Office of Management and Budget | Print this document |
September 12, 2000
(House)
The approach taken by H.R. 3378 will hamper the Administration's efforts to implement its existing U.S. legal obligations with Mexico, which Mexico has repeatedly urged the United States to fulfill. Instead of authorizing the funding needed to fulfill these obligations, the bill attempts to legislate the terms of a new agreement. In addition, the bill provides for a 30-year contract that may be unenforceable in Mexico.
The Administration is prepared to work with Congress to produce an environmentally appropriate and cost-effective alternative that would be consistent with our current legal obligations and acceptable to the Mexican Government. The Administration supports adequate funding to fulfill our existing commitments and the development of a comprehensive regional plan to address long-term sewage treatment needs.