I would like to make a few observations about the momentum in Congress toward a victim compensation law and about some of its possible features. There is a consensus in the Congress for a victim compensation bill; indeed, one will be enacted in this Congress. If not, we will have squandered an enormous opportunity.

An indication of this momentum is evident from an exchange between Senator Randolph and Mr. Ruckelshaus during the latter's confirmation hearing to head the Environmental Protection Agency. Senator Randolph advised Mr. Ruckelshaus that he considered victim compensation a high personal priority and that he expected the same of the Administrator of EPA. Mr. Ruckelshaus' response indicated that he was clearly disposed to consider victim compensation one of the major issues in which he, as Administrator, was prepared to invest his time and efforts.