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Law Day (cancelled) 5/1/92 [OA 6101]
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323151994
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Law Day (cancelled) 5/1/92 [OA 6101]
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13620-001
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
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S
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This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
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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Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13620
Folder ID Number:
13620-001
Folder Title:
Law Day (cancelled) 5/1/92 [OA 6101]
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26
18
1
7
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
---
4/30/92
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
SUBJECT:
FRIDAY, MAY 1 - 2:30 p.m.
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
FINDLAY
GRAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
CLERK
MCGROARTY
REMARKS:
RESPONSE:
CANCELLED
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 30, 1992
02 APR 30 P12: 29
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
M
THOUGH:
DAVE DEMAREST
FROM:
ANDY FERGUSON :2
SUBJECT:
LAW DAY
On Friday, May 1st, at 2:30 p.m. you will deliver brief
remarks (4 minutes/cards) in the Roosevelt Room, commemorating
Law Day. Your remarks talk about the relationship between law
and liberty, and stress the need to reform our legal system.
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
2:30 PM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this afternoon.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other, with the goal of
establishing justice for all.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must be
fair.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system is too easily manipulated into an
instrument of malice rather than justice. Over the last
generation, perverse incentives have made the lawsuit the first
and last resort in resolving disputes. The result is a
2
"litigation explosion" that not only damages our economic
competitiveness and costs us jobs, but, just as important, erodes
civility and our social fabric.
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." From California to the
Carolinas, this sentiment never fails to strike a chord with the
people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day. I
again call on Congress to pass the Access to Justice Act, as well
as our product liability reform. The American people want and
deserve a civil justice system based on fairness,
proportionality, timeliness, and an ethic of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 30, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
M
THOUGH:
DAVE DEMAREST
FROM:
ANDY FERGUSON of
SUBJECT:
LAW DAY
On Friday, May 1st, at 2:30 p.m. you will deliver brief
remarks (4 minutes/cards) in the Roosevelt Room, commemorating
Law Day. Your remarks talk about the relationship between law
and liberty, and stress the need to reform our legal system.
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
2:30 PM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this afternoon.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other, with the goal of
establishing justice for all.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must be
fair.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system is too easily manipulated into an
instrument of malice rather than justice. Over the last
generation, perverse incentives have made the lawsuit the first
and last resort in resolving disputes. The result is a
2
"litigation explosion" that not only damages our economic
competitiveness and costs us jobs, but, just as important, erodes
civility and our social fabric.
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." From California to the
Carolinas, this sentiment never fails to strike a chord with the
people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day. I
again call on Congress to pass the Access to Justice Act, as well
as our product liability reform. The American people want and
deserve a civil justice system based on fairness,
proportionality, timeliness, and an ethic of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 30, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
M
THOUGH:
DAVE DEMAREST
FROM:
ANDY FERGUSON G7
SUBJECT:
LAW DAY
On Friday, May 1st, at 2:30 p.m. you will deliver brief
remarks (4 minutes/cards) in the Roosevelt Room, commemorating
Law Day. Your remarks talk about the relationship between law
and liberty, and stress the need to reform our legal system.
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
2:30 PM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this afternoon.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other, with the goal of
establishing justice for all.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must be
fair.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system is too easily manipulated into an
instrument of malice rather than justice. Over the last
generation, perverse incentives have made the lawsuit the first
and last resort in resolving disputes. The result is a
2
"litigation explosion" that not only damages our economic
competitiveness and costs us jobs, but, just as important, erodes
civility and our social fabric.
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." From California to the
Carolinas, this sentiment never fails to strike a chord with the
people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day. I
again call on Congress to pass the Access to Justice Act, as well
as our product liability reform. The American people want and
deserve a civil justice system based on fairness,
proportionality, timeliness, and an ethic of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
#
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TODAY, ASAP!!!
REVISED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
SUBJECT:
ROOSEVELT ROOM - 5/1/92 - 2:30pm
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
1
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
>
PORTER
>
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
>
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
NK
>
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
>
GRAY Lieberman 6257
FINDLAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
CLERK
MCGROARTY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122,
x2930, AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, with a copy to this office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Ferguson/Grossman)
May 1, 1992
Draft Three
LAW
02 MAY I
AID : 00
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
2:30 PM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this afternoon.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other, with the goal of
establishing justice for all.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must be
fair.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is confused, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system is too easily manipulated into an
instrument of malice rather than justice. Over the last
generation, perverse incentives have made the lawsuit the first
and last resort in resolving disputes. The result is a
2
"litigation explosion" that not only damages our economic
competitiveness and costs us jobs, but, just as important, erodes
civility and our social fabric.
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." From Colorado to the Carolinas,
this sentiment never fails to strike a chord with the people I
speak to.
That should tell us something important on this Law Day. I
again call on Congress to pass the Access to Justice Act, as well
as our product liability reform. The American people want and
deserve a civil justice system based on fairness,
proportionality, timeliness, and an ethic of personal
responsibility. We must restore these principles to our system
of civil justice.
Over the past 48 hours, the rule of law has been challenged
in the most profound way. A verdict, reached by a jury duly
appointed for the task, has been viewed by a large number of
Americans as indefensible -- not a consummation of justice but a
miscarriage of it. Those frustrated and angered by this outcome
must understand: our system of law provides the peaceful, orderly
3
means of resolving your concern. Yesterday, I instructed the
Attorney General to accelerate the federal government's
investigation of this case, to see the matter through as the law
demands.
At the same time, let us resist the easy temptation to
rationalize the horror we have seen on the streets of Los
Angeles. There is a difference between frustration with the law
and direct assaults upon it. In a civilized society, there can
be no excuse -- no excuse -- for the murder, arson, theft, and
vandalism that have terrorized the law-abiding citizens of Los
Angeles. The wanton destruction of life and property is not a
legitimate expression of outrage with injustice; it is itself
injustice. It is barbarism. And no rationalization, no matter
how heart-felt and eloquent, can make it otherwise.
Our sympathies must rest with all victims of lawlessness:
the men and women who have seen their livelihoods destroyed,
their homes burned to the ground, and in too many horrifying
cases, the lives of loved ones brutally taken from them. And let
us honor the citizen-heroes of Los Angeles, who bravely stood
against the mob to save the lives and property of friends and
strangers alike.
The rule of law, the belief in freedom under the law, is the
most precious legacy that Americans possess, for it is our only
means of preserving fairness and equality and justice. We are
called to defend it in troubling and tragic times. Now is such a
time. On this Law Day 1992, I urge all Americans to recommit
4
themselves to the rule of law, so that from the ashes of this
tragedy may arise a new faith in our country, and in our heritage
as Americans.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
# # # #
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 4/30/92 10:00ar
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
SUBJECT:
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 1992 - ROOSEVELT ROOM
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
MCGROARTY
CLERK
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 a.m., THURSDAY, 4/30
with a copy to this office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
N/C
SC J
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
02 APR 29 P12: 24
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
XX:X0 AM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this morning.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other. Personal liberty
could endure only if it was protected by the rule of law, and the
rule of law would continue only so long as it respected personal
liberty.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must
never be manipulated for purely private gain.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system too often becomes an instrument of malice
rather than justice. Over the last generation, it has been
2
crippled by perverse incentives that make a lawsuit preferable to
other, less rancorous means of resolving disputes. The result is
the "litigation explosion."
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." This sentiment never fails to
strike a chord with the people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day, [and
in the coming weeks I will speak on the issue in greater detail].
The American people want and deserve a civil justice system based
on fairness, proportionality, timeliness, and a sense of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
#
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TODAY, ASAP!!!
REVISED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
SUBJECT:
ROOSEVELT ROOM 5/1/92 2:30 pm
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
1
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
>
PORTER
P
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
>
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
FITZWATER
>
YEUTTER
FINDLAY
GRAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
CLERK
\
MCGROARTY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122,
x2930, AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, with a copy to this office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
ok Mana Sheel
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Ferguson/Grossman)
May 1, 1992
Draft Three
LAW
02 MAY I
AID : 00
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
2:30 PM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this afternoon.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other, with the goal of
establishing justice for all.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must be
fair.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is confused, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system is too easily manipulated into an
instrument of malice rather than justice. Over the last
generation, perverse incentives have made the lawsuit the first
and last resort in resolving disputes. The result is a
2
"litigation explosion" that not only damages our economic
competitiveness and costs us jobs, but, just as important, erodes
civility and our social fabric.
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." From Colorado to the Carolinas,
this sentiment never fails to strike a chord with the people I
speak to.
That should tell us something important on this Law Day. I
again call on Congress to pass the Access to Justice Act, as well
as our product liability reform. The American people want and
deserve a civil justice system based on fairness,
proportionality, timeliness, and an ethic of personal
responsibility. We must restore these principles to our system
of civil justice.
Over the past 48 hours, the rule of law has been challenged
in the most profound way. A verdict, reached by a jury duly
appointed for the task, has been viewed by a large number of
Americans as indefensible -- not a consummation of justice but a
miscarriage of it. Those frustrated and angered by this outcome
must understand: our system of law provides the peaceful, orderly
3
means of resolving your concern. Yesterday, I instructed the
Attorney General to accelerate the federal government's
investigation of this case, to see the matter through as the law
demands.
At the same time, let us resist the easy temptation to
rationalize the horror we have seen on the streets of Los
Angeles. There is a difference between frustration with the law
and direct assaults upon it. In a civilized society, there can
be no excuse -- no excuse -- for the murder, arson, theft, and
vandalism that have terrorized the law-abiding citizens of Los
Angeles. The wanton destruction of life and property is not a
legitimate expression of outrage with injustice; it is itself
injustice. It is barbarism. And no rationalization, no matter
how heart-felt and eloquent, can make it otherwise.
Our sympathies must rest with all victims of lawlessness:
the men and women who have seen their livelihoods destroyed,
their homes burned to the ground, and in too many horrifying
cases, the lives of loved ones brutally taken from them. And let
us honor the citizen-heroes of Los Angeles, who bravely stood
against the mob to save the lives and property of friends and
strangers alike.
The rule of law, the belief in freedom under the law, is the
most precious legacy that Americans possess, for it is our only
means of preserving fairness and equality and justice. We are
called to defend it in troubling and tragic times. Now is such a
time. On this Law Day 1992, I urge all Americans to recommit
4
themselves to the rule of law, so that from the ashes of this
tragedy may arise a new faith in our country, and in our heritage
as Americans.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
# # # #
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 1-92 ; 9:41AM ;
The White House->
OPD;# 1
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
5/1/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TODAY, ASAPI!!
REVISED PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
SUBJECT:
ROOSEVELT ROOM - 5/1/92
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
CLERK
MCGROARTY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty, Rm. 122,
x2930, AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, with a copy to this office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
See comments from Justice. Thanks.
Pail Forcorta
05/01
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 1-92 ; 9:41AM ;
The White House->
OPD;# 2
(Ferguson/Grossman)
May 1, 1992
Draft Three
LAW
02 MAY I AID : 00
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
2:30 PM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this afternoon.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other, with the goal of
establishing justice for all.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must be
fair.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation --- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
our system today is confused, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system is too easily manipulated into an
instrument of malice rather than justice. Over the last
generation, perverse incentives have made the lawsuit the first
and last resort in resolving disputes. The result is a
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 1-92 ; 9:42AM ;
The White House-
OPD;# 3
2
"litigation explosion" that not only damages our economic
competitiveness and costs us jobs, but, just as important, erodes
civility and our social fabric.
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams --- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." From Colorado to the Carolinas,
this sentiment never fails to strike a chord with the people I
speak to.
That should tell us something important on this Law Day. I
again call on Congress to pass the Access to Justice Act as well
(Justice)
and medical liability reformbills.
as our product liability The American people want and
deserve a civil justice system based on fairness,
proportionality, timeliness, and an ethic of personal
responsibility. We must restore these principles to our system
of civil justice.
over the past 48 hours, the rule of law has been challenged
in the most profound way. A verdict, reached by a jury
B
(Justice)
appointed for the task, has been viewed by a large number of
Americans as indefensible -- not a consummation of justice but a
miscarriage of it. Those frustrated and angered by this outcome
must understand: our system of law provides the peaceful, orderly
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 1-92 ; 9:42AM ;
The White House->
OPD;# 4
(Justice)
3
means of addressing your concern. Yesterday, I instructed the
Attorney General to accelerate the federal government's
investigation of this case, to see the matter through as the law
demands.
At the same time, let us resist the easy temptation to
rationalize the horror we have seen on the streets of Los
Angeles. There is a difference between frustration with the law
and direct assaults upon it. In a civilized society, there can
be no excuse -- no excuse -- for the murder, arson, theft, and
vandalism that have terrorized the law-abiding citizens of Los
Angeles. The wanton destruction of life and property is not a
what one considers
(Justice)
legitimate expression of outrage with injustice; it is itself
injustice. It is barbarism. And no rationalization, no matter
how heart-felt and eloquent, can make it otherwise.
Our sympathies must rest with all victims of lawlessness:
the men and women who have seen their livelihoods destroyed,
their homes burned to the ground, and in too many horrifying
cases, the lives of loved ones brutally taken from them. And let
us honor the citizen-heroes of Los Angeles, who bravely stood
against the mob to save the lives and property of friends and
strangers alike.
The rule of law, the belief in freedom under the law, is the
most precious legacy that Americans possess, for it is our only
means of preserving fairness and equality and justice. We are
called to defend it in troubling and tragic times. Now is such a
time. on this Law Day 1992, I urge all Americans to recommit
SENT BY:Xerox Telecopier 7020 ; 5- 1-92 ; 9:43AM ;
The White House+
OPD;# 5
$
themselves to the rule of law, so that from the ashes of this
tragedy may arise a new faith in our country, and in our heritage
as Americans.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
# # # #
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
924APR32 P4: 52 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 4/30/92 10:00ar
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
LAW DAY
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 1992 - ROOSEVELT ROOM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
FINDLAY
GRAY
KAUFMAN
HOLIDAY
MCGROARTY
CLERK
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 a.m., THURSDAY, 4/30
with a copy to this office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Seems odd to the to make those remarks w/ont
reference to LA. Pick up some or Pres,
remains from this a.m ?
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
JB 7/30
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
7
04/30/92 07:57
I
AMBULATORY SURE
P.01
Andy Ferguar
Andy - 1 have a few comments to
Peory 116
(Ferguson/Grossmán)
your good words. If possible I'd like
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
you to use # 142. I don't feel strongly re: #3
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
lets descries
MAY 1, 1992
XX:X0 AM
Jl Hourl
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this morning.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle - the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other. Personal liberty
could endure only if it was protected by the rule of law, and the
rule of law would continue only so long as it respected personal
liberty. Their goal was, of course, to establish justice.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must Le blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must
never be manipulated for purely private gain
be fair.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system. **
has become overly
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system too often becomes an instrument of malice
rather than justice. Over the last generation, it has been.
APR 30 '92 7:57
PAGE 001
Photocopy-Preservation
04/30/92 07:58
2
AMBULATORY SURG
P.02
2 have made the the
crippled by perverse incentives that make a Inwouit preferable to
just and last resort,
other, less rangerous means of reselving disputes. The result is
the a "litigation explosion." that does damage to us all. * N
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies volunteers
any act
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that & small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
Thats not A That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several instile; months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." This sentiment never fails to
strike a chord with the people I speak to. *3
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day, (and
in the coming weeks I will speak on the issue in greater detail].
The American people want and deserve a civil legal just Loe system based
on justrie: on fairness, proportionality, timeliness, and a sense of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
/
#
#
#
* 1,2,3
allostied
APR 30 '92 7:57
PAGE. 002
04/30/92 07:59
2
AMBULATORY SURG
P.03
#/
At a time when a growing
number of emerging democrances are
beginning to follow the American ideal
of a society committed to the rule
of law, we have become engulfed
by a flood of private civil litigation.
*2
Excessive expenses and long delays
in an overbundened legal system not
only result in higher economic costs
but more importantly, erode civility
and our social jobic
+3
And that is why Congress should
pass - product B the Access to Justice
K
oct and A area inform om product liability
bill. to time for Congress to at in the
public interest Rather than promote the
special interests that jeed the letegation peanly,
I interest. say its time Congress act in the public
APR 30 '92 7:58
PAGE. 003
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
92 APR 30 P4:13 30, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAN McGROARTY
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Law Day
We have reviewed the attached presidential remarks and
have noted a few suggested changes on the draft.
If you have any questions or we can be of further
assistance, please let us know.
CC: Phillip D. Brady
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
JMH
-CK
DATE:
4/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 4/30/92 10:00a
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
SUBJECT:
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 1992 - ROOSEVELT ROOM
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
MCGROARTY
REMARKS:
CLERK
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 a.m., THURSDAY, 4/30
with a copy to this office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
2 APR 29 P12: 24
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
XX:X0 AM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this morning.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
AND
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,V
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other. Personal liberty
could endure only if it was protected by the rule of law, and the
rule of law would continue only so long as it respected personal
liberty.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
SHORT- SIEHTEDNESS
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must
never be manipulated for purely private gain.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
ELEMENT
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system too often becomes an instrument of malice
rather than justice. Over the last generation, it has been
2
crippled by perverse incentives that make a lawsuit preferable to
HAS BEEN
other, A less rancorous means of resolving disputes. The result is
the "litigation explosion."
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." " This sentiment never fails to
strike a chord with the people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day, [and
in the coming weeks I will speak on the issue in greater detail].
The American people want and deserve a civil justice system based
on fairness, proportionality, timeliness, and a sense of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
Memorandum Simon for Speechwriting Staff
From:
Dan McGroarty
Regarding: Law Day
Please return your comments to
Room 122 by:
9am tomorrow
Today's Date: APR 29 i992
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
good !
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
XX:X0 AM
short - which
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this morning.
is also good!
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other. Personal liberty
could endure only if it was protected by the rule of law, and the
rule of law would continue only so long as it respected personal
liberty.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must
never be manipulated for purely private gain.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system too often becomes an instrument of malice
rather than justice. Over the last generation, it has been
2
crippled by perverse incentives that make a lawsuit preferable to
other, less rancorous means of resolving disputes. The result is
the "litigation explosion."
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." This sentiment never fails to
strike a chord with the people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day, [and
in the coming weeks I will speak on the issue in greater detail].
The American people want and deserve a civil justice system based
on fairness, proportionality, timeliness, and a sense of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
#
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 4/30/92 10:00a
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
SUBJECT:
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 1992 - ROOSEVELT ROOM
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
MCGROARTY
CLERK
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 a.m., THURSDAY, 4/30
with a copy to this office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
heeds more" to people be -ontal"
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
02 APR 29 P12: 24
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
XX:X0 AM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this morning.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other. Personal liberty
could endure only if it was protected by the rule of law, and the
rule of law would continue only so long as it respected personal
liberty.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must
never be manipulated for purely private gain.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system too often becomes an instrument of malice
rather than justice. Over the last generation, it has been
2
crippled by perverse incentives that make a lawsuit preferable to
other, less rancorous means of resolving disputes. The result is
the "litigation explosion."
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." This sentiment never fails to
strike a chord with the people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day, [and
in the coming weeks I will speak on the issue in greater detail].
The American people want and deserve a civil justice system based
on fairness, proportionality, timeliness, and a sense of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
#
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
92 APR 29 P | : | |
DATE:
4/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 4/30/92 10:00am
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 1992 - ROOSEVELT ROOM
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN N/C
PETERSMEYER N/C
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
x
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS N/C
X
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
FINDLAY
GRAY 6257 frierman
HOLIDAY N/C
KAUFMAN
MCGROARTY
CLERK
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 a.m., THURSDAY, 4/30
with a copy to this office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Will fum-around at 10 30AM. 30
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
02 APR 29 P12: 24
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
XX:X0 AM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this morning.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other. Personal liberty
could endure only if it was protected by the rule of law, and the
rule of law would continue only so long as it respected personal
liberty.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must
never be manipulated for purely private gain.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system too often becomes an instrument of malice
rather than justice. Over the last generation, it has been
2
crippled by perverse incentives that make a lawsuit preferable to
other, less rancorous means of resolving disputes. The result is
the "litigation explosion."
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
H.Moore
yes, it stuains our economy costs no jols. also takes its toll
"cortous,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little on
Jobs
civility
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
reference
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." This sentiment never fails to
strike a chord with the people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day, [and
in the coming weeks I will speak on the issue in greater detail].
The American people want and deserve a civil justice system based
on fairness, proportionality, timeliness, and a sense of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
92 APR 30 A10:22
WASHINGTON
April 30, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAN MCGROARTY
FROM:
LEE S. LIBERMAN you
SUBJECT:
Law Day Remarks
Counsel's Office has a few small suggestions on the above-
captioned remarks. See attached markup.
CC: Phil Brady
ID #
CU
WHITE HOUSE
CORRESPONDENCE TRACKING WORKSHEET
O OUTGOING
H. INTERNAL
I - INCOMING
Date Correspondence
Received (YY/MM/DD)
/
/
Name of Correspondent:
Dan McGroarty /Phillip D. Brady
MI Mail Report
User Codes: (A)
(B)
(C)
Subject:
POTUS remarks Law Day
Friday , May 1, 1992
Roosevelt Room
ROUTE TO:
ACTION
DISPOSITION
Tracking
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of
Date
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ORIGINATOR 92/04/29
(92/04/30
Referral Note:
cuat07
A 92,04,29
( 92,04,30
10 AM 10 AM
Referral Note:
/ /
/ /
—
Referral Note:
/ /
/
/
—
Referral Note:
/ /
/ /
I
Referral Note:
ACTION CODES:
DISPOSITION CODES:
A. Appropriate Action
1. . Info Copy Only/No Action Necessary
A. Answered
C Completed
C Comment/Recommendation
R - Direct Reply w/Copy
B - Non-Special Referral
S. Suspended
D Draft Response
S. For Signature
F - Furnish Fact Sheet
X Interim Reply
to be used as Enclosure
FOR OUTGOING CORRESPONDENCE:
Type of Response = Initials of Signer
Code = "A"
Completion Date = Date of Outgoing
Comments:
Keep this worksheet attached to the original incoming letter.
Send all routing updates to Central Reference (Room 75, OEOB).
Always return completed correspondence record to Central Files.
Refer questions about the correspondence tracking system to Central Reference, ext. 2590.
5/81
RECORDS MANAGEMENT ONLY
CLASSIFICATION SECTION
No. of Additional
Correspondents:
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Secondary
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PRESIDENTIAL REPLY
Code
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Time:
P-
DSP
Time:
Media:
SIGNATURE CODES:
MEDIA CODES:
CPn Presidential Correspondence
n 0 Unknown
B Box/package
C Copy
n 1 George Herbert Walker Bush
D Official document
n 2 George Bush
G Message
n 3 George
H Handcarried
L Letter
CLn First Lady's Correspondence
M Mailgram
O Memo
n 1 Barbara Bush
P Photo
n 2 Barbara
R Report
n 3 Bar
S Sealed
n - 4 - Mrs. Barbara Bush
T Telegram
V Telephone
CBn Presidential & First Lady's Correspondence
X Miscellaneous
Y Study
n 1 - Barbara & George Bush
n - 2 - Barbara & George
Document No. 324803ss
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE:
4/29/92
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: THURS. 4/30/92 10:00a
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
SUBJECT:
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 1992 - ROOSEVELT ROOM
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
HORNER
SKINNER
MCBRIDE
SCOWCROFT
MOORE
DARMAN
PETERSMEYER
BRADY
PORTER
BROMLEY
ROGICH
CALIO
ROLLINS
DEMAREST
SMITH
YEUTTER
FITZWATER
GRAY
FINDLAY
HOLIDAY
KAUFMAN
MCGROARTY
CLERK
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Dan McGroarty,
Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 10:00 a.m., THURSDAY, 4/30
with a copy to this office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
02 APR 29 P12: 24
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
XX: xo AM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this morning.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other. Personal liberty
could endure only if it was protected by the rule of law, and the
rule of law would continue only so long as it respected personal
liberty.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must
befair
never be manipulated for purely private gain.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
is
and money. The system too often becomes an instrument of malice
rather than justice. Over the last generation, it has been
2
crippled by perverse incentives that make a lawsuit preferable to
other, less rancorous means of resolving disputes. The result is
the "litigation explosion."
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." This sentiment never fails to
strike a chord with the people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day, [and
in the coming weeks I will speak on the issue in greater detail].
The American people want and deserve a civil justice system based
on fairness, proportionality, timeliness, and a sense of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
#
(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
XX:X0 AM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this morning.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other. Personal liberty
could endure only if it was protected by the rule of law, and the
rule of law would continue only so long as it respected personal
liberty.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must
never be manipulated for purely private gain.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system too often becomes an instrument of malice
rather than justice. Over the last generation, it has been
2
crippled by perverse incentives that make a lawsuit preferable to
other, less rancorous means of resolving disputes. The result is
the "litigation explosion."
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." This sentiment never fails to
strike a chord with the people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day, [and
in the coming weeks I will speak on the issue in greater detail].
The American people want and deserve a civil justice system based
on fairness, proportionality, timeliness, and a sense of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
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(Ferguson/Grossman)
April 29, 1992
Draft Two
LAW
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: LAW DAY
ROOSEVELT ROOM
MAY 1, 1992
XX:X0 AM
[Acknowledgments]
Thank you for coming this morning.
I'm pleased to join you in continuing the tradition of Law
Day. This occasion offers the chance to reflect on the most
basic American principle -- the notion of ordered liberty,
freedom under the rule of law. The Founders saw law and liberty
as complementary, one guaranteeing the other. Personal liberty
could endure only if it was protected by the rule of law, and the
rule of law would continue only so long as it respected personal
liberty.
In America, as in any civilized society, the law must be
reasonable and predictable to be just. It must be blind to color
and class. It must resist enthusiasm and fashion, and it must
never be manipulated for purely private gain.
This week, as you may know, I have been talking about
reforming our government's system of regulation -- an essential
part of our broad-based reform agenda. This morning I would like
to mention another essential component of that agenda -- our plan
to reform our country's civil justice system.
Our system today is disorderly, cumbersome, wasteful of time
and money. The system too often becomes an instrument of malice
rather than justice. Over the last generation, it has been
2
crippled by perverse incentives that make a lawsuit preferable to
other, less rancorous means of resolving disputes. The result is
the "litigation explosion."
This breakdown touches the American people in the deepest,
most personal ways. We hear of parents reluctant to coach Little
League teams -- doctors unwilling to deliver babies -- volunteers
wary of helping those in need -- all from fear that a small act
of kindness might produce the nightmare of a meritless lawsuit.
That's wrong. In many parts of the country over the past
several months, I have said, "We must sue each other less and
start helping each other more." This sentiment never fails to
strike a chord with the people I speak to.
That should tell us something profound on this Law Day, [and
in the coming weeks I will speak on the issue in greater detail].
The American people want and deserve a civil justice system based
on fairness, proportionality, timeliness, and a sense of personal
responsibility. Today, on Law Day 1992, let us rededicate
ourselves to restoring those principles to our legal system.
Thank you. I will now sign the Law Day proclamation.
#
#
#
#