Fact
ba
.
se
Senate Floor: THE VICTIMS JUSTICE ACT OF 1995
Topics
Entities
Moderation
9 Speakers
Topics
No topics found
Entities
No entities found
Moderation
No moderation found
Speakers
Joe Biden Joe Biden said 96 sentences of a total of 343 sentences.
28%
Joe Biden said 1830 words of a total of 6683 words.
28%
Patrick Leahy Patrick Leahy said 75 sentences of a total of 343 sentences.
22%
Patrick Leahy said 1815 words of a total of 6683 words.
28%
Orrin Hatch Orrin Hatch said 74 sentences of a total of 343 sentences.
22%
Orrin Hatch said 1416 words of a total of 6683 words.
22%
Dianne Feinstein Dianne Feinstein said 36 sentences of a total of 343 sentences.
11%
Dianne Feinstein said 587 words of a total of 6683 words.
9%
Spencer Abraham Spencer Abraham said 22 sentences of a total of 343 sentences.
7%
Spencer Abraham said 495 words of a total of 6683 words.
8%
Paul Simon Paul Simon said 17 sentences of a total of 343 sentences.
5%
Paul Simon said 325 words of a total of 6683 words.
5%
John Warner John Warner said 8 sentences of a total of 343 sentences.
3%
John Warner said 102 words of a total of 6683 words.
2%
John McCain John McCain said 2 sentences of a total of 343 sentences.
1%
John McCain said 39 words of a total of 6683 words.
1%
The Presiding Officer The Presiding Officer said 8 sentences of a total of 343 sentences.
3%
The Presiding Officer said 38 words of a total of 6683 words.
1%
Full Transcript
John Warner
Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of Calendar 257, H.R. 665, the victims restitution bill.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.60944
VADER
-0.103
Leans Negative
Moderation
Violence > Graphic
0.3483563429
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.347477966
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0125206352
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0079074453
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0035800342
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0008721732
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0005537315
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.000536649
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
7.51388E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
1.22121E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
2.443E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
78.609
Magnitude:
22
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
52.7
Gunning-Fog Score
9.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
9.7
Automated Readability Index
4.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
2.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
12
The Presiding Officer
The PRESIDING OFFICER.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
0
Neutral
Moderation
Harassment
0.1116432133
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0297073741
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0205253527
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0156442169
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0093740178
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0042514115
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0038523423
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0003586541
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.0002944451
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.000188403
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.07257E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
6
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
58.3
Gunning-Fog Score
1.4
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
9
Automated Readability Index
5.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
2.4
Sprache Readability Score
1.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
1
Sprache Difficult Word Count
4
The Presiding Officer
The PRESIDING OFFICER.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.60944
VADER
0
Neutral
Moderation
Violence > Graphic
0.1438567531
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0787798839
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0574401987
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0105000763
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0015455606
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0011560988
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0003670984
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.0002490222
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0002141294
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
5.67919E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
6.7066E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
97.612
Magnitude:
42
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
31
Gunning-Fog Score
11.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
7.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.2
Sprache Readability Score
1.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
4
Sprache Difficult Word Count
6
John Warner
Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate agree to a substitute amendment offered by Senators Hatch and Biden which is at the desk.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
0.527
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.2
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
58.8
Gunning-Fog Score
9.8
Coleman-Liau Index
11.7
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
6.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
3.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
12
The Presiding Officer
The PRESIDING OFFICER.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.60944
VADER
0
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
42.5
Gunning-Fog Score
6.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
10.3
Automated Readability Index
5.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
1.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
3
Sprache Difficult Word Count
4
Orrin Hatch
Mr. President, I rise in strong support of Victims Justice Act. As reported by the Judiciary Committee, and amended by the managers' substitute offered by myself and Senator Biden, this bill will fill a tremendous gap in our criminal justice system. This legislation represents an important step toward a criminal justice system in which the rights and needs of the victim are respected.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.63599
VADER
0.872
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.6
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
47.2
Gunning-Fog Score
13.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.3
Sprache Readability Score
4.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
24
Orrin Hatch
This legislation has a long history. Congress first enacted a general Federal victim restitution statute in 1982 as a part of the Victim and Witness Protection Act (Public Law 97-291). The 1982 act sought to remedy the unfortunate situation noted even then by the Judiciary Committee that:
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.09861
VADER
-0.735
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
46.1
Gunning-Fog Score
13.1
Coleman-Liau Index
11.7
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
8.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.4
Sprache Readability Score
4.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
17
Sprache Difficult Word Count
20
Orrin Hatch
The 1982 act provided, for the first time, Federal courts with the authority to order payments of restitution independently of a sentence of probation, and required the court to state its reasons for the record in instances in which restitution was not ordered.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.71429
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.71429
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.46634
VADER
0.153
Leans Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
25.5
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Orrin Hatch
The legislation enacted in 1982 has been the subject of modest amendments in the years since, but remains substantially intact as enacted 13 years ago. Unfortunately, however, while strides have been made since 1982 towards a greater respect for victims in the criminal justice system, much progress remains to be made in the area of victim restitution. According to the 1994 Annual Report of the U.S. Sentencing Commission, during Fiscal Year 1994, Federal courts ordered restitution in only 20.2 percent of criminal cases. Data from the same report show that restitution was ordered in only 27.9 percent of all murders, 28.2 percent of all kidnappings, 55.2 percent of all robberies, and 12.5 percent of all sexual abuses cases. That is simply not enough. It is just as important for a victim of violent crime to receive recompense for her injuries as it is for a victim of property crime to have the property returned, or otherwise paid for. Restitution, as a concept of justice, extends far beyond the mere return of property.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.75786
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.14842
VADER
-0.979
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
52.8
Gunning-Fog Score
13.9
Coleman-Liau Index
11.4
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.2
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
58
Sprache Difficult Word Count
49
Orrin Hatch
Language substantially similar to H.R. 665 has passed the Senate on three previous occasions. However, this language was never approved in legislation presented to the President.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.60944
VADER
-0.135
Leans Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
49.6
Gunning-Fog Score
13.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
10.8
Automated Readability Index
7.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.2
Sprache Readability Score
2.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
12
Orrin Hatch
In 1994, Congress enacted the Violence Against Women Act. That act included provisions requiring mandatory restitution in Federal cases to victims of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation and other abuse of children, and domestic violence.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.56495
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-2.3979
VADER
-0.962
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
12.9
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.7
Sprache Readability Score
3.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
17
Sprache Difficult Word Count
14
Orrin Hatch
The 1994 Crime Act also made restitution mandatory for victims of telemarketing fraud, a provision I strongly supported as the chief author of the Senior Citizens Against Marketing Scams [SCAMS] Act. It is time now, however, to extend this important protection to victims of other crimes as well.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.25131
VADER
-0.848
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
39
Gunning-Fog Score
16.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
16
Sprache Difficult Word Count
17
Orrin Hatch
Far too often our criminal justice system appears to ignore the victims of crime. It frequently seems that only criminals have rights in the system. Victims often seem to be marginalized once the criminal justice system shifts into gear. As a result, crime victims often feel victimized twice -- once by the criminal and then again by the system that seems to ignore their plight. Restitution to the victims of crime is a critical component of the justice system. The order of restitution represents the justice system's recognition that a real person, not only society, has suffered a wrong. Too often lost in the mix is the fact that, when the United States brings a criminal prosecution, while it does so on behalf of all the people, there is frequently a single person who has been victimized. While it is true that society as a whole is aggrieved by any criminal act, it is not society that must cope with the most immediate costs -- the burden of fear, the loss of a loved one, or the anguish of personal loss. These burdens are reserved to the victims and survivors of crime.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-3.97029
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.64286
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.64286
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.45225
VADER
-0.996
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
57.2
Gunning-Fog Score
13.5
Coleman-Liau Index
11.1
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
60
Sprache Difficult Word Count
40
Orrin Hatch
Restitution, moreover, can provide important closure to victims of crime, even if it cannot turn back the clock and undo the loss itself. Many crime victims have told me that until the criminal is directed to pay restitution, the wound of the crime is not completely healed.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.83321
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.23077
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.23077
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.43532
VADER
-0.961
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
49.8
Gunning-Fog Score
14.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
16
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Orrin Hatch
Restitution has an important penalogical function as well, providing a necessary reminder to the offender of the human consequences of his or her criminl act. Critics charge that most criminal defendants are too poor to pay restitution. But even if only a few dollars a month are collectd, it forces the criminal to contemplate his criminal act and truly pay for the crime.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.83321
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.14286
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.14286
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.26826
VADER
-0.95
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
39.1
Gunning-Fog Score
16.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.1
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
20
Sprache Difficult Word Count
19
Orrin Hatch
As I have noted, the U.S. Sentencing Commission has reported that judges ordered restitution in only a small percent of Federal criminal cases during fiscal year 1994. This legislation addresses this problem with solid victim restitution reform. For the first time, it will be mandatory that identifiable victims of violent crimes, property and fraud crimes under title 18, and product tampering receive full restitution for their losses.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-3.13549
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.38462
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.38462
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.74721
VADER
-0.951
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
42.5
Gunning-Fog Score
12.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
4.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
27
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Orrin Hatch
We nevertheless recognize and wish to avoid the danger that in complex cases the sentencing process could turn into a mini-civil trial. For this reason, the legislation permits the court to decline to order restitution if the number of identifiable victims is so large as to make restitution impracticable, or if the determination of complex factual issues would place burdens on the sentencing process that far outweigh the need for restitution.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.56495
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.37949
VADER
-0.71
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
18.7
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Orrin Hatch
This bill also recognizes the need of victims to have full restitution ordered despite the sad fact that the defendant will often be unable to make more than nominal payments. Our legislation gives the courts the flexibility to order nominl installment payments in these instances.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.22378
VADER
0.182
Leans Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
39.2
Gunning-Fog Score
17
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.7
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
13
Sprache Difficult Word Count
16
Orrin Hatch
At the same time, we cannot ignore the costs that making orders of restitution mandatory in all Federal criminal cases could impose on the judicial cases could impose on the judicial system. We have attempted to strike a balance in this legislation, and I believe we have largely succeeded.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.61904
VADER
-0.58
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
38.7
Gunning-Fog Score
17.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.4
Sprache Readability Score
4.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
16
Sprache Difficult Word Count
16
Orrin Hatch
Our bill also provides one set of procedures for the issuance and enforcement of a restitution order under title 18. A single section of title 18, section 3664, will govern the issuance of all criminal victim restitution orders, including those we enacted last year in the Violence Against Women Act and the SCAMS Act. I want to emphasize that the scope of restitution orders authorized under those laws remains unchanged. We simply seek to reduce the burden caused by incompatible restitution systems.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.20067
VADER
-0.95
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
43.7
Gunning-Fog Score
15
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.2
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
27
Sprache Difficult Word Count
30
Orrin Hatch
The bill will also utilize existing provisions for the collection of fines to enforce restitution orders. Moreover, it will improve our ability to actually collect both restitution and fines by strengthening tools such as the revocation of probation, resentencing and other sanctions.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.29928
VADER
0.823
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
18.3
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.1
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
16
Sprache Difficult Word Count
18
Orrin Hatch
Finally, the bill strengthens victims assistance programs by including provisions that have already passed the Senate as a part of the terrorism bill. A provision originally authored by Senator Leahy authorizes victim's assistance to victims of terrorism and makes other improvements to the Crime Victims Fund. Our bill seeks to enhance the resources available for victims assistance by including a McCain amendment to the terrorism bill that doubles the special assessments on persons convicted in Federal cases.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.4
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.4
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.76214
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.41176
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.41176
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.82098
VADER
-0.961
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
21.5
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
36
Sprache Difficult Word Count
30
Orrin Hatch
Mr. President, I want to express my particular appreciation to Senator Biden, Senator Nickles, Senator McCain, and Senator Grassley for their able assistance in crafting this important bill.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
2.19722
VADER
0.557
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
29.5
Gunning-Fog Score
11.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
9.2
Sprache Readability Score
3.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
13
Orrin Hatch
This bill is not perfect. All of us recognize that there is much we need to do to streamline the collection of criminal debts, including restitution. Nor is this the last step we need to take to restore the victim to their rightful place in the criminal justice system. However, it is an important step. When enacted, our legislation will do much to restore respect for the victims of crime and to recognize their loss. I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.46634
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.26826
VADER
-0.525
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
70
Gunning-Fog Score
11.3
Coleman-Liau Index
10.2
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
6.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Joe Biden
Mr. President, one of the measures in last year's crime law that I am most proud of is the provision mandating restitution for victims of sexual abuse and child abuse. This was part of the larger piece of legislation closest to my heart: The Violence Against Women Act.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.25
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.25
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.45199
VADER
-0.894
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
63.7
Gunning-Fog Score
10.6
Coleman-Liau Index
10.7
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
7.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.7
Sprache Readability Score
4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
17
Joe Biden
The mandatory restitution provisions in that act sent out a strong and unequivocal message: we stand with the victims of family violence and sexual assault, and we will not stand for them being ignored by our criminal justice system any longer.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.58779
VADER
-0.836
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
20.8
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
13
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Joe Biden
Today, we are considering similar provisions to provide mandatory restitution for all crime victims.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
-0.671
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
11.3
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
9.7
Sprache Readability Score
3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
8
Joe Biden
As we fight to make our neighborhoods safe and our communities secure, we must not forget the often faceless and voiceless statistics of crime -- its victims.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.25131
VADER
-0.428
Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
53.5
Gunning-Fog Score
15
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
7
Sprache Difficult Word Count
7
Joe Biden
Millions of Americans each year must bear the unbearable -- in 1993 alone, over 35 million people were victimized by crime in this country.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.60944
VADER
-0.807
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
47.4
Gunning-Fog Score
14.4
Coleman-Liau Index
11.3
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.9
Sprache Readability Score
3.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
4
Sprache Difficult Word Count
5
Joe Biden
For many victims, the crime only marks the beginning of the ordeal -- there is the investigation, maybe a plea bargain, a trial that often puts the victim's truth and character on the stand, busy prosecutors, aggressive defense lawyers, harried court officers.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.56495
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.25131
VADER
-0.637
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
18.7
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
12
Sprache Difficult Word Count
18
Joe Biden
And in the end, even if the defendant is convicted, the victim's losses -- emotional, physical, and financial losses -- often go completely uncompensated.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.33647
VADER
-0.586
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
23
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.8
Sprache Readability Score
4.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
9
Joe Biden
It hasn't always been this way. During the colonial period, victims played a central role in our criminal justice system.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.51083
VADER
0.026
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
57.1
Gunning-Fog Score
10
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
10.3
Automated Readability Index
6.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.6
Sprache Readability Score
2.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
9
Sprache Difficult Word Count
10
Joe Biden
They apprehended their own wrongdoers -- either by making the arrests themselves or by hiring the local sheriff -- and they hired their own lawyers to prosecute their cases.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
2.19722
VADER
-0.681
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
41.6
Gunning-Fog Score
16.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.6
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
9
Sprache Difficult Word Count
11
Joe Biden
In those days, victims were allowed to collect damages from criminals, bind them into servitude, or pay the State to incarcerate those who had wronged them.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.58779
VADER
-0.904
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
50.3
Gunning-Fog Score
18.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.6
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
7
Sprache Difficult Word Count
10
Joe Biden
In the 19th century, our concept of criminal offenses began to change. Primarily to ensure that all citizens were protected -- not just the rich who could afford to hire the marshal -- the State became the surrogate for the victim, and undertook the prosecution of the crime.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.25131
VADER
-0.874
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
49.2
Gunning-Fog Score
17
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.3
Sprache Readability Score
4.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
18
Joe Biden
What was once seen as a private dispute -- the violation of one person by another -- came to be seen as a crime against the State. Restitution gave way to incarceration as the chief form of punishment -- and fines were exacted by the State and paid to the State.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.09861
VADER
-0.912
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
62.6
Gunning-Fog Score
14.6
Coleman-Liau Index
9.2
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.8
Sprache Readability Score
4.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
10
Joe Biden
But this evolution in our thinking about crime gradually led to a de- evolution in our concern for victims. Compassion and humanity dictate that we now try to restore to victims the rights, the respect, and the protection that they deserve.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
0.052
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
47.8
Gunning-Fog Score
14.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.8
Sprache Readability Score
4.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Joe Biden
In this spirit, Congress enacted the Victim and Witness Protection Act, which, among other provisions, gave courts the discretion to provide restitution to victims. I was also proud to coauthor the Victims of Crime Act in 1984, which established a crime victims fund financed by fines levied against convicted Federal criminals.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.83321
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.61904
VADER
-0.939
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
36.6
Gunning-Fog Score
16.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.1
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
22
Sprache Difficult Word Count
20
Joe Biden
The Crime Victims Fund pays compensation to specific victims when the criminal can't pay -- and it also underwrites general victims assistance programs, like courtroom victim advocates, and victims' counselors.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.70805
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.95551
VADER
-0.927
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
19.9
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
10
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
16
Sprache Difficult Word Count
14
Joe Biden
Still, however, there is much to be done. And this bill -- which makes restitution mandatory in Federal criminal cases -- does something very important.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
-0.259
Slightly Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
44.4
Gunning-Fog Score
15
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
8.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.3
Sprache Readability Score
2.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
4
Sprache Difficult Word Count
6
Joe Biden
It says to victims: You are not alone. We will demand accountability from your wrongdoers, and we understand that criminals owe a debt not only to society but to you.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
-0.593
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.1
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
56.3
Gunning-Fog Score
12.7
Coleman-Liau Index
10.3
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.4
Sprache Readability Score
3.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
7
Sprache Difficult Word Count
9
Joe Biden
This bill also sends an important message to criminals -- you must take responsibility for our actions, and you will pay for the pain you have caused.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.8473
VADER
-0.765
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
50.3
Gunning-Fog Score
16.6
Coleman-Liau Index
11.4
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.7
Sprache Readability Score
4.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
4
Sprache Difficult Word Count
7
Joe Biden
Our Constitution is not a zero sum game. We do not diminish the rights of defendants by recognizing and defending the rights of victims.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
2.3979
VADER
-0.318
Somewhat Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
60.7
Gunning-Fog Score
11.5
Coleman-Liau Index
11.4
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
6.4
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.2
Sprache Readability Score
2.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
7
Sprache Difficult Word Count
8
Joe Biden
I defend the rights of criminal defendants because I am deeply concerned about the rights of all Americans. And for that same reason, I defend the rights of victims -- there is no contradiction, in my mind, between the two.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.70805
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.8873
VADER
-0.836
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.3
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
63.4
Gunning-Fog Score
10.9
Coleman-Liau Index
10.9
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
9.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.8
Sprache Readability Score
3.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
7
Sprache Difficult Word Count
9
Joe Biden
In our efforts to crack down on crime, we must never forget its victims. And we must do all in our power to help, in what little way we can, to ease their suffering.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.33647
VADER
-0.191
Leans Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
5.6
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
85.1
Gunning-Fog Score
8
Coleman-Liau Index
6.2
SMOG Index
7.3
Automated Readability Index
4.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.2
Sprache Readability Score
3.3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
5
Sprache Difficult Word Count
7
Joe Biden
I am proud to cosponsor this bill with Senator Hatch and I urge all my colleagues to support it.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.94591
VADER
0.7
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.2
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
62.9
Gunning-Fog Score
11.8
Coleman-Liau Index
8.1
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
7.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.1
Sprache Readability Score
3.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
5
Sprache Difficult Word Count
7
Patrick Leahy
Mr. President, when the bomb exploded outside the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City earlier this year, my thoughts and prayers, and I suspect that those of all Americans, turned immediately to the victims of this horrendous act. It is my hope that through this legislation we will proceed to enact a series of improvements in our growing body of law recognizing the rights and needs of victims of crime. We can do more to see that victims of crime, including terrorism, are treated with dignity and assisted and compensated with Government help.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.46634
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.125
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.125
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.23639
VADER
-0.66
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
47.7
Gunning-Fog Score
14.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.4
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
31
Sprache Difficult Word Count
34
Patrick Leahy
Section 202 of the manager's substitute incorporates the Victims of Terrorism Act, which will accomplish a number of worthwhile objectives. I introduced these measures last June as an amendment to antiterrorism legislation, they were previously adopted by the Senate as part of that legislation, and most recently were adopted by the Judiciary Committee as section 112 of the committee-passed bill.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.58779
VADER
-0.34
Somewhat Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
20.5
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
25
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Patrick Leahy
They include a proposal to increase the availability of assistance to victims of terrorism and mass violence here at home. We in this country have been shielded from much of the terrorism perpetrated abroad. That sense of security has been shaken by the bombing in Oklahoma City, the destruction at the World Trade Center in New York, and recent assaults upon the White House. I, therefore, proposed that we allow additional flexibility in targeting resources to victims of terrorism and mass violence and the trauma and devastation that they cause.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.83321
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.05263
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.05263
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.10008
VADER
-0.987
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
35.5
Gunning-Fog Score
17
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
32
Patrick Leahy
Thus, the manager's substitute includes provisions to make funds available through supplemental grants to the States to assist and compensate our neighbors who are victims of terrorism and mass violence, which incidents might otherwise overwhelm the resources of a State's crime victims compensation program or its victims assistance services. I understand, for example, that assistance efforts to aid those who were the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing are now $1 million in debt. These provisions should help.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.70805
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.22222
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.22222
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.42744
VADER
-0.964
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
34
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
34
Patrick Leahy
The substitute will also fill a gap in our law for residents of the United States who are victims of terrorism and mass violence that occur outside the borders of the United States. Those who are not in the military, civil service or civilians in the service of the United States are not eligible for benefits in accordance with the Omnibus Diplomatic Security and Antiterrorism Act of 1986. One of the continuing tragedies of the downing of Pan Am flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, is that the United States Government had no authority to provide assistance or compensation to the victims of that heinous crime. Likewise, the U.S. victims of the Achille Lauro incident could not be given aid. This was wrong and should be remedied.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.7346
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.04762
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.04762
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.09097
VADER
-0.931
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
49.9
Gunning-Fog Score
12.6
Coleman-Liau Index
11.6
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
9.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
41
Sprache Difficult Word Count
43
Patrick Leahy
In its report to Congress in 1994, the Office for Victims of Crime at the U.S. Department of Justice identified the problem. Both the ABA and the State Department have commented on their concern and their desire that crime victims compensation benefits be provided to U.S. citizens victimized in other countries. This substitute is an important step in that direction. Certainly U.S. victims of terrorism overseas are deserving of our support and assistance.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.7346
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.1431
VADER
-0.856
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
6.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
58.9
Gunning-Fog Score
11.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
10.7
Automated Readability Index
5.4
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.4
Sprache Readability Score
3.6
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
24
Sprache Difficult Word Count
25
Patrick Leahy
In addition, I believe that we must allow a greater measure of flexibility to our State and local victims' assistance programs and some greater certainty so that they can know that our commitment to victims programming will not wax and wane with events. Accordingly, the substitute includes an important provision to increase the base amounts for States' victims assistance grants to $500,000 and allows victims assistance grants to be made for a 3-year cycle of programming, rather than the year of award plus one, which is the limit contained in current law. This programming change reflects the recommendation of the Office for Victims of Crime contained in its June 1994 report to Congress.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.55556
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.55556
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.52941
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.52941
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.09861
VADER
0.807
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
39.9
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
41
Sprache Difficult Word Count
41
Patrick Leahy
I am disappointed that some have objected to an important improvement that would have allowed any unspent grant funds to be returned to the Crime Victims Fund from which they came and reallocated to crime victims assistance programs. I believe that we ought to treat the Crime Victims Fund and the Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund and Violence Against Women Act funds with respect and use them for the important purposes for which they were created.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.83333
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.83333
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.03688
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.26316
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.26316
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
-0.93
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
41.4
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
28
Sprache Difficult Word Count
22
Patrick Leahy
The Crime Victims Fund, for example, is not a matter of appropriation and is not funded through tax dollars. Rather, it is funded exclusively through the assessments against those convicted of Federal crimes. The Crime Victims Fund is a mechanism to direct use of those funds to compensate and assist crime victims. That is the express purpose and justification for the assessments.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.7346
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.26826
VADER
-0.947
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
53.3
Gunning-Fog Score
12
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.1
Sprache Readability Score
4.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
25
Sprache Difficult Word Count
19
Patrick Leahy
Accordingly, I believe it is appropriate for those funds to be used for crime victims and, when not expended for purposes of a crime victims program, they ought to be returned to the Crime Victims Fund for reobligation. Instead, because of a technicality in the application of the Budget Act, the manager's amendment includes a change from the language that I proposed and that was approved by the Judiciary Committee and previously by the Senate. My language would have returned all unspent crime victims grant funds to the Crime Victims Fund. The manager's amendment will require that some of the money that came from the Crime Victims Fund go, instead, to the General Treasury if it remains unobligated more than 2 years after the year of grant award. I am pleased that we have been able to obtain some concession in this regard and note that the unobligated funds must exceed $500,000 in order to revert to the General Treasury.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.84615
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.84615
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.12026
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.3913
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.3913
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.78846
VADER
-0.952
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
43.8
Gunning-Fog Score
16.6
Coleman-Liau Index
11.6
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
55
Sprache Difficult Word Count
39
Patrick Leahy
Fortunately, the Office for Victims of Crime has improved its administration of crime victims funds and that of the States over the past 2 years to a great extent. While more than $1 million a year has in past years remained unobligated from grants made through the States across the country, last year that number was reduced below $125,000. The Director of the Office for Victims of Crime, Aileen Adams, should be commended for this improvement. It is my hope that the administration of Crime Victims Fund grants will continue to improve through the Department of Justice and the States and that the Department of Health and Human Services will, likewise, improve its oversight and grant administration and encourage the States to be more vigilant so that the change in the language of the bill from that previously adopted by the Senate and by the Judiciary Committee will not result in a significant diversion of Crime Victims Fund money to other uses.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.29412
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.29412
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.57054
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.38566
VADER
0.59
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
37.3
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
48
Sprache Difficult Word Count
42
Patrick Leahy
Our State and local communities and community-based nonprofits cannot be kept on a string like a yo-yo if they are to plan and implement victims assistance and compensation programs. They need to be able to plan and have a sense of stability if these measures are to achieve their fullest potential.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.8
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.8
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.84583
VADER
0.052
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
47.5
Gunning-Fog Score
16.6
Coleman-Liau Index
11.4
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.1
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
16
Sprache Difficult Word Count
19
Patrick Leahy
I know, for instance, that in Vermont Lori Hayes at the Vermont Center for Crime Victims Services, Judy Rex at the Vermont Network Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse, and many others provide tremendous service under difficult conditions. They will be able to put increased annual assistance grants to good use. Such dedicated individuals and organizations will also be aided by increasing their programming cycle by even 1 year. Three years has been a standard that has worked well in other programming settings. Crime victims' programming deserves no less security.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.22222
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.22222
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.42744
VADER
-0.915
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
41
Gunning-Fog Score
13.4
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
39
Sprache Difficult Word Count
37
Patrick Leahy
In 1984 when we established the Crime Victims Fund to provide Federal assistance to State and local victims compensation and assistance efforts, we funded it with fines and penalties from those convicted of Federal crime. The level of required contribution was set low. Ten years have passed and it is time to raise that level of assessment in order to fund the needs of crime victims. Accordingly, the manager's substitute includes as section 109 and the committee-passed bill included as section 110 a provision that I worked on with Senator McCain and that the Senate previously passed as an amendment to the antiterrorism bill this past summer. It doubles the special assessments levied under the Victims of Crime Act against those convicted of federal felonies in order to assist all victims of crime.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-3.3673
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.27444
VADER
-0.983
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
45.2
Gunning-Fog Score
17
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
53
Sprache Difficult Word Count
40
Patrick Leahy
I do not think that $100 to assist crime victims is too much for those individuals convicted of a Federal felony to contribute to help crime victims. I do not think that $400 is too much to insist that corporations convicted of a Federal felony contribute. Accordingly, the Committee substitute would raise these to be the minimum level of assessment against those convicted of crime.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-3.04452
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.28571
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.28571
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.54654
VADER
-0.961
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
48.2
Gunning-Fog Score
16.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.7
Sprache Readability Score
4.6
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
23
Sprache Difficult Word Count
16
Patrick Leahy
While we have made progress over the last 15 years in recognizing crime victims' rights and providing much-needed assistance, we still have more to do. I am proud to have played a role in passage of the Victims and Witness Protection Act of 1982, the Victims of Crime Act of 1984, the Victims' Rights and Restitution Act of 1990 and the victims provisions included in such measures as the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994. I look forward to prompt consideration by the House of these provisions for aiding crime victims and to enactment of the Victims of Terrorism Act.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.84615
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.84615
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.12026
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.38566
VADER
-0.982
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
52.1
Gunning-Fog Score
16.9
Coleman-Liau Index
10.3
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Patrick Leahy
I continue to have some concern that the mandatory restitution provisions of the bill, while improved in our Committee deliberation, may not lead to the benefits to crime victims that we intended. I note, as well, that changes from the Committee-passed bill made by the manager's substitute have not been fully explained.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.14286
Leans Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.14286
Leans Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.25131
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.45199
VADER
0.318
Somewhat Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
44.3
Gunning-Fog Score
17.4
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.4
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
17
Sprache Difficult Word Count
17
Patrick Leahy
We run a significant risk, in my view, that resources will be diverted from programs that have been proven effective in providing compensation and assistance to crime victims. I believe that the study and report required of the Attorney General and Administrative Office of the United States Courts by section 204 of the Manager's substitute is extremely important and urge them to report as soon as possible.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.28571
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.28571
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.54654
VADER
0.218
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
30.1
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
21
Sprache Difficult Word Count
29
Patrick Leahy
I also urge the Attorney General to approach the responsibilities imposed by section 201(a)(2) of the manager's substitute carefully so as not unnecessarily to burden State agencies and those entrusted with the important responsibility for administering crime victims compensation programs.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.99853
VADER
-0.349
Somewhat Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
0
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
9.2
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
19
Sprache Difficult Word Count
20
Patrick Leahy
I thank the outstanding crime victims advocates from Vermont for their help, advice and support in connection with the Victims of Terrorism Act and the improvements it includes to the Victims of Crime Act. I also thank them for the work they are doing by developing and implementing programs for crime victims in Vermont. In addition, I thank the National Organization for Victim Assistance, the National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards and the National Victim Center for their assistance and support in the development of the Victims of Terrorism Act. Without their help, we could not make the importance progress that its provisions contain.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.52
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.52
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.09861
VADER
-0.953
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
40
Gunning-Fog Score
14.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
42
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Paul Simon
Mr. President, victim restitution is an important part of our criminal justice system. It can help make the victim of a crime "whole," while holding the offender accountable for the damage caused by his or her crime. While I certainly applaud the good intentions of its sponsors, I do not support this "mandatory victim restitution" proposal. This bill would replace the current system, which allows judges to order victim restitution in certain types of cases, with an inflexible mandate which requires restitution be ordered in such cases.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-3.04452
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.28571
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.28571
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.54654
VADER
-0.681
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
47.2
Gunning-Fog Score
12.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
30
Paul Simon
In general, I do not support placing mandates on judges. I oppose mandatory minimum sentences because they substitute inflexible formulas, which cannot account for individual circumstances, for judicial discretion. Similarly, the "mandatory victim restitution" proposal will require judges to order restitution in cases where they know it can never be paid. The Judicial Conference of the United States reports that 85 percent of criminal defendants are indigent at the time of their conviction. And yet, according to the U.S. Sentencing Commission's 1994 Annual Report, judges order a fine or restitution in 37.7 percent of cases sentenced under the guidelines. These statistics lead me to believe that Federal judges are already doing a good job of ordering restitution when practicable.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.7346
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.93156
VADER
0.154
Leans Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
33
Gunning-Fog Score
15.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.3
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
42
Sprache Difficult Word Count
43
Paul Simon
I respect the motives of this proposal's sponsors, and agree that we must do all that is practicable to help victims of crime. However, rather than placing another mandate on judges, which seems unlikely to increase the amount of restitution actually paid to victims, we should instead consider alternative permissive forms of restitution which would enhance the current system. Included in this bill was an amendment proposed by my colleagues, Senators Kyl and Feinstein, which would allow judges to order those convicted of drug trafficking offenses where there is no identifiable victim to pay restitution to the affected community or to drug treatment organizations. I would support such a proposal, and other similar measures, within a permissive system.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.29928
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.80952
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.80952
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
2.05412
VADER
-0.178
Leans Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
25.6
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
46
Sprache Difficult Word Count
48
Dianne Feinstein
Mr. President, I rise in support of the Victims Justice Act of 1995. Too often, our criminal justice system has overlooked the victim of crime in its zeal to protect the rights of the accused. This bill makes significant progress toward ensuring that the victim is not forgotten.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
0.521
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
6.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
67.8
Gunning-Fog Score
9.8
Coleman-Liau Index
11.4
SMOG Index
10.3
Automated Readability Index
6.4
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.2
Sprache Readability Score
3.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
17
Sprache Difficult Word Count
17
Dianne Feinstein
I want to thank the chairman and ranking member of the Judiciary Committee for the work they have put into this bill, in moving it through the committee and ensuring that it creates a workable system for awarding compensation to victims.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
2.56495
VADER
0.765
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
31.1
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
12
Sprache Difficult Word Count
14
Dianne Feinstein
It is a sad fact that so many people in our society are affected by crime. In my State of California, 318,946 violent crimes were reported last year.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.09861
VADER
-0.902
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
6.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
72.5
Gunning-Fog Score
11.3
Coleman-Liau Index
6.9
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
4
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.5
Sprache Readability Score
3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
7
Sprache Difficult Word Count
7
Dianne Feinstein
And yet, restitution to the victim is infrequently awarded. In fiscal year 1994, restitution was only awarded in 20.2 percent of Federal criminal cases.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
-0.026
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.2
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
36
Gunning-Fog Score
14.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
7.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.2
Sprache Readability Score
2.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
8
Dianne Feinstein
The Victims Justice Act may well help this, by making restitution to the victim mandatory in Federal criminal cases where restitution can reasonably be anticipated by a judge.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.8473
VADER
0.178
Leans Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
18.3
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7
Sprache Readability Score
4.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
10
Dianne Feinstein
Victim restitution is a matter of simple justice. If somebody has been hurt by a criminal, they should be made whole.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
-0.66
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
63.2
Gunning-Fog Score
9.9
Coleman-Liau Index
10.5
SMOG Index
10.3
Automated Readability Index
4.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.5
Sprache Readability Score
2.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
4
Sprache Difficult Word Count
6
Dianne Feinstein
Restitution does more than simply compensate the victim for a loss, however. It says to the victim, "You matter. You have been hurt, and this is wrong. We have not forgotten about you." It also speaks to the criminal. It reinforces to them that their crime hurt another person, that they are responsible for the consequences of their actions, and that they have a responsibility to the person they harmed.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.56495
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.20067
VADER
-0.962
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
65.7
Gunning-Fog Score
10.4
Coleman-Liau Index
11.4
SMOG Index
11
Automated Readability Index
6.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.7
Sprache Readability Score
3.3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
14
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Dianne Feinstein
Mr. President, I recognize that most criminal defendants are indigent, and cannot make complete restitution. But it is important to send this message of responsibility to all criminals. That is why I strongly support mandatory restitution, even if it is only nominal restitution, such as a few dollars a month. Even though this won't make the victim whole, it still sends the message to them that they matter, and still reminds the criminal, every month, about the consequences of his actions and his responsibility for them.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.53846
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.53846
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.09861
VADER
-0.664
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.3
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
44.8
Gunning-Fog Score
14.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.7
Sprache Readability Score
4.3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
21
Sprache Difficult Word Count
19
Dianne Feinstein
And should the criminal come into better financial circumstances later, this will ensure that he is not allowed to sit comfortably while his victim is left uncompensated.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.29928
VADER
0.052
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
29
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.6
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
9
Sprache Difficult Word Count
9
Dianne Feinstein
I also want to highlight one aspect of the bill which I worked on with Senator Kyl: community restitution in drug cases. Drug dealing is not a victimless crime. As a former mayor, I have seen drugs ravage whole neighborhoods, spurring other crimes, destroying property, and tearing apart communities. That is why I think it is important to permit restitution in drug cases, even where there is no identifiable individual victim.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.09091
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.09091
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.16705
VADER
-0.43
Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.3
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
45.8
Gunning-Fog Score
13.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
27
Sprache Difficult Word Count
24
Dianne Feinstein
This section of the bill will allow judges to order restitution in these drug trafficking cases. This restitution will go to the States in which the crime occurred, to their Victim Assistance Administration and to their entities which receive substance abuse block grant funds. By making restitution to these funds, drug dealers will be forced to help crime victims and to fight the drug abuse which they have fostered and from which they profited, targeted to the States which they have harmed.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
-0.972
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
55.3
Gunning-Fog Score
14.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
28
Sprache Difficult Word Count
26
Dianne Feinstein
I call on Federal judges to implement this section, and not to disregard it. I am hopeful that they will do so, and that future legislation to mandate this restitution will not be necessary.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.09861
VADER
0.561
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
55.2
Gunning-Fog Score
12.7
Coleman-Liau Index
10.7
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
8.3
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5
Sprache Readability Score
3.6
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
9
Sprache Difficult Word Count
11
Dianne Feinstein
Mr. President, the Victims Justice Act will help victims, will help communities, and may well help to rehabilitate criminals. I urge my colleagues to pass it.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.71429
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.71429
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.46634
VADER
0.649
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
6.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
61.4
Gunning-Fog Score
9.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
9.9
Automated Readability Index
5.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.1
Sprache Readability Score
2.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
11
Sprache Difficult Word Count
10
Spencer Abraham
Mr. President, I strongly support this bill because it will require the perpetrators of many Federal crimes to make restitution to their victims in all cases, without exception. I also believe its enforcement mechanisms make significant improvements over those in existing law. I believe, however, that these procedures can be improved upon still further.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.33647
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.95551
VADER
0.772
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
44.3
Gunning-Fog Score
12.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.9
Sprache Readability Score
4.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
18
Sprache Difficult Word Count
22
Spencer Abraham
In discussions with restitution experts about what we can do to improve the procedures in current law, the one suggestion I have heard uniformly is that restitution orders should be made civil debts, payable immediately.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
2.3979
VADER
0.44
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
19
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.1
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
12
Sprache Difficult Word Count
13
Spencer Abraham
Instead of having the sentencing judge essentially attempt to rewrite civil debt collection procedures and require the Government to enforce them principally through its criminal attorneys, it would make more sense to make available the civil debt collection procedures, which are established collection methods fully consistent with due process, and make it easy for the Government to have its civil attorneys, who are well versed in collection actions and procedures, take on a significant portion of the enforcement responsibilities. These are, after all, the same procedures that we already apply to students who default on student loan payments and others who owe debts to the Government.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.03609
VADER
-0.494
Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
3.8
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.4
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
39
Sprache Difficult Word Count
36
Spencer Abraham
Accordingly, I am today introducing a bill that will pick up where I believe this bill leaves off.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.09861
VADER
0
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
66.4
Gunning-Fog Score
9.4
Coleman-Liau Index
10
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
8.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
2.6
Sprache Readability Score
3.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
2
Sprache Difficult Word Count
4
Spencer Abraham
My bill will improve on collection of victim restitution in four main areas. First, it would make restitution orders civil debts. Second, to enforce these orders it would make available to the U.S. Government the Federal Debt Collection Act and all other civil and administrative tools ordinarily used to collect debts owed the United States. The United States could use these tools to enforce restitution orders on its own behalf or on behalf of other victims. The bill also would allow victims to use State civil enforcement mechanisms on their own behalf. Third, the bill would allow victims to obtain the full benefit of collateral estoppel from judgments in Federal criminal cases giving rise to restitution orders in subsequent civil proceedings, regardless of state law limitations. And finally, it would allow the courts in appropriate cases to prevent defendants from dissipating the assets that would otherwise be able to be used to pay victim restitution orders.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.63636
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.63636
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.335
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.67568
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.67568
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.57819
VADER
0.459
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
42.6
Gunning-Fog Score
13.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.4
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.1
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
52
Sprache Difficult Word Count
46
Spencer Abraham
Mr. President, I appreciate the leadership of the distinguished chairman and ranking member in formulating the current bill. I have worked with both of them in developing these additional proposals. Because of the timetable on which my friend from Utah is operating, it did not seem practical to include them in the legislation we are debating here today. But both he and my friend from Delaware have assured me that they are planning on making additional improvements in our enforcement procedures in an upcoming bill dealing with criminal fines, and it is the hope of all of us that we will be able to include some or all of these proposals, either in their current form or with modifications, in the fines legislation next year.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.4
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.4
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.76214
VADER
0.908
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
47.5
Gunning-Fog Score
16.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
36
Sprache Difficult Word Count
35
Orrin Hatch
I very much appreciate my colleague from Michigan's efforts, and I also appreciate his willingness to forbear from offering his proposals at this time. I know that he agrees with me on the need to act this session to make restitution mandatory in the Federal courts. We all agree that more remains to be done to enforce these debts. My colleague's proposals are both interesting and innovative, and I want to work with him and other Members to see that they are adopted by this body in some fashion when we take up our fines bill next year.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.69231
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.69231
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.52606
VADER
0.946
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
54.2
Gunning-Fog Score
15.5
Coleman-Liau Index
10.3
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
19
Sprache Difficult Word Count
25
Joe Biden
I too appreciate my colleague's efforts and forbearance. I believe many of his proposals are interesting and innovative, although I have reservations about some of them. I look forward to working with him and others to see to it that we make our enforcement mechanisms as simple and effective as possible, while maintaining a commitment to ensure due process.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.8
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.8
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.84583
VADER
0.939
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
43.5
Gunning-Fog Score
16.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.3
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
16
Sprache Difficult Word Count
21
Joe Biden
Mr. McCain. Mr. President, I want to thank the chairman and ranking member of the Judiciary Committee, as well as Senator Dole and Senator Nickles, for their hard work and leadership in bringing this bill to the floor.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
0.542
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
5.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
70.3
Gunning-Fog Score
4.9
Coleman-Liau Index
11.1
SMOG Index
9.7
Automated Readability Index
4.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.3
Sprache Readability Score
3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
14
Sprache Difficult Word Count
14
Joe Biden
The bill would amend the Federal criminal code to require that criminals compensate their victims -- an initiative that is long overdue. According to the Bureau of Justice statistics 2 million people in the United States are injured each year as a result of violent crime. The cost of personal and household crime is estimated to exceed $20 billion per year -- a sum that does not include the incalculable cost in human terms. In relatively few cases are victims made whole for their losses by those who preyed upon them.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-3.04452
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.99853
VADER
-0.967
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
50.2
Gunning-Fog Score
15.6
Coleman-Liau Index
11.9
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
32
Sprache Difficult Word Count
36
Joe Biden
Mr. President, one needs only to read the morning paper or watch the evening news to know that violence and crime plague our Nation. We have become inured to the ghastly statistics. But, Mr. President, victims are not statistics. They are real people. They are our brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, sons, daughters and neighbors. They deserve our compassion and assistance. It's time that our criminal justice system no longer treat crime victims as second class citizens.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.56495
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.27273
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.27273
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.51083
VADER
-0.904
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
5.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
69
Gunning-Fog Score
7.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
8.6
Automated Readability Index
6.3
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.9
Sprache Readability Score
3.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
22
Sprache Difficult Word Count
22
Joe Biden
Passage of this bill will help achieve that goal by ensuring that victims are compensated as part of the criminal sentencing process rather than forcing the aggrieved to seek remedy through time consuming, costly and at times degrading and agonizing civil action.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.46634
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.1431
VADER
-0.886
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
23.2
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
17
Sprache Difficult Word Count
21
Joe Biden
I want to express my gratitude to Senator Hatch and Senator Biden for including a number of provisions I requested to improve the bill. I would like to review those provisions.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.94591
VADER
0.852
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
54.7
Gunning-Fog Score
12.7
Coleman-Liau Index
11.5
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
8.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.4
Sprache Readability Score
3.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
9
Sprache Difficult Word Count
11
Joe Biden
First, the committee included a provision to double the fine assessed to Federal felons from $50 to $100 and for criminal organizations from $200 to $400. This provision achieves the primary goal of a bill, S. 841, which I introduced earlier this year. The revenues from the increased assessment will be placed into the Crime Victim Fund to increase support for State and local victim assistance programs.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.25131
VADER
-0.494
Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
61
Gunning-Fog Score
14.5
Coleman-Liau Index
11.8
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
28
Joe Biden
Second, the committee included language to require offenders to pay their criminal fines, assessments, and restitution orders in full and immediately if they have the resources to do so. If they cannot pay immediately, then the court will be required to impose a reasonable and enforceable payment plan that ensures full payment within the shortest time possible.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.63599
VADER
-0.812
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
29.5
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.1
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
17
Sprache Difficult Word Count
21
Joe Biden
Third, language was inserted to ensure that when a criminal debtor becomes delinquent, a hearing can be held to determine the reason. If the offender has no resources with which to pay, then the payment schedule can be amended. If the delinquency is willful, however, penalties can be imposed, including an outright prohibition on criminal debtors receiving moneys from the Crime Victim Fund.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.83321
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.64663
VADER
-0.935
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
37.8
Gunning-Fog Score
17.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
23
Sprache Difficult Word Count
26
Joe Biden
Fourth, the committee added a provision I requested to require offenders to notify the court of any change in their economic circumstances which might affect the offender's ability to pay their debt so that the applicable payment schedule can be appropriately modified. A Federal criminal whose financial circumstances improve should not be able to duck his or her responsibility to the victim because they are subject to an insufficient or outdated payment plan.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.16667
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.16667
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.31015
VADER
-0.691
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
14.5
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.2
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
25
Sprache Difficult Word Count
28
Joe Biden
Fifth, the bill will make procedures for assessing and enforcing criminal debt uniform among the three major categories: mandatory assessments, discretionary fines and restitution which after passage of this bill will be mandatory.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.51083
VADER
-0.649
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
6.7
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.4
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
12
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Joe Biden
Finally, the bill includes a provision to see that crime victim assistance will no longer be counted against a recipient as revenue in determining eligibility for Federal assistance programs.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
-0.778
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
11.1
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
9.1
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
14
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Joe Biden
Again, I want to thank the committee for their hard work. This is an important bill which I believe will not only assist victims but will prove to be a formidable deterrent to crime.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
-0.536
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
67.7
Gunning-Fog Score
11.5
Coleman-Liau Index
9.5
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
7.3
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.6
Sprache Readability Score
3.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
6
Sprache Difficult Word Count
8
Joe Biden
Mr. President, having said that, I must mention that the bill does not include all the provisions I would like to see. I had intended to offer several amendments, but the committee has requested that Senators withhold to ensure speedy consideration and passage of this vital bill this year. I certainly want to cooperate in that effort and given assurances from the committee that the initiatives I was going to offer will be considered next year, I have decided to withhold.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.55556
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.55556
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.09861
VADER
0.827
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.1
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
51.5
Gunning-Fog Score
15
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
24
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Joe Biden
The first amendment I had intended to offer would have privatized the collection of delinquent criminal debt. Mr. President, outstanding Federal criminal debt totals over $4 billion. A portion of that amount may be uncollectible because in many cases court assessments exceed the ability of the offenders to pay, but, I know of no one who disagrees that hundreds of millions of dollars in outstanding debt are quite collectible.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.70805
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
-0.735
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
41
Gunning-Fog Score
16.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.6
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
25
Sprache Difficult Word Count
24
Joe Biden
It's a simple reality that U.S. attorneys who are responsible for investigating and prosecuting Federal crimes assign a lower priority to the collection of delinquent debt. Privatizing such debt will ensure that more assessments and restitution orders are enforced, collected and deposited into the Crime Victim Fund or provided to the victim.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.70805
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.20067
VADER
-0.84
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
30.6
Gunning-Fog Score
15.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.4
Sprache Readability Score
4.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
24
Joe Biden
The second amendment I planned to offer was to declare offenders who willfully avoid their financial obligations, ineligible for Federal grants, contracts, licenses, or other nonmandatory Government assistance. Willful delinquency should be dealt with firmly. We should not provide Federal benefits to those who purposely evade their responsibilities.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.29928
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
-0.506
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
14.3
Gunning-Fog Score
17.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
9
Sprache Readability Score
4.6
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
25
Sprache Difficult Word Count
25
Joe Biden
Third, I had intended to offer an amendment to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act [ERISA] which would allow pension income to be garnished to pay outstanding restitution or criminal debt orders. Under current law, retirement benefits can only be attached to pay delinquent child support. The collection of victim compensation and criminal debt should be priorities as well.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.41176
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.41176
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.82098
VADER
0
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
29.7
Gunning-Fog Score
17.4
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.2
Sprache Readability Score
4.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
23
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Joe Biden
The final amendment I had intended to offer would have increased the amount that the Federal Government is legally able to contribute to State victim compensation programs from the Crime Victim Fund. Currently, Federal payments are restricted to 40 percent of the amount that the State provides to its victim compensation fund. The pending bill will increase the Crime Victim Fund by doubling the special assessment against felons. We should increase the 40-percent ceiling so that the direct compensation programs can benefit from these increased resources.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.46634
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.38462
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.38462
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.74721
VADER
-0.477
Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
42.8
Gunning-Fog Score
15.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
37
Sprache Difficult Word Count
29
Joe Biden
Senator Hatch has informed me that the committee intends to take up a criminal debt enforcement bill next year, and that these four proposals will receive consideration at that time. I would like to ask the Senator if that is the committee's plan.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.33647
VADER
-0.527
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
59.1
Gunning-Fog Score
14.2
Coleman-Liau Index
11.7
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.3
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.7
Sprache Readability Score
4.3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
13
Orrin Hatch
The Senator from Arizona is correct. The committee intends to take up an enforcement bill next year. The initiatives you have outlined deserve serious consideration and I look forward to working with you on them.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.29928
VADER
-0.077
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
52.4
Gunning-Fog Score
10.4
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.6
Sprache Readability Score
3.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
9
Sprache Difficult Word Count
14
John McCain
I thank the distinguished chairman of the Judiciary Committee and I look forward to working with him on enforcement legislation. Again, I congratulate Senator Hatch and the Judiciary Committee for their efforts to develop and pass the pending measure.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.29928
VADER
0.691
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
28.7
Gunning-Fog Score
12.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7
Sprache Readability Score
4.3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
16
John Warner
Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that all the debate time previously ordered be yielded back, the bill then be deemed read a third time and passed as amended, the motion to reconsider be laid upon the table, and that any statements on the bill appear at the appropriate place in the Record.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.33647
VADER
0.226
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
53.8
Gunning-Fog Score
14.4
Coleman-Liau Index
10.6
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
17
The Presiding Officer
The PRESIDING OFFICER.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.60944
VADER
0
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
42.5
Gunning-Fog Score
6.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
10.3
Automated Readability Index
5.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
1.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
3
Sprache Difficult Word Count
4
The substitute amendment was agreed to.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.09861
VADER
0.273
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
45.6
Gunning-Fog Score
15.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
7.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.2
Sprache Readability Score
1.6
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
3
Sprache Difficult Word Count
3
The bill (H.R. 665) was deemed read the third time and passed.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
0
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
0
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
100
Gunning-Fog Score
1.7
Coleman-Liau Index
3.6
SMOG Index
3.3
Automated Readability Index
0
Dale-Chall Readability Score
2.6
Sprache Readability Score
1.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
2
Sprache Difficult Word Count
3
The title was amended so as to read: "An Act entitled the Victims Justice Act of 1995."
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
0.494
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
75.1
Gunning-Fog Score
11.5
Coleman-Liau Index
6
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
4.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.6
Sprache Readability Score
3.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
4
Sprache Difficult Word Count
5