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National Grocers Association 2/4/92 [OA 6096] [1]
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National Grocers Association 2/4/92 [OA 6096] [1]
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This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
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Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
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OA/ID Number:
13602
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13602-006
Folder Title:
National Grocers Association 2/4/92 [OA 6096] [1]
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26
17
6
3
of George Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Feb. 4
207
: also. But it required
Statement by Press Secretary
port is required by the United Nations Par-
1, too, which he dem-
Fitzwater on the President's Meeting
ticipation Act (Public Law 264, 79th Con-
With President Ronald Venetiaan of
gress; 22 U.S.C. 287b).
ik you all very much
Suriname
George Bush
birit of this visit, and
February 3, 1992
The White House,
his again. Thank you
The President met today with President
February 3, 1992.
Ronald Venetiaan of the Republic of Suri-
name.
oke at 11:15 a.m. in
The President expressed his satisfaction at
ite House.
the success of Suriname's elections and or-
Message to the Congress
derly transition to democratic civilian govern-
Transmitting the Annual Report of
ment following the military coup in Decem-
the Federal Labor Relations
ber of 1990. He stressed the United States
Authority
orters Prior to a
deep commitment to fostering democratic ci-
February 3, 1992
lent Ronald
vilian rule throughout the hemisphere and
ne
emphasized that President Venetiaan enjoys
To the Congress of the United States:
our full support for his efforts to strengthen
In accordance with section 701 of the Civil
democratic institutions, undertake economic
Service Reform Act of 1978 (Public Law 95-
American workers in
reform, and curb narcotics trafficking.
454; 5 U.S.C. 7104(e)), I have the pleasure
yazawa said?
The two Presidents discussed the Suri-
of transmitting to you the Twelfth Annual
namese Government's plans for economic re-
Report of the Federal Labor Relations Au-
go by what Marlin
form and adjustment. The President pointed
thority for Fiscal Year 1990.
when you asked the
out that effective action in this area will en-
The report includes information on the
ours ago. [Laughter]
hance Suriname's ability to stimulate private
cases heard and decisions rendered by the
investment and trade, which are the key to
Federal Labor Relations Authority, the Gen-
ng support. I just
long-term growth.
eral Counsel of the Authority, and the Fed-
The two Presidents also discussed the
and I back it 100
eral Service Impasses Panel.
threat to Suriname of increased narcotics
correction by Mr.
trafficking, and the President pledged our
George Bush
to say. So, that was
support for Suriname's counternarcotics ef-
The White House,
forts.
February 3, 1992.
t, sir, as an apology?
President Venetiaan is making his first visit
:pt it for what it was,
to the United States since his inauguration
rom a good man. A
in September 1991. He entered office as a
y, that they're going
result of elections held in May 1991 with the
Remarks to the National Grocers
nitments, and I sup-
participation of observers from the Organiza-
Association in Orlando, Florida
we had a very good
tion of American States.
February 4, 1992
gone out of his way
was not denouncing
Thank you for that warm welcome, and
d I strongly support
please be seated. And Tom, thank you for
ay so. We can com-
Message to the Congress
that wonderful introduction. Thanks also to
world if we're given
Transmitting a Report on United
Bill Confer, your chairman. And before we
States Government Activities in the
get started, I don't know where they are, but
up our position very
United Nations
I'd like to recognize two outstanding Con-
February 3, 1992
gressmen from this area, Bill McCollum and
Cliff Stearns. And also a former Con-
gan at 4:31 p.m. in
To the Congress of the United States:
gressman who is actively involved with me,
marks, the President
I am pleased to transmit herewith a report
Bill Grant, of Florida. You have three of the
er Kiichi Miyazawa
of the activities of the United States Govern-
best right here with you today.
it available for ver-
ment in the United Nations and its affiliated
And it's a great pleasure, and I really mean
this exchange.
agencies during the calendar year 1990, the
that, to be here with this enthusiastic group.
second year of my Administration. The re-
I originally had planned to be at your dinner
208
Feb. 4 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
last night. But then I found out it was called
Americans always have. We'll combine our
the Asparagus Club Banquet. [Laughter]
common sense, our work ethic, and our de-
Thought I'd better not take a chance. And
termination with progrowth policies. With
you know why, dangerously close. [Laughter]
these, we'll carry the entire world into the
Okay, Barbara won the broccoli war. I said
next American century. You can bet on it.
what I thought, and she got out and received
You don't have to be some rocket scientist
all these broccoli growers. And sales shot up
to understand how. You stick with the basics.
about 500 percent. [Laughter]
And I proposed a commonsense com-
You all know, I think, of my love for sports.
prehensive action plan last week in my State
And this being an election year, my competi-
of the Union Address. It gets investment
tive juices are flowing more than ever. And
going, because you can't build new busi-
so, today I'm making an announcement that
nesses and create new jobs without new in-
many of you have been expecting for a long
vestment. It strengthens the industries that
time. I'm officially declaring my entry into
historically have led us into recoveries, espe-
your best bagger contest. Just one question:
cially real estate and housing. It hacks away
Paper or plastic? [Laughter]
obstacles to growth. It cuts the Federal defi-
I'll always remember-and Tom referred
cit by holding back spending. Government
to it-but from a personal standpoint, I'll al-
is far too big, and it spends too much. And
ways remember that warm reception that you
I am going to keep it within its limits of this
all, the NGA, gave me when I addressed that
budget agreement that is in place right now.
1985 convention. It was in New Orleans. You
Ask yourselves the question: How free are
gave me a good education about your indus-
we, really, when the Government gobbles up
try then, and I remember it still. A typical
25 percent of our GNP? I'm demanding, I
NGA member is a family-run business. Many
need your support, that Congress get serious
of you carry on legacies built through the vi-
about this. One thing, I've listed 246 pro-
sion and sacrifice of a grandmother or a
grams that I want cut out this year, 246. Each
grandfather. Just met one of your directors.
one has a protector; each one has a noble
She was a third-generation in the grocery
title. None of them is essential to the well-
business, perhaps an immigrant to this coun-
being of the United States of America. And
try, some were. You work on the thinnest
I want something else. I want that line-item
of profit margins. You challenge one another
veto so I can enforce real spending dis-
with bracing competition that clearly benefits
ciplines. Forty-three Governors have it.
our consumers like no others in the world.
We've got to get Washington back to com-
And today, as always, your success as commu-
mon sense. To do that, I really mean this,
nity grocers depends not just on the bottom
I need your help. I know you can deliver.
line but on the old-fashioned virtues of being
You know your neighbors; they know you.
a good neighbor.
The grocery business grows when your
Since I last met you all in 1985, the world
neighborhood grows, when the Nation's
has changed. We've got a lot to be grateful
economy grows. I've asked Congress to enact
for. We won the cold war. We led a coalition
some laws that will create jobs by getting our
in the Gulf to crush Saddam Hussein's ag-
economy growing again. And I've set a dead-
gression in Kuwait. We've created a world
line, March 20th. I ask you to circle that Fri-
with the prospects of unprecedented pros-
day on your calendar. Remember this dead-
perity and peace. But we've also run into
line. Congress needs to take a few simple
some hard times here. Our economy has
steps to create good American jobs, now.
slowed down. We must get it fired up again.
The Capitol Hill hearings on my program
The professional pessimists tell us America
begin today. But I must say, too often when
has become weak and disabled, that our
I send progrowth proposals to Congress, all
economy has fallen, and it can't get up. Well,
the public hears is sloganeering about fair-
that's just plain bunk. It's not true. And I'm
ness. This twists a good concept into a weap-
going to tell you what we can do about it.
on of envy and divisiveness, desire to divide
Day by day and step by step, we're going
America along class lines. I don't look at it
to get ourselves moving, and we'll do it as
that way. Here's what fairness means to me:
George Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Feb. 4
209
Ve'll combine our
ethic, and our de-
It means if you want to work, you can get
the economy moving without having to wait
vth policies. With
a job. It means if you have a good idea, you'll
for Congress to act. I've imposed a 90-day
ire world into the
get a chance to test it, or if you build a busi-
freeze on Federal regulations that could
'ou can bet on it.
ness, you don't lose your earnings to exces-
hinder economic growth. And during that pe-
me rocket scientist
sive taxes or overregulation. That's what fair-
riod, all Departments and Agencies will re-
ick with the basics.
ness means to me. Above all, the most impor-
view regulations, old and new, and when pos-
mmonsense com-
tant test of fairness for my plan is that it will
sible, stop the ones that will hurt growth and
t week in my State
work for all Americans. It will create jobs.
speed up those that will help growth.
it gets investment
And now, here's what I want by March
I see from your convention schedule that
build new busi-
20th. And I set that date because I do believe
you have a workshop entitled "The Regu-
)S without new in-
we have a window in which we get something
lators Are Back." No wonder. You can't get
the industries that
done, even though this is going to be a very
through a day without having to worry about
) recoveries, espe-
controversial and difficult national election
what some regulator is going to do to you
ing. It hacks away
year. Here's what I want: First, incentives
through some thoughtless regulation. Regu-
S the Federal defi-
to make productive investments. These in-
lations may have stated aims as wholesome
ding. Government
volve a 15-percent investment tax allowance
as Mom and the apple pie. But you know
ds too much. And
and needed changes to the alternative mini-
better than anyone that when regulators
in its limits of this
mum tax. Now, these will encourage business
carry that regulation too far, there won't be
n place right now.
to invest in equipment and become more
any apple pie for Mom to buy.
tion: How free are
productive. I just took a tour through the ex-
I ran a council on deregulation for 8 years
nment gobbles up
hibits here, amazed by some of the tech-
as Vice President. And I'm here to assure
I'm demanding, I
nology. These proposals will stimulate that
you, we've not lost the spirit of deregulation.
ongress get serious
kind of investment and will help individuals
I want you to be able to spend your time
e listed 246 pro-
invest in high technology or whatever ma-
working on what you can do for your cus-
his year, 246. Each
chinery is needed.
tomers rather than fretting about what some
1 one has a noble
Second, we need incentives to build and
regulator might do to you.
ential to the well-
to buy real estate, a change in the passive-
And I'm also fighting hard against this epi-
S of America. And
loss rules for active real estate developers.
demic of lawsuits. The costs and the delays
vant that line-item
We need penalty-free withdrawals from
in our legal system are a hidden tax on every
eal spending dis-
IRA's for first-time homebuyers and a $5,000
single American consumer, on every business
mors have it.
tax credit for the first purchase of a home.
transaction in America. And that's why I'm
gton back to com-
Housing economists predict that my plan will
sending to Congress today a reform bill, the
really mean this,
mean an extra 200,000 homes built and
Access to Justice Act of 1992. And my reform
you can deliver.
415,000 new construction jobs to build them.
proposal will give Americans cheaper and
; they know you.
Real estate and housing, with this stimulus,
easier alternatives to trial. And my plan will
rows when your
we'll lead our way into active recovery.
halt needless lawsuits by making changes in
en the Nation's
And third, incentives to succeed: Cut the
the way some attorney's fees are awarded.
Congress to enact
capital gains tax. This tax hurts anyone who
And let's stop America's love affair with the
jobs by getting our
has made a sensible investment in a home,
lawsuit. If we're as good at rewarding success
nd I've set a dead-
a business, or a farm. None of our key com-
as we are at suing each other, we'd be way
1 to circle that Fri-
petitors taxes gains at high rates, world global
ahead of the rest of the world. I might say
member this dead-
competitors. Let's stop penalizing savings
parenthetically, health care costs would be
ake a few simple
and investment. Let's stop punishing excel-
an awful lot lower if we didn't have a lot
can jobs, now.
lence. And yes, let's talk about fairness.
of frivolous lawsuits going after these doctors
IS on my program
Lower capital gains mean more investment,
for malpractice.
y, too often when
and more investment means more jobs. So,
One of the great lessons of our times is
is to Congress, all
let's get that capital gains tax cut, now.
this: Freedom and cooperation work, big
eering about fair-
Three measures, three pieces of common
Government doesn't. And after 70 years, the
ncept into a weap-
sense, three things Congress should do by
new leaders in Moscow recognize that total
S, desire to divide
March 20th. I know that Congress will listen
Government regulation produces only one
I don't look at it
to you, you come right from the grassroots.
thing: total failure. And now, the Russians-
less means to me:
And I'm counting on your help. In the mean-
I had a fascinating visit with Boris Yeltsin
time, I've initiated some reforms that will get
up at Camp David on Saturday-the Rus-
210
Feb. 4 / Administration of George Bush, 1992
sians want to try something different, like
Second, let free choice and free markets
grocery stores with groceries on the shelves.
reform this health care system of ours. This
[Laughter] This man's put into some tough
week I'm going to ask for a new credit to
reforms there. Got to stay with him. Got to
help those without health insurance, em-
help him make them work.
ployed or not, to buy such coverage. My plan
Isn't it ironic, at the exact moment the
will assure that both American workers and
world is turning to our values of more eco-
the unemployed will have access to basic
nomic freedom and competition, some in the
health insurance even if they change jobs or
United States Congress want to go just the
develop serious health problems. We can't
opposite way. And here's an example of the
improve health care by threatening the
trouble brewing in Congress: That's the so-
health of job-intensive businesses. The last
called FDA enforcement bill. I'm sure those
thing we want is for companies to cut costs
of you who sell your own private-label gro-
by cutting workers. And I am wholeheartedly
ceries aren't exactly thrilled by the prospect
opposed, as I believe you are, to schemes
of more legal and accounting and paperwork
that cost jobs by mandating benefits that an
burdens. But that's just what some in the
employer must pay.
Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you
And thirdly, let's strengthen the family, the
in no uncertain terms: the time for overregu-
cornerstone of the American dream. Let's
lation is over. And if they send me any more
ease the burden of child-rearing. The per-
legislation with excessive regulation in it, I'm
sonal tax exemption has not kept up with in-
going to veto it and send it back. It's going
flation. I'm asking Congress, immediately, to
right back up there.
increase the exemption for each child by
Again, the Congress can help get the econ-
$500. It's a significant move in the right di-
omy moving if it will just do the right thing.
rection, and for our kids' sake, we must do
Last week one Member of Congress, a Dem-
no less.
ocrat, said it might be smart politics for the
Look at my economic proposals and you
Democrats to meet the deadline and pass my
will find straightforward, plain solutions to
plan intact. I can't say what their motives may
our problems. Some may complain that they
be, but I know one thing, my plan will help
lack the flash of an expensive new program
the American people. So let me take the heat.
or that they don't have quite the right politi-
I know that my program will get the economy
cal ring for this political year. But I'm not
moving again. And again, urge the Congress
seeking spending for spending's sake. I don't
to pass it intact by March 20th.
want a fancy title on a bill that will shoot
March 20 isn't a moment too soon to enact
interest rates right up through the roof. I
this short-term program. But we also must
want results. My plan is sound, and it will
take a longer look, look to longer horizons.
work.
And I proposed a long-term plan in my State
If you hear people in Congress gripe that
of the Union Address. Let me just give you
they can't get the job done by March 20th,
a couple of the highlights here, some of the
remind them, we won the Gulf war in 44
highlights.
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent do-
First, let's create more American jobs by
mestic program in 52 days. Remember, Con-
opening up and expanding markets. all over
gress can act with lightning speed when it
the world. A new GATT agreement, we're
wants to. So, accept no excuses. Accept no
working hard to get one, will make the world
delays. And accept no substitutes.
trading system come to grips with the dam-
Please don't leave this message behind
aging tariffs and export subsidies in agri-
when you leave this convention hall. Take
culture. And by tearing down economic bar-
it home to your families, to your customers,
riers with Mexico and Canada, a new North
to your neighbors. From February 8th till
American free trade agreement can lift us
February 17th, your Congressmen will be
to new heights of prosperity. And make no
home for the President's Day recess. That's
mistake about this: A sound, free trade agree-
a great time for you to go to their hometown
ment will mean more American jobs, not less,
offices and tell them to meet the deadline
more American jobs.
and to pass this plan. With an effort like this,
George Bush, 1992
Administration of George Bush, 1992 / Feb. 4
211
and free markets
I know we'll get their attention, and we'll get
the Equal Access to Justice Act would
item of ours. This
America moving again.
be amended to clarify and limit litiga-
a new credit to
Thank you very, very much for this recep-
tion over the amount of attorney's fees;
a insurance, em-
tion. And may God bless the United States
innovative "multi-door courthouses"
coverage. My plan
of America. Thank you.
would be established to encourage utili-
rican workers and
zation of alternative dispute resolution
e access to basic
Note: The President spoke at 11:35 a.m. at
mechanisms;
ey change jobs or
the Orange County Convention/Civic Cen-
award of reasonable attorney's fees in
oblems. We can't
ter. In his remarks, he referred to Tom
disputes involving the United States
threatening the
Zaucha, president of the National Grocers
would be permitted in appropriate in-
sinesses. The last
Association.
stances;
anies to cut costs
prior notice would be required, subject
.m wholeheartedly
to reasonable limits, as a prerequisite to
1 are, to schemes
bringing suit in any United States Dis-
g benefits that an
Message to the Congress
trict Court;
Transmitting Proposed Legislation
flexible assignment of district court
en the family, the
on Access to Justice
judges would be authorized;
can dream. Let's
February 4, 1992
immunity of State judicial officers
rearing. The per-
would be clarified and protected;
st kept up with in-
To the Congress of the United States:
the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Per-
:s, immediately, to
I am pleased to transmit today for your
sons Act would be amended to encour-
or each child by
immediate consideration and enactment the
age resolution of claims administra-
ve in the right di-
"Access to Justice Act of 1992". The purpose
tively; and
sake, we must do
of this proposal is to reduce the tremendous
improvements in case management in
growth in civil litigation that has burdened
Federal courts would be effected.
proposals and you
the American court system and imposed high
I believe this proposed legislation would
plain solutions to
costs on our citizens, small businesses, indus-
greatly reduce the burden of excessive, need-
complain that they
tries, professionals, and government at all
less litigation while protecting and enhancing
sive new program
levels.
every American's ability to vindicate legal
ite the right politi-
A thorough study of the current civil jus-
rights through our legal system. I rec-
year. But I'm not
tice system has been conducted by a special
ommend prompt and favorable consideration
ding's sake. I don't
working group, chaired by the Solicitor Gen-
of the enclosed bill.
ill that will shoot
eral, Kenneth W. Starr. The working group's
rough the roof. I
recommendations, which were unanimously
George Bush
sound, and it will
accepted by my Council on Competitiveness,
The White House,
are reflected in the bill. The legislation seeks
February 4, 1992.
longress gripe that
to reduce wasteful and counterproductive
he by March 20th,
litigation practices by encouraging voluntary
ne Gulf war in 44
dispute resolution, the improved use of litiga-
pass my urgent do-
tion resources, and, where appropriate,
Memorandum on Emergency
Remember, Con-
modified, market-based fee arrangements.
Funding for the Organization of
ing speed when it
Additional reforms would permit the judicial
American States Mission to Haiti
xcuses. Accept no
system to operate more effectively.
titutes.
The Access to Justice Act would accom-
February 4, 1992
message behind
plish reforms in significant areas of litigation:
Presidential Determination No. 92-13
vention hall. Take
a prerequisite for Federal jurisdiction
to your customers,
over certain types of lawsuits (the
Memorandum for the Secretary of State
February 8th till
amount in controversy requirement)
Subject: Emergency Funding for OAS
gressmen will be
would be redefined to exclude vague,
Mission to Haiti
Day recess. That's
subjective claims;
Pursuant to the authority vested in me by
to their hometown
prevailing parties could be entitled to
section 614(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance
meet the deadline
award of attorney's fees in certain law-
Act of 1961, as amended, I hereby determine
an effort like this,
suits brought in Federal court;
that it is important to the security interests
JAN-31-1992 12:22 FROM
TO
P.06
Ats
needs The v to you be can be part w. your the in your
help
act.
(Duggan/Simon)
mon in January Draft 29, Grocers Three 1992
mah
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
needs some aft there
applaned
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
[time]
county need
[Acknowledgments, humor]
It's a pleasure to be with you. I'll always remember the
you
warm reception the National Grocers Association gave me when I
I'm
lines
me
addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
country
on
people
good education about your business then, and I remember it still. you
of course, our world has changed dramatically since 1985.
We won the Cold War. We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We have created a world
Some good
give
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
and
But we've also run into hard times. Our economy has slowed
down, and we must get it fired up again. The professional
you
pessimists tell us America has become weak and disabled -- that
Hattin
our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
92
will lift this country
Well, that's just plain bunk. We get up and running in
IE
them
no time -- and we'll do it the old-fashioned way: We'll use our
common sense, our work ethic, our determination, and we'll PIZ carry
the entire world into the Next American Century.
33
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
her
You just stick with the basics. I proposed a common-sense action
plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
an do
investment going, because you can't build new businesses without
Needoe
real metaphos
JAN-31-1992 12:22 FROM
TO
P.07
2
new investment. It strengthens the industries that historically
have led us into recoveries -- especially real-estate. It hacks
away obstacles to growth -- regulations, high taxes, nuisance
lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by cutting spending. And
it builds on our strengths. It lets American workers and
businesses show the world what they can do.
All over this country, families, businesses and even local
governments have grasped a simple fact: The world has changed.
The old ways won't do. If we want to remain the world's economic
dynamo, we've got to get leaner and tougher. We've got to change
with the times, and abandon old ways from the old days.
More to the point, we've got to get Washington moving toward
the 21st Century. To do that, I need your help. I've asked
Congress to enact some laws that will get our economy moving and
growing again -- and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20.
Circle that Friday on your calendar. I have. Call it J Day: The
day by which Congress needs to take a few simple steps to create
good American jobs -- now.
Here's what I want by J-Day First, incentives to invest:
an amended alternative minimum tax and a 15-percent investment
tax allowance.
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
passive-loss rules for active real-estate investors; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
$5,000 tax credit for the first purchase of that first home.
JAN-31-1992 12:23 FROM
TO
P.08
3
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, a farm, even a pension plan. None of our key
economic competitors taxes gains at high rates - Japan's
effective rate comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax
long-term capital gains at all. The world's fastest growing
economies let people collect their capital gains tax-free. Let's
stop penalizing excellence. Cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
Here's one you'll like: I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal
regulations that could hinder economic growth. During that
period, all departments and agencies will review regulations, old
and new -- to stop the ones that will hurt growth and speed up
those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back." No wonder: You can't get
through a day without having to worry about workplace safety
regulations, food safety regulations, environmental regulations.
Now, no one objects to the stated aims of these regulations:
Health and safety and respect for the environment are classic,
Mom-and-apple pie social values. But you know better than anyone
that when regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any
good
apple pie for Mom to buy.
this
8
a
metaphon
we need move
this
Aparch
JAN-31-1992 12:23 FROM
TO
P.09
love Amenca's affair I ran
witheust stop
4
a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
the
president. And I'm here to assure you: The spirit of
deregulation is back. I want you to be able to spend your time
worrying about what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you.
The greatest lesson of this century is: Government
micromanagement doesn't work. After seventy years of tragic
OK
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. When I hear the shrill
OK
sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear politicians
demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion and control,
I wonder: Where have these people been for the past three years?
Let me make you a promise: If Congress sends me any new
legislation to make economic regulation more intrusive, more
burdensome, more unreasonable, I'll veto it. Here's an example:
The so-called FDA enforcement bill. I'm sure those of you who
ok
sell your own private-label groceries aren't exactly thrilled by
the prospect of regulatory G-Men prowling around America's food
factories and piling on new record-keeping burdens. But that's
just what some in Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you in
?
"us
of
Section
It's or a tort helping time, reform each eachted deach of ming they
JAN-31-1992 12:24 FROM
TO
P.10
5
no uncertain terms: That bill, and coercive bills like it, are
big fat targets for my veto pen.
And if Congress sends unfunded mandates down to state and
local governments, I'll tell it to make a choice: Pay for the
mandates without raising taxes, or get ready for a veto. The
has this
been
federal government spends too much money as it is. It has no
leaved
It should no lorger
right to force state and local governments to accept new burdens.
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
policy?
my
stop demagoging and do the right thing. Remember: March 20.
not
But we also need to look beyond the J-Day agenda.
I
technically
proposed an eight-point long-term plan in my State of the Union
true.
address. I want to highlight three of those measures today.
First, let's open up and expand markets all over the world.
A revolutionary new GATT agreement will make the world trading
system come to grips with the damaging tariffs and subsidies in
agriculture. And by tearing down economic barriers with Mexico
and Canada, a new North American Free Trade Agreement will lift
us to new heights of prosperity.
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our health
care system. I've proposed a health insurance tax credit of up
to $3,750 for each low-income family. My plan also assures that
Americans will have access to basic health insurance even if they
change jobs or develop serious health problems. We can't improve
health care by jeopardizing the financial health of labor-
intensive businesses. That's why I'll oppose sign my name to
It's like Eats Congress dimer at lug and restaurant walks out
on the tab.
JAN-31-1992 12:24 FROM
TO
P.11
6
scheme, that mandates benefits an employer should pay.
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. In 1948
(?), the personal exemption was set at $---.
In 1992 dollars,
that exemption would be worth $
But over the years, we've
only increased the exemption to $----. I'm asking Congress
immediately to increase the exemption for each child by $500. We
can afford this move in the right direction.
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. I want results. My plan is sound
and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 45
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic initiatives in
53 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to. It took the House of Representatives just one day to
shut down its bank and thereby stop its little problem with
check-bouncing.
So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept no
substitutes.
with your help - we'll get America moving again soon.
Thank you. May God bless you and the United States of America.
get
mou. needs The J to you can solutionned. be can be part w, bown in The n your January Aates (Duggan/Simon) Draft 29, 5x Three act- 1992
Grocers
rah
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
weds appland these you
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
[time]
county
need
[Acknowledgments, humor]
It's a pleasure to be with you. I'll always remember the
you
Nome
warm reception the National Grocers Association gave me when I
I'm
lives
addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
country
me
on
good education about your business then, and I remember it still.
hergle
are
you
Of course, our world has changed dramatically since 1985.
We won the Cold War. We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
work
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We have created a world
Counes
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
But we've also run into hard times. Our economy has slowed
so Some
down, and we must get it fired up again. The professional
pessimists tell us America has become weak and disabled -- that
wilk
our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
will lift this country up
Well, that's just plain bunk. We get up and running in
them
no time -- and we'll do it the old-fashioned way: We'll use our
common sense, our work ethic, our determination, and we'll carry
the entire world into the Next American Century.
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
them persion
You just stick with the basics. I proposed a common-sense action
plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
can lan-do Spirt. do
investment going, because you can't build new businesses without
2
new investment. It strengthens the industries that historically
have led us into recoveries -- especially real-estate. It hacks
away obstacles to growth -- regulations, high taxes, nuisance
lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by cutting spending. And
it builds on our strengths. It lets American workers and
businesses show the world what they can do.
All over this country, families, businesses and even local
governments have grasped a simple fact: The world has changed.
The old ways won't do. If we want to remain the world's economic
dynamo, we've got to get leaner and tougher. We've got to change
with the times, and abandon old ways from the old days.
More to the point, we've got to get Washington moving toward
the 21st Century. To do that, I need your help. I've asked
Congress to enact some laws that will get our economy moving and
growing again -- and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20.
Circle that Friday on your calendar. I have. Call it J Day: The
day by which Congress needs to take a few simple steps to create
good American jobs -- now.
Here's what I want by J-Days First, incentives to invest:
an amended alternative minimum tax and a 15-percent investment
tax allowance.
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
passive-loss rules for active real-estate investors; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
$5,000 tax credit for the first purchase of that first home.
3
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, a farm, even a pension plan. None of our key
economic competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's
effective rate comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax
long-term capital gains at all. The world's fastest growing
economies let people collect their capital gains tax-free. Let's
stop penalizing excellence. Cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
Here's one you'll like: I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal
regulations that could hinder economic growth. During that
period, all departments and agencies will review regulations, old
and new -- to stop the ones that will hurt growth and speed up
those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back." No wonder: You can't get
through a day without having to worry about workplace safety
regulations, food safety regulations, environmental regulations.
Now, no one objects to the stated aims of these regulations:
Health and safety and respect for the environment are classic,
Mom-and-apple pie social values. But you know better than anyone
that when regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any
good
apple pie for Mom to buy.
9 this 8 a good
we need more feir
in
speech
cool I thrust Aop
America's with
4
ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
the
president. And I'm here to assure you: The spirit of
deregulation is back. I want you to be able to spend your time
worrying about what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you.
The greatest lesson of this century is: Government
micromanagement doesn't work. After seventy years of tragic
OK
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. When I hear the shrill
OK
sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear politicians
demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion and control,
I wonder: Where have these people been for the past three years?
Let me make you a promise: If Congress sends me any new
legislation to make economic regulation more intrusive, more
burdensome, more unreasonable, I'll veto it. Here's an example:
The so-called FDA enforcement bill. I'm sure those of you who
of
sell your own private-label groceries aren't exactly thrilled by
the prospect of regulatory G-Men prowling around America's food
factories and piling on new record-keeping burdens. But that's
just what some in Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you in
& Section It's or a tort helping time, reform And each eachtead deach wither- haws They
5
no uncertain terms: That bill, and coercive bills like it, are
big fat targets for my veto pen.
And if Congress sends unfunded mandates down to state and
local governments, I'll tell it to make a choice: Pay for the
mandates without raising taxes, or get ready for a veto. The
has this
been
federal government spends too much money as it is. It has no
cleared
It should no lorger
right to force state and local governments to accept new burdens.
policy?
my
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
stop demagoging and do the right thing. Remember: March 20.
not
But we also need to look beyond the J Day agenda.
I
technicalls
proposed an eight-point long-term plan in my State of the Union
true.
address. I want to highlight three of those measures today.
First, let's open up and expand markets all over the world.
A revolutionary new GATT agreement will make the world trading
system come to grips with the damaging tariffs and subsidies in
agriculture. And by tearing down economic barriers with Mexico
and Canada, a new North American Free Trade Agreement will lift
us to new heights of prosperity.
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our health
care system. I've proposed a health insurance tax credit of up
to $3,750 for each low-income family. My plan also assures that
Americans will have access to basic health insurance even if they
change jobs or develop serious health problems. We can't improve
health care by jeopardizing the financial health of labor-
intensive businesses. That's why I'll never OPROSE sign my name to any
It's like Eats Conguss dimer at the and restaurant. walks out
on the tab.
6
scheme that mandates benefits an employer should pay.
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. In 1948
(?), the personal exemption was set at
$---.
In 1992 dollars,
that exemption would be worth $---. But over the years, we've
only increased the exemption to
$----.
I'm asking Congress
immediately to increase the exemption for each child by $500. We
can afford this move in the right direction.
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. I want results. My plan is sound
and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 45
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic initiatives in
53 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to. It took the House of Representatives just one day to
shut down its bank and thereby stop its little problem with
check-bouncing.
So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept no
substitutes.
With your help -- we'll get America moving again soon.
Thank you. May God bless you and the United States of America.
@
@
@
@
@
@
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
2/3/92
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
SUBJECT:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
1
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
-
SKINNER
MCCLURE
1
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
CARD
BOSKIN
DELAND
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
KAUFMAN
GRAY
FINDLAY
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
toB 2-3
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
02 JAN31 P5: 42 January 31, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW TS
FROM:
JOSEPH P. DUGGAN
gpw
SUBJECT:
NATIONAL GROCERS CONVENTION
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, February 4', at 11:00 a.m., you will address
4,000 members of the National Grocers Association in
Orlando, Florida. The members are mostly family-owned
independent supermarket owners.
II. DISCUSSION
The remarks (14 minutes, on teleprompter) repeat
highlights from the State of the Union.
Regarding the opening jokes: These are inside jokes
which all the conventioneers will get. The previous night's
banquet really is called the "Asparagus Club." Also, the
finals of the grocery bagging contest occur just after your
speech. The question refers to how check-out clerks' now ask
customers what kind of bags they want: "Paper or plastic?"
(Duggan/Simon)
January 31, 1992
Draft Five
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
11:00 a.m.
Thank you, Tom [Zaucha, NGA's president]. It's a great
pleasure to be here. ((I originally had planned to be at your
dinner last night, but when I found out it was called the
"Asparagus Club Banquet,' \ I thought I better not take a
chance. That comes dangerously close to being broccoli. ))
((You all know of my love for sports, and this being an
election year, my competitive juices are flowing more than ever.
So today, I'm making an announcement that many of you have been
expecting for a long time. \ I'm officially declaring my entry
into your "Best Bagger" contest. Just one question:
paper or plastic? ))
I'll always remember the warm reception the NGA gave me when
I addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
good education about your industry then, and I remember it still.
A typical NGA member is a family-run business. \ Many of you
carry on legacies built through the vision and sacrifice of a
grandmother or grandfather, perhaps an immigrant to this country.
You work on the thinnest of profit margins. You challenge one
another with bracing competition that benefits our consumers like
no others in the world. And today as always, your success as
community grocers depends not just on the bottom line but on the
old-fashioned virtues of being a good neighbor.
2
Since I met you last in 1985, the world has changed.
We
won the Cold War. \ We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We've created a world
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
\
But we've also run into some hard times. Our economy has
slowed down, and we must get it fired up again. \ The
professional pessimists tell us America has become weak and
disabled -- that our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
\
Well, that's just plain bunk. \ Day by day and step by
step, we'll get ourselves moving and we'll do it as Americans
always have: We'll combine our common sense, our work ethic, and
our determination with pro-growth policies. With these, we'll
carry the entire world into the Next American Century.
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
You just stick with the basics. \ I proposed a common-sen'se
action plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
investment going, because you can't build new businesses"and
:
create jobs without new investment. It strengthens the"
industries that historically have led us into recoveries --
especially real-estate.
It hacks away obstacles to growth -- burdensome regulations,
high taxes, nuisance lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by
holding back spending. You and I know that government is far too
big and spends too much. How free are we, really, when the
federal government gobbles up 25 percent of our GNP? \ I'm
demanding that Congress get serious about this.
/
I've listed
3
246 wasteful programs that I want cut this year -- and I want the
line-item veto so I can enforce real spending discipline.
We've got to get Washington back to common sense. \ To do
that, I need your help -- and I know you can deliver. You know
your neighbors, and they know you. I've asked Congress to
enact some laws that will create jobs by getting our economy
growing again and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20.
Circle that Friday on your calendar. I have. Remember
this deadline. Congress needs to take a few simple steps to
create good American jobs -- now,
Here's what I want by the deadline: \ First, incentives to
make productive investments: These involve a 15-percent
investment tax allowance; needed changes to the alternative
minimum tax; and a permanent research and development tax credit.
These will encourage business to invest in equipment and become
more productive. ..
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
"
passive-loss rules for active real-estate developers; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
:
$5,000 tax credit for the purchase of that first home.
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, or a farm. None of our key economic
competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's effective rate
comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax long-term capital
gains at all. Let's stop penalizing savings and investment.
4
Let's stop punishing excellence. Lower capital gains taxes mean
more investment -- and more investment means more jobs. So let's
cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. \ I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal regulations that could
hinder economic growth. During that period, all departments and
agencies will review regulations, old and new -- to stop the ones
that will hurt growth and speed up those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back.
\
No wonder: You can't
get through a day without having to worry about what some
regulator is going to do to you through some thoughtless
"
regulation. Regulations may have stated aims as wholesome as Mom
and apple pie. \ But you know better than anyone that when
regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any apple pie
for Mom to buy.
I ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
president. And I'm here to assure you: We have not lost the
spirit of deregulation. I want you to be able to spend your
time working on what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you. I'm also
fighting hard against this epidemic of lawsuits. If we were as
good at rewarding success as we are at suing each other, we'd be
5
a century ahead of the rest of the world. America's love affair
with the lawsuit must stop.
The greatest lesson of our times is this: Government
micromanagement doesn't work. \ After seventy years of tragic
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves. 11
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. \ When I hear the
shrill sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear
politicians demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion
and control, I wonder: Where have these people been? 11
Isn't it ironic -- at the exact moment the world is turning
to our values of .more economic freedom and competition -- some in
Congress want to go the opposite way. Here's an example.of the
trouble brewing in Congress: the so-called FDA enforcement bill.
I'm sure those of you who sell your own private-label groceries
aren't exactly thrilled by the prospect of more legal and
accounting and paperwork burdens. But that's just what some in
Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you in no uncertain
terms: The time for this type of over-regulation is over. III
And from now on, if Congress passes a mandate for state and
local governments, it shouldn't pass the buck. Congress should
pay for the mandates it imposes, without heaping on new taxes. 11
6
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
just do the right thing. Congresswoman Schroeder of Colorado
said last week that maybe Congress should just pass my plan "as
it is, and put it on [my] desk." And I agree exactly. If anyone
thinks my program is controversial, let me take the heat. I know
my program will get the economy moving again.
March 20 is not a moment too soon to enact my short-term
program. But we also need to look to longer horizons. I
proposed a long-term plan in my State of the Union address. Let
me give you some highlights:
First, let's create more American jobs by opening up and
expanding markets all over the world. A new GATT agreement will
make the world trading system come to grips with the damaging
tariffs and export subsidies in agriculture. And by tearing down
economic barriers with Mexico and Canada, a new North American
Free Trade Agreement can lift us to new heights of prosperity.
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our"health
care system. This week I'll ask for a new credit to help those
without health insurance to buy such coverage. My plan will
assure that American workers will have access to basic health
insurance even if-they change jobs or develop serious health
problems. We can't improve health care by threatening the health
of job-intensive businesses. The last thing we want is for
companies to cut health costs by cutting workers. I'm
wholeheartedly opposed -- as I know you are -- to schemes that
costs jobs by mandating benefits an employer must pay.
7
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. I'm
asking Congress immediately to increase the exemption for each
child by $500. It's a significant move in the right direction -
- and for our kids' sake, we mustn't do less.
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. E want results. My plan is
sound and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 44
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic program in
52 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to. So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept
no substitutes.
Please don't leave this message behind when you leave this
convention hall. Take it home to your families. Take it home
to your customers -- to your neighbors. From February 8 till
February 17, your congressmen will be home for the President's
Day recess. That's a great time for you to go to their hometown
offices and tell them to meet the deadline and pass my plan.
With effort like this, I know we'll get their attention --
and we'll get America moving again. Thank you. May God
bless you and the United States of America.
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
2/3/92
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
SUBJECT:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
BOSKIN
CARD
DELAND
DEMAREST
KAUFMAN
FITZWATER
FINDLAY
GRAY
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE: Focus ON "Fairness" to combat
wtM US a News peg. References Assistant PHILLIPID. and Staff W to the Secretary BRADY President
Heaving Tues. Gives
Ext.
2702
the hearings.
to B 2-3
THE WHITE HOUSE
washington
92 JAN31 P5: 42 January 31, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW TS
FROM:
JOSEPH P. DUGGAN g poo
SUBJECT:
NATIONAL GROCERS CONVENTION
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, February 4, at 11:00 a.m., you will address
4,000 members of the National Grocers Association in
Orlando, Florida. The members are mostly family-owned
independent supermarket owners.
II. DISCUSSION
The remarks (14 minutes, on teleprompter) repeat
highlights from the State of the Union.
Regarding the opening jokes: These are inside jokes
which all the conventioneers will get. The previous night's
banquet really is called the "Asparagus Club." Also, the
finals of the grocery bagging contest occur just after your
speech. The question refers to how check-out clerks' now ask
customers what kind of bags they want: "Paper or plastic?"
(Duggan/Simon)
January 31, 1992
Draft Five
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
11:00 a.m.
Thank you, Tom [Zaucha, NGA's president]. It's a great
pleasure to be here. ((I originally had planned to be at your
dinner last night, but when I found out it was called the
"Asparagus Club Banquet," \ I thought I better not take a
chance. That comes dangerously close to being broccoli. ))
((You all know of my love for sports, and this being an
election year, my competitive juices are flowing more than ever.
So today, I'm making an announcement that many of you have been
expecting for a long time. \ I'm officially declaring my entry
into your "Best Bagger" contest. Just one question:
paper or plastic? ))
I'll always remember the warm reception the NGA gave me when
I addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
good education about your industry then, and I remember it still.
A typical NGA member is a family-run business. \ Many of you
carry on legacies built through the vision and sacrifice of a
grandmother or grandfather, perhaps an immigrant to this country.
You work on the thinnest of profit margins. You challenge one
another with bracing competition that benefits our consumers like
no others in the world. And today as always, your success as
community grocers depends not just on the bottom line but on the
old-fashioned virtues of being a good neighbor. 11
2
Since I met you last in 1985, the world has changed. \ We
won the Cold War. \ We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We've created a world
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
\
But we've also run into some hard times. Our economy has
slowed down, and we must get it fired up again. \ The
professional pessimists tell us America has become weak and
disabled -- that our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
\
Well, that's just plain bunk. \ Day by day and step by
step, we'll get ourselves moving -- and we'll do it as Americans
always have: We'll combine our common sense, our work ethic, and
our determination with pro-growth policies. With these, we'll
carry the entire world into the Next American Century. 11
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
You just stick with the basics. \ I proposed a common-sen'se
action plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
investment going, because you can't build new businesses"and
create jobs without new investment. It strengthens the" "
industries that historically have led us into recoveries --
"
especially real-estate.
It hacks away obstacles to growth -- burdensome regulations,
high taxes, nuisance lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by
holding back spending. You and I know that government is far too
big and spends too much. 11 How free are we, really, when the
federal government gobbles up 25 percent of our GNP? \ I'm
demanding that Congress get serious about this. \ I've listed
3
246 wasteful programs that I want cut this year -- and I want the
line-item veto so I can enforce real spending discipline.
We've got to get Washington back to common sense. \ To do
that, I need your help -- and I know you can deliver. You know
your neighbors, and they know you. I've asked Congress to
enact some laws that will create jobs by getting our economy
growing again and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20.
Circle that Friday on your calendar.
I
have.
Remember
this deadline. Congress needs to take a few simple steps to
lithary
or
create good American jobs -- now,
faves
Here's what I want by the deadline:
First, incentives to
make productive investments: These involve a 15-percent
investment tax allowance; needed changes to the alternative
minimum tax; and a permanent research and development tax credit.
These will encourage business to invest in equipment and become
more productive. ..
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
passive-loss rules for active real-estate developers; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
=
$5,000 tax credit for the purchase of that first home.
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, or a farm. None of our key economic
competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's effective rate
comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax long-term capital
gains at all. Let's stop penalizing savings and investment.
4
Let's stop punishing excellence. Lower capital gains taxes mean
more investment -- and more investment means more jobs. So let's
cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. \ I'm counting on your help. 11
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal regulations that could
hinder economic growth. During that period, all departments and
agencies will review regulations, old and new -- to stop the ones
that will hurt growth and speed up those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back."
No wonder: You can't
get through a day without having to worry about what some
regulator is going to do to you through some thoughtless
"
regulation. Regulations may have stated aims as wholesome as Mom
and apple pie. \ But you know better than anyone that when
regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any apple pie
for Mom to buy. \\
I ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
president. And I'm here to assure you: We have not lost the
spirit of deregulation. I want you to be able to spend your
time working on what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you. I'm also
fighting hard against this epidemic of lawsuits. If we were as
good at rewarding success as we are at suing each other, we'd be
5
a century ahead of the rest of the world. America's love affair
with the lawsuit must stop.
The greatest lesson of our times is this: Government
micromanagement doesn't work.
After seventy years of tragic
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. \ When I hear the
shrill sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear
politicians demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion
and control, I wonder: Where have these people been?
Isn't it ironic -- at the exact moment the world is turning
to our values of .more economic freedom and competition -- some in
Congress want to go the opposite way. Here's an example.of the
trouble brewing in Congress: the so-called FDA enforcement bill.
I'm sure those of you who sell your own private-label groceries
aren't exactly thrilled by the prospect of more legal and
accounting and paperwork burdens. But that's just what some in
Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you in no uncertain
terms: The time for this type of over-regulation is over.
And from now on, if Congress passes a mandate for state and
local governments, it shouldn't pass the buck. Congress should
pay for the mandates it imposes, without heaping on new taxes.
6
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
just do the right thing. Congresswoman Schroeder of Colorado
said last week that maybe Congress should just pass my plan "as
it is, and put it on [my] desk." And I agree exactly. If anyone
thinks my program is controversial, let me take the heat. I know
my program will get the economy moving again.
March 20 is not a moment too soon to enact my short-term
program. But we also need to look to longer horizons. I
proposed a long-term plan in my State of the Union address. Let
me give you some highlights:
First, let's create more American jobs by opening up and
expanding markets all over the world. A new GATT agreement will
make the world trading system come to grips with the damaging
tariffs and export subsidies in agriculture. And by tearing down
economic barriers with Mexico and Canada, a new North American
Free Trade Agreement can lift us to new heights of prosperity.
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our"health
care system. This week I'll ask for a new credit to help those
without health insurance to buy such coverage. My plan will
assure that American workers will have access to basic health
insurance even if-they change jobs or develop serious health
problems. We can't improve health care by threatening the health
of job-intensive businesses. The last thing we want is for
companies to cut health costs by cutting workers. I'm
wholeheartedly opposed -- as I know you are -- to schemes that
costs jobs by mandating benefits an employer must pay.
7
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. I'm
asking Congress immediately to increase the exemption for each
child by $500. It's a significant move in the right direction -
- and for our kids' sake, we mustn't do less. 11
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. \ I want results. \ My plan is
sound and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 44
days. \ Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic program in
52 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to. So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept
no substitutes.
Please don't leave this message behind when you leave this
convention hall. Take it home to your families. \\ Take it home
to your customers -- to your neighbors. From February 8 till
February 17, your congressmen will be home for the President's
Day recess. That's a great time for you to go to their hometown
offices and tell them to meet the deadline and pass my plan.
With effort like this, I know we'll get their attention -- \
and we'll get America moving again. \\\\ Thank you. May God
bless you and the United States of America.
lawyns
siction
rintion
p.3 CCT
When you freen
let. of lawness
inention
litay a fined
hearings
that fair
Darkoe
pls
due
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON
February 3, 1992
PP
MEMORANDUM FOR DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW
JOSEPH P. DUGGAN
JOHN HOWARD
JH
2816
FROM:
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
National Grocers Convention
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the President's
address to the National Grocers Association scheduled for
February 4. As the Administration will introduce the "Access to
Justice Act of 1992" on that date, we are supplying some
additional information regarding that initiative for your
consideration.
Insert on page 4:
I'm also fighting hard against this epidemic of
lawsuits. Our courts are overburdened with needless
litigation. The costs and delays in our legal system
are a hidden tax -- a lawyer's tax --on every good and
service in America. If we were as good at rewarding
success as we are at suing each other, we'd be way
ahead of the rest of the world.
That is why I am today transmitting to Congress the
"Access to Justice Act of 1992. The Act will give
Americans cheaper and easier alternatives to trial. It
will also discourage needless litigation by making
*
changes in the ways some attorneys' fees are awarded.
The bottom line is this: Americans need an increase in
justice, not an increase in legal fees.
Please let me know if you would like any additional information.
CC: Bill Kristol
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 31, 1992
92 JAN31 P5:42
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW TS
FROM:
JOSEPH P. DUGGAN
g po
SUBJECT:
NATIONAL GROCERS CONVENTION
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, February 4, at 11:00 a.m., you will address
4,000 members of the National Grocers Association in
Orlando, Florida. The members are mostly family-owned
independent supermarket owners.
II. DISCUSSION
The remarks (14 minutes, on teleprompter) repeat
highlights from the State of the Union.
Regarding the opening jokes: These are inside jokes
which all the conventioneers will get. The previous night's
banquet really is called the "Asparagus Club." Also, the
finals of the grocery bagging contest occur just after your
speech. The question refers to how check-out clerks now ask
customers what kind of bags they want: "Paper or plastic?"
Photocopy-GB Handwriting
(Duggan/Simon)
January 31, 1992
Draft Five
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
11:00 a.m.
Thank you, Tom [Zaucha, NGA's president]. It's a great
pleasure to be here. ((I originally had planned to be at your
dinner last night, but when I found out it was called the
"Asparagus Club Banquet,' \ I thought I better not take a
chance. That comes dangerously close to being broccoli. ))
((You all know of my love for sports, and this being an
election year, my competitive juices are flowing more than ever.
So today, I'm making an announcement that many of you have been
expecting for a long time. \ I'm officially declaring my entry
into your "Best Bagger" contest. Just one question:
paper or plastic? "
I'll always remember the warm reception the NGA gave me when
I addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
good education about your industry then, and I remember it still.
A typical NGA member is a family-run business. Many of you
carry on legacies built through the vision and sacrifice of a
grandmother or grandfather, perhaps an immigrant to this country.
You work on the thinnest of profit margins. You challenge one
another with bracing competition that benefits our consumers like
no others in the world. And today as always, your success as
community grocers depends not just on the bottom line but on the
old-fashioned virtues of being a good neighbor.
2
Since I met you last in 1985, the world has changed.
We
won the Cold War. We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We've created a world
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
But we've also run into some hard times. Our economy has
slowed down, and we must get it fired up again. The
professional pessimists tell us America has become weak and
disabled -- that our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
Well, that's just plain bunk. Day by day and step by
step, we'll get ourselves moving -- and we'll do it as Americans
always have: We'll combine our common sense, our work ethic, and
our determination with pro-growth policies. With these, we'll
carry the entire world into the Next American Century.
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
You just stick with the basics. \ I proposed a common-sense
action plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
investment going, because you can't build new businesses and
create jobs without new investment. It strengthens the
industries that historically have led us into recoveries --
especially real-estate.
It hacks away obstacles to growth -- burdensome regulations,
high taxes, nuisance lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by
holding back spending. You and I know that government is far too
paybel
big and spends too much. How free are we, really, when the
federal government gobbles up 25 percent of our GNP?
I'm
demanding that Congress get serious about this.
I've listed
3
246 wasteful programs that I want cut this year -- and I want the
line-item veto so I can enforce real spending discipline.
We've got to get Washington back to common sense. To do
that, I need your help -- and I know you can deliver. You know
your neighbors, and they know you. I've asked Congress to
enact some laws that will create jobs by getting our economy
set
growing again -- and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20.
Circle that Friday on your calendar. I have.
Remember
this deadline. Congress needs to take a few simple steps to
create good American jobs -- now.
Here's what I want by the deadline: \ First, incentives to
make productive investments: These involve a 15-percent
investment tax allowance; needed- changes to the alternative
minimum tax; and a permanent research and development tax credit.
These will encourage business to invest in equipment and become
more productive.
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
passive-loss rules for active real-estate developers; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
$5,000 tax credit for the purchase of that first home.
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, or a farm. None of our key economic
competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's effective rate
comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax long-term capital
gains at all. Let's stop penalizing savings and investment.
4
Let's stop punishing excellence. Lower capital gains taxes mean
more investment -- and more investment means more jobs. So let's
cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. \ I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal regulations that could
hinder economic growth. During that period, all departments and
agencies will review regulations, old and new -- to stop the ones
that will hurt growth and speed up those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back.'
\
No wonder: You can't
get through a day without having to worry about what some
regulator is going to do to you through some thoughtless
regulation. Regulations may have stated aims as wholesome as Mom
and apple pie. \ But you know better than anyone that when
regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any apple pie
for Mom to buy.
I ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
president. And I'm here to assure you: We have not lost the
spirit of deregulation. I want you to be able to spend your
time working on what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you. I'm also
fighting hard against this epidemic of lawsuits. If we were as
good at rewarding success as we are at suing each other, we'd be
Reform Pachage was.introduced into both the Suate
Yesterday Our Civil Justice
Home. It nil
we need this law works
a century ahead of the rest of the world." America's love affair
with the lawsuit must stop.
The greatest lesson of our times is this: Government
micromanagement doesn't work.
\
After seventy years of tragic
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. When I hear the
shrill sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear
politicians demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion
met Nations
and control, I wonder: Where have these people been?
Isn't it ironic -- at the exact moment the world is turning
the
to our values of more economic freedom and competition -- some in
Congress want to go the opposite way. Here's an example of the
They
trouble brewing in Congress: the so-called FDA enforcement bill.
I'm sure those of you who sell your own private-labél groceries
aren't exactly thrilled by the prospect of more legal and
accounting and paperwork burdens. But that's just what some in
puting
Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you in no uncertain
terms: The time for this type of over-pégulation is over.
And from now on, if Congress passes a mandate for state and
local governments, it shouldn't pass the buck. Congress should
pay for the mandates it imposes, without heaping on new taxes.
6
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
just do the right thing. Congresswoman Schroeder of Colorado
said last week that maybe Congress should just pass my plan "as
it is, and put it on [my] desk." And I agree exactly. If anyone
thinks my program is controversial, let me take the heat. I know
my program will get the economy moving again.
March 20 is not a moment too soon to enact my short-term
program. But we also need to look to longer horizons. I
proposed a long-term plan in my State of the Union address. Let
me give you some highlights:
First, let's create more American jobs by opening up and
expanding markets all over the world. A new GATT agreement will
make the world trading system come to grips with the damaging
tariffs and export subsidies in agriculture. And by tearing down
economic barriers with Mexico and Canada, a new North American
Free Trade Agreement can lift us to new heights of prosperity
squirity
And make no untale about A - A sould Fair
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our health
meas
move
care system. This week I'll ask for a new credit to help those
American
without health insurance to buy such coverage. My plan will
hall
and the memployed
assure that American workers will have access to basic health
john
n
1
insurance even if they change jobs or develop serious health
problems. We can't improve health care by threatening the health
of job-intensive businesses. The last thing we want is for
companies to cut health costs by cutting workers. I'm
wholeheartedly opposed -- as I know you are -- to schemes that
costs jobs by mandating benefits an employer must pay.
7
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. I'm
asking Congress immediately to increase the exemption for each
child by $500. It's a significant move in the right direction -
- and for our kids' sake, we mustn't do less.
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. I want results. My plan is
sound and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 44
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic program in
52 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to. So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept
no substitutes.
Please don't leave this message behind when you leave this
convention hall. Take it home to your families. Take it home
to your customers -- to your neighbors. From February 8 till
February 17, your congressmen will be home for the President's
Day recess. That's a great time for you to go to their hometown
offices and tell them to meet the deadline and pass my plan.
With effort like this, I know we'll get their attention --
and we'll get America moving again. Thank you. May God
bless you and the United States of America.
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON
February 3, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAVID DEMAREST
TONY SNOW
JOSEPH P. DUGGAN
FROM:
JOHN HOWARDM
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
National Grocers Convention
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the President's
address to the National Grocers Association scheduled for
February 4. As the Administration will introduce the "Access to
Justice Act of 1992" on that date, we are supplying some
additional information regarding that initiative for your
consideration.
Insert on page 4:
I'm also fighting hard against this epidemic of
lawsuits. Our courts are overburdened with needless
litigation. The costs and delays in our legal system
are a hidden tax -- a lawyer's tax --on every good and
service in America. If we were as good at rewarding
success as we are at suing each other, we'd be way
ahead of the rest of the world.
That is why I am today transmitting to Congress the
"Access to Justice Act of 1992. The Act will give
Americans cheaper and easier alternatives to trial. It
will also discourage needless litigation by making
changes in the ways some attorneys' fees are awarded.
The bottom line is this: Americans need an increase in
justice, not an increase in legal fees.
Please let me know if you would like any additional information.
CC: Bill Kristol
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON
January 31, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR PHIL BRADY AND JOE DUGGAN
FROM:
BILL KRISTOL VAND AND DAVID M. MCINTOSH Dum
SUBJECT: NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION SPEECH
We like the draft speech and strongly support retaining the
bill."
language on page 5 for the veto of the so-called "FDA enforcement
P.S. John Howard will be brunging
Over 90's on Civil
Justice Deform.
STATE GENING and OFFICE AND
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
JAN 31 1992
NOTICE:
Enclosed are comments from staff members of the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB). Such comments do not necessarily
represent the official position of the Director of OMB or of the
Office of Management and Budget. If you wish to have the
Director's personal comments, please let me know -- and contact
me if you have any questions.
If our proposed substantive changes are not made, please let
us know before the material is prepared in final.
James C. Murr
Associate Director for
Legislative Reference
and Administration
Document No. 303093ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
1/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE-COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 1/30/92 4:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
SUBJECT:
ORLANDO, FL. - TUESDAY, FEB. 4, 1992
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
BOSKIN
CARD
DELAND
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
KAUFMAN
GRAY
FINDLAY
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 4:00 p.m., THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See comments
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Duggan/Simon)
January 29, 1992
02 JAN 29 P2: 39
Draft Three
Grocers
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
[time]
[Acknowledgments, humor]
It's a pleasure to be with you. I'll always remember the
warm reception the National Grocers Association gave me when I
addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
good education about your business then, and I remember it still.
of course, our world has changed dramatically since 1985.
We won the Cold War. We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We have created a world
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
How?
But we've also run into hard times. Our economy has slowed
down, and we must get it fired up again. The professional
pessimists tell us America has become weak and disabled -- that
our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
Well, that's just plain bunk. We 11 get up and running in
no time and We'11 we'll do it the old-fashioned way: We'll use our
common sense, our work ethic, our determination, and we'll carry
the entire world into the Next American Century.
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
the current behmid 05
You just stick with the basics. I proposed a common-sense action
plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
Grady x4844 and create ibs
investment going, because you can't build new businesses without
America remains the largest producer
+
of goods langest +Genvices exparter, the with world, the with highest the stadad of living - better
We can as
The point will is of that that jet
Gods
ad helps stop the slide in the
x4844
value of people'
2
homes.
new investment. It strengthens the industries that historically
have led us into recoveries -- especially real-estate. It hacks
away obstacles to growth -- regulations, high taxes, nuisance
back
lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by cutting spending. And
Gody
x4844
it builds on our strengths. It lets American workers and
businesses show the world what they can do.
All over this country, families, businesses and even local
governments have grasped a simple fact: The world has changed.
The old ways won't do. If we want to remain the world's economic
dynamo, we've got to get leaner and tougher. We've got to change
with the times, and abandon old ways from the old days.
Nelvestin
More to the point, we've got to get Washington moving toward
the
future
the 21st Century. To do that, I need your help. I've asked
Congress to enact some laws that will get our economy moving and
growing again -- and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20.
Circle that Friday on your calendar. I have. Call it J-Day: The
day by which Congress needs to take a few simple steps to create
good American jobs -- now.
Here's what I want by J-Day. First, incentives to invest:
an amended alternative minimum tax and a 15-percent investment
tax allowance. That will encourage business to invest in equipment and more
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
become drive (6volu
x4844
passive-loss rules for active real-estate investors; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
#
$5,000 tax credit for the first purchase of that first home.
These will make if easier for young people to
The
Hall
onjoy the American dream (brody une)
X3120
Nat's graces stiffing Hf.
3
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, a farm, even a pension plan. None of our key
economic competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's
effective rate comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax
long-term capital gains at all. The world's fastest growing
economies let people collect their capital gains tax-free. Let's
stop penalizing excellence. cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
Here's one you'll like: I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal
regulations that could hinder economic growth. During that
period, all departments and agencies will review regulations, old
and new - to stop the ones that will hurt growth and speed up
those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back." No wonder: You can't get
what some regulator is going to
This
through a day without having to worry about workplace safety do to
you because
Better phrase pick & M
bit, lowely
regulations, food safety regulations, environmental regulations. of some
-workplece safety, food safety environmental consittibe thoughtless
Now, no one objects to the stated aims of regulations: regulation,
(Re resuletive progre on FIRKE is their the
Health and safety and respect for the environment are classic,
Scully
Mom-and-apple pie social values. But you know better than anyone
15178
that when regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any
apple pie for Mom to buy.
? "tory, Y
sive rent " X5778
INEM
4
I ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
president. And I'm here to assure you: The spirit of
deregulation is back. I want you to be able to spend your time
worrying about what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you.
The greatest lesson of this century is: Government
micromanagement doesn't work. After seventy years of tragic
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp.
When
I
hear
the
shrill
sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery when I hear politicians
demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion and control,
I wonder: Where have these people been for the past three years?
Let me make you a promise: If Congress sends me any new
Grade xusuy
legislation to make economic regulation more intrusive, more
$ Let me give you
burdensome, more unreasonable, I'll veto it. Here S an example
the trouble brewing in Congress:
The so-called FDA enforcement bill. I'm sure those of you who
sell your own private-label groceries aren't exactly thrilled by
the prospect of regulatory G-Men prowling around America's food
factories and piling on new record-keeping burdens. But that's
just what some in Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you be
4
Isn't it ironic of the exast moment the whole world
is competition some in congress want to tun awa from it them? newera
turning to our values of more economic freedom and move
My friends. this in 4 "the end of history it's the boging a d
freedoms
The timetor this type of over-regilation
Grader
is long-sinace passed
no uncertain terms: That bill, and coercive bills like it, are
big fat targets for my veto pen.
And if Congress sends unfunded mandates down to state and
local governments I'll tell it to make a choice: Pay for the
mandates without raising taxes, or get ready for a veto. The
Guody
federal government spends too much money as it is. It has no
XU844
right to force state and local governments to accept new burdens.
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
stop demagoging and do the right thing. Remember: March 20.
But we also need to look beyond the J-Day agenda. I
proposed an eight-point long-term plan in my State of the Union
address. I want to highlight three of those measures today.
First, let's open up and expand markets all over the world.
A revolutionary new GATT agreement will make the world trading
system come to grips with the damaging tariffs and subsidies in
agriculture. And by tearing down economic barriers with Mexico
and Canada, a new North American Free Trade Agreement will lift
us to new heights of prosperity.
(s will propose in m health plan
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our health
new
Esady
care system. I've Poposed alhealth insurance tax credit of up
X4844
to $3,750 for each low-income family. My plan also assures that
Americans will have access to basic health insurance even if they
change jobs or develop serious health problems. We can't improve
health care by jeopardizing the financial health of labor-
intensive businesses. That's why I'll never sign my name to any
Frankly when you analyze
Xusuy health the crobed play in or surance pay up by and national some schemes in beng esh, they 6 can be Make summed that up three in this words: words: massive bax tax increase increase- Carady x4842
scheme that mandates benefits an employer should pay.
in
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. In 1948
Xi), the personal exemption was set at $600. In 1992 dollars,
Al-Samarrie
ising the that exemption would be worth $ 3,425 But over the years, we've
X5873
hang e in only increased the exemption to 2,150 I'm asking Congress
-hecPI
sincether, immediately to increase the exemption for each child by $500. We
The
the exemption can
afford this move in the right direction.
personal
would be
exemption
3,425 in
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
was $2,150
of plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
last year.
Terms
1992 dollars.
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. I want results. My plan is sound
and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 45
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic initiatives in
53 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to. It took the House of Representatives just one day to
shut down its bank and thereby stop its little problem with
check-bouncing.
So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept no
substitutes.
With your help -- we'll get America moving again soon.
Thank you. May God bless you and the United States of America.
#
#
#
"[There's] a temptation to just report it [the President's
plan] as it is, put it on his desk, look at our clocks, and say,
'OK, the recovery clock is running. Let's let you have it your
way. 111
Congresswoman Pat Schroeder
Fox Morning News
January 30, 1992
I know that this industry, in particular, is concerned
about the impact of regulations on the cost of goods and
services, for you are confronted daily with a myriad a
regulations dealing with issues from work place safety to
environmental protection. And even though the stated goals of
all these regulations are laudable, you know better than anyone
that when regulators go too far, the goals themselves can be
defeated.
2
not just on the bottom line but -- crucially -- on the old-
fashioned virtues of being a good neighbor.
Since I met you last in 1985, the world has changed. We won
the Cold War. We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush Saddam
Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We have created a world with the
prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
But we've also run into some hard times. Our economy has
slowed down, and we must get it fired up again. The professional
pessimists tell us America has become weak and disabled -- that
our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
Well, that's just plain bunk. Day by day and step by step,
we'll get ourselves moving -- and we'll do it as Americans always
have: We'll combine our common sense, our work ethic, and our
determination with pro-growth policies. With these, we'll carry
the entire world into the Next American Century.
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
You just stick with the basics. I proposed a common-sense action
plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
investment going, because you can't build new businesses without
new investment. It strengthens the industries that historically
have led us into recoveries -- especially real-estate.
It hacks away obstacles to growth -- burdensome regulations,
high taxes, nuisance lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by
cutting spending. You and I know that government is far too big
and spends too much. How free are we, really, when the federal
government gobbles up 25 percent of our GNP? I'm demanding that
3
Congress get serious about this. I've listed 246 wasteful
programs that I want cut this year -- and I want the line-item
veto so I can enforce real spending discipline.
We've got to get Washington back to common sense. To do
that, I need your help -- and I know you can deliver. You know
your neighbors, and they know you.
I've asked Congress to enact some laws that will create jobs
by getting our economy growing again -- and I've given Congress a
deadline: March 20. Circle that Friday on your calendar. I
have. Remember this deadline by which Congress needs to take a
few simple steps to create good American jobs -- now.
Here's what I want by the deadline. First, incentives to
make productive investments: These involve a 15-percent
investment tax allowance; needed changes to the alternative
minimum tax; and a permanent research and development tax credit.
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
passive-loss rules for active real-estate developers; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
$5,000 tax credit for the purchase of that first home.
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, a farm, even a pension plan. None of our key
economic competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's
effective rate comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax
long-term capital gains at all. Let's stop penalizing savings
and investment. Let's stop punishing excellence. Lower capital
4
gains taxes mean more investment -- and more investment means
more jobs. So let's cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal regulations that could
hinder economic growth. During that period, all departments and
agencies will review regulations, old and new -- to stop the ones
that will hurt growth and speed up those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back. " No wonder: You can't get
through a day without having to worry about what some regulator
is going to do to you through some thoughtless regulation.
Regulations may have stated aims as wholesome as Mom and apple
pie. But you know better than anyone that when regulators carry
regulation too far, there won't be any apple pie for Mom to buy.
I ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
president. And I'm here to assure you: We have not lost the
spirit of deregulation. I want you to be able to spend your time
working on what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you.
The greatest lesson of this century is: Government
micromanagement doesn't work. After seventy years of tragic
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
5
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. When I hear the shrill
sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear politicians
demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion and control,
I wonder: Where have these people been?
Let me make you a promise: If Congress sends me any new
legislation to make economic regulation more intrusive, more
burdensome, more unreasonable, I'll veto it. Here's an example:
The so-called FDA enforcement bill. I'm sure those of you who
sell your own private-label groceries aren't exactly thrilled by
the prospect of more legal and accounting and paperwork burdens.
But that's just what some in Congress want to do. Well, let me
tell you in no uncertain terms: That bill, and coercive bills
like it, are big fat targets for my veto pen.
And if Congress sends unfunded mandates down to state and
local governments, I'll tell them to make a choice: Pay for the
mandates without raising taxes, or get ready for a veto. The
federal government spends too much money as it is. It has no
right to force state and local governments to accept new burdens.
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
stop demagoguing and do the right thing. Congresswoman Schroeder
of Colorado said last week that maybe the Congress should go
6
ahead and pass my package by the March 20 deadline. That way the
President can take the heat
And & agree exactly. If any me the my program in contraverial,
Let me tell her: I'd welcome that. I'd like nothing better
gill
tab
-- because I know my program will get the economy moving again.
the
March 20 is not a moment too soon to enact my short-term
heal
program. But we also need to look beyond the near term. I
proposed a long-term plan in my State of the Union address. Let
me give you some highlights:
First, let's create more American jobs by opening up and
expanding markets all over the world. A new GATT agreement will
make the world trading system come to grips with the damaging
tariffs and export subsidies in agriculture. And by tearing down
economic barriers with Mexico and Canada, a new North American
Free Trade Agreement can lift us to new heights of prosperity.
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our health
care system. This week I'll ask for a new credit to help those
without health insurance to buy such coverage. My plan also will
assure that American workers will have access to basic health
insurance even if they change jobs or develop serious health
problems. We can't improve health care by threatening the health
of job-intensive businesses. The last thing we want is for
companies to cut health costs by cutting workers. I'm
wholeheartedly opposed -- as I know you are -- to any scheme that
costs jobs by mandating benefits an employer should pay.
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
7
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. I'm
asking Congress immediately to increase the exemption for each
child by $500. We can afford this move in the right direction.
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. I want results. My plan is sound
and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 44
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic program in 52
days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to.
So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept no
substitutes.
Please don't leave this message behind when you leave this
convention hall. Take it home to your families. Take it home to
your customers -- to your neighbors. From February XX to
February XX, your senators and congressmen will be home for the
President's Day recess. That's a great time for you to drop by
their hometown offices for a neighborly chat.
With effort like this, I know we'll get their attention --
and well get America moving again soon. Thank you. May God
bless you and the United States of America.
#
#
#
Ron Kaufman P4:
Comments on Natl. Grocers Assn. speech:
What better place to talk about American economic recovery than
here? Grocers in every neighborhood are visited by locals who
discuss their concerns, their worries with them. As grocers, you
see, you listen, you understand -- every once in a while you
express your own opinion, and explain the world as it really is.
You know that small businesses will be the backbone of our
economic recovery.
p. 2, middle -
"
To do that, I need your help -- and you can
deliver.
yr
p. 2 - J-Day is a bad idea.
Lyes
p. 3 - bottom, Continue last sentence:
"
and she won't be able
to afford what pie is left.
2nd
p. 6 - "This government is far too big and spends too much. "
--
incorporate this somewhere; it will work well here.
you
Alos, pushing Congress to act: need strong language expressing
the need for Congress to get the President's plan passed: Get to
work
also
mention
limiter
veh.
Document No.
303093ss
JMH
HK
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
mm
DATE.
1/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE-COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 1/30/92 4:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FL. - TUESDAY, FEB. 4, 1992
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
CARD
BOSKIN
DELAND
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
KAUFMAN
GRAY
FINDLAY
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm., 122, x2930,
no later than 4:00 p.m., THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Duggan/Simon)
January 29, 1992
02 JAN29 P2: 39
Draft Three
Grocers
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
[time]
[Acknowledgments, humor]
It's a pleasure to be with you. I'll always remember the
warm reception the National Grocers Association gave me when I
addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
good education about your business then, and I remember it still.
of course, our world has changed dramatically since 1985.
We won the Cold War. We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We have created a world
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
But we've also run into hard times. Our economy has slowed
down, and we must get it fired up again. The professional
pessimists tell us America has become weak and disabled -- that
our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
Well, that's just plain bunk. We'll get up and running in
no time -- and we'll do it the old-fashioned way: We'll use our
common sense, our work ethic, our determination, and we'll carry
the entire world into the Next American Century:
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
You just stick with the basics. I proposed a common-sense action
plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
investment going, because you can't build new businesses without
2
new investment. It strengthens the industries that historically
have led us into recoveries -- especially real-estate. It hacks
away obstacles to growth -- regulations, high taxes, nuisance
lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by cutting spending. And
it builds on our strengths. It lets American workers and
businesses show the world what they can do.
All over this country, families, businesses and even local
governments have grasped a simple fact: The world has changed.
The old ways won't do. If we want to remain the world's economic
dynamo, we've got to get leaner and tougher. We've got to change
with the times, and abandon old ways from the old days.
More to the point, we've got to get Washington moving toward
the 21st Century. To do that, I need your help. I've asked
Congress to enact some laws that will get our economy moving and
growing again -- and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20.
Circle that Friday on your calendar. I have. Call it J-Day: The
day by which Congress needs to take a few simple steps to create
good American jobs -- now.
Here's what I want by J-Day. First, incentives to invest:
an amended alternative minimum tax and a 15-percent investment
tax allowance.
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
passive-loss rules for active real-estate investors; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
$5,000 tax credit for the first purchase of that first home.
3
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, a farm, even a pension plan. None of our key
economic competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's
effective rate comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax
long-term capital gains at all. The world's fastest growing
economies let people collect their capital gains tax-free. Let's
stop penalizing excellence. Cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
Here's one you'll like: I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal
regulations that could hinder economic growth. During that
period, all departments and agencies will review regulations, old
and new -- to stop the ones that will hurt growth and speed up
those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back." No wonder: You can't get
Inser
through a day without having to worry about workplace safety
regulations, food safety regulations, environmental regulations.
Now, no one objects to the stated aims of these regulations:
Health and safety and respect for the environment are classic,
Mom-and-apple pie social values. But you know better than anyone
that when regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any
apple pie for Mom to buy.
4
I ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
president. And I'm here to assure you: The spirit of
deregulation is back. I want you to be able to spend your time
worrying about what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you.
The greatest lesson of this century is: Government
micromanagement doesn't work. After seventy years of tragic
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. When I hear the shrill
sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear politicians
demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion and control,
I wonder: Where have these people been for the past three years?
Let me make you a promise: If Congress sends me any new
legislation to make economic regulation more intrusive, more
burdensome, more unreasonable, I'll veto it. Here's an example:
The so-called FDA enforcement bill. I'm sure those of you who
sell your own private-label groceries aren't exactly thrilled by
the prospect of regulatory G-Men prowling around America's food
factories and piling on new record-keeping burdens. But that's
just what some in Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you in
5
no uncertain terms: That bill, and coercive bills like it, are
big fat targets for my veto pen.
And if Congress sends unfunded mandates down to state and
local governments, I'll tell it to make a choice: Pay for the
mandates without raising taxes, or get ready for a veto. The
federal government spends too much money as it is. It has no
right to force state and local governments to accept new burdens.
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
stop demagoging and do the right thing. Remember: March 20.
But we also need to look beyond the J-Day agenda.
I
proposed an eight-point long-term plan in my State of the Union
address. I want to highlight three of those measures today.
First, let's open up and expand markets all over the world.
A revolutionary new GATT agreement will make the world trading
system come to grips with the damaging tariffs and subsidies in
agriculture. And by tearing down economic barriers with Mexico
and Canada, a new North American Free Trade Agreement will lift
us to new heights of prosperity.
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our health
care system. I've proposed a health insurance tax credit of up
to $3,750 for each low-income family. My plan also assures that
Americans will have access to basic health insurance even if they
change jobs or develop serious health problems. We can't improve
health care by jeopardizing the financial health of labor-
intensive businesses. That's why I'll never sign my name to any
6
scheme that mandates benefits an employer should pay.
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. In 1948
(?), the personal exemption was set at $---.
In 1992 dollars,
that exemption would be worth $---. But over the years, we've
only increased the exemption to $----.
I'm asking Congress
immediately to increase the exemption for each child by $500. We
can afford this move in the right direction.
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. I want results. My plan is sound
and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 45
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic initiatives in
53 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to. It took the House of Representatives just one day to
shut down its bank and thereby stop its little problem with
check-bouncing.
So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept no
substitutes.
With your help -- we'll get America moving again soon.
Thank you. May God bless you and the United States of America.
#
#
#
(Duggan/Simon)
January 29, 1992
02 JAN29 P2: 39
Draft Three
Grocers
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
[time]
[Acknowledgments, humor]
It's a pleasure to be with you. I'll always remember the
warm reception the National Grocers Association gave me when I
addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
good education about your business then, and I remember it still.
of course, our world has changed dramatically since 1985.
Mentin
We won the Cold War. We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
line
stem
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We have created a world
veto
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
Somewher
But we've also run into hard times. Our economy has slowed
-
down, and we must get it fired up again. The professional
pessimists tell us America has become weak and disabled -- that
our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
Well, that's just plain bunk. We'll get up and running in
American
inch
by
no time -- and we'll do it the old fashioned way: We'll use our
inch
NEW policies
common sense, our work ethic, our determination, and we'll carry
the entire world into the Next American Century.
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
You just stick with the basics. I proposed a common-sense action
plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
investment going, because you can't build new businesses without
2
new investment. It strengthens the industries that historically
have led us into recoveries -- especially real-estate. It hacks
away obstacles to growth -- regulations, high taxes, nuisance
lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by cutting spending. And
it builds on our strengths. It lets American workers and
businesses show the world what they can do.
All over this country, families, businesses and even local
governments have grasped a simple fact: The world has changed.
The old ways won't do. If we want to remain the world's economic
dynamo, we've got to get leaner and tougher. We've got to change
with the times, and abandon old ways from the old days.
More to the point, we've got to get Washington moving toward
the 21st Century. To do that, I need your help. I've asked
Congress to enact some laws that will get our economy moving and
growing again -- and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20.
Circle that Friday on your calendar. I have. Call it [J Day]: The
day by which Congress needs to take a few simple steps to create
good American jobs -- now.
Here's what I want by Day First, incentives to invest:
an amended alternative minimum tax and a 15-percent investment
tax allowance.
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
passive-loss rules for active real-estate investors; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
$5,000 tax credit for the first purchase of that first home.
3
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, a farm, even a pension plan. None of our key
economic competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's
effective rate comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax
long-term capital gains at all. The world's fastest growing
economies let people collect their capital gains tax-free. Let's
stop penalizing excellence. Cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
Here's one you'll like: I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal
regulations that could hinder economic growth. During that
period, all departments and agencies will review regulations, old
and new -- to stop the ones that will hurt growth and speed up
those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back." No wonder: You can't get
through a day without having to worry about workplace safety
regulations, food safety regulations, environmental regulations.
Regulation may have Stared aim as whilesome as Mon and apple pie
Now, no one objects to the stated aims of these regulations:
Health and safety and respect for the environment are classic,
Mom-and-apple pie social values. But you know better than anyone
that when regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any
apple pie for Mom to buy.
4
I ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
president. And I'm here to assure you: The spirit of
deregulation is back
I want you to be able to spend your time
worrying about what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you.
The greatest lesson of this century is: Government
micromanagement doesn't work. After seventy years of tragic
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. When I hear the shrill
sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear politicians
demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion and control,
I wonder: Where have these people been for the past three years?
Let me make you a promise: If Congress sends me any new
legislation to make economic regulation more intrusive, more
burdensome, more unreasonable, I'll veto it. Here's an example:
The so-called FDA enforcement bill. I'm sure those of you who
sell your own private-label groceries aren't exactly thrilled by
the prospect of regulatory G-Men prowling around America's food
factories and piling on new record-keeping burdens. But that's
just what some in Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you in
5
no uncertain terms: That bill, and coercive bills like it, are
big fat targets for my veto pen.
And if Congress sends unfunded mandates down to state and
local governments, I'll tell it to make a choice: Pay for the
mandates without raising taxes, or get ready for a veto. The
federal government spends too much money as it is. It has no
right to force state and local governments to accept new burdens.
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
stop demagoging and do the right thing. Remember: March 20.
But we also need to look beyond the [J-Day] agenda. I
proposed an eight-point long-term plan in my State of the Union
address. I want to highlight three of those measures today.
First, let's open up and expand markets all over the world.
A revolutionary new GATT agreement will make the world trading
system come to grips with the damaging tariffs and subsidies in
agriculture. And by tearing down economic barriers with Mexico
can
and Canada, a new North American Free Trade Agreement will lift
us to new heights of prosperity
if
-
if
if
Cong unshaches on economy
doesne
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our health
put
Lew
care system. I've proposed a health insurance tax credit of up
in
to $3,750 for each low-income family. My plan also assures that
Americans will have access to basic health insurance even if they
change jobs or develop serious health problems. We can't improve
health care by jeopardizing the financial health of labor-
intensive businesses. That's why I'll never sign my name to any
6
scheme that mandates benefits an employer should pay.
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. In 1948
(?), the personal exemption was set at $---.
In 1992 dollars,
that exemption would be worth $---. But over the years, we've
only increased the exemption to
$----.
I'm asking Congress
immediately to increase the exemption for each child by $500. We
can afford this move in the right direction.
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. I want results. My plan is sound
and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 45
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic initiatives in
53 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to. It took the House of Representatives just one day to
shut down its bank and thereby stop its little problem with
check-bouncing.
So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept no
substitutes.
With your help -- we'll get America moving again soon.
Thank you. May God bless you and the United States of America.
#
#
#
4-hours on HS Network on Wed.
Get preg. list -
National Grocers
Simon
Thank you Tom [Zaucha]. It's a great pleasure to be here
today. ((I had originally planned to be at your dinner last
night, but when I found out it was called the "Asparagus Club
Insert
Banquet, " \ I thought I better not take a chance. That comes
dangerously close to being broccoli. \\\))
&
((You all know of my love for sports, and this being an
election year, my competitive juices are flowing more than ever.
So today, I'm making an announcement that many of you have been
expecting for a long time. \ I'm officially declaring my entry
\\ into your "Best Bagger" contest. \\\\\ Just one question:
paper or plastic? \\\))
MASTER
Steve Hart - Page 6- Joo early to be this caustic
will need bepartisen support to pass yr
the Econ. Growth tackage -And
Dorrance Smith
- Should play more on mom b pop America.
People who shop ask their Stores what will
it mean for them.
- Less talk about programs- more how it impacts on me.
Document No. 303093ss
HANNS
WHITE HOUSE P5:14 STAFFING MEMORANDUM
14
DATE.
1/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE-COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 1/30/92 4:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FL. - TUESDAY, FEB. 4, 1992
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
-
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT
PETERSMEYER
DARMAN
PORTER
BRADY
ROGICH
BROMLEY
SMITH
CARD
BOSKIN
DELAND
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
KAUFMAN
GRAY
FINDLAY
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm., 122, x2930,
no later than 4:00 p.m., THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
thre
see command 6,
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Duggan/Simon)
January 29, 1992
02 JAN29 P2: 39
Draft Three
Grocers
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
[time]
[Acknowledgments, humor] - see insert A
It's a pleasure to be with you. I'll always remember the
warm reception the National Grocers Association gave me when I
addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
good education about your business then, and I remember it still.
of course, our world has changed dramatically since 1985.
We won the Cold War. We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We have created a world
nedural
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
temporary (TReasury)
and
to
But we've also run into hard times. Our economy has slowed
squishy
down, and we must get it fired up again. The professional
pessimists tell us America has become weak and disabled -- that
our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
(Beach)
again
Well, that's just plain bunk. We'll get up and running in
no time -- and we'll do it the old-fashioned way: We'll use our
common sense, our work ethic, our determination, and we'll carry
the entire world into the Next American Century:
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
we
You just stick with the basics. I proposed a common-sense action
weaves jobs by
plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets getting (OCA)
investment going, because you can't build new businesses without
2
new investment. It strengthens the industries that historically
have led us into recoveries -- especially real-estate. It hacks
(Treas
unnecessary/ burdensome
away obstacles to growth -Aregulations, high taxes, nuisance
lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by cutting spending. And
it builds on our strengths. It lets American workers and
businesses show the world what they can do.
All over this country, families, businesses and even local
governments have grasped a simple fact: The world has changed.
The old ways won't do. If we want to remain the world's economic
dynamo, we've got to get leaner and tougher. We've got to change
with the times, and abandon old ways from the old days.
More to the point, we've got to get Washington moving toward you
and you can delivec (kaufman)
the 21st Century. To do that, I need your help. I've asked
create jobs by getting (OCA)
Congress to enact some laws that will get our economy moving and
growing again -- and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20
Circle that Friday on your calendar. I have. Call it J-Day: The
day by which Congress needs to take a few simple steps to create
good American jobs -- now.
make produ ctive
Here's what I want by J-Day. First, incentives ton invest ments:
needed changes to the
an amended alternative minimum tax and a 15-percent investment
tax allowance, and o permanetht research and development tox credit.
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
developers LOCA)
passive-loss rules for active real-estate investors; penalty
rup
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
$5,000 tax credit for the first purchase of that first home.
J-day is d bad idea - Kaufman
Important: big difference
not available to "investors"
Expand (D.Smith) on jobs aspect and 60% who will be
Jhelped by cuts-
3
ugr,
(SteveHert)
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
Lower Cap tains means
more investment- more
investment means more
home, a business, a farm, even a pension plan
None
of
our
key
Jobs.
economic competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's
effective rate comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax
long-term capital gains at all. The world's fastest growing
economies let people collect their capital gains tax-free. Let's
stop penalizing excellence. Cut the capital gains tax -- now.
yer (Treasury) savings and investment.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
no
(DCA)
Here's one you'll like: I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal
regulations that could hinder economic growth. During that
period, all departments and agencies will review regulations, old
and new -- to stop the ones that will hurt growth and speed up
those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop yr
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back." No wonder: You can't get (OCA)
the G-men picking apart your
through a day without having to worry about workplace safetya business
(odp)
regulations, food safety regulations, environmental regulations.
Now, no one objects to the stated aims of these. regulations:
(OCA) they often represent
Health and safety and respect for the environment are classic,
Mom-and-apple pie social values. But you know better than anyone
that when regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any
and shewon't be able to afford what pie is left.
apple pie for Mom to buy.\
(kaufman)
no
(steve Hart) Viga
4
webave not lost the
no
I ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice (Treasury)
1
of my continue commitment to prudent
president. And (Hart) I'm here to assure you! The spirit of progress
deregulation is back. I want you to be able to spend your time
worrying about what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you.
The greatest lesson of this century is: Government
micromanagement doesn't work. After seventy years of tragic
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
3/
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
hadif
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
The
Where have they been for the past 300 years!(oCA)
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. When I hear the shrill
sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear politicians
demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion and control,
I wonder: Where have these people been for the past three years?
other too
Let me make you a promise: If Congress sends me any new
unreasonable
whichcosts jobs by making(OCA)
legislation to make economic regulation more intrusive, more
and
burdensome more unreasonable, I'll veto it. Here's an example:
The so-called FDA enforcement bill. I'm sure those of you who
sell your own private-label groceries aren't exactly thrilled by
simon
the prospect of regulatory G-Men prowling around America's food
factories and piling on new record-keeping burdens. But that's
just what some in Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you in
5
no uncertain terms: That bill, and coercive bills like it, are
big fat targets for my veto pen.
And if Congress sends unfunded mandates down to state and
them (OCA)
local governments, I'll tell it to make a choice: Pay for the
mandates without raising taxes, or get ready for a veto. The
federal government spends too much money as it is. It has no
right to force state and local governments to accept new burdens.
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
stop demagoging and do the right thing. Remember: March 20.
But we also need to look beyond the J-Day agenda.
I
nine (simon)
proposed an eight-point long-term plan in my State of the Union
Let me give you some nighlights: (D2)
address. I want to highlight three of those measures today e
create American jobs by opening (OCA)
First, let's /open up and expand markets all over the world.
ing
A revolutionary new GATT agreement will make the world trading
export(OCA) export (OCA)
system come to grips with the damaging tariffs and subsidies in
agriculture. And by tearing down economic barriers with Mexico
and Canada, a new North American Free Trade Agreement will lift
us to new heights of prosperity. It will create new American jobs. (simon)
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our health
care system. soon I've proposed a health insurance tax credit of up
will
to help those
without health
pay
insurance
to $3,750 for each low income family. My plan also assures that
wolkers
buy 17.
Americans will have access to basic health insurance even if they
change jobs or develop serious health problems. We can't improve
jobs of low wage workers
health care by jeopardizing the financial health of labor
intensive businesses. e That's why I'll never sign my name to any
make (D2) this
win't be propried nutit 2/6,
real ) - never
after this
say never
don't depersonalize Congress make individuals responsible
Alliwin ashns Cosy
to 10
parthe
Same program
if has
for week.
* Incorporate: This government is far toobig and spends too much.
(Should work well on page - Kaufman)
means job Loss for those who are just getting by.]
mandated benefit
6
costs jobs by mandating the(OCA)
^ scheme that mandates benefits an employer should pay.
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. In 1948
Raises!
w/
(?) the personal exemption was set at $---. 600 In 1992 dollars,
(Simon)
Simon
3,400
that exemption would be worth $---. But over the years, we ve
(Simon)
the
only increased the exemption to $2,000 I'm asking Congress
question
immediately to increase the exemption for each child by $500. We
why
can afford this move in the right direction.
are youso
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
Skimpy
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
why
spending for spending's sake. I want results. My plan is sound
and it will work.
yea
you
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
44 (simon)
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in -45-
ital run
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic initiatives in
52or53? (Treasury)
53 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
52(Simon)
yr
the
wants to. It took the House of Representatives just one day to
Steve
shut down its bank and thereby stop its little problem with
Hart
was great
Land
check bouncing.
So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept no
to'48
substitutes.
With your help -- we'll get America moving again soon.
value?
Thank you. May God bless you and the United States of America.
AUOID This formulation
#
#
Document No. 303093ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE.
1/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 1/30/92 4:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FL. - TUESDAY, FEB. 4, 1992
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
-
-
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
-
SKINNER
MCCLURE
SCOWCROFT N/L
1
PETERSMEYER
1
DARMAN
PORTER
-
BRADY
ROGICH N/C
-
BROMLEY
SMITH
BOSKIN N/C
CARD
DEMAREST
DELAND N/C
FITZWATER
KAUFMAN
FINDLAY
GRAY Holmstead 1953
SNOW
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 4:00 p.m., THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Duggan/Simon)
January 29, 1992
Draft Three
Grocers
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
NATIONAL GROCERS ASSOCIATION
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 1992
[time]
[Acknowledgments, humor]
It's a pleasure to be with you. I'll always remember the
warm reception the National Grocers Association gave me when I
addressed your 1985 convention in New Orleans. You gave me a
good education about your business then, and I remember it still.
of course, our world has changed dramatically since 1985.
We won the Cold War. We led a coalition in the Gulf to crush
Saddam Hussein's aggression in Kuwait. We have created a world
with the prospects of unprecedented prosperity and peace.
But we've also run into hard times. Our economy has slowed
down, and we must get it fired up again. The professional
pessimists tell us America has become weak and disabled -- that
our economy has fallen and it can't get up.
Well, that's just plain bunk. We'll get up and running in
no time --- and we'll do it the old-fashioned way: We'll use our
common sense, our work ethic, our determination, and we'll carry
the entire world into the Next American Century.
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand how.
You just stick with the basics. I proposed a common-sense action
plan last week in my State of the Union address. It gets
investment going, because you can't build new businesses without
2
new investment. It strengthens the industries that historically
have led us into recoveries -- especially real-estate. It hacks
away obstacles to growth -- regulations, high taxes, nuisance
lawsuits. It cuts the federal deficit by cutting spending. And
it builds on our strengths. It lets American workers and
businesses show the world what they can do.
All over this country, families, businesses and even local
governments have grasped a simple fact: The world has changed.
The old ways won't do. If we want to remain the world's economic
dynamo, we've got to get leaner and tougher. We've got to change
with the times, and abandon old ways from the old days.
More to the point, we've got to get Washington moving toward
the 21st Century. To do that, I need your help. I've asked
Congress to enact some laws that will get our economy moving and
growing again -- and I've given Congress a deadline: March 20.
Circle that Friday on your calendar. I have. Call it J-Day: The
day by which Congress should have taken a few simple steps to
create good American jobs -- now.
Here's what I want by J-Day: First, incentives to invest: an
amended alternative minimum tax and a 15-percent investment tax
allowance.
Second, incentives to build and buy real-estate: A change in
passive-loss rules for active real-estate investors; penalty-
free withdrawals from IRAs for first-time homebuyers, and a
$5,000 tax credit for the first purchase of that first home.
3
Third, incentives to succeed: Cut the capital gains tax.
This tax hurts anyone who has made a sensible investment -- in a
home, a business, a farm, even a pension plan. None of our key
economic competitors taxes gains at high rates -- Japan's
effective rate comes to about 1 percent; Germany doesn't tax
long-term capital gains at all. The world's fastest growing
economies let people collect their capital gains tax-free. Let's
stop penalizing excellence. Cut the capital gains tax -- now.
Three measures, three pieces of common sense; three things
Congress should do by March 20. I'm counting on your help.
In the meantime, I've initiated some reforms that will get
the economy moving -- without having to wait for Congress to act.
Here's one you'll like: I've imposed a 90-day freeze on federal
regulations that could hinder economic growth. During that
period, all departments and agencies will review regulations, old
and new -- to stop the ones that will hurt growth and speed up
those that will help growth.
I see from your convention schedule that you have a workshop
entitled: "The Regulators Are Back." No wonder: You can't get
through a day without having to worry about workplace safety
regulations, food safety regulations, environmental regulations.
No one objects to the stated aims of these regulations: Health
and safety and respect for the environment are classic, Mom-and-
apple pie social values. But you know better than anyone that
when regulators carry regulation too far, there won't be any
apple pie for Mom to buy.
4
I ran a council on deregulation for eight years, as vice
president. And I'm here to assure you: The spirit of
deregulation is back. I want you to be able to spend your time
worrying about what you can do for your customers -- rather than
fretting about what some regulator might do to you.
The greatest lesson of this century is: Government
micromanagement doesn't work. After seventy years of tragic
failure, the leaders in Moscow finally recognize that total
government regulation produces only one thing: total failure.
Now, Russians want to try something different -- like grocery
stores with groceries on the shelves.
I find it a bitter irony that some in Congress still favor
government coercion and control over freedom and competition.
It's as though we'd entered a time warp. When I hear the shrill
sounds of "soak the rich" demagoguery -- when I hear politicians
demand more taxes, regulations, government coercion and control,
I wonder: Where have these people been for the past three years?
Let me make you a promise: If Congress sends me any new
legislation to make economic regulation more intrusive, more
burdensome, more unreasonable, I'll veto it. Here's an example:
The so-called FDA enforcement bill. I'm sure those of you who
sell your own private-label groceries aren't exáctly thrilled by
the prospect of regulatory G-Men prowling around America's food
factories and piling on new record-keeping burdens. But that's
just what some in Congress want to do. Well, let me tell you in
5
no uncertain terms: That bill, and coercive bills like it, are
big fat targets for my veto pen.
And if Congress sends unfunded mandates down to state and
local governments, I'll tell it to make a choice: Pay for the
mandates without raising taxes, or get ready for a veto. The
federal government spends too much money as it is: It has no
right to force state and local governments to accept new burdens.
Again, Congress can help get the economy moving if it will
stop demagoging and do the right thing. Remember: March 20.
But we also need to look beyond the J-Day agenda.
I
proposed an eight-point long-term plan in my State of the Union
address. I want to highlight three of those measures today.
First, let's open up and expand markets all over the world.
A revolutionary new GATT agreement will make the world trading
system come to grips with the damaging tariffs and subsidies in
agriculture. And by tearing down economic barriers with Mexico
and Canada, a new North American Free Trade Agreement will lift
us to new heights of prosperity.
Second, let free choice and free markets reform our health
care system. I've proposed a health insurance tax credit of up
to $3,750 for each low-income family. My plan also assures that
Americans will have access to basic health insurance even if they
change jobs or develop serious health problems. We can't improve
health care by jeopardizing the financial health problems of
labor-intensive businesses. That's why I'll never sign my name
to any scheme that mandates benefits an employer should pay.
6
Third, let's strengthen the family -- the cornerstone of the
American dream. Let's ease the burden of child-rearing. The
personal tax exemption has not kept up with inflation. In 1948
(?), the personal exemption was set at $---.
In 1992 dollars,
that exemption would be worth $---. But over the years, we've
only increased the exemption to
$----.
I'm asking Congress
immediately to increase the exemption for each child by $500. We
can afford this move in the right direction.
Look at my economic proposals and you will find simple,
plain solutions to our problems. Some may complain that they
lack the flash of an expensive new program. But I'm not seeking
spending for spending's sake. I want results. My plan is sound
and it will work.
If you hear people in Congress gripe that they can't get the
job done by March 20, remind them: We won the Gulf War in 45
days. Surely Congress can pass my urgent domestic initiatives in
53 days. Remember, Congress can act with lightning speed when it
wants to. It took the House of Representatives just one day to
shut down its bank and thereby stop its little problem with
check-bouncing.
So: Accept no excuses. Accept no delays. And accept no
substitutes.
With your help -- we'll get America moving again soon.
Thank you. May God bless you and the United States of America.
#
#
#