Fact
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Senate Floor: STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS
Topics
Entities
Moderation
14 Speakers
Topics
No topics found
Entities
No entities found
Moderation
No moderation found
Speakers
Chuck Grassley Chuck Grassley said 73 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
12%
Chuck Grassley said 1790 words of a total of 14300 words.
13%
Joe Biden Joe Biden said 72 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
11%
Joe Biden said 1714 words of a total of 14300 words.
12%
Herb Kohl Herb Kohl said 69 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
11%
Herb Kohl said 1435 words of a total of 14300 words.
11%
Ted Kennedy Ted Kennedy said 76 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
12%
Ted Kennedy said 1286 words of a total of 14300 words.
9%
John Kerry John Kerry said 55 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
9%
John Kerry said 1255 words of a total of 14300 words.
9%
Kit Bond Kit Bond said 50 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
8%
Kit Bond said 1206 words of a total of 14300 words.
9%
Ernest Hollings Ernest Hollings said 48 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
8%
Ernest Hollings said 1002 words of a total of 14300 words.
8%
Tom Harkin Tom Harkin said 47 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
8%
Tom Harkin said 968 words of a total of 14300 words.
7%
Jean Carnahan Jean Carnahan said 47 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
8%
Jean Carnahan said 816 words of a total of 14300 words.
6%
Mitch McConnell Mitch McConnell said 34 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
6%
Mitch McConnell said 718 words of a total of 14300 words.
6%
Bill Frist Bill Frist said 21 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
4%
Bill Frist said 636 words of a total of 14300 words.
5%
Kay Bailey Hutchison Kay Bailey Hutchison said 27 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
5%
Kay Bailey Hutchison said 581 words of a total of 14300 words.
5%
Orrin Hatch Orrin Hatch said 23 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
4%
Orrin Hatch said 539 words of a total of 14300 words.
4%
Ben Nighthorse Campbell Ben Nighthorse Campbell said 19 sentences of a total of 661 sentences.
3%
Ben Nighthorse Campbell said 354 words of a total of 14300 words.
3%
Full Transcript
Kit Bond
Mr. President, I rise today to introduce a bill I call the "The Homefront Medical Preparedness Act." In the past century we have witnessed unprecedented advances in science, technology and medicine and have seen limitless potential to improve the human condition, cure disease, and advance human health in ways that were once unimaginable. Yet, at the same time we have seen some of these very advances have spawned new threats, threats that were simply inconceivable 100 years ago. The recent outbreaks of anthrax in Florida, New York City, and Washington, DC, coupled with the terrorist attack of September 11 have brought to light the compelling need to properly prepare our communities for the threat of bioterrorists attacks.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.25131
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
-0.942
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence
0.0277097075
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0101504993
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0020720889
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0004095703
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0003821692
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0001918858
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
5.58364E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
2.83284E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.56811E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
7.7153E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
7.0019E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
40.164
Magnitude:
115
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
45.7
Gunning-Fog Score
15.2
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
41
Sprache Difficult Word Count
43
Kit Bond
A strong public-health infrastructure is the best defense against any bioterrorism attack. As a Nation we remain highly vulnerable, not because we are unprepared, but because we are under-prepared. The Department of Health and Human Services has made tremendous advances over the past few years. However, while significant progress has been made, there are still large gaps in our current approach. Our goal must be to eliminate these gaps and reduce the risk to our Nation and our communities. As a nation, we must prepare our communities, and improve our capacity to respond. Central to an effective response to a bioterrorist attack are detection, treatment and containment of a disease epidemic and our Nation's public-health system is on the front line in this effort.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.42857
Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.42857
Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.78846
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.3913
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.3913
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.78846
VADER
0.858
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.0854407845
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0444842502
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0019323783
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0016579768
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0015991518
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0006131022
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0003267861
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
9.69234E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
3.81493E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
2.92972E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
4.0679E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
94.381
Magnitude:
124
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.3
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
46.5
Gunning-Fog Score
13.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
38
Sprache Difficult Word Count
43
Kit Bond
The Nation's public health system is a complex network of people, systems, and organizations working at the local, State and national levels. The Nation is served by more then 3,000 county and city health departments, more than 3,000 local boards of health, 59 State and territorial-health departments, tribal-health departments more than 160,000 public and private laboratories. Current estimates suggest that the public-health workforce includes 500,000 professionals employed at the local, State and national levels. According to the Health Resource and Services Administration in 1989 only 44 percent of these 500,000 workers had formal, academic training in public health and those with graduate public health degrees were an even smaller fraction. As of 1997, 78 percent of local health departments executives did not have graduate degrees in public health. Changes on the public health system have brought new demands on the workforce and identified a need for additional training and education. Many public-health workers do not have the necessary skills and knowledge base to meet the needs of the emerging public-health system and public-health threats. These statistics highlight the critical need to provide these professionals with the most up-to-date training, technology, and tools necessary to meet the increasing demands and emerging needs.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.44186
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.44186
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.92426
VADER
-0.402
Negative
Moderation
Violence
0.3236736869
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0365845917
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0014055167
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0008922951
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0004090952
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0002593847
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.000122737
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
4.67524E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
1.3276E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
2.3786E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
3.776E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
97.381
Magnitude:
191
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
46.5
Gunning-Fog Score
15.9
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
69
Sprache Difficult Word Count
59
Kit Bond
An important first step has already been taken. The Centers for Disease Control has created Centers for Public Health Preparedness across the country. There are currently 14 centers total: 7 Academic Centers, 4 Speciality Centers, and 3 Local Exemplar Centers. The Academic Centers link schools of public health, State and local-health agencies and other academic and community health partners to foster individual preparedness on the front line. The Speciality Centers focus on a topic, professional discipline, core public-health competency, practice setting or application of learning technology. And finally, the Local Exemplar Centers develop advanced applications at the community level in three areas of key importance to preparedness for bioterrorism and other urgent health threats: integrated communications and information systems across multiple sectors; advanced operational readiness assessment; and comprehensive training and evaluation.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.58779
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.77778
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.77778
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.94591
VADER
0.852
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.7051758934
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0213592677
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0035670841
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0018353057
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0009933056
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0007483753
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0004488512
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.000306293
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
5.87253E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
2.46768E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
9.9452E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
64.1
Magnitude:
127
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Topic:
Education
Score:
21.927
Magnitude:
127
Code:
6
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#6
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
13.9
Gunning-Fog Score
17.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
57
Sprache Difficult Word Count
53
Kit Bond
In Missouri we are fortunate to have not one, but two centers in St. Louis at St. Louis University School of Public Health: an Academic Center the Heartland Center for Public Health Preparedness as well as a Speciality Center The Center for the Study of Bioterrorism and Emerging Threats. The School of Public Health at St. Louis University has clearly been on the forefront of this issue. I was honored to have secured Federal appropriations dollars necessary for startup costs for the Center for the Study of Bioterrorism, the only specialty center with a primary focus on bioterrorism in the country. The center provides public-healthcare providers and healthcare facilities with the tools needed for preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation of intentional or naturally occurring outbreaks. Under the leadership of Dr. Evans, the center has developed training curriculum that is being used nationwide to train healthcare providers and public-health departments. In fact, the center's training materials were used by the CDC to train emergency health personal, healthcare providers and other public-health workers in New York to respond to the September 11 attack.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.4
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.4
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.81676
VADER
0.686
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.4763059784
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.1367552322
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0256840343
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0197197252
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.004880819
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0011631776
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.001136115
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.0001000119
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
6.96479E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
3.11692E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
9.21E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
95.652
Magnitude:
180
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
35.5
Gunning-Fog Score
12.8
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
66
Sprache Difficult Word Count
62
Kit Bond
But more can and must be done. Today I introduced legislation which will expand the national network of Centers of Public Health Preparedness by adding new centers across the country as well as funneling more valuable resources to existing centers to meet urgent, public-health training needs. This bill will authorize $50 million and would instruct the Director of the Centers for Disease Control to establish a national network of Centers for Public Health Preparedness utilizing the existing Centers for Public Health Preparedness Program to train and to prepare the national public-health workforce, healthcare providers and the general public to respond to bioterrorist threats.
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)
1.48808
VADER
0.687
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.1092550578
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0096636519
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0031222331
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0029614932
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0004339075
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0004226029
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
8.81085E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
9.9832E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
4.1514E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
1.5786E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
2.527E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
97.299
Magnitude:
102
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
26.3
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
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
34
Kit Bond
Each center, housed at an accredited school of public health will 1. provide training and education to local and state health department staff, emergency first responders, and primary and acute care providers on the best practices necessary to protect against, and respond to the array of potential threats facing the American public, including bioterrorism, infectious disease and weapons of mass destruction; 2. provide information to healthcare [providers and other components of the healthcare industry to protect against and respond to the threat of bioterrorism, infectious disease and weapons of mass destruction; and 3. provide information and education on relevant bioterrorist threats to the public.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.78846
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.38462
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.38462
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.7777
VADER
-0.904
Very Negative
Moderation
Harassment
1.4291100204
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
1.0356972925
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.2094811993
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.1165041002
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0214500644
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.001636058
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0006982231
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0001033727
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.83038E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
6.8687E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
5.6352E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
91.149
Magnitude:
101
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
20.2
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
46
Sprache Difficult Word Count
38
Kit Bond
Under my legislation each center, both new and existing, will receive at least $1 million per year, but may receive additional sums per year if the CDC deems additional resources are necessary to carry out regional or national training activities at a particular center.
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
Neutral
Moderation
Violence
0.2048440743
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.1209604088
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0036559926
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0026779086
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.001150268
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0011478243
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.001069553
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0003191556
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0001490422
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
6.23428E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.17889E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
94.18
Magnitude:
43
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
12.2
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
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
17
Kit Bond
I believe that our schools of pubic health across the country, working in conjunction with the CDC can provide training and education to local and State health department staff, emergency first responders, and primary and acute-care providers on the best practices necessary to protect against, identify and respond to the wide array of potential threats facing the American public, including bioterrorism, infectious disease and weapons of mass destruction. The capacity and competency of our healthcare workforce is a critical component of the basic public- health infrastructure necessary to protect our communities. As with our military, our public-health system must be prepared at all times to ward off threats and respond to crises. Our national public-health infrastructure is the first and in some cases the only line of defense. Like our military, our public-health system must be at a constant state of readiness nationwide and this legislation will enable our public health system to better achieve this goal. If the public-health system is fully prepared then communities across the country will be better protected.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.36772
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.64706
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.64706
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.4781
VADER
0.843
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.1308013801
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0183870638
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0082564766
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0035619072
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0019939285
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0001027387
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
7.03073E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
2.18358E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
2.07719E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
1.39542E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
2.4941E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Defense
Score:
55.739
Magnitude:
173
Code:
16
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#16
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Topic:
Health
Score:
29.379
Magnitude:
173
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
29.9
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
63
Sprache Difficult Word Count
59
Tom Harkin
Mr. President, in May 1995, Larry Wayne Harris of Ohio ordered three vials of the bacterium that causes bubonic plague to be FedEx'ed from a company in Rockville, MD. At the time, all he needed was a credit card and letterhead. He invented both the letterhead and the lab he claimed to be from. In fact he was a member of a white supremacist group who would later tell of plans to kill hundreds of thousands of Americans with the plague. But when he was arrested with the vials, he was only charged with mail fraud for misrepresenting himself. No Federal license, registration, or even notification was required to obtain, own, or work with the plague.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.23077
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.23077
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.43532
VADER
-0.91
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence
0.1680756919
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0412830763
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0034314697
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0018998238
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0005103693
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0003837371
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0003696605
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
7.03228E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
3.44628E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
2.10979E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
6.9513E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
76.377
Magnitude:
51
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
62.4
Gunning-Fog Score
10.8
Coleman-Liau Index
10.4
SMOG Index
11.9
Automated Readability Index
7.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
38
Sprache Difficult Word Count
36
Tom Harkin
Partly as a result of this incident, Congress in 1996 passed provisions in the Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act to close the specific loophole. This bill required the Secretary of Health and Human Services to regulate transfer of a select list of biological agents. But it did not regulate possession or use of the agents. The subsequent regulations incorporated safety standards for labs receiving these agents, but set virtually no security standards to make sure these agents don't end in the wrong hands. They carved out broad exemptions, including all certified clinical laboratories. And they included little means of enforcement.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.64663
VADER
-0.34
Somewhat Negative
Moderation
Violence
1.1090171523
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0098151519
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0044283221
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0026077765
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0023148899
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.0010569554
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
2.8695E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
2.24909E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
9.8659E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
8.4467E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.0704E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
73.809
Magnitude:
103
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
36.5
Gunning-Fog Score
15.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
39
Sprache Difficult Word Count
43
Tom Harkin
I think most Americans would be shocked to learn that we still have no idea who has anthrax, plague, or other biological agents in their freezer. Labs have had to register only if they have sent or received one of the agents since 1996. We know the recent attacks with anthrax used the so-called "Ames" strain of anthrax, which was identified at Iowa State University some decades ago, but we don't know how many labs in the United States have samples of this strain today. If we had that information before the next attack, especially if a less common agent or strain were used, it could be the starting point for the next investigation.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.1431
VADER
-0.619
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence
0.2197680529
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.079804525
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0006065931
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0003997935
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.000365132
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0002534694
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0002125806
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
8.98739E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
3.73583E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
1.10482E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.6622E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
98.28
Magnitude:
75
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
52.6
Gunning-Fog Score
13.9
Coleman-Liau Index
10.2
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
29
Tom Harkin
We can and we must do better. We have long had relatively tight controls on materials that can be used in nuclear weapons. You must have a license from the NRC or an agreement state to possess these nuclear materials. There are strict safety and security requirements on the licensees, and a small army of inspectors to make sure they comply. Licensees must report all shipments and receipts, and report any losses from their inventory of a gram or more of the most dangerous materials. Bioweapons have been called "the poor man's nuclear bomb" because they could cause similar devastation, but are easier and cheaper to obtain. It's time we place reasonable controls on biological agents too.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.33647
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.23077
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.23077
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.43532
VADER
0.243
Slightly Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.0964303676
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0104250204
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0007221843
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0001749722
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
9.95081E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
5.33369E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
5.16101E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
7.7313E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
2.2698E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
5.053E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
3.177E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
69.053
Magnitude:
69
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
53.9
Gunning-Fog Score
13.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
9.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
37
Sprache Difficult Word Count
38
Tom Harkin
That is why I am introducing the Bioweapons Control and Tracking Act of 2001. This bill would for the first time impose five important controls on dangerous biological agents and toxins to reduce the risk of an accident or terrorist attack. First, the bill would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to regulate the possession and use of select biological agents as well as their transfer.
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
-0.937
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence
0.0448583625
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0281732791
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0019753445
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0008504158
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0006478397
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0001044724
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
9.6643E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
8.40034E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
4.09771E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
2.68217E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
2.38053E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
82.256
Magnitude:
87
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
44.5
Gunning-Fog Score
14.4
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
20
Sprache Difficult Word Count
24
Tom Harkin
Second, the regulations would require registration with the Department for possession, use, and transfer of select agents and toxins. The registration would include known characterization of the agents, such as the strains, in order to facilitate their traceability. The Department would be required to maintain a database of locations and characterizations of the agents using the registration information.
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)
2.56495
VADER
-0.296
Slightly Negative
Moderation
Violence
0.1184682245
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0228250603
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0053695763
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0045727349
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.000633004
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0002021969
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
6.56044E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
4.58134E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
3.86621E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
1.8972E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.2096E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
95.72
Magnitude:
100
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
20.9
Gunning-Fog Score
16
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.8
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
25
Sprache Difficult Word Count
21
Tom Harkin
Third, the regulations would also have to include safeguards and security standards, as well as safety standards. Labs would be required to restrict access to the agents to people who need to handle them. And a process would be set up to screen people who do have access to the agents.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.55556
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.55556
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.09861
VADER
0.727
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.0043597909
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.002449239
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.001739994
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0005671164
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0003430694
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0001555636
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0001471496
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0001206096
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
4.83463E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.41616E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
1.8058E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Domestic Commerce
Score:
69.442
Magnitude:
65
Code:
15
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#15
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
65.2
Gunning-Fog Score
9.9
Coleman-Liau Index
10.7
SMOG Index
9.9
Automated Readability Index
8.3
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.2
Sprache Readability Score
3.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
14
Sprache Difficult Word Count
14
Tom Harkin
Fourth, the bill requires that any exemptions from these regulations be consistent with public health and safety. Any exemptions from registration requirements would have to still allow a complete database of agents of concern, but exemptions could be allowed either for a lab that only temporarily possesses the agent or for samples that could not be useful for making a weapon. These exemptions are intended to avoid an unnecessary burden on thousands of clinical labs that receive diagnostic samples for testing and, if the test is positive for a select agent, quickly pass the sample on to a government lab or destroy it.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.05263
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.05263
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.10008
VADER
-0.831
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence > Graphic
0.0760412659
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0709945394
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.001068509
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0010340123
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0003259337
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0001532625
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0001109334
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
8.17587E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
2.31726E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
2.7134E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
5.151E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Domestic Commerce
Score:
58.741
Magnitude:
62
Code:
15
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#15
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
26.6
Gunning-Fog Score
19
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
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
39
Tom Harkin
Fifth, the bill includes strong enforcement measures. The bill specifically authorizes inspections to ensure compliance. To give teeth to the enforcement, it enacts a civil penalty for violating the regulations of up to $250,000 for an individual of $500,000 for a group. And it enacts a criminal penalty up to 5 years in prison for possession or transfer of select agents by someone who is not registered, and also for transfer to a person who is not registered.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.23077
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.23077
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.43532
VADER
-0.883
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence
0.1046025893
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0308839401
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0003240826
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0003186951
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0002672193
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0001664152
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0001386269
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
4.85239E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
3.48086E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
1.28277E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.02772E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Domestic Commerce
Score:
70.37
Magnitude:
59
Code:
15
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#15
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.2
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
50.1
Gunning-Fog Score
16
Coleman-Liau Index
10.8
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
9.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
23
Sprache Difficult Word Count
24
Tom Harkin
In addition, the bill exempts information about specific labs from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act to prevent one-stop- shopping for information by would-be bioterrorists. It requires biennial review of the list of biological agents and toxins of concern. And it codifies the law in Public Health Service Act, maintains current regulations until the Secretary issues new ones, and sets a deadline for the registration and associated penalties.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.14286
Leans Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.14286
Leans Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.25131
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.61904
VADER
0.649
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.119418453
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0121357283
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0002256887
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0001261643
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0001097647
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
5.99606E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
5.6567E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
4.30258E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
4.407E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
6.803E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
5.02E-8
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
87.337
Magnitude:
121
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
26.7
Gunning-Fog Score
16.8
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
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
33
Tom Harkin
I have been working with several of my colleagues on a $4 billion package to strengthen our response to a possible bioterrorism attack, so that we can stop a terrible attack from becoming a national or world calamity. We need these funds to strengthen the public health infrastructure, monitor food safety, and build our capacity for vaccinations. But for just a few millions dollars we may be able to prevent an attack, to stop bioterrorists before they even get hold of the necessary agents. We must no delay.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.78846
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.23077
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.23077
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.43532
VADER
-0.915
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence > Graphic
0.4004382063
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.2162051387
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0164754732
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0039154729
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0035702047
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0009591921
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0007045407
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0003584339
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.0001968299
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
8.73517E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.26206E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Health
Score:
96.651
Magnitude:
124
Code:
3
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#3
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
42.2
Gunning-Fog Score
17
Coleman-Liau Index
11.9
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
19
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Mitch McConnell
Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Parity in Emergency Preparedness and Response Act of 2001. The horrific attacks of September 11 and subsequent anthrax exposures have focused our attention on the need to prepare and respond to emergencies, whether they result from acts of nature or the misdeeds of man. The legislation I introduce today will correct a provision in current law that prevents many hospitals from working with the Federal Government to prevent and respond to disasters. When tragedy strikes, the most important consideration shouldn't be a hospital's tax status, but rather its ability to care for the injured.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.56495
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.05263
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.05263
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.10008
VADER
-0.608
Very Negative
Moderation
Harassment > Threatening
0.0200015202
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0091299036
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0071719725
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0019593615
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0013599377
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0007277061
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0005006268
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0001424138
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
8.07215E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
4.23397E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.02603E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
39.3
Gunning-Fog Score
14.8
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
36
Sprache Difficult Word Count
40
Mitch McConnell
In 1974, Congress enacted the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, commonly referred to as the Stafford Act. This important legislation helps States and communities plan for emergencies and take steps to minimize the damage inflicted by a potential disaster. Once a disaster strikes, the Stafford Act authorizes the President to provide communities the resources they need to respond quickly and recover completely.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.05263
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.05263
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.10008
VADER
-0.934
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence > Graphic
0.0333381118
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0253533915
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.008574353
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0038081565
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0032746862
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0014909077
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0004517593
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0002128029
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
3.79609E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
2.80884E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
9.275E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Environment
Score:
83.56
Magnitude:
84
Code:
7
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#7
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
35
Gunning-Fog Score
16.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.8
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
29
Sprache Difficult Word Count
25
Mitch McConnell
While the Stafford Act has helped countless communities respond to disasters, it has one glaring shortcoming, it prohibits the President and Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, from offering assistance to hospitals that are owned or managed by private companies. As a result, there are 36 hospitals in my home State of Kentucky which are ineligible to receive Federal disaster mitigation and recovery funds.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.47957
VADER
-0.883
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence > Graphic
0.0819413108
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0716331007
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0052988045
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0020856831
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0015307614
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0004082187
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0002830655
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0001064098
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
7.07559E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
9.2931E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.2697E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Government Operations
Score:
53.237
Magnitude:
38
Code:
20
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#20
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
17.7
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
28
Sprache Difficult Word Count
29
Mitch McConnell
I find it incomprehensible that the Federal Government would deny needed disaster assistance to a county hospital, simply because of its ownership, management structure, or tax status. Is a tornado any less devastating in one community than another, simply because of a local hospital's tax status? Are they any less deserving of the Federal Government's support? I think not.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
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
-0.848
Very Negative
Moderation
Violence > Graphic
0.0271781464
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0202713272
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.004995277
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0013534866
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0004349254
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0001261007
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
6.56832E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
5.89324E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
1.38999E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
5.7915E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
4.96E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Government Operations
Score:
40.415
Magnitude:
9
Code:
20
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#20
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
34.1
Gunning-Fog Score
14
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.2
Sprache Readability Score
4.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
24
Sprache Difficult Word Count
24
Mitch McConnell
What I find most troubling about this disparity is that it disproportionately affects rural communities, whose hospitals are frequently owned by the community but operated by private companies. Many small towns and rural counties prefer this sort of relationship because it allows them to ensure their citizens have access to needed health care services, while relieving themselves of the burdens of operating a modern hospital. In the rural Kentucky communities of Caldwell, Cumberland, Crittenden, Fleming, Marshall, Monroe, Ohio and Bell Counties, the community owns the hospital but contracts with a private management firm to direct the hospital's day to day operations. As a result of this relationship, these publicly owned hospitals are not eligible for Federal disaster mitigation or recovery assistance.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.6129
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.6129
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.36688
VADER
-0.085
Neutral
Moderation
Violence
0.0292418088
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.011898829
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.004414282
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0029850158
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0021645854
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0012958001
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0004123624
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
5.48707E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
2.62379E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
1.56628E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
2.1596E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
13.9
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
49
Sprache Difficult Word Count
49
Mitch McConnell
Hospitals are critical community resources which must be able to provide services in an emergency, regardless of their ownership or management structure. That is why I am proud to introduce the Parity in Emergency Preparedness and Response Act with my colleague from Louisiana, Ms. Landrieu. This legislation would eliminate the disparity which exists between nonprofit and investor-owned hospitals and allow all eligible hospitals to apply for disaster mitigation and recovery funds. Our bill does not create an entitlement for hospitals that are owned or operated by private companies. The Stafford Act is clear in stating the President "may make contributions" to help damaged hospitals respond to and recover from an emergency, and this legislation does nothing to diminish the President's discretion in this regard.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.41935
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.41935
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.86222
VADER
-0.798
Very Negative
Moderation
Harassment
2.0070340484
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.4771466833
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.3045688616
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.1598108676
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0173825349
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.005052258
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0008377721
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0006748708
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
0.0004887594
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0001378373
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.0001120098
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
93.475
Magnitude:
75
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
27.3
Gunning-Fog Score
18.6
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
49
Sprache Difficult Word Count
49
Mitch McConnell
Since September 11, 2001, the need to ensure that our Nation's public health infrastructure is capable of responding to unanticipated emergencies has received renewed attention in Congress. In fact, the Senate will soon consider comprehensive legislation to address the growing threat of bioterrorism and protect the safety of our food supply. While I strongly support the intent of this legislation, it will be woefully incomplete if it does not allow all hospitals, including investor-owned hospitals, to apply for disaster assistance.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.55556
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.55556
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.17007
VADER
0.685
Very Positive
Moderation
Harassment
6.1362884939
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.3137979889
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.2628933173
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.1012803172
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0127717882
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.002811923
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0020221143
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0014258677
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
0.0011112883
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.0001717811
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
4.82505E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
70.888
Magnitude:
82
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
23.8
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
32
Sprache Difficult Word Count
36
Mitch McConnell
Hospitals play a vital role in responding to emergencies, regardless of their management structure. I look forward to working with Ms. Landrieu and our colleagues in the Senate to pass this legislation and ensure that all of America's hospitals are prepared to respond to disasters.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.4
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.4
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.76214
VADER
0.542
Very Positive
Moderation
Harassment
0.0556980318
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0303934474
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0229777317
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0095639276
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0021291991
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0016047861
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0005548141
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
7.73706E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
1.15531E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
5.7057E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
2.4955E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
47.822
Magnitude:
58
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Topic:
Civil Rights
Score:
42.233
Magnitude:
58
Code:
2
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#2
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
45
Gunning-Fog Score
14
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.4
Sprache Readability Score
4.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
19
Sprache Difficult Word Count
20
Mitch McConnell
I ask unanimous consent that a list of hospitals which would become eligible for disaster assistance under my legislation be printed in the Record, and I ask unanimous consent the text of the bill be printed in the Record.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.09861
VADER
-0.318
Somewhat Negative
Moderation
Harassment
1.0066718794
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0565926603
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.037907256
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0149855972
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0065006461
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0051125404
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0036530826
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
0.0003457397
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0001672501
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
2.14376E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
1.1406E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
97.372
Magnitude:
140
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
26.3
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
11.7
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.4
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
11
Sprache Difficult Word Count
11
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
Mr. President, today I introduce the "James Peak Wilderness and Protection Area Act." This language is the product of years of detailed negotiations regarding an area of great majesty in my home State of Colorado.
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)
2.70805
VADER
0.625
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.1107933465
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0654871983
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.038048203
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0228678211
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0178557602
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0065039763
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0019957793
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0010533289
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0005739606
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.0002858556
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
0.0001811189
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
92.108
Magnitude:
104
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
54.8
Gunning-Fog Score
9.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
7.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
3.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
14
Sprache Difficult Word Count
16
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
When discussing public lands issues, the potential uses for land are as varied and numerous as the diverse groups of users. Oftentimes, one camp is pitted against another, each convinced that its view is right to the point that it necessarily excludes the other interested party. And the result is that nothing viable happens. No land is protected and no uses of land are preserved. Instead, we read of angry exchanges, that if it were not for one side being so stubborn in its view, then we would have had a bill, while ignoring their own immobile position.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.47957
VADER
0.486
Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.032480876
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0243484843
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0022176242
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.001381671
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0004828533
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0002786993
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0001908496
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0001260058
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
5.80253E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
5.79458E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
7.5862E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Domestic Commerce
Score:
95.681
Magnitude:
74
Code:
15
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#15
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
60
Gunning-Fog Score
13.1
Coleman-Liau Index
11.2
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
9.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.2
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
20
Sprache Difficult Word Count
26
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
This bill, I am very proud to say, is different from the all-too- common discourse that I described.
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
0.521
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence > Graphic
0.0570245902
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0252943806
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0107811502
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0078971738
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0008250726
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0002252655
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0002013076
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0001662361
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
4.08442E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
1.98402E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
1.67871E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
66.04
Magnitude:
38
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Topic:
Government Operations
Score:
26.115
Magnitude:
38
Code:
20
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#20
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
71.8
Gunning-Fog Score
9.7
Coleman-Liau Index
8.4
SMOG Index
9
Automated Readability Index
7.4
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.4
Sprache Readability Score
3.3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
3
Sprache Difficult Word Count
4
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
This bill stands as a testament to what can be achieved when interested parties stop for a moment and listen to each other. I would like to take this moment to commend the work of my friends in the House, Representatives Udall and McInnis for their efforts on this issue.
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)
2.70805
VADER
0.893
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.2552998718
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0278461492
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0094684285
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0067022607
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0047348425
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
8.24087E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
5.43075E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
1.48253E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
1.092E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
6.879E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
3.8E-9
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
96.555
Magnitude:
195
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
61.3
Gunning-Fog Score
11.6
Coleman-Liau Index
10
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
11.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.8
Sprache Readability Score
4.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
10
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
The "James Peak Wilderness and Protection Area Act" respects the diverse uses of Colorado's lands and recognizes those differences accordingly. This bill designates about 14,000 acres in Boulder, Clear Creek, and Gilpin Counties as Wilderness, and enlarges the existing Indian Peaks Wilderness by an additional 3,195 acres. Further, this carefully balanced approach designates 16,000 acres of national forest land as the "James Peak Protection Area." The Protection Area in Grand County would disallow development of the land, but would permit recreational use for the public's continued enjoyment.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.73333
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.73333
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.6864
VADER
0.854
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.2877658466
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0731810171
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0140639342
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0105892635
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.003611506
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0018365507
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
0.0006721142
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0005553884
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0003787195
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0001443505
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
6.32521E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Government Operations
Score:
63.4
Magnitude:
28
Code:
20
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#20
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
25.958
Magnitude:
28
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
37.4
Gunning-Fog Score
15.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
35
Sprache Difficult Word Count
36
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
I am pleased with the careful compromises that were necessary in crafting this bill and proudly introduce it today. I only wish this kind of cooperation was more evident in the other discussions about public lands in America.
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
0.869
Very Positive
Moderation
Harassment
0.1286184764
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0272885751
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0152918452
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0043015651
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0035264424
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.00125658
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0005168785
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
6.78296E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
1.64411E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
5.1217E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
4.4602E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
97.661
Magnitude:
72
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
38.4
Gunning-Fog Score
15
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.1
Sprache Readability Score
3.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
12
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
I hope for quick passage of 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)
1.09861
VADER
0.44
Positive
Moderation
Violence > Graphic
0.0807044387
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0621967309
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.0410514796
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0072737508
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0054664499
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0023243225
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0007098903
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0003587971
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
5.29675E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
3.19025E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
2.16005E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
49.441
Magnitude:
61
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Topic:
Civil Rights
Score:
39.365
Magnitude:
61
Code:
2
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#2
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
3.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
84.9
Gunning-Fog Score
8
Coleman-Liau Index
9.7
SMOG Index
9
Automated Readability Index
3.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
2.2
Sprache Readability Score
2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
1
Sprache Difficult Word Count
3
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.
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)
1.09861
VADER
0.226
Slightly Positive
Moderation
Harassment
0.2121567726
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence
0.1295213355
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0196627399
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0182662101
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0092767783
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0010483753
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0003984438
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0003898403
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
0.0001328467
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
8.9758E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
3.78788E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Law and Crime
Score:
96.933
Magnitude:
32
Code:
12
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#12
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
6.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
73.2
Gunning-Fog Score
8.7
Coleman-Liau Index
7.7
SMOG Index
9
Automated Readability Index
4.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5
Sprache Readability Score
3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
4
Sprache Difficult Word Count
6
Chuck Grassley
Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the "Class Action Fairness Act of 2001." I am pleased to be joined by Senators Kohl, Hatch, Carper, Thurmond, Chafee and Specter. The Class Action Fairness Act of 2001 will help curb class action lawsuit abuses and protect consumers who find themselves as potential members of class action lawsuits. At the same time, the bill will preserve class action lawsuits as an important tool that brings representation to the unrepresented.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.42857
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.42857
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.78846
VADER
0.318
Somewhat Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.0084121246
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0022306282
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0015785663
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0015121215
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0003507214
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
0.0003403282
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0001807567
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0001248314
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
4.75904E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
3.34677E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
1.7162E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Environment
Score:
95.6
Magnitude:
122
Code:
7
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#7
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.2
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
63.8
Gunning-Fog Score
9.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
10.5
Automated Readability Index
9.3
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.7
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
34
Sprache Difficult Word Count
28
Chuck Grassley
In the last Congress, Senator Kohl and I introduced S. 353, the "Class Action Fairness Act of 1999." We worked diligently and in good faith to address concerns expressed by members of the Judiciary Committee, as well as others interested in this issue. The Judiciary Committee marked up and favorably voted out a Hatch/Grassley/Kohl amendment in the nature of a substitute. Unfortunately, S. 353 was not considered by the full Senate in the 106th Congress because of the press of other legislative business.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.20067
VADER
0.866
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.0116889358
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0095116317
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0022601176
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
0.0017338933
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
0.0004852617
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.0003765278
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
0.0002607553
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0002279523
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
0.0001359776
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
5.78517E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
4.1993E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Environment
Score:
84.802
Magnitude:
158
Code:
7
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#7
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
57.1
Gunning-Fog Score
9.9
Coleman-Liau Index
11.8
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
7.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
33
Chuck Grassley
Today, we are introducing the bill that the Senate Judiciary Committee agreed to in the last Congress, with minor modifications. We have also included a few more provisions that will better protect class members. I am hopeful that in this Congress, the Senate will consider this bill promptly and enact the much needed changes to the current system.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.09861
VADER
0.872
Very Positive
Moderation
Violence
0.0083439612
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Violence > Graphic
0.0068409099
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual
0.0027463022
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment
0.0012034744
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Sexual > Minors
0.000171531
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Harassment > Threatening
0.0001392669
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate
3.89038E-5
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm
7.085E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Hate > Threatening
1.2518E-6
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Instructions
9.189E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Self-Harm > Intent
4.157E-7
OpenAI Moderation v1 (007)
Topics
Topic:
Environment
Score:
95.251
Magnitude:
158
Code:
7
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#7
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.3
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
48.6
Gunning-Fog Score
11.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.1
Sprache Readability Score
4.6
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
19
Sprache Difficult Word Count
20
Chuck Grassley
Presently, the class action system is awash with problems. More and more class action lawsuits are being filed to the benefit of attorneys, where attorneys agree to settlements that give them huge fees while their clients get little of value or nothing. A 1999 Rand Report on class actions found that state courts often give most of the money in a settlement to the lawyers, not the class members they supposedly represent. The Judiciary Committee held hearings where we heard about settlement after settlement where class members got coupons or nothing, but the lawyers got millions of dollars in attorneys' fees. We heard about class members being awarded restrictive coupons for airline tickets, as well as class members who received a lawyers' bill that was higher than the compensation for their injury. But the lawyers got all the money in fees.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.36772
VADER
0.633
Very Positive
Topics
Topic:
Education
Score:
40.2
Magnitude:
119
Code:
6
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#6
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
49.2
Gunning-Fog Score
15.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
39
Sprache Difficult Word Count
40
Chuck Grassley
Is this fair? I thought the lawyers were supposed to represent their clients, not themselves. I am not saying that attorneys should not be paid for their work, but it seems to me that lawyers have found class actions to be an easy way for them to make money.
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
0.593
Very Positive
Topics
Topic:
Environment
Score:
51.486
Magnitude:
175
Code:
7
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#7
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
6.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
76.3
Gunning-Fog Score
11.4
Coleman-Liau Index
8.8
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
6.4
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.4
Sprache Readability Score
3.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
9
Chuck Grassley
The Judiciary Committee also heard that lawyers game the class action rules to keep class actions in certain State courts, particularly courts that are quick to certify a class without adequately considering the interests of all class members or courts that aren't careful in evaluating whether the proposed class meets the required class criteria. Those State courts are also more likely to rubber-stamp settlement proposals without scrutinizing them for fairness. For example, we learned that in some cases members of a class that lived closer to the courthouse in which the settlement was filed got a larger recovery than others. We also learned about settlements where a bounty was paid to class representatives which was disproportionately larger than that provided to absent class members.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.57143
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.57143
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.18958
VADER
0.445
Positive
Topics
Topic:
Environment
Score:
96.273
Magnitude:
27
Code:
7
Url:
https://fsc.al/cap-mc#7
Source:
Comparative Agendas
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
31.6
Gunning-Fog Score
18.9
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
38
Sprache Difficult Word Count
39
Chuck Grassley
It's easy for lawyers to forum-shop and keep these cases in State court, for example, attorneys name irrelevant parties to their class action suits in an effort to destroy diversity. Attorneys make inaccurate statements about the jurisdictional amount to keep the defendant from transferring the case to Federal court, but then retract them one year later when removal is barred. In addition, similar class actions are filed in many State courts and cannot be consolidated, increasing the chances for collusive settlements or situations where there is a "race to settlement" by the attorneys. This also creates significant inefficiencies and waste of court resources.
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
0.44
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
32.4
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
36
Chuck Grassley
A much more troublesome effect of this problem is the fact that State courts are making decisions for the entire country. The 1999 Rand Study and a more recent study by the Manhattan Institute found that most of the increase in class action lawsuits is occurring in State courts. With this happening, basically State courts are dictating national policy. Class actions are usually the cases that involve the most people, the most money, and the most interstate commerce issues. But it is clear that these cases really belong in Federal court. And there is a constitutional basis for this. Article 3, section 2 of the Constitution states that controversies between citizens of different States should be subject to the jurisdiction of the Federal courts. However, the present Federal jurisdiction statutes were originally enacted over a century ago, so they do not take the modern day class action into account and basically exclude them from the Federal court system.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.11111
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.11111
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.21131
VADER
-0.219
Slightly Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.6
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
47
Gunning-Fog Score
14
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
48
Sprache Difficult Word Count
48
Chuck Grassley
Consequently, the current system produces aberrant results as to what can or cannot proceed in Federal court. For example, right now, a slip and fall case worth $75,001 involving two residents from different States can be heard in Federal court. But a nationwide class action that involves millions of citizens residing in all 50 States, that seeks billions of dollars in damages, implicates the laws of every State, and involves interstate commerce issues, is mainly confined to the State courts. Why should a State county court with an elected judge decide these cases, but not a Federal judge?
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.75
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.75
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.60944
VADER
-0.128
Leans Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
50.1
Gunning-Fog Score
16.4
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
27
Sprache Difficult Word Count
35
Chuck Grassley
By only allowing State courts to hear nationwide class actions, State courts can dictate national policy or improperly impose their State's laws on the citizens of other States. Let me illustrate this serious problem with the State Farm case. In a large class action case brought against State Farm on the issue of auto insurers' use of "aftermarket" auto parts in automobile repairs, an Illinois court applied Illinois auto insurance law to the other 49 States. Several State attorneys general intervened in the case and expressed their opposition to the court's application of Illinois law to their citizens. The National Association of State Insurance Commissioners and Public Citizen also expressed concern over the outcome of this case. The reason for this opposition was because State laws and policy on the use of aftermarket parts varies widely State by State, yet the Illinois State court imposed its auto insurance laws on the other States. The ability of a State court to have such a monumental impact on the laws of other States, by basically overturning national policy and the laws or regulations of the other 50 States is more than troubling.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.83321
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.04762
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.04762
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.09097
VADER
-0.61
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
39
Gunning-Fog Score
17.6
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
53
Sprache Difficult Word Count
48
Chuck Grassley
So, there are compelling reasons for us to take remedial steps regarding the class action system. The Class Action Fairness Act of 2001 takes a good first step at addressing some of the problems we have identified. To address the problem of class members not knowing what is going on in a class action or settlement, or not being clear as to what their rights are, the Class Action Fairness Act of 2001 has a provision that notice to class members needs to contain an explanation of their rights and other matters concerning settlement terms, including attorneys' fees, in a plain and easy to understand language.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.41176
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.41176
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.82098
VADER
0.301
Somewhat Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
48.1
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
11.5
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.2
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
30
Sprache Difficult Word Count
28
Chuck Grassley
To address the problem where class members get nothing and attorneys get millions, the Class Action Fairness Act of 2001 provides that notification of any proposed settlements must be given to the State attorneys general or the primary regulatory or licensing agency of any State whose citizens are involved. This is so that the State attorney general or responsible agency can intervene in the case to ensure that settlements are fair. To address the problem of special bounties that unfairly impact the absent members of a class, the bill contains a new provision that would prohibit the payment of bounties to class representatives that are disproportionately larger than that provided to absent class members. To address the problem of discrimination between class members based on geographic location, the bill contains a new provision that prohibits courts from approving settlements that award some class members a larger recovery than others based on geography.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
0.649
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
18.5
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
54
Sprache Difficult Word Count
45
Chuck Grassley
To start responding to the issue of outrageous attorneys fees, the Class Action Fairness Act of 2001 asks the Judicial Conference to report back to Congress in a year after studying attorneys' fees in class actions and how judges can do a better job in making sure that class action settlements are fair. The bill also includes new provisions that protect class members against net losses and require the courts to make specific findings as to the fairness of coupon and other non-cash class action settlements.
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)
0.61904
VADER
0.527
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
36.3
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
29
Sprache Difficult Word Count
30
Chuck Grassley
To respond to the problem where plaintiff lawyers game the system to improperly keep class action cases in State court, or where similar class action suits are being filed in different State courts, or where State courts are imposing their laws on citizens of other States and formulating national policy, the Class Action Fairness Act of 2001 loosens diversity and removal requirements so that class action cases with national ramifications can be heard in Federal courts and similar class actions can be consolidated. The bill is crafted so that it will not harm federalism or deprive State courts of their ability to adjudicate cases for their own citizens. That is because there is a constitutional basis for class actions to proceed in Federal court. Clearly, the Federal courts are a better forum for these kinds of cases that are of nationwide importance.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.29928
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.1431
VADER
0.604
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
31.4
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
47
Sprache Difficult Word Count
39
Chuck Grassley
In conclusion, there is substantial evidence that class action abuse is going on and we should do something about it. I think that the Class Action Fairness Act of 2001 is a good, balanced bill that addresses some of the problems that we've identified. Moreover, there has been a lot of compromise to address concerns about the bill. We have also improved the bill by adding additional consumer protections. So, the Class Action Fairness Act of 2001 will preserve the class action process, but put a stop to the more egregious abuses in the system.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.95551
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.20067
VADER
-0.847
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
61.1
Gunning-Fog Score
12.7
Coleman-Liau Index
11.2
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
9.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.1
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
31
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Chuck Grassley
In addition, I'd like to thank my friend Senator Kohl, who has worked so closely with me over the years in bringing the issue of class action abuse to the forefront. We both share a deep concern over protecting the rights of consumers, while making sure that the due process rights of all litigants are preserved. I'd also like to thank Senator Hatch, who worked with us to move this bill forward in the Judiciary Committee last year, and worked on improvements to the bill.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.66667
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.43508
VADER
0.915
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
60.6
Gunning-Fog Score
13.7
Coleman-Liau Index
10.5
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.2
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Chuck Grassley
I urge all my colleagues to join Senators Kohl, Hatch, Carper, Thurmond, Chafee and Specter in supporting this important piece of legislation.
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)
0.58779
VADER
0.625
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
38.4
Gunning-Fog Score
16.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.3
Sprache Readability Score
4.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
11
Chuck Grassley
I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.
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)
1.09861
VADER
0.226
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
6.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
73.2
Gunning-Fog Score
8.7
Coleman-Liau Index
7.7
SMOG Index
9
Automated Readability Index
4.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5
Sprache Readability Score
3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
4
Sprache Difficult Word Count
6
Herb Kohl
Mr. President, I rise today to join Senators Grassley, Hatch, Carper, and Thurmond in introducing the Class Action Fairness Act of 2001. This legislation addresses the growing problems in class action litigation, particularly unfair and abusive settlements that shortchange plaintiff class members.
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
-0.858
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
41.6
Gunning-Fog Score
11.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.6
Sprache Readability Score
4.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
21
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Herb Kohl
We have worked together on this legislation in past Congresses. In fact, last year a similar version of class action reform passed the House of Representatives and was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee. Unfortunately, the session ended before we could bring it to a vote of the full Senate.
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
0.103
Leans Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
49.5
Gunning-Fog Score
11.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
18
Sprache Difficult Word Count
18
Herb Kohl
The problem that this bill addresses is simple. Too often, the class action procedure is being hijacked by unscrupulous parties who are more interested in making a dollar for themselves than helping the plaintiff class members remedy a legitimate harm. Let me give you just one well known example of the unfairness this bill attempts to correct.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.16667
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.16667
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.31015
VADER
0.414
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
52.5
Gunning-Fog Score
13.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.1
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
22
Herb Kohl
A few years ago, a class action lawsuit was begun against the Bank of Boston. Martha Preston from Baraboo, WI was an unnamed class member of that suit against her mortgage company. The case involved allegations that the bank had overcharged its mortgage customers and had kept excess money in their escrow accounts. It was ultimately settled. Ms. Preston was represented by a group of plaintiffs' lawyers who she had never met. The settlement they negotiated for her was a bad joke. She received four dollars and change in the lawsuit, while her attorneys pocketed $8 million in fees.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
-0.625
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7.6
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
62.7
Gunning-Fog Score
9.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
10.5
Automated Readability Index
7.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.2
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
29
Sprache Difficult Word Count
31
Herb Kohl
Soon after receiving her four dollars, Ms. Preston discovered that her lawyers helped pay for their fees by taking $80 from her escrow account. Naturally shocked, she and the other plaintiffs sued the lawyers who in turn sued her in Alabama, a State she had never visited, for $25 million. Not only was she $75 poorer for her class action experience, but she also had to defend herself against a $25 million suit by the very people who took advantage of her in the first place.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.8873
VADER
-0.026
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.1
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
61.1
Gunning-Fog Score
13.3
Coleman-Liau Index
9.6
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
9.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
19
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Herb Kohl
In response to this case and many more like it, we developed a measured, reasoned response to protect class action plaintiffs against a system which is subject to abuse. As in past years, the bill can be divided into three main sections, all of which provide enhanced protections for individual plaintiffs.
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)
0.64663
VADER
0.042
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
44.9
Gunning-Fog Score
15.7
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
18
Sprache Difficult Word Count
18
Herb Kohl
First, the bill provides that every class action notice be written in plain, easily understandable English. Too many of the class action notices are written in legalese, designed to make it impossible for the average American to comprehend his rights and responsibilities as a member of the plaintiff class. The bill requires that a statement be included at the beginning of the notice written in large, bold type alerting the plaintiff that he is involved in a class action lawsuit and that his legal rights are affected by the contents of the notice. This means that every class member will understand the subject matter of the case and his rights and responsibilities as a participant in the lawsuit.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.46634
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.29928
VADER
0.296
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
39.2
Gunning-Fog Score
17.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
33
Herb Kohl
Further, if the case were settled, the notice to the class members would clearly describe the terms of the settlement, the benefits to each plaintiff and a summary of the attorneys fees in the case and how they were calculated. Currently, none of this information is clearly communicated to the class members.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.8473
VADER
0.791
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
48.7
Gunning-Fog Score
16.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
14
Sprache Difficult Word Count
17
Herb Kohl
Second, the bill requires that notice be given to State Attorneys General or the appropriate State regulatory authorities about proposed class settlements in Federal court which affect their constituents. This encourages a neutral third party to weigh in on whether a settlement is fair and to alert the court if they do not believe that it is. The Attorney General review is an extra layer of security for the plaintiffs and is designed to ensure that abusive settlements are not approved without a critical review by one or more experts.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.46667
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.46667
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.93827
VADER
0.805
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
33.5
Gunning-Fog Score
17.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
24
Sprache Difficult Word Count
32
Herb Kohl
Third, the bill makes it easier to move State class action cases to Federal court by changing the diversity rules governing these actions. Class action cases often have national implications and are joined by plaintiffs from many, if not most, States. Currently, class actions are frequently heard by a State court judge in a venue chosen by the plaintiffs' attorneys to maximize the chance that the class action will be certified.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
0.586
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
49.4
Gunning-Fog Score
16.2
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
25
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Herb Kohl
For class actions, the certification process is usually more than half the battle. Once a set of plaintiffs succeeds in getting a judge to certify them as a class, the defendants are often faced with extraordinary costs associated with preparing for trial and dealing with a multitude of plaintiffs. So, the defendants settle the case at terms beneficial to the plaintiffs' attorneys, often at the expense of the plaintiffs themselves.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.95551
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.1431
VADER
0.542
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
39.3
Gunning-Fog Score
16.8
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
25
Sprache Difficult Word Count
28
Herb Kohl
A recent study on the class action problem by the Manhattan Institute demonstrates that class action cases are being brought disproportionately in a few counties where plaintiffs expect to be able to take advantage of lax certification rules.
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 Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.09861
VADER
-0.178
Leans Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
19.1
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
14
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Herb Kohl
The study focused on three county courts, Madison County, IL; Jefferson County, TX; and Palm Beach County, FL, that have seen a steep rise in class action filings over the last several years that seems disproportional to their populations. They found that rural Madison County, IL ranked third nationwide, after Los Angeles County, California and Cook County, Illinois, in the estimated number of class actions filed each year, whereas rural Jefferson County and Palm Beach County ranked eighth and ninth, respectively. As plaintiff attorneys found that Madison County was a welcoming host, the number of class action suits filed there rose 1850 percent between 1998 and 2000.
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)
0.58779
VADER
0.894
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
35.4
Gunning-Fog Score
18
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
40
Sprache Difficult Word Count
37
Herb Kohl
Another trend evident in the research was the use of "cut-and- paste" complaints in which plaintiffs' attorneys file a number of suits against different defendants in the same industry challenging standard industry practices. For example, within a one-week period early this year, six law firms filed nine nearly identical class actions in Madison County alleging that the automobile insurance industry is defrauding Americans in the way that they calculate claims rates for totaled vehicles.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.83321
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.37949
VADER
-0.202
Slightly Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
19.1
Gunning-Fog Score
19
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
30
Sprache Difficult Word Count
34
Herb Kohl
The system is not working as intended and needs to be fixed. The way to fix it is to move more of these cases currently being brought in small state courts like Madison County, IL to Federal court.
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
0.361
Somewhat Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
71.8
Gunning-Fog Score
9.7
Coleman-Liau Index
8.5
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
7.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.3
Sprache Readability Score
4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
13
Herb Kohl
The Federal courts are better venues for class actions for a variety of reasons articulated clearly in a RAND study. RAND proposed three primary explanations why these cases should be in federal court. "First, Federal judges scrutinize class action allegations more strictly than State judges, and deny certification in situations where a State judge might grant it improperly. Second, State judges may not have adequate resources to oversee and manage class actions with a national scope. Finally, if a single judge is to be charged with deciding what law will apply in a multistate class action, it is more appropriate that this take place in federal court than in State court." We all know that class actions can result in significant and important benefits for class members and society, and that most class lawyers and most state courts are acting responsibly. Class actions have been used to desegregate racially divided schools, to obtain redress for victims of employment discrimination, and to compensate individuals exposed to toxic chemicals or defective products. Class actions increase access to our civil justice system because they enable people to pursue claims that collectively would otherwise be too expensive to litigate.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.38462
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.38462
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.74721
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.35714
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.35714
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.71912
VADER
0.842
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
32.9
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
80
Sprache Difficult Word Count
74
Herb Kohl
The difficulty in any effort to improve a basically good system is weeding out the abuses without causing undue damage. The legislation we propose attempts to do this.
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 Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.58779
VADER
0.114
Leans Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
41.6
Gunning-Fog Score
11.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
8.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
3.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
11
Sprache Difficult Word Count
13
Herb Kohl
Let me emphasize the limited scope of this legislation. We do not close the courthouse door to any class action. We do not require that State attorneys general do anything with the notice they receive. We do not deny reasonable fees for class lawyers. And we do not mandate that every class action be brought in Federal court. Instead, we simply promote closer and fairer scrutiny of class actions and class settlements.
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
0.276
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
60.7
Gunning-Fog Score
11.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
11.7
Automated Readability Index
6.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.1
Sprache Readability Score
4.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
25
Sprache Difficult Word Count
26
Herb Kohl
Right now, people across the country can be dragged into lawsuits unaware of their rights and unarmed on the legal battlefield. What our bill does is give back to regular people their rights and representation. This measure may not stop all abuses, but it moves us forward. It will help ensure that unsuspecting people like Martha Preston don't get ripped off.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.47957
VADER
0.856
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
65.1
Gunning-Fog Score
10
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
10.3
Automated Readability Index
8.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.9
Sprache Readability Score
4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
16
Sprache Difficult Word Count
18
Herb Kohl
We believe this is a moderate approach to correct the worst abuses, while preserving the benefits of class actions. It is both pro-consumer and pro-defendant. We believe it will make a difference.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.8873
VADER
-0.727
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7.6
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
61
Gunning-Fog Score
13.9
Coleman-Liau Index
11.7
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
6.3
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.7
Sprache Readability Score
3.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
11
Sprache Difficult Word Count
13
Orrin Hatch
Mr. President, there is little doubt that serious problems exist within our Nation's judicial system, especially in the way that interstate class action lawsuits are handled and administered in local courtrooms across this country. Increasingly, parties to class actions have taken to forum shopping to pick sympathetic local courts where, more and more often, plaintiffs are offered coupon settlements and lawyers are awarded enormous fees.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
0.487
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
33.9
Gunning-Fog Score
16.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
32
Sprache Difficult Word Count
33
Orrin Hatch
According to recent studies, while Federal class action filings over the past 10 years have increased over 300 percent, class action filings in State courts have increased over 1,000 percent. However, interstate class actions involve more citizens in more States, more money, and more interstate commerce ramifications than any other type of civil litigation. They are the paradigm of what our Framers envisioned when they invented Federal diversity jurisdiction, as reflected in Article III of the Constitution. These State court statistics are even more troubling in light of the fact that many State courts have crushing caseloads and far fewer resources available to them than their Federal counterparts to manage these important and complex cases.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.07692
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.1431
VADER
-0.47
Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
30.8
Gunning-Fog Score
18.8
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
45
Sprache Difficult Word Count
40
Orrin Hatch
The primary reason that interstate class actions have remained in State court despite their complex nature is because it is relatively easy for plaintiffs' class attorneys to defeat both the statutory "complete diversity" requirement by adding non-diverse parties and the $75,000 "amount in controversy" requirement by aggregating individual claims to be less than this amount. Interestingly, the "complete diversity" requirement was adopted by Congress in the late 1700s, well before the development of modern class action lawsuits.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.6
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.22378
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.125
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.125
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.23639
VADER
0.477
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
13.6
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
36
Sprache Difficult Word Count
34
Orrin Hatch
Simply put, the Class Action Fairness Act would allow Federal courts to adjudicate class actions where the collective amount in controversy is more than $2 million, and where any member of the class of plaintiffs is from a different State than any defendant. This means that many State class actions may be removed to Federal court. Nonetheless, the bill does not extend Federal jurisdiction to encompass intrastate class actions, where the claims are governed primarily by the laws of the State in which the case is filed and the majority of the plaintiffs and the primary defendants are citizens of that State. So there is no federalism issue here. All the bill does is to protect constitutionally mandated diversity jurisdiction -- "suits between Citizens of different States." I am aware that there are those that say that the bill would "flood" Federal courts. But, again, according to Article III of the Constitution and our Founding fathers, these cases belong in Federal court. Critics making the judicial overload argument also ignore the fact that this bill does not require that interstate class actions be heard in Federal courts. It simply provides the option for either side. In jurisdictions where the State courts provide a relatively level playing field, there is no reason to believe that all class actions will be removed to Federal court.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-3.13549
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.21739
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.21739
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.42286
VADER
-0.807
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
46.4
Gunning-Fog Score
14.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
68
Sprache Difficult Word Count
57
Orrin Hatch
I should also point out that this bill would not prohibit any class action from being filed. It is merely a process or procedural bill. It simply determines the court in which interstate class actions with significant national implications should be adjudicated -- that is, in Federal court.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.8473
VADER
0.202
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
48.7
Gunning-Fog Score
13.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.3
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
17
Sprache Difficult Word Count
18
Orrin Hatch
I urge my colleagues to adopt this common-sense legislation.
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
0.178
Leans Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
35.9
Gunning-Fog Score
12
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
7.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.4
Sprache Readability Score
2.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
5
Sprache Difficult Word Count
6
Mitch McConnell
Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.
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)
1.09861
VADER
0.226
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
4.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
78.8
Gunning-Fog Score
5.8
Coleman-Liau Index
8.8
SMOG Index
7.3
Automated Readability Index
2.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6
Sprache Readability Score
2.3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
6
Sprache Difficult Word Count
8
Bill Frist
Mr. President, I am pleased to rise today on behalf of myself, Senator Kennedy, and a number of our colleagues to introduce vitally important legislation, the "Bioterrorism Preparedness Act of 2001." This bipartisan bill, which represents the very best effort of a number of our colleagues in the Senate, responds to the threat of bioterrorism by focusing our Nation's efforts to prevent, prepare for and respond to any future bioterrorist attacks.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.42857
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.42857
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.78846
VADER
0.687
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
29.1
Gunning-Fog Score
15.7
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
27
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Bill Frist
Events of recent weeks have made clear the danger we currently face. In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, terrorists have used the mail to deliver anthrax to communities across America. In doing so, they have also spread fear across our great nation and have underscored the threats that bioterrorism poses. If they had employed a more sophisticated delivery mechanism, or weaponized smallpox or another communicable virus, our health care system may have been overwhelmed.
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
-0.348
Somewhat Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
39
Gunning-Fog Score
15
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
29
Sprache Difficult Word Count
35
Bill Frist
Last year, Congress enacted bipartisan legislation to revitalize our public health defenses at the local, State and national levels. The Frist-Kennedy "Public Health Threats and Emergencies Act of 2000" authorized a series of important initiatives to strengthen the Nation's public health system, improve hospital response capabilities, upgrade the rapid identification and early warning systems at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, improve the training of health professionals to diagnose and care for victims of bioterrorism, enhance our research and development capabilities, and take additional steps necessary to prevent, prepare for and respond to biological attacks.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.36772
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.63636
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.63636
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.41369
VADER
0.542
Very Positive
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
42
Sprache Difficult Word Count
49
Bill Frist
Today's legislation, the "Bioterrorism Preparedness Act of 2001," builds on the foundation laid by the Public Health Threats Act, a foundation built on prevention, preparedness, and response.
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
-0.422
Negative
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
7.2
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
11
Bill Frist
The "Bioterrorism Preparedness Act" takes a number of steps to prepare our Nation for these threats. It includes important measures to improve our health system's capacity to respond to bioterrorism, protect the Nation's food supply, speed the development and production of vaccines and other countermeasures, enhance coordination of government agencies responsible for preparing for and responding to bioterrorism and increase our investment in fighting bioterrorism at the local, State, and national levels.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.63636
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.63636
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.335
VADER
0.71
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
2.3
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
28
Sprache Difficult Word Count
32
Bill Frist
The bill authorizes roughly $3.2 billion in fiscal year 2002 emergency funding toward these critical activities. I believe it is important that this funding be considered in the context of the existing agreement limiting overall appropriations this year to $686 billion in addition to the $40 billion emergency supplemental appropriations bill. I will work very hard to ensure that the priorities outlined in this authorization legislation are included within this framework.
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
-0.07
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
19.6
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
29
Sprache Difficult Word Count
26
Bill Frist
The "Bioterrorism Preparedness Act of 2001" is a comprehensive bill that takes a major step toward better preparing our nation to respond to the special challenges posed by biological weapons. We have worked diligently with many of our colleagues and the administration over the several weeks, and I believe that the product of those efforts represents a strong bill that includes some of the best ideas of both Republicans and Democrats.
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
0.91
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
26.6
Gunning-Fog Score
19
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
20
Sprache Difficult Word Count
22
Bill Frist
I know the bill is stronger due to the input of so many of our colleagues and the leadership and guidance of the administration, and I would like to thank several of my colleagues for their efforts. Specifically, I would like to thank Senator Collins for her contributions regarding food safety and the appropriate emphasis on children, Senator Hutchinson for his assistance with the provisions related to vaccine development and production, Senator Roberts and Majority Leader Daschle for their contributions to this bill in the area of agricultural safety, and many of our other colleagues who contributed in a bipartisan way -- Senators Gregg, Hagel, DeWine, Hatch, Mikulski, Dodd, and Clinton.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
3.55535
VADER
0.945
Very Positive
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
8.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
40
Sprache Difficult Word Count
39
Bill Frist
I look forward to working with my colleagues to see that this important legislation becomes law this year.
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
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
57
Gunning-Fog Score
13.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
3.5
Sprache Readability Score
3.2
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
3
Sprache Difficult Word Count
5
Bill Frist
I ask unanimous consent that a summary of the bill be printed in the Records.
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)
1.09861
VADER
0.226
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
61.9
Gunning-Fog Score
11.3
Coleman-Liau Index
8.5
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
5.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5
Sprache Readability Score
3
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
4
Sprache Difficult Word Count
6
Ted Kennedy
Mr. President, it is a privilege to join my distinguished colleague, Senator Frist, to introduce this bipartisan legislation to respond to one of the most severe dangers of terrorism, the grave threat of bioterrorist attacks. I commend Senator Frist for his impressive continuing leadership on this vital issue.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
-0.873
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
37.3
Gunning-Fog Score
14.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.4
Sprache Readability Score
4.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
23
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Ted Kennedy
We are all well aware of the emergency we face. In recent weeks, 15 anthrax cases stretched our health care system to the breaking point. A larger attack could be a disaster for whole communities of Americans. The anthrax attack of the past weeks has sounded the alarm. The clock is ticking on America's preparedness for a future attack. We've had the clearest possible warning, and we can't afford to ignore it. We know that hundreds, even millions, of lives may be at stake -- and we're not ready yet.
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)
-0.37949
VADER
-0.938
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
6.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
69.4
Gunning-Fog Score
7.8
Coleman-Liau Index
10.3
SMOG Index
9.4
Automated Readability Index
5.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
22
Sprache Difficult Word Count
28
Ted Kennedy
The needs are great. A summit meeting of experts in bioterrorism and public health concluded that $835 million was needed just to address the most pressing needs for public health at the State and local levels.
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)
0.36772
VADER
0.625
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.1
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
61.7
Gunning-Fog Score
10.5
Coleman-Liau Index
11.8
SMOG Index
10.3
Automated Readability Index
9.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.4
Sprache Readability Score
4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
14
Ted Kennedy
The National Governor's Association has said that states need $2 billion to improve readiness for bioterrorism. John Hopkins is spending $7.5 million to improve its ability to serve as a regional bioterrorism resource for Baltimore. Equipping just one hospital to this level in each of 100 cities across America would cost $750 million.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.61904
VADER
0.844
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
35.7
Gunning-Fog Score
14.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.9
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
17
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Ted Kennedy
Clearly, our legislation is an important downpayment on preparedness. But we must make sure that our commitment to achieving full readiness is sustained in the weeks and months to come.
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)
2.56495
VADER
0.856
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
59.1
Gunning-Fog Score
15.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5
Sprache Readability Score
3.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
8
Ted Kennedy
Since September 11, the American people have supported our commitment of billions of dollars and thousands of troops to battle terrorism abroad. But Americans also want to be safe at home. We have an obligation to every American that we will do no less to protect them against terrorism at home than we do to fight terrorism abroad.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.27273
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
-0.915
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
45.7
Gunning-Fog Score
13.3
Coleman-Liau Index
11.5
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.1
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5
Sprache Readability Score
4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
12
Ted Kennedy
The need for help at the State and local level is especially urgent. In the first 3 weeks of October alone, State health departments spent a quarter billion dollars responding to the anthrax attack. Many departments were forced to put aside other major public health responsibilities.
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
-0.517
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
51.5
Gunning-Fog Score
11.4
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
11
Sprache Difficult Word Count
19
Ted Kennedy
Hospitals across the country have immediate needs. According to the American Public Health Association, hospitals are hard-pressed even during a heavy flu season, and could not cope with a lethal contagious disease like smallpox.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.36772
VADER
-0.361
Somewhat Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
34.4
Gunning-Fog Score
11.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.3
Sprache Readability Score
4.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
12
Sprache Difficult Word Count
16
Ted Kennedy
The Bioterrorism Preparedness Act we are proposing will address these deficiencies. It provides new resources for bioterrorism preparedness to the States under a formula that guarantees help to each State. These resources will be available to improve hospital readiness, equip emergency personnel, enhance State planning, and strengthen the ability of public health agencies to detect and contain dangerous disease outbreaks.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.33647
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.41176
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.41176
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.82098
VADER
0.671
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
18.7
Gunning-Fog Score
18.7
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
27
Sprache Difficult Word Count
29
Ted Kennedy
Federal stockpiles of antibiotics, vaccines, and other medical supplies are an essential part of the national response. We have a strategic petroleum reserve to safeguard our energy supply in times of crisis. We need a strategic pharmaceutical reserve as well, to ensure that we have the medicines and vaccines stockpiled to respond to bioterrorist attacks. Our legislation establishes this reserve, and authorizes the development of sufficient smallpox and other vaccines to meet the needs of the entire U.S. population.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.38462
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.38462
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.74721
VADER
0.103
Leans Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
34.7
Gunning-Fog Score
14.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.4
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
34
Sprache Difficult Word Count
30
Ted Kennedy
The legislation will also help protect the safety of the food supply, through increased research and survelliance of dangerous agricultural pathogens.
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
0.727
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
12.3
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.1
Sprache Readability Score
3.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
9
Ted Kennedy
Every day we delay means that States can't buy the equipment to improve their labs and hire the personnel they need. It means another day in which hospitals can't purchase stocks of antibiotics or add emergency room capacity. It means further delay in building up pharmaceutical stockpiles and producing essential vaccines. We face an extraordinary threat, and we must take immediate action to combat it.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.09091
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.09091
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.16705
VADER
-0.844
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.9
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
45.9
Gunning-Fog Score
13.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.4
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
19
Sprache Difficult Word Count
25
Ted Kennedy
Our legislation draws on the work and suggestions of numerous colleagues on both sides of the aisle. One of the important areas addressed in the legislation is the threat of agricultural bioterrorism. Deliberate introduction of animal diseases could pose grave dangers to the safety of the food supply. Such acts of agricultural bioterrorism would also be economically devastating. The outbreaks of "mad cow" disease in Europe cost over $10 billion, and the foot and mouth outbreak cost billions more. We must guard against this danger.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.56495
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.46667
Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.46667
Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.93827
VADER
-0.92
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
41.2
Gunning-Fog Score
14.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
26
Ted Kennedy
Protecting the safety of the food supply is a central concern in addressing the problem of bioterrorism. Senator Clinton, Senator Mikulski, Senator Harkin, Senator Collins and Senator Durbin have all contributed thoughtful proposals about food safety. Our bill will enable FDA and USDA to protect the Nation's food supply more effectively.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.22378
VADER
0.882
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
23.7
Gunning-Fog Score
13.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.9
Sprache Readability Score
4.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
22
Ted Kennedy
We're grateful for the leadership of other Senators who have made significant contributions to this legislation. Senator Bayh and Senator Edwards contributed important proposals on providing block grants to states, so that each State will be able to increase its preparedness. Their proposal ensures that each state will receive at least a minimum level of funding.
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)
2.70805
VADER
0.71
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
41.3
Gunning-Fog Score
16
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.3
Sprache Readability Score
4.6
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
19
Sprache Difficult Word Count
21
Ted Kennedy
We're also grateful for the contributions that many of our distinguished colleagues have made to address the special needs of children. Senator Dodd, Senator Collins, Senator Clinton, Senator DeWine and Senator Murray have emphasized the crucial needs of children relating to bioterrorism. The legislation includes important initiatives to provide for the special needs of children and other vulnerable populations.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.4
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.4
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.76214
VADER
0.807
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
19.1
Gunning-Fog Score
16
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.9
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
22
Ted Kennedy
The events of recent weeks have shown the importance of effective communication with the public. Our legislation incorporates proposals on improving communication offered by several of our colleagues. Senator Carnahan has recognized the importance of the internet in providing information to the public. The legislation includes the provisions of her legislation to establish the official Federal internet site on bioterrorism, to help inform the public.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
3.29584
VADER
0.912
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
14.6
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.3
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
31
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Ted Kennedy
Senator Mikulski also contributed provisions on improving communication with the public. The high level, blue ribbon task force can provide vitally needed insights on how best to provide information to the public. Senator Mikulski also recommended ways to ensure that states have coordinated plans for communicating information about bioterrorism and other emergencies to the public.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.57143
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.57143
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.18958
VADER
0.91
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
12.9
Gunning-Fog Score
16.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.2
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
22
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
Ted Kennedy
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have a leading role in responding to bioterrorism. Senator Cleland has been an effective and skillful advocate for the needs of the CDC. Our legislation today incorporates many of the proposals introduced by Senator Cleland in his legislation on public health authorities.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.42857
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.42857
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.78846
VADER
0.477
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
31.4
Gunning-Fog Score
15.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.6
Sprache Readability Score
4.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
21
Sprache Difficult Word Count
21
Ted Kennedy
Hospitals are also one of the keys to an effective response to bioterrorism. We must do more to strengthen the ability of the nation's hospitals to cope with bioterrorism. Senator Corzine has proposed to strengthen designated hospitals to serve as regional resources for bioterrorism preparedness, I commend him for his thoughtful proposal, which we have incorporated into the legislation.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.8
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.8
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.84583
VADER
0.93
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
19.1
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
22
Sprache Difficult Word Count
21
Ted Kennedy
We must also ensure that we monitor dangerous biological agents that might be used for bioterrorism. There is a serious loophole in current regulations, and we are grateful for the proposals offered by Senator Durbin and Senator Feinstein to achieve more effective control of these pathogens.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.75
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.75
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.60944
VADER
0.677
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
25.3
Gunning-Fog Score
17
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
20
Sprache Difficult Word Count
21
Ted Kennedy
In a biological threat or attack, mental health care will be extremely important. We are indebted to Senator Wellstone for his skillful and compassionate advocacy for the needs of those with mental illnesses. In the event of a terrorist attack, thousands of persons would have mental health needs, and our legislation includes key proposals by Senator Wellstone to address these needs.
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
-0.876
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
43.3
Gunning-Fog Score
14
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.4
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
21
Sprache Difficult Word Count
20
Ted Kennedy
Mobilizing the nation's pharmaceutical and biotech companies so that they can fully contribute to this effort is critical. Senators Leahy, Hatch, DeWine, and Kohl made thoughtful contributions to the antitrust provisions of the bill, which will help encourage a helpful public- private partnership to combat bioterrorism.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.99853
VADER
0.772
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
19.8
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
20
Sprache Difficult Word Count
25
Ted Kennedy
This legislation is urgent because the need to prepare for a bioterrorist attack is urgent. I look forward to its prompt passage so that the American people can have the protection they need.
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
-0.128
Leans Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
9.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
54.2
Gunning-Fog Score
10.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
9.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.6
Sprache Readability Score
3.4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
8
Sprache Difficult Word Count
9
Joe Biden
Mr. President, I am proud to be an original cosponsor of the Bioterrorism Preparedness Act, a comprehensive package of measures to improve our Nation's capability to respond to a future biological weapons attack against the United States. This bill, introduced by Senators Kennedy and Frist, would authorize $3.25 billion in funding for fiscal year 2002, a substantial boost in resources for the measures outlined in the bill. I applaud Senators Kennedy and Frist for coming together in a bipartisan spirit and putting forth a bill that takes the first important step towards truly protecting our Nation against future acts of bioterrorism. When Sam Nunn testified in early September before the Foreign Relations Committee on the threat posed by biological weapons, he was very clear, bioterrorism is a direct threat to the national security of the United States and we need to invest the necessary resources to counter this threat accordingly.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.78846
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.04597
VADER
0.937
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
24.1
Gunning-Fog Score
18.1
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
54
Sprache Difficult Word Count
57
Joe Biden
As troubling as the recent spate of anthrax by mail attacks was, we were very fortunate that this was a comparatively small-scale attack. Seventeen Americans contracted inhalation or cutaneous anthrax; unfortunately, four individuals died. The next time a biological weapons attack occurs, we may not be so fortunate in dealing with a small number of victims who emerge over a period of weeks. Instead, we may face thousands of victims flooding local emergency rooms and overwhelming our hospitals in a matter of hours. Let's be real here, the anthrax attacks, as small-scale as they have been, have greatly stressed our national public health infrastructure. One out of every eight Centers for Disease Control employees at their headquarters in Atlanta is working on the current anthrax outbreak, forcing the CDC to sideline other essential core activities for the time being. Folks, what we have just been through is small potatoes compared to what we potentially will face. Plain and simple, we can't afford to be so underprepared in the future.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.42857
Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.42857
Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.86904
VADER
-0.981
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
46.1
Gunning-Fog Score
14.4
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
50
Sprache Difficult Word Count
59
Joe Biden
Among Sam Nunn's recommendations for countering biological terrorism, he declared, "We need to recognize the central role of public health and medicine in this effort and engage these professionals fully as partners on the national security team." There are many good things in this bill, ranging from the expansion of the National Pharmaceutical Stockpile to efforts to enhance food safety, but I am especially please that the Bioterrorism Preparedness Act provides direct grants to improve the public health infrastructure at the State and local level. Our doctors, nurses, emergency medical technicians, and other public health personnel are our eyes and ears on the ground for detecting a biological weapons attack. We can't afford not to do everything we can to make sure they have the necessary tools and resources in containing any BW attack. This bill goes a long way towards fulfilling that core commitment.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.56522
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.56522
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.21302
VADER
0.201
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
30.4
Gunning-Fog Score
18.5
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
43
Sprache Difficult Word Count
55
Joe Biden
So I strongly support the Bioterrorism Preparedness Act and I look forward to its early passage and entry into law before the Congress adjourns for the year. But I am deeply concerned that the bill ignores the international aspects to any effective response to potential bioterrorism. As chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, I know that we cannot address the threat of bioterrorism within the borders of the United States alone.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.20067
VADER
0.834
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
33.9
Gunning-Fog Score
12.8
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
27
Sprache Difficult Word Count
30
Joe Biden
Let me be clear, a biological weapons attack need not originate in the United States to pose a threat to our Nation. A dangerous pathogen deliberately released anywhere in the world can quickly spread to the United States in a matter of days, if not hours. The scope and frequency of international trade, travel, and migration patterns offer unlimited opportunities for pathogens to spread across national borders and even to move from one continent to another. Therefore, we need to view all infectious disease epidemics, wherever they occur, as a potential threat to all nations.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.29928
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.05882
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.05882
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.11123
VADER
-0.718
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
33.1
Gunning-Fog Score
18.3
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
33
Sprache Difficult Word Count
37
Joe Biden
It is for this reason that Senator Helms, the distinguished ranking member on the Foreign Relations Committee, and I worked together in seeking to insert provisions in this bill to enhance global disease monitoring and surveillance. With Senator Kennedy's strong backing, we wanted to ensure the full availability of information, i.e. disease characteristics, pathogen strains, transmission patterns, on infectious epidemics overseas that may provide clues indicating possible illegal biological weapons use or research. Even if an infectious disease outbreak occurs naturally, improved monitoring and surveillance can help contain the epidemic and tip off scientists and public health professionals to new diseases that may be used as biological weapons in the future.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.28
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.28
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.55207
VADER
0.052
Neutral
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
16.4
Gunning-Fog Score
17.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
53
Sprache Difficult Word Count
52
Joe Biden
The World Health Organization, WHO, established a formal worldwide network last year, called the Global Alert and Response Network, to monitor and track infectious disease outbreaks in every region of the world.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.22378
VADER
0.296
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
23.7
Gunning-Fog Score
17.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Joe Biden
The WHO has done an impressive job so far working on a shoestring budget. But this global network is only as good as its components, individual nations. Many developing nations simply do not possess the personnel, laboratory equipment or public health infrastructure to track disease patterns and detect traditional and emerging pathogens. In fact, these nations often just seek to keep up in treating those who have already fallen ill.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.14286
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.25131
VADER
0.226
Slightly Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.5
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
44
Gunning-Fog Score
13.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
26
Sprache Difficult Word Count
28
Joe Biden
Doctors and nurses in many developing countries only treat a small fraction of the patients who may be ill with a specific infectious disease -- in effect, they are only witnessing the tip of a potentially much larger iceberg. According to the National Intelligence Council, governments in developing countries in Africa and Asia have established rudimentary or no systems at all for disease surveillance, response or prevention. For example, in 1994, an outbreak of plague occurred in India, resulting in 56 deaths and billions of dollars of economic damage as trade and travel with India ground to a halt. The plague outbreak was so severe because Indian authorities did not catch the epidemic in its early stages. Authorities had ignored or failed to respond to routine complaints of flea infestation, a sure warning signal for plague.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.77778
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.7346
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.18519
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.18519
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.36101
VADER
-0.869
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
34
Gunning-Fog Score
17.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
51
Sprache Difficult Word Count
53
Joe Biden
Owing to the lack of resources, developing nations are the weak spots in global disease monitoring and surveillance. Without shoring up these nations' capabilities to detect and contain disease outbreaks, we are leaving the entire world vulnerable to either a deliberate biological weapons attack or an especially virulent naturally occurring epidemic.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.19722
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.16667
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.16667
Leans Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.31015
VADER
-0.944
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
8.4
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
24
Sprache Difficult Word Count
28
Joe Biden
Therefore, Senator Helms and I worked together in proposing language for this bill to authorize $150 million in fiscal year 02 and fiscal year 03 to strengthen the capabilities of individual nations in the developing world to detect, diagnose, and contain infectious disease epidemics. The proposed title would have helped train entry-level public health professionals from developing countries and provide grants for the acquisition of modern laboratory and communications equipment essential to any effective disease surveillance network. Upon first glance, $150 million is chump change in a bill that authorizes more than $3 billion. But I have been assured by public health experts that $150 million alone can go a long ways in making sure that developing countries acquire the basic disease surveillance and monitoring capabilities to effectively contribute to the WHO's global network. The bottom line is that these provisions would have offered an inexpensive, commonsense solution to a problem of global proportions.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.67742
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.67742
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.5724
VADER
0.891
Very Positive
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
7.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
60
Sprache Difficult Word Count
59
Joe Biden
I was greatly disappointed, therefore, when the White House weighed in late in the negotiations and expressed its strong insistence that the language Senator Helms and I worked out should be dropped from this bill. While administration officials assured me that they liked our ideas, they asserted any bioterrorism bill passed this year should only include those provisions that carry a domestic focus and meet the test of urgency.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.78846
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.95551
VADER
0.641
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
38.2
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
23
Sprache Difficult Word Count
26
Joe Biden
Let me respond to those arguments. It is extremely short-sighted to draw artificial boundaries between "domestic" and "international" responses to bioterrorism. I have already pointed out that pathogens deliberately released in an attack anywhere in the world can quickly spread to the United States if we are unable to contain the epidemic at its source. The National Intelligence Council has concluded that infectious diseases are a real threat to U.S. national security. To ignore the international arena in favor of domestic solutions alone is profoundly misguided. As for urgency, I can think of few things more urgent than taking the necessary steps to respond to bioterrorism in a global context. Americans have been repeatedly warned by their government leaders to expect other terrorist attacks in the near future; we cannot limit ourselves to thinking these attacks will occur in a conventional form or location. Just this fall, the WHO has had to respond to natural outbreaks of hemorrhagic fever in Pakistan and yellow fever in the Ivory Coast. An effective global disease surveillance network cannot come into existence soon enough.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.81818
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.81818
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.28
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.28
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.55207
VADER
-0.856
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
34.8
Gunning-Fog Score
15.4
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.4
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
63
Sprache Difficult Word Count
71
Joe Biden
I therefore intend to offer an amendment, when this bill comes to the floor later this year, to re-insert the provisions to enhance the capabilities of developing nations to track, diagnose, and contain disease outbreaks resulting from both BW attacks and naturally occurring epidemics. It is not my intention to slow down this overall bill or raise any obstacles; on the contrary, I want to see comprehensive bioterrorism legislation reach the President's desk this year. But we cannot address the full scope of the threat posed by biological weapons without including the international component of the solution.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.46634
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0
VADER
-0.796
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
24.3
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
35
Sprache Difficult Word Count
41
Joe Biden
Let me close with an excerpt of testimony from the Foreign Relations Committee hearing on bioterrorism in September from Dr. D.A. Henderson, the man who spearheaded the international campaign to eradicate smallpox in the 1970s. Today, he is the director of the newly-formed Office of Emergency Preparedness in the Department of Health and Human Services, which has the mandate to help organize the Federal Government's response to future bioterrorist attacks. Dr. Henderson was very clear on the value of global disease surveillance: "In cooperation with the WHO and other countries, we need to strengthen greatly our intelligence gathering capability. A focus on international surveillance and on scientist-to-scientist communication will be necessary if we are to have an early warning about the possible development and production of biological weapons by rogue nations or groups." I am hopeful that a majority of my colleagues will recognize we cannot leave the rest of the world to fend for itself in combating biological weapons and infectious diseases in general if we are to ensure America's security as well.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.21429
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.21429
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.41985
VADER
0.856
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
32.3
Gunning-Fog Score
15.3
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
63
Sprache Difficult Word Count
69
Jean Carnahan
Mr. President, I rise in strong support of the Bioterrorism Preparedness Act. I am proud to join Senator Kennedy, Senator Frist, and Senator Gregg as an original cosponsor of this timely bipartisan legislation. Senator Kennedy and Senator Frist have been leaders on this issue even before the events of September 11. In June of 2000, they introduced the Public Health Threats and Emergencies Act, which was enacted into law last year.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.42857
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.42857
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.78846
VADER
0.869
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.1
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
48.2
Gunning-Fog Score
9.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
8.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
4.6
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
28
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Jean Carnahan
The recent anthrax attacks have shown that Congress must do much more to prepare our country for possible future bioterrorist attacks. We need to e4nsure that all of our communities across the country, both rural and urban, are equipped to respond to a bioterrorism attack in the event that such an unfortunate act should occur.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.66667
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.29928
VADER
-0.898
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
40.5
Gunning-Fog Score
14.6
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
17
Sprache Difficult Word Count
19
Jean Carnahan
The Bioterrorism Preparedness Act would put in place a comprehensive national strategy to combat bioterrorism. This legislation would improve preparedness at the Federal, State, and local levels. It would increase investments in public health surveillance systems and public health laboratories to improve our ability to detect an attack. Moreover, the Act would strengthen our ability to contain the spread of a bioterrorism attack by increasing the Nation's stockpile of vaccines and treatments.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.45455
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.8873
VADER
0.751
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
24.1
Gunning-Fog Score
15
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
28
Sprache Difficult Word Count
30
Jean Carnahan
One critical component of a national strategy on bioterrorism is communication between the government and the public. Americans have many questions about what bioterrorism is and how they can protect their families. They need a reliable source of information where they can go to get accurate answers to their questions, thereby alleviating some of their anxiety and fears. Several weeks ago, I introduced the Bioterrorism Awareness Act, S. 1548, to address this need. S. 1548 calls for the creation of a single website containing information on bioterrorism that would serve as the official federal government source of information for the public. This website will provide "one-stop shopping" for people who need to find answers to questions about bioterrorism. For so many of us, the fear of bioterrorism is a fear of the unknown. Knowledge is power, and the more knowledge we have about terrorism, the more power we have to overcome our fears.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.61904
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.12
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.12
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.2318
VADER
-0.942
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.3
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
41.2
Gunning-Fog Score
14.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
9.7
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
37
Sprache Difficult Word Count
35
Jean Carnahan
I am pleased that my proposal has been included as a key part of the national communications strategy in the Bioterrorism Preparedness Act. This legislation calls for the creation of a new official Federal website to serve as the definitive source of bioterrorism for the public and other targeted populations. For example, farmers and others individuals involved in the Nation's food supply need accurate information on bioterrorism. This website would include information geared specifically towards the needs of agricultural workers and the unique challenges they might encounter in the event of a bioterrorism attack on our food supply. I encourage the development of this website as soon as possible.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.25
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.47957
VADER
0.671
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
20.9
Gunning-Fog Score
18.3
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
41
Sprache Difficult Word Count
39
Jean Carnahan
The Bioterrorism Preparedness Act also contains other provisions aimed at protecting our food supply. It recognizes that our Nation's food supply cannot be left vulnerable to a terrorist attack. The bill would authorize funds to increase the Food and Drug Administration's authority to perform food inspections. It would also authorize funds to improve security at facilities belonging to the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Health and Human Services, and universities across the country, where potential animal and plant pathogens are housed or researched.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.63636
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.63636
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.335
VADER
-0.162
Leans Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
22.4
Gunning-Fog Score
16.5
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
35
Sprache Difficult Word Count
37
Jean Carnahan
I know that farmers in Missouri, as well as across the country, are concerned about protecting their crops and livestock. A terrorist attack on these targets has the potential to not only disrupt the food supply in the U.S., but throughout the world. The potential economic impact on farmers' livelihood would be devastating to them and their families. The food safety provisions in this bill go far in protecting this essential national resource.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.63599
VADER
-0.66
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
8.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
57.1
Gunning-Fog Score
12.5
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
5.3
Sprache Readability Score
4.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
22
Sprache Difficult Word Count
24
Jean Carnahan
Another key component in dealing with bioterrorism is providing states with the resources to be equipped to respond. The bill would award block grants to states for improving preparedness and coordination in the event of an attack. These grants would allow States to improve their surveillance and detection capabilities. Further, they would allow states to bolster their public health infrastructure to best protect the public from an attack.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.71429
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.71429
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.60944
VADER
0.91
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
47.8
Gunning-Fog Score
13.3
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
19
Sprache Difficult Word Count
26
Jean Carnahan
These block grants are especially important because when it comes to protecting our nation from terrorism, the Federal Government cannot do it alone. We need the cooperation and support of State and local governments to protect the citizens at all levels. These funds will help ensure that State governments have the resources they need to prevent and respond to a bioterrorism attack.
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)
0.63599
VADER
0.331
Somewhat Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
43.9
Gunning-Fog Score
14.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.8
Sprache Readability Score
4.9
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
21
Jean Carnahan
This bipartisan legislation would allow our Nation to improve its ability to prevent, detect, contain, and respond to a possible bioterrorist attack. In this time of uncertainty, preparation is our best defense. This bill provides the necessary resources to strengthen that defense throughout all levels of government -- Federal, State, and local. I urge my colleagues to support the "Bioterrorism Preparedness Act" and to act on it expeditiously.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.33647
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.81818
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.81818
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.94591
VADER
0.898
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
25.7
Gunning-Fog Score
15.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
24
Sprache Difficult Word Count
33
Kay Bailey Hutchison
Mr. President, along with Senators Frist, Roberts, Collins, Bond, Hagel, Snowe, DeWine, and other colleagues, I rise today in support of the Bioterrorism Preparedness Act of 2001.
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
0.402
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10.2
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
45.9
Gunning-Fog Score
6.9
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
11.3
Automated Readability Index
9.4
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.9
Sprache Readability Score
3.5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
14
Sprache Difficult Word Count
15
Kay Bailey Hutchison
As the fight against terrorism heats up, it is critical that we dedicate sufficient resources to the growing threat of bioterrorism. This legislation will enhance the capabilities of Federal, State, and local governments to coordinate emergency preparedness efforts, stockpile vaccines and medical supplies, link channels of communication, modernize biosecurity facilities, and ensure the safety of America's health and food supply. In other words, it will help the U.S. protect its citizens.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.44444
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.44444
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.89794
VADER
-0.625
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
25.4
Gunning-Fog Score
16.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
30
Sprache Difficult Word Count
35
Kay Bailey Hutchison
I am proud to have worked with my colleague, Senator Roberts, to address the concerns about our food supply and vital agricultural economies. The agricultural bioterrorism provisions in this legislation will authorize the U.S. Department of Agriculture, USDA, to strengthen its capacities to identify, prepare for, and respond to such bioterrorism threats to our farms, ranches, livestock, poultry, crops, and food processing, packaging, and distribution facilities and systems.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.2
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.33647
VADER
0.586
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
22.6
Gunning-Fog Score
16.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
31
Sprache Difficult Word Count
30
Kay Bailey Hutchison
We have a clear priority to ensure the safety of our food, and to maintain the public's confidence regarding this. To do so, we must identify and quickly control the threats to our food supply, currently the world's safest and most abundant and affordable.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.75
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.75
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.60944
VADER
0.881
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.8
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
49.9
Gunning-Fog Score
16.1
Coleman-Liau Index
11.8
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
15
Sprache Difficult Word Count
18
Kay Bailey Hutchison
Bioterrorism has always been a question of when it would strike, not could it occur, especially since the cold war. During the cold war, it was known that the former Soviet Union had a bio-weapons program that included bio-agents aimed at agriculture, while during the gulf war our own soldiers have shown evidence of possible use of biological weapons. From the terrorist attacks on Japan's subway system to the foot-and- mouth and "mad-cow" disease outbreaks in Europe to the recent anthrax attacks here, even the public is now acutely aware of this threat.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.73333
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.73333
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.6864
VADER
-0.979
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
40.6
Gunning-Fog Score
16.6
Coleman-Liau Index
11.6
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
29
Sprache Difficult Word Count
36
Kay Bailey Hutchison
For this reason, this bill is critical, both for the results it will achieve and the reassurance it will provide. USDA will be expanded to enhance inspection capability, implement new information technology, and develop methods for rapid detection and identification of plant and animal disease. USDA's Veterinary Services will be authorized to establish cooperative agreements with state animal health commissions and regulatory agencies for livestock and poultry health, and private veterinary practitioners to enhance its ability to respond to outbreaks of animal disease.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.03609
VADER
0.557
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
5.5
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
38
Sprache Difficult Word Count
40
Kay Bailey Hutchison
We must emphasize and promote collaboration to strengthen America's research and development capacity. Therefore, USDA is instructed to establish a Consortium for Countermeasures Against Agricultural Bioterrorism to form long-term programs of research and development to enhance the biosecurity of U.S. Agriculture. America's institutes of higher education that have a demonstrated expertise in animal and plant disease research, strong linkages with diagnostic laboratories, and strong coordination with state cooperative extension programs will provide the resources and expertise that will prove invaluable in the war on agricultural bioterrorism.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
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
0.765
Very Positive
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
8.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
43
Sprache Difficult Word Count
39
Kay Bailey Hutchison
This is the first modern war where the front lines lie on our own shores, farms and fields, but I know we are up to the challenge, especially as Texas will proudly serve as one of the States on the first lines of defense for our entire country. States where agriculture is critical are vulnerable to a bioterrorism attack, but they will also prove invaluable in the war on bioterrorism when they provide the first evidence of an attack.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.3979
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.28571
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.28571
Slightly Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-0.54654
VADER
-0.936
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
38.2
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
10.4
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
4.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
14
Sprache Difficult Word Count
19
Kay Bailey Hutchison
To protect our citizens, our economy and our food supply, I urge my colleagues to support the Bioterrorism Preparedness Act of 2001.
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
0.649
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
34.5
Gunning-Fog Score
14.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.8
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.1
Sprache Readability Score
4
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
7
Sprache Difficult Word Count
8
John Kerry
Mr. President, I rise before you today to introduce the Global Climate Change Act of 2001. I am pleased to have Senators Stevens, Hollings, Inouye, and Akaka join me as original cosponsors.
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
0.751
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
7.4
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
61.2
Gunning-Fog Score
8
Coleman-Liau Index
11.2
SMOG Index
10.6
Automated Readability Index
5.5
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.9
Sprache Readability Score
3.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
13
Sprache Difficult Word Count
14
John Kerry
We face a fundamental environmental challenge. Scientists have warned that pollution and deforestation are raising atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, raising global temperatures and altering the world's climate system with adverse and potentially catastrophic implications for the global environment. And, while sea levels rise, species extinction, drought, disease migration and other potential impacts cannot be known with certainty, we know enough to understand that the threat of harm is real and that worst-case scenarios under current "business-as-usual" practices are disastrous.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.94444
Harvard-IV (Relative)
-0.52941
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
-0.52941
Very Negative
Harvard-IV (Logit)
-1.09861
VADER
-0.946
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
15.7
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
9
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
40
Sprache Difficult Word Count
42
John Kerry
The best indicator that other nations believe action is desperately overdue is the conclusion of an agreement to implement the Kyoto Protocol last week in Marrakesh, Morocco. Incredibly, the Marrakesh Accords, under which rules for compliance and international greenhouse gas emissions trading were reached, were concluded without U.S. support.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.95551
VADER
0.691
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
30
Gunning-Fog Score
13.8
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.9
Sprache Readability Score
4.1
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
23
Sprache Difficult Word Count
23
John Kerry
Although the Administration abandoned the Kyoto process in March, to our national detriment, it is critical that the United States map out a clear path to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the economy. In the Commerce Committee we have held several hearings to examine the science and the solutions to global warming. We have heard testimony about the potential for wind and other renewable energy to provide our nation the power it needs emissions free. We have heard from companies leading the push for hydrogen fuel cells to provide distributed generation and transportation energy with low emissions. And we've heard from automakers designing the technology for more fuel efficient cars. The Commerce Committee has jurisdiction over of the Corporate Average Fuel Economy, CAFE, program and will continue a series of hearings on the issue that was delayed by the attacks of September 11. The United States must assert itself as a leader in research, development and deployment of these and other technologies.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.42857
Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.78846
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.26316
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.26316
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.51083
VADER
0.835
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
33.5
Gunning-Fog Score
16.7
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
59
Sprache Difficult Word Count
62
John Kerry
The Global Climate Change Act of 2001 would help us move down a path of scientific understanding, research, policy innovation and technological innovation. The bill will complement other legislation under consideration in other Senate committees for reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, as well as legislation to improve CAFE in the Commerce Committee. The Global Climate Change Act of 2001 will also provide a solid technical basis upon which to build any future greenhouse emissions tracking, reduction, or trading programs.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.94591
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
2.83321
VADER
0.91
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
23.8
Gunning-Fog Score
18.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
35
Sprache Difficult Word Count
30
John Kerry
The bill contains provisions aimed at bringing the world-class science, technology, and planning expertise of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, NIST, and other Department of Commerce programs to bear on this problem, whether it is in climate observation, measurement and verification, information management, modeling and monitoring, technology development and transfer, or hazards planning and prevention.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.75
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.75
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.60944
VADER
0
Neutral
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
10
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
38
Sprache Difficult Word Count
34
John Kerry
First, the bill would endorse the elevation of climate change issues in the Administration, identifying the Office of Science and Technology Policy, OSTP, as the coordinating entity in the White House. An interagency task force on global climate change action chaired by the Secretary of Commerce would be responsible for developing a multi- faceted climate change action strategy, including development of mitigation approaches.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-1
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.6
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.09861
VADER
0.557
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
13.7
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
9.3
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
31
Sprache Difficult Word Count
31
John Kerry
Second, it would create an emissions reporting system to ensure accurate measurement, reporting, and verifica-tion of greenhouse gas emissions, which is essential to any efforts to reduce our emissions. The bill utilizes the technical capabilities of the NIST and NOAA to establish uniform and credible new measurement methods and technologies. It establishes a mandatory reporting system for greenhouse gas emissions for entities operating in the U.S. with significant emissions. The system will maximize completeness, accuracy and transparency and minimize costs for covered entities. It will be designed to ensure interoperability of any U.S., state or international system of reporting and trading greenhouse gas emissions. It would also require Commerce to issue annual reports showing greenhouse gas emissions and trends, including areas where reductions have occurred.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.78947
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.78947
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.94591
VADER
0.813
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
21.3
Gunning-Fog Score
17.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.9
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8.7
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
65
Sprache Difficult Word Count
52
John Kerry
Third, the bill would ensure that we in Congress get the best independent scientific and technical expertise in our climate change oversight role. The bill would create a Science and Technology Assessment Service that would provide ongoing science and technology advice to Congress. Since the Office of Technology Assessment, OTA, was eliminated in 1995, experts agree that Congress has suffered from lack of ongoing, credible advice. While some objected to the OTA structure, all agree that expert technical advice for Congress is essential to ensuring we hold up our end in efforts to make progress on this important issue. Congressional requests for advice are overburdening the National Academy of Sciences and threatening to compromise its independent stature. The bill would economize on resources and personnel by utilizing the administrative services of the Library of Congress and the expertise of the National Research Council, and provide an ongoing separate service to Congress that will not threaten compromise NAS's independent role.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.71429
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.46634
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.35484
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.35484
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.71668
VADER
0.854
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
28.8
Gunning-Fog Score
17.6
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
71
Sprache Difficult Word Count
52
John Kerry
Fourth, the bill revises the Global Change Research Act of 1990 and the National Climate Program Act, so that interagency and Commerce Department programs focus on improving detection, modeling and regional impact assessments and are better managed to provide useful information to government decisionmakers and managers. In addition, the legislative changes would direct improvements in atmospheric monitoring and establish a new integrated coastal and ocean observing system to ensure we understand and predict the role of oceans in climate. Finally, it would create an integrated program office for the USGCRP within the Office of Science and Technology Policy to ensure budget coordination, using models established under the multiagency National Oceanographic Partnership Program and the NPOESS, polar satellite, convergence process.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
2.56495
Harvard-IV (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
3.66356
VADER
0.945
Very Positive
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
9.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
59
Sprache Difficult Word Count
60
John Kerry
Fifth, the bill addresses a critical component of reducing greenhouse gas emissions: technology innovation. The bill is aimed at increasing the Department of Commerce's technology innovation role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, it would utilize the Advanced Technology Program, ATP, to promote and commercialize energy efficient technologies and the Manufacturing Extension Program for small manufacturers. This section would also direct NIST to develop methods and technologies, including process improvements, that can be used in a variety of sectors to reduce production of greenhouse gases.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.66667
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.66667
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.29928
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.77778
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.77778
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.7346
VADER
0.914
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
8.1
Gunning-Fog Score
19
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
9.6
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
46
Sprache Difficult Word Count
42
John Kerry
Finally, we must admit that even if we stopped all greenhouse gas emissions tomorrow, the effects of climate change and variability will not end. It is in our interest to undertake assessments and actions now that will help us address safety and infrastructure issues that will likely accompany climate variability and change in the future. There is currently no way for State governments or coastal communities to plan for change on a 20-50 year time horizon. The bill would require NOAA to evaluate vulnerability of regions of the United States, particularly coastal regions, to effects of climate change, including drought and sea level rise, and develop a strategy for helping states deal with the issues. The bill also directs NOAA to work with NASS to develop remote sensing technologies that will help coastal managers identify hazards and make intelligent planning decisions.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.2
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.33647
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.875
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.875
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
2.33537
VADER
0.933
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
31.4
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
51
Sprache Difficult Word Count
53
John Kerry
This legislation neatly rolls into one package key components of any national plan to address climate change: coordinated research, monitoring, reporting and verification, mitigation technology, impact assessment, and adaptation planning. This package is but one of many I hope to see my colleagues in Congress develop to help the United States reduce the threat of global climate change now. The Climate Change meetings in Marrakesh last week show that other nations are ready to act. We can, and must, do the same, even without leadership from this Administration.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0
Neutral
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.95551
VADER
0.887
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
36.5
Gunning-Fog Score
15.2
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
30
Sprache Difficult Word Count
32
Ernest Hollings
Mr. President, I am pleased to join Senator Kerry as a cosponsor of the Global Climate Change Act of 2001. The Senate Commerce Committee has worked hard to ensure that the Federal Government has the best research and information possible about global warming, as well as other types of climate changes. Our investments are bearing fruit and we are identifying ways to focus our research to help us make decisions now and in the decades ahead.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
1
Very Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.77778
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.77778
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.7346
VADER
0.942
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
57.3
Gunning-Fog Score
10.8
Coleman-Liau Index
11.9
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.8
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
28
Sprache Difficult Word Count
27
Ernest Hollings
During the 1980s, a number of us on the Committee became increasingly concerned about the potential threat of global warming and loss of the ozone layer. In 1989, I sponsored the National Global Change Research Act, which attracted support from many members still serving on the Commerce Committee. In 1990, after numerous hearings and roundtable discussions, Congress enacted the legislation, thereby creating the U.S. Global Climate Research Program.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.5
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.8473
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.11111
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.20067
VADER
0.44
Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
10
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
48.1
Gunning-Fog Score
10.7
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
10.2
Dale-Chall Readability Score
8
Sprache Readability Score
4.7
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
32
Sprache Difficult Word Count
29
Ernest Hollings
When we passed the Global Change Research Act, we knew it was the first step in investigating a very complex problem. We placed a lot of responsibility in NOAA, the scientific agency best suited to monitor and predict ocean and atmospheric processes. We need to renew this ocean research commitment to ensure we better understand the oceans, the engines of climate. The so-called "wild card" of the climate system, the oceans are capable of dramatic climate surprises we should strive to comprehend.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.33333
Somewhat Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.51083
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.5
Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.99853
VADER
0.916
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.7
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
48.2
Gunning-Fog Score
14.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
29
Sprache Difficult Word Count
28
Ernest Hollings
I am glad to report that the research accomplished under the National Global Change Research Act has led to increased understanding of global climate change, as well as regional climate phenomena like El Nino/ Southern Oscillation, ENSO. We now have a better understanding of how the Earth's oceans, atmosphere, and land surface function together as a dynamic system, but we cannot stop there. Only recently, NOAA measured an important increase in temperature in all the world's oceans over a 40 year period. We need to understand the causes and how that will affect us. All this research ensures that federal and state decision-makers get better information and tools to cope with such climate related problems as food supply, energy allocation, and water resources.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
0.33333
Somewhat Positive
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
0.58779
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.68421
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.68421
Very Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
1.5506
VADER
0.945
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
38.4
Gunning-Fog Score
16.7
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
46
Sprache Difficult Word Count
46
Ernest Hollings
While we have learned an astonishing amount about climate and other earth/ocean interactions in only a decade, we have other critical questions that require further research to answer. Many of these questions are relevant not only to improving our scientific understanding, but also to contributing to our future social and economic well-being. For example, climate anomalies during the past two years, most directly related to the 1997-1998 El Nino event, have accounted for over $30 billion in impacts worldwide. When impacts from the recent floods in China are included, these direct losses could rise to $60 billion. This most recent El Nino claimed 21,000 lives, displaced 4.5 million people, and affected 82 million acres of land through severe flood, drought, and fire. When we better understand the global climate system, and its relationship to regional climate events like El Nino, we may be able to find ways, such as improved forecasting and early warning -- to avoid some of the severe impacts.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.53846
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.53846
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.09861
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.09091
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.09091
Neutral
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.17435
VADER
-0.872
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
42.5
Gunning-Fog Score
17.3
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
6.5
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
54
Sprache Difficult Word Count
55
Ernest Hollings
Understanding these and other impacts of climate change at the regional level is a critical step in preparing for these changes. We must maintain our commitment to research and further refine our existing modeling capabilities. The second critical need is planning for sea level rise and other inevitable results of climate change. It is costly in human lives and real dollars to manage our response in a crisis mode. Just as we needed to modernize our National Weather Service, we need to strengthen and modernize our National Climate Service, which can help the U.S. predict and plan for climate events. This includes establishing a national ocean and coastal observing system using the expertise and resources of a variety of federal agencies. In addition, this bill will help our coastal communities at risk from future climate-related hazards create plans that will help us adapt to such changes without catastrophic disruptions experienced in Alaska by my friend Senator Stevens.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.75
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-1.60944
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.24138
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.24138
Slightly Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.47542
VADER
0.8
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
11.6
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
43.1
Gunning-Fog Score
13.6
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
11.6
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7.1
Sprache Readability Score
5
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
63
Sprache Difficult Word Count
59
Ernest Hollings
Not only do we need continued support for technological research and development, we must also consider the method in which this information is delivered to Congress. Before it was abolished in 1995, the Office of Technology Assessment, OTA, was responsible for providing Congress with balanced, independent scientific and technological advice. Since 1995, the function of the National Academy complex, particularly the National Research Council, NRC, has been forced to expand its role in providing research and information to Congress. However, the NRC studies have their limitations. The reports, often slow and expensive, provide limited opportunity for formal input and review by affected parties. Furthermore, unlike OTA, they often make specific recommendations rather than laying out a range of alternative policy options.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.25
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.25
Slightly Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-0.45199
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.30435
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.30435
Somewhat Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.60077
VADER
0.743
Very Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
22.1
Gunning-Fog Score
17
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
57
Sprache Difficult Word Count
53
Ernest Hollings
The problems addressed by Congress are becoming increasingly complex. Science and technology play a crucial role in addressing problems in energy, defense, aviation and the environment. Without a permanent, non-partisan source of independent scientific and technical policy analysis, Congress become lost in the wealth of information provided by scientists, think tanks, and interest groups. The Global Climate Change Act of 2001 addresses this problem by creating a service that would provide ongoing science and technology advice to Congress, but avoid the criticisms leveled at OTA. It would economize on resources and personnel by utilizing the administrative services of the Library of Congress and the expertise of the National Research Ccouncil. Congressional requests for advice are overburdening NRC and threatening to compromise its independent stature as it is increasingly asked to fill the role of OTA. This provision would defer to NRC as the source of outside, unbiased advice and experts, but also provide an ongoing separate service to Congress. This service would also be asked to review the report of the Climate Change Action Task Force.
Sentiment
Loughran McDonald (Relative)
-0.83333
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Absolute)
-0.83333
Very Negative
Loughran McDonald (Logit)
-2.03688
Harvard-IV (Relative)
0.125
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Absolute)
0.125
Leans Positive
Harvard-IV (Logit)
0.24362
VADER
-0.871
Very Negative
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
33.8
Gunning-Fog Score
17
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
79
Sprache Difficult Word Count
69
Ernest Hollings
The Global Climate Change Act of 2001 demonstrates that the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation is serious about climate change, and I commend this Act to you.
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
0.382
Somewhat Positive
Readability
Flesch-Kincaid Grade
12
Flesch-Kincaid Ease
51.5
Gunning-Fog Score
14.1
Coleman-Liau Index
12
SMOG Index
12
Automated Readability Index
12
Dale-Chall Readability Score
7
Sprache Readability Score
4.8
Dale-Chall Difficult Word Score
10
Sprache Difficult Word Count
9