In Honor of the National Conference of State Legislatures Leadership Institute

IN HONOR OF THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE LEGISLATURES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE -- (Extensions of Remarks - October 06, 2005)

* Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the National Conference of State Legislatures Leadership Institute for 10 years of dedication and excellence in the formation of effective public policy makers. Over 300 State Legislators have participated in the Leadership Institute through its first 10 years.

* The National Conference of State Legislatures is a bi-partisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the United States and its commonwealths and territories. NCSL provides research, technical assistance, and a forum in which policy makers can exchange ideas.

* The primary goals of NCSL are to improve the quality and effectiveness of state legislatures, to promote policy innovation and communication among state legislatures, and to ensure state legislatures a strong, cohesive voice in the federal system.

* The ideals of strong and effective leadership are the cornerstones upon which the NCSL Leadership Institute was founded. Leadership is an essential ingredient of any legislature. Moving beyond conflict and partisanship to meet the real needs of people is the fundamental test of legislative leadership.

* The NCSL Leadership Institute seminars foster lively discussions and provocative case studies, where promising leaders can explore their common values and the future of the legislature in a bi-partisan setting.

* Numerous State Legislators have attended the Leadership Institute in its 10 years of operation. The future of our government depends on the quality and creativity of the men and women who lead it and is imperative that we endorse programs that instill leadership qualities. On behalf of past, present and future Legislators, I extend my continued support and appreciation of the NCSL Leadership Institute.

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