S. 686, Terri Schiavo

President's Statement on S. 686, Allowing Federal Courts to Hear Claim of Terri Schiavo

STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT: Today, I signed into law a bill that will allow Federal courts to hear a claim by or on behalf of Terri Schiavo for violation of her rights relating to the withholding or withdrawal of food, fluids, or medical treatment necessary to sustain her life. In cases like this one, where there are serious questions and substantial doubts, our society, our laws, and our courts should have a presumption in favor of life. This presumption is especially critical for those like Terri Schiavo who live at the mercy of others. I appreciate the bipartisan action by the Members of Congress to pass this bill. I will continue to stand on the side of those defending life for all Americans, including those with disabilities. # # #

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 21, 2005

Dialogue in Kyrgyzsta

United States Calls for Dialogue in Kyrgyzsta: The United States Government has been following events in Kyrgyzstan closely since the second round of parliamentary elections last week. We are concerned by incidents of violence in Jalalabad and other parts of the country. We call on all parties in Kyrgyzstan to engage in dialogue and resolve differences peacefully and according to the rule of law.

The United States strongly endorses the March 20th Organization for Security and Co-Operation in Europe (OSCE) statement calling for nonviolence and immediate dialogue. U.S. officials have been in contact with both the government and opposition to reinforce this message.

2005/336 Released on March 20, 2005 Press Statement Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC March 20, 2005