With regard to Wednesday’s markup of Bobby Scott’s bill to finally end the crack-powder sentencing disparity, we may want to remember this cryptic exchange. Below is Sheila Jackson Lee’s statement in the midsts of wacky allusions to offer 9 amendments to a bill 23 years overdue. Hear me: Not even Tom Coburn and Jeff Sessions are in favor of the disparity. As you will now read, common sense swooped in and overcame.
Ms. Jackson Lee. Mr. Chairman, I would like to yield to inquire as to our ability to work together as we make our way to the floor. As you may know, I have about nine amendments. But I believe it is important for us to speak to those volumes of those who are now suffering, either incarcerated or their families, so that, in essence, we can make good on the promise that justice is really real here in the United States.
Chairman Conyers. But we always work together. I don’t know why you have to ask him (Scott) that.
Ms. Jackson Lee. Well, I guess I have to ask him because I think it is important that we do have the opportunity to be collegiate and work on some of the issues that many of us are discussing and raising.
Mr. Scott. If the gentlelady would yield?
Ms. Jackson Lee. I would be happy to yield.
Mr. Scott. Yes.
Ms. Jackson Lee. Mr. Chairman, I think it would be valuable to have a manager’s amendment. I will put that on the record.
Ms. Jackson Lee. I think it will be valuable to try and increase the numbers who will be supporting this legislation. I will put that on the record. And I hope, as we go forward, there will be some other items that we will be able to work on.
