Paul Casts Key Tie-Breaking Vote PDF Print E-mail
FOR RELEASE: March 23, 2000

Paul Casts Key Tie-Breaking Vote 206-205 Vote Allows Nuclear Disposal Pact to Come to House Floor

Washington, DC - Wednesday, Congressman Ron Paul cast the tie-breaking vote to allow an important nuclear disposal pact to come to the floor. "I have always been a strong supporter of nuclear energy, and I know how important it is for us to get on with a decision on this item. The government has dragged its feet for far too long," Paul said. After Paul's tie-breaking vote, the legislation passed the full House by a vote of 253-167.
"As an advocate of open government, and of Congress exercising its constitutionally-granted authority, I certainly did not want to see this issue stopped from coming to the floor. When I had to make the decision whether or not it would come to the floor, I voted to bring it up immediately. This issue has gone unresolved long enough."
Paul said that it was critical to expeditiously consider the bill. "In a case such as this we should not allow a deficiency in the legislation to stop the majority of the House from working its will. I agree that there are problems with the bill, including its failure to recognize the legitimate concerns of the State of Nevada, but further delay on this issue is not reasonable."
"I believe the nuclear energy business is key to America's energy needs, and I'm glad that this issue came to the House Floor for resolution. The body has worked its will, and hopefully the administration will no longer drag its feet in dealing with this important industry," concluded Paul.