Authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the D.C. Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 128) authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the D.C. Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, House Concurrent Resolution 128 authorizes the use of the Capitol Grounds for the 18th annual District of Columbia Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run, which will occur 6 June, 2003. This event is cosponsored by the United States Capitol Police, who will host opening ceremonies on the Capitol Grounds, and, once lit, the torch will be carried to Fort McNair.

This event is the Special Olympics' largest grass-roots fund raiser, raising

over $20 million during 2002. More than 85,000 law enforcement officers participated in the event worldwide last year, and an estimated 2,000 law enforcement officers representing 60 local and Federal law enforcement agencies will participate in this year's event.

Though the torch run will not occur until June 6, the District of Columbia Special Olympics is hosting their summer games this week on the campus of Catholic University. The sponsors of the event work with the Architect of the Capitol and the United States Capitol Police to comply with all applicable regulations relating to the use of the Capitol Grounds.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to join the law enforcement community in supporting the special Olympics and join me in supporting this resolution.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, this event needs little introduction. 2003 marks the 35th anniversary of the D.C. Special Olympics. The torch relay event is a traditional part of the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics in the District of Columbia.

Each year, approximately 2,500 Special Olympians compete in over a dozen events. More than 1 million children and adults with special needs participate in the Special Olympics worldwide programs. The event is supported by literally thousands of volunteers.

The goal of the games is to help bring mentally challenged individuals into larger society under conditions whereby they are accepted and respected. Confidence and self-esteem are the building blocks of these Olympic games.

I enthusiastically support the resolution and the very worthwhile endeavor of the Special Olympics. I urge support for House Concurrent Resolution 128.

Mr. Speaker, I have no additional requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my full support for House Concurrent Resolution 128, authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the 2003 DC Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run.

This event occurs in over 35 countries, but was founded by the Chief of Police in Wichita, Kansas, who saw a unique opportunity to raise funds and increase awareness about the Special Olympics. The event was then adopted by the International Association of Police Chiefs.

This is the 18th year the event has been held on the Capitol Grounds, and each year it is the largest single grass-roots fundraising event for the Special Olympics.

Every two years, law enforcement officers representing their State or Nation's Torch Run program comprise a final leg team which carries the ``Flame of Hope'' into the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics World Games.

I am proud to support this resolution, and encourage my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of H. Con. Res. 128, which is at the desk.

I ask unanimous consent that the concurrent resolution be agreed to and the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table, with no intervening action or debate.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on House Concurrent Resolution 128, H.R. 281, and H.R. 517, the matters just considered by the House.