For Release: November 16, 2001
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

BEATTY BILL PASSED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Washington - Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that legislation he introduced last month to name the Federal building at 501 Bell Street in Alton after Judge William L. Beatty was passed by the full House of Representatives today. Costello expects the bill to be considered by the Senate after Thanksgiving.

"The wisdom and integrity that defined Judge Beatty's career are an example to the entire nation. I look forward to this bill becoming law," said Costello.

Born in Mendota, Judge Beatty grew up in East St. Louis and attended Washington University in St. Louis and St. Louis University law school. He served in the Army during World War II and spent almost 20 years in private practice before becoming a circuit judge in Madison County in 1968. Appointed to the Federal Bench by President Jimmy Carter in 1979, Judge Beatty served with distinction as a district court judge until his death this July.

Costello is the ranking Democrat on the Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management Subcommittee of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The subcommittee has jurisdiction over the naming of Federal buildings.

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