For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
December 19, 2007

President Bush Signs H.R. 4118, the Prevent Taxation of Payments to Virginia Tech Victims and Families Act
Oval Office

Play Video   Presidential Remarks   Audio

11:37 A.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: It's my honor to welcome the President of Virginia Tech, the Mayor of Blacksburg, Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and of course, the members of the congressional delegation, here as I sign a bill that's going to help the folks who suffered mightily on that day when a gunman killed their loved ones. It's a good piece of legislation. I appreciate members from both parties working on it.

And I asked the President how -- what the spirits are like there at Virginia Tech, and he said they're strong. And I'm not surprised. Having been there for that memorial ceremony, I left with the distinct impression that of all the communities in America that could deal with a tragedy, it's the Virginia Tech community.

And so I want to say to the families who still suffer, we think about you. And to the students and faculty and alumni and leadership of Virginia Tech, thank you for helping those who suffer reconcile and recover from the grief they feel. So it's my honor to sign this important piece of legislation.

END 11:40 A.M. EST