CONTACT: Scott Gunderson Rosa (202) 833-6130

For Immediate Release: February 1, 2000

Washington, D.C.- The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is encouraged by the agreement reached between the Clinton Administration and Puerto Rican officials. The new deal provides an immediate $40 million in aid to the residents of Vieques and calls for a referendum that could permanently cease the Navy's bombing exercises by May 1, 2003. Moreover, the Navy will not be permitted to use live bombs before the referendum.

"We are pleased that the people of Vieques will finally be able to decide for themselves," said Rick Dovalina, LULAC National President. "While we had hoped for an agreement ceasing Navy operations now, this compromise is a step in the right direction."

The deal resolves a ten-month dispute and reflects a compromise from both sides. In exchange for the resumption of Navy bombing using only inert ordnance, Vieques receives $40 million to aid local fishermen, preserve a bio-luminescent bay, establish jobs and strengthen local infrastructure. Puerto Rican officials also negotiated a limited training schedule of only 90 days a year.

"This agreement represents a solid compromise that could benefit the residents of Vieques in the very near future," said Dovalina. "The economic aid will benefit the island immediately, and if the people vote against continued bombing, the Navy's operations could be permanently halted in only three years."

The referendum, which can be held anytime between August 2000 and February 2002, would allow Vieques residents to vote "yes," agreeing to let the Navy remain in Vieques while receiving an additional $50 million in aid. Or they could vote "no," meaning the Navy must permanently halt training exercises by May 1, 2003.

LULAC intends to monitor the situation to ensure that the Navy complies with its part of the agreement.

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization in the United States. LULAC advances the economic condition, educational attainment, political influence, health and civil rights of Hispanic Americans through community-based programs operating at more than 700 LULAC councils nationwide.