice session so that\nwe could see what you and Mr. Deaver thought of the whole idea.\nGiven the technical complexities, that is still a critical\nelement preceeding Monday's interviews.)\nI promise that if we proceed with these as one of the\ncommunications elements, that we will add the additional\ncondition that if a city is removed from the travel plan, it\nloses its satellite interview claim.\nPlease advise.\nProceed\nCancel\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nMREFINGTON\nJune 25, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOF\nMICHAEL A. MCMANUS JR.\nFROM\nMERRIE SPAETH\nSUBJECT\nQUESTIONS FOF UPCOMING SATELLITE INTERVIEWS\nFOR HOUSTON\nAttached are the questions for the upooming interviews by\nsatellite with the President C: Thursday. KTRE and KHOU cover (as\nyou see' the Houston television market. Both plan IC promote the\ninterview heavily.\nFollowing, several cbservations from FY OVI days in local\ntelevision.\n1) The anchors, doing the interviews, want to be thought of as\nserious fournalists rather than actors chaired to desks. It is\ncritical to ther :0 be SEE: asking serious questions. The\nPresident's answer may be as short as a sentence or phrase\nreassuring the viewers that he is concerned and aware.\n2) These interviews vill be played and re-played because each\nnews show has E different producer. The news directors have\nreported that the producers are already fighting over who gets\nthe furst play.\n3 The Prerident could use the opportunity IC 1E. erthasize E\ntopic which be feels surongly about 1000 example, nobs -- Texas\nis booming) cr (b) be homey and personal with the interviewers. 7.\ncomment or compliment to ther c: tackling these important\nquestions would send then swooning. Chese are solid journalists,\nbut they are excited about interviewing the Fresident.\nHOUSTON questions and information about satellite interviews\nKTRK (ABC affiliate) - 713-663-4553 Jim Topping, News Director\ninterviewer: Sylvan Rodriguez ( 1 rated personality in am news)\nnews at: 7:00 am, 6 pm, 7 pm, 10 pm\n170,000 households (595,000 people) at 6 pr.\n275,000 households (962,000 people) at 10 pm\n1) During the Texas primary, Democrats in Texas implied that\nduring c 2nd term, you would be more hard-line in foreign policy\nbecause he would be free from the constraint of facing\nreelection; what will your attitude towards foreign policy be in\nyour second term ?\n2) Immigration is a hot issue in Texas. Will you sign the\nSimpson-Mazzoli bill if it reaches your desk ? Would anything\ncause you to veto it ? (Are you happy with it ?)\n3) Mexican-American relations is important down here. You have\nencouraged support of the Mexican economy. Will you continue to\nurge positive, overt actions to help then through their economic\ntroubles or will you wait for further developments ?\n4) Continuing the focus on latin American affairs, a recent\nSupreme Court Decision hold that our government can send back\nillegal aliens unless they car show a clear and specific danger\n(such as threats against their own family). The Court said that\njust \"I'm worried\" wasn't sufficient justification for asylum in\nthis country. We have a lot of illegals from El Salvador and\nHoncuras because of the fighting there. Will you continue tc\ntake E liberal view of what constitutes danger tc these people\nback home, or will you try to have them escorted back ?\n5) Is this Hispanic vote coing to be important in the coming\nPresidertial election ?\n6) As an oil rich area, WE follow what's happening in the\nStraits of Hormuz. If there is an interruption in the flow of\noil, what would our response be ?\n7) Houston is \"space center'. What are your OWL personal feelings\nI OV about the space platform : Will funding continue for the\nspace programs :\nKHOU (CBS affiliate) Ton Kuelbs, News Director 713-521-4383\ninterviewers: Chip Moody\nFelicia Seeter\n(Felicia will ask the 1st question. Then it will\nalternate back and forth.)\n:) How important is Texas IC the Presidential carpaign ? (WE\nunderstand that former Vice President Mondale is considering\nSenator Fentsen.)\n2) Immigration is = hot issue here. The New York Times estimates\nthere are 400, 000 illegal alcens in Houston. Part cí the\nSinpson-Mazoll: Bill vould authorize hiring EOC more inspectors\nfor INF. Is that enough ? Can WE really regain control c ≤ our\nborders I.OV :-\nHov will the huge task of identifying those qualify for amnesty\nactually work ?\n3, Hurrican Alacia hit US in August 1983. Although some\nbusinesses have received disaster funds, the city has not. What's\nthe hold HE and when car WE expect to receive funds ?\n4) Houster 'will be IC space what Detroit was tc automobiles\".\nAre you ES corritted as ever to the space programs -- the space\nstation. the Iuner Garding station ?\nE i We have E IS year cló drinking age. Your proposal for E 21\nyear old age is controversial here. Please explain why you\ndecided or that.\nKHOU has news at : E pr. (650,000 viewers)\n30 F. : million viewers)\nDOC: (360,000 viewers)\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 28, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nSUBJECT:\nFederal Employee Reduction\nAt today's Cabinet meeting, the President heard a report on the\nstatus of efforts to reduce federal non-defense employment by\nhis stated goal of 75,000.\nEd Meese noted that what was a major effort in the early years\nis now \"falling apart,\" and said that we could finish the year\nshort of our goal by 3,000 to 5,000.\nIn order to meet the goal, each agency will be required to sub-\nmit monthly reports on their progress between now and October.\nThough some Cabinet members noted their difficulties, Don Devine\npointed out that the government will hire 100,000 people between\nnow and the end of the year; he stressed that if they just con-\ntrol that hiring, our goal will be met. The Cabinet will re-\nvisit the issue in one month.\nDuring the discussion, the Vice President questioned whether we\nmight file suit to challenge the constitutionality of employ-\nment \"floors\" enacted by Congress. Such provisions prevent re-\nductions even though we might conclude that fewer people are\nneeded to perform certain functions. His suggestion was not\nspecifically addressed, but the implication was that such a\nsuit might be helpful in other, similar areas and would also be\nwell-received by the public.\nCC: Richard G. Darman\nTHE WHITE HOUSE\nWASHINGTON\nJune 28, 1984\nMEMORANDUM FOR JAMES A. BAKER, III\nFROM:\nJAMES W. CICCONI\nJ\nIn\nSUBJECT:\nCuban-American Reaction to Jackson Trip\nPer the request made this morning, Cathi Villalpando checked\nwith several leaders of the Cuban-American community in\nsouth Florida for reaction to Jesse Jackson's trip. Jorge\nMas Canosa, head of the Cuban-American Foundation, said that\ntheir community appreciated Jackson's success in securing\nthe release of the 26 prisoners; however, there is also a\nwidespread realization that Castro was using Jackson for his\nown purposes.\nThe Cuban-American Foundation is paying travel expenses so\nthat the relatives of the released Cuban prisoners can meet\nthem on their arrival. Mas Canosa expressed confidence that\nfamilies would praise the Administration for its previous\nefforts, and for allowing the prisoners to enter the U.S.;\nhe said the family members would probably not praise Jesse\nJackson.\nWith regard to the 26 Cuban prisoners, Mas Canosa emphasized\nthat they are a good group--genuine patriots who have been\njailed for their criticism of Castro. He also mentioned\nthat one of the prisoners has reportedly refused to fly to\nthe U.S. on the same plane with Jackson. The Cuban-American\nFoundation has indicated willingness to pay flight expenses\nand provide employment assistance to any political prisoners\nreleased by Castro, including this group if necessary."
}