E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 109 CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION

Vol. 152 WASHINGTON, MONDAY, MAY 22, 2006 No. 64 House of Representatives The House met at 12:30 p.m. and was cost to the taxpayer sugar program.’’ important reason this travesty con- called to order by the Speaker pro tem- This does not pass the straight face tinues is to be found in campaign con- pore (Mr. PRICE of Georgia). test anywhere in America but Wash- tribution reports. This industry is only f ington, DC. The most junior intern 1 percent of American agriculture, yet working in any congressional office it spends 17 percent of the campaign DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO who is doing independent research can contributions for agriculture and TEMPORE quickly verify that this is not a ‘‘no countless millions more lobbying and The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- cost program.’’ There are huge costs to producing bogus surveys currently cir- fore the House the following commu- the taxpayer, the government and the culating on Capitol Hill. nication from the Speaker: environment. I suggest if Members want to do a Straight off the top, this ‘‘no cost favor for the environment, for the tax- WASHINGTON, DC, May 22, 2006. program’’ requires American con- payer, allow a junior intern to do your I hereby appoint the Honorable TOM PRICE sumers to pay almost $2 billion a year research to determine whether or not to act as Speaker pro tempore on this day. more for sugar and sugar-related prod- this has no cost. This research done by J. DENNIS HASTERT, ucts. Only in Washington, DC would $2 any college economics student, in any Speaker of the House of Representatives. billion be ‘‘no cost.’’ Then there is the college political science class, or by f loss to industries for whom paying two the outstandingly bright young men to three times the price of the world and women who work for us as volun- MORNING HOUR DEBATES price of sugar makes a big difference. teers on Capitol Hill right now as in- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- There used to be a thriving confec- terns can demonstrate to any Mem- ant to the order of the House of Janu- tionery industry, manufacturing in ber’s satisfaction that it is not worth ary 31, 2006, the Chair will now recog- Hershey, Pennsylvania; in New Eng- the cost. It is time to approve the nize Members from lists submitted by land, in Chicago. Many of these jobs Blumenauer-Flake amendment. the majority and minority leaders for have since disappeared, being driven f morning hour debates. The Chair will across the border to Canada, Mexico or elsewhere where sugar prices are dra- THE LEGACY AND LIFE OF alternate recognition between the par- CARMEN ANAYA ties, with each party limited to not to matically lower. Only the powerful exceed 30 minutes, and each Member, sugar lobbyists and the people who lis- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- except the majority leader, the minor- ten to them would think that $2 billion ant to the order of the House of Janu- ity leader, or the minority whip, lim- a year that will be required to store ary 31, 2006, the gentleman from Texas ited to not to exceed 5 minutes. and purchase surplus sugar over the (Mr. DOGGETT) is recognized during next 10 years would be no cost. The Chair recognizes the gentleman morning hour debates for 5 minutes. One of the most perverse effects of Mr. DOGGETT. Thank you, Mr. from Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER) for 5 the sugar program has been to dra- Speaker. minutes. matically increase cane sugar produc- Carmen Anaya was a remarkable f tion in the State of Florida. Over the human being. Her life of 79 years both SUGAR last 50 years the amount of acreage inspires and teaches us. Born in surrounding the Everglades has in- Monterrey, Mexico; a teacher, she Mr. BLUMENAUER. Thank you, Mr. creased 800 percent. All of this sugar moved to the United States as a young Speaker. production is in the Everglades. This woman and married Jose´ Anaya. Later this week, there will be consid- expansion has devastating con- For the next 20 years as their family eration of an amendment from Mr. sequences. Pollution, polluted runoff, grew, they worked as migrant farm FLAKE of Arizona and me dealing with and changed water flow attributed to workers all across America—har- the notorious sugar subsidy program, the sugar industry is a significant rea- vesting cherries in Michigan, tomatoes proposing a tiny reduction in it. For son why we are paying seven to $8 bil- in California, potatoes in Oregon, and anyone who wants a lesson in how your lion as a down payment to clean up the sugar beets in the Dakotas. Eventually government works, a review of the pol- Everglades and redo the plumbing. The they opened a small general store in itics surrounding the sugar quota sys- sugar lobbyists in Washington, DC Las Milpas in the Texas Rio Grande tem is a textbook example of how the would lead you to believe that this is Valley. political process can distort reality and no cost. In Spanish, a ‘‘milpa’’ is a temporary why. A Dear Colleague letter is circu- How can this be? How can people pre- field that is cultivated for a few sea- lating touting the benefits of a ‘‘no tend to believe this claptrap? Well, an sons. But the colonia of Las Milpas was

b This symbol represents the time of day during the House proceedings, e.g., b 1407 is 2:07 p.m. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

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VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2966 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 the permanent home of thousands who Linda, a nurse, is an administrator at come forward and lead the House in the lacked running water, had no paved Cornerstone Regional Hospital. Pledge of Allegiance. roads and no jobs that offered a way to The life of service of any one child Mr. PENCE led the Pledge of Alle- escape poverty. Even worse, most resi- would be enough to make a parent giance as follows: dents had little hope for a better future proud. But think how much our coun- I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the for themselves or for their children. try gains and continues to gain from United States of America, and to the Repub- In 1982, Mrs. Anaya joined with other the service of each of these six chil- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, people of faith to found Valley Inter- dren. Her life and her children say indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. faith, a nonprofit coalition of over 40 more about family values than a thou- f churches that, with the work of lead sand speeches from the floor of this organizer Elizabeth Valdez, has now ex- Congress. And in the ongoing national FREEDOM IS WINNING IN IRAQ panded to represent some 60,000 Valley debate about immigration, we should (Mr. PENCE asked and was given per- families. Valley Interfaith leaders al- reflect on her legacy. Mexican immi- mission to address the House for 1 ´ ready knew how to cultivate fields, but grants like Carmen and Jose Anaya minute and to revise and extend his re- together they learned how to cultivate have offered much to their adopted marks.) hope and justice. For more than two land. America is the stronger for their Mr. PENCE. Mr. Speaker, this week- decades, they have put their faith into presence. end with the news of the adoption of a action to help the impoverished help f new government in Iraq, the silence themselves and to hold elected officials RECESS was deafening. You could hear a pin accountable at all levels of govern- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- drop among the critics of U.S. policy in ment. Iraq. With the very active and the very ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair declares the House in recess until 2 But there it was. Prime Minister al- vocal participation of Mrs. Anaya, Val- Maliki kept his word. He named 39 cab- ley Interfaith brought clean drinking p.m. today. Accordingly (at 12 o’clock and 40 inet ministers, each of whom was ap- water to over 160,000 residents of minutes p.m.), the House stood in re- proved by more than 90 percent of the colonias like Las Milpas; secured living cess until 2 p.m. 275-member elected Iraqi Parliament, wage ordinances and raised the salaries the first government of Iraq formed f of thousands; and, with a new job train- since the toppling of Saddam Hussein. ing program, have found jobs for an- b 1400 May God bless Prime Minister al- other 1,500. AFTER RECESS Maliki and all those brave ministers in Above all, through her work with his new government; for despite what Valley Interfaith, Mrs. Anaya inspired The recess having expired, the House was called to order by the Speaker pro you read, despite some of what you see, her neighbors to believe in themselves, freedom is winning in Iraq and this new tempore (Mr. MURPHY) at 2 p.m. in their communities, and in their abil- government’s formation stands for that ity to bring about change. Those once f truth. isolated and frustrated are now an or- PRAYER ganized voice with the ability to de- f Monsignor Francis J. Maniscalco, Di- mand justice. CRUEL AND UNUSUAL Last Monday, I visited with the rector of Communications, United Anaya family at their home in Las States Conference of Catholic Bishops, (Mr. POE asked and was given per- Milpas shortly after the celebration of Washington, D.C., offered the following mission to address the House for 1 a funeral mass in the Parish of Santa prayer: minute.) ‘‘The Lord takes delight in His peo- Cabrini at which Ernesto Cortez, Jr., Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, raped for ple.’’ more than an hour, sometimes by two who continues to provide the leader- How important it is for us to know ship for a network of groups like Val- gang members at once, they cried out that You, our Maker, take delight in for help. Tortured by six gang mem- ley Interfaith, spoke of her leadership us; to know that all that exists came and tenacity in a eulogy. Mrs. Anaya bers, they begged for their lives. from You in a joy of creation that goes As those gangsters strangled them loved her church at which she attended beyond what we can imagine; to know choir practice twice a week. At the ro- with a belt, they clutched at it, hoping that amidst all the glories made by for air. The murderers, holding each sary, Ofelia de los Santos, a friend Your hand, it is the human race that through whom I got to know Mrs. end of the belt, pulled so hard, the belt You made in Your own image. snapped in two. Just to make sure that Anaya, spoke of her involvement of her We are called to answer Your delight 14-year-old Jennifer Ertman and 16- church in the quest for social justice. with delight of our own: delight in year-old Elizabeth Pena were dead, the St. Frances or Santa Cabrini, as she praising Your name when we begin our six gang members stomped on their is known in the Valley, is a saint who day and when we end it; delight in call- necks with their boots. is the patroness of immigrants. And it ing to mind that You are with us Five of the killers were sentenced to was Carmen Anaya, an immigrant to throughout the day; delight in dedi- death by separate Texas juries. Today, our Nation, who spread the gospel cating what we say and do to Your 13 years later, Elizabeth’s parents and through her words and deeds. Her ex- glory; delight in serving our sisters and Jennifer Ertman’s parents wait for jus- ample is particularly significant in the brothers in the human family and in tice and sob, wait for executions that course of the ongoing national debate loving them as we love ourselves; and were stayed. about immigration. Because two farm when this earthly life at last comes to The Supreme Court believes partici- workers came across the Rio Grande to an end, delight in living in Your pres- pating in a brutal gang rape and mur- do hot, hard, demanding work, America ence forever. Amen. has gained not only from their labors der just months before your 18th birth- but from their six children: f day makes you too young for the death Jose´, Jr., who operated the family THE JOURNAL penalty, so two sentences were com- store, now works for the city of Pharr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The muted. Now the others have had their Diana and Consuelo each provide Chair has examined the Journal of the executions stayed by the same arro- leadership for our country’s future as last day’s proceedings and announces gant, elitist judges, who wonder if le- public school principals. to the House his approval thereof. thal injection is cruel and unusual pun- Minerva, or Minnie, a retired U.S. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- ishment. Air Force lieutenant colonel, is now a nal stands approved. Mr. Speaker, maybe not today, homebuilder with her husband, retired f maybe not the next day, but some day, Green Beret colonel, Chris St. John. judges will treat victims with the same Eduardo, Eddie, an attorney and cer- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE concern and compassion that they tified public accountant, has the only The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the treat barbarians. law office in Las Milpas. gentleman from Indiana (Mr. PENCE) And that’s just the way it is.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2967 CORPORATE HERO: HOME DEPOT We want to thank Lucky for his pub- (5) The Department of Education acceler- lic service and his contributions to our ated the application process in order to (Mr. PRICE of Georgia asked and was quickly release education-related relief. given permission to address the House country and ask the Good Lord to bless him. (6) A significant portion of the recovery for 1 minute.) aid, both restart and impact aid, has yet to Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I f reach damaged schools and local educational rise today to recognize the continued ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER agencies. (b) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—The Congress good work by an Atlanta-based com- PRO TEMPORE pany in helping rebuild the hurricane urges State educational agencies to expedi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tiously distribute education relief funds re- ravaged gulf coast. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair ceived under title IV (commonly known as Nine months after Hurricanes will postpone further proceedings the ‘‘Hurricane Education Recovery Act’’) of Katrina and Rita devastated the area, today on motions to suspend the rules Division B of the Department of Defense, Home Depot continues to play a lead Emergency Supplemental Appropriations to on which a recorded vote or the yeas role in reconstruction. The region re- Address Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, and nays are ordered, or on which the mains in need, and to date Home Depot and Pandemic Influenza Act, 2006 (Public vote is objected to under clause 6 of has contributed over $11 million to the Law 109–148; 119 Stat. 2680)) to impacted rule XX. schools and institutions. relief efforts, and their employees have Record votes on postponed questions The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- volunteered countless hours and re- will be taken after 6:30 p.m. today. ant to the rule, the gentleman from sources to help rebuild the region. The Louisiana (Mr. BOUSTANY) and the gen- company has vowed to continue their f tlewoman from New York (Mrs. work to make sure that the region re- HURRICANE RELIEF EXTENSION MALONEY) each will control 20 minutes. alizes that rebirth. And while it may be ACT OF 2006 The Chair recognizes the gentleman easy for a company to pledge support Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I move from Louisiana. early when the spotlight is on, it is ad- to suspend the rules and pass the bill GENERAL LEAVE mirable to see Home Depot still out (H.R. 5354) to authorize the Secretary Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I ask there with hammer and nails in hand of Education to extend the period dur- unanimous consent that all Members months after the media frenzy has sub- ing which a State educational agency may have 5 legislative days in which to sided. or local educational agency may obli- revise and extend their remarks on While time has passed, Home Depot’s gate temporary emergency impact aid H.R. 5354. enthusiasm and compassion for the vic- for elementary and secondary school The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tims of this disaster has not. It is im- students displaced by Hurricane objection to the request of the gen- portant to recognize these ongoing ef- Katrina or Hurricane Rita, and for tleman from Louisiana? forts and all the people continuing to other purposes. There was no objection. aid in the recovery. The Clerk read as follows: Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. Speaker, the gulf coast region re- H.R. 5354 myself such time as I may consume. mains in need of a helping hand, and Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5354, the Hurricane Home Depot is an outstanding example resentatives of the United States of America in Relief Extension Act of 2006, amends of corporate responsibility and compas- Congress assembled, the Hurricane Education Recovery Act sion. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. to allow the Secretary of Education to f This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Hurricane extend, beyond the 2006 school year, Relief Extension Act of 2006’’. the period during which a State edu- TRIBUTE TO LUCKY MONDRES SEC. 2. EXTENSION OF PERIOD FOR OBLIGATION cational agency or local educational OF TEMPORARY EMERGENCY IM- agency may obligate temporary emer- (Mr. WOLF asked and was given per- PACT AID FOR DISPLACED STU- mission to address the House for 1 DENTS. gency impact aid for elementary and minute and to revise and extend his re- Notwithstanding sections 107(f) and 110 of secondary schools that enroll students marks.) title IV (commonly known as the ‘‘Hurricane displaced by Hurricanes Katrina or Mr. WOLF. Mr. Speaker, many of our Education Recovery Act’’) of Division B of Rita. colleagues and staff who are on the Hill the Department of Defense, Emergency Sup- In addition, the bill includes a sense plemental Appropriations to Address Hurri- today may not remember Marvin of the Congress that urges State edu- canes in the Gulf of Mexico, and Pandemic cational agencies to distribute expedi- ‘‘Lucky’’ Mondres, but those of us who Influenza Act, 2006 (Public Law 109–148; 119 tiously any education relief funds re- have been around for a while will recall Stat. 2680), the Secretary of Education may ceived under such act to impacted Lucky ran Representative Burke’s extend the period during which a State edu- schools and institutions. Washington office for several years. cational agency or local educational agency I want to thank Chairman MCKEON Our paths first crossed when I served may obligate funds received under section 107 of that title, except that such funds shall and the Education and the Workforce at the Interior Department and Lucky Committee staff for working with me was my counterpart as the congres- be used only for expenses incurred during the 2005–2006 school year, as required by section on this legislation. sional liaison officer for the Commerce 107 of that title. Hurricanes Katrina and Rita created Department in the early 1970s. SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS. real and pressing educational needs in He served with distinction at Com- (a) FINDINGS.—The Congress finds as fol- the gulf coast region. According to the merce and in several other Depart- lows: U.S. Department of Education, more ments in both the Nixon and Ford ad- (1) According to the Department of Edu- than 370,000 students were unable to at- ministrations. Members on both sides cation, more than 370,000 students were un- tend school in the weeks following the of the aisle came to know that if they able to attend school in the weeks following hurricanes. About 158,000 students were needed information or assistance, they hurricanes Katrina and Rita. still displaced as of October 1, 2005, and (2) According to the Department of Edu- could depend on Lucky to be forthright are eligible for impact aid. More than and diligent in providing it. cation, 158,000 students remained displaced as of October 1, 2005, and are eligible for im- 1,100 schools, public, private, and paro- I want to share the news that Lucky pact aid. chial, were still closed 2 weeks after is battling the final stages of cancer. (3) The unprecedented nature of this crisis the storms. But as those who know him would and the massive dislocation of students In the immediate days after the hur- guess, he is not dwelling on that but is prompted the Congress in 2005 to approve the ricanes hit, I worked closely with my focused on living each day to the full- Hurricane Education Recovery Act to pro- colleagues on the Education and the est, just as he has done his entire life. vide money to reopen schools in the Gulf Workforce Committee to assess the In his retirement years in Coast region and an additional $645 million damage caused by the storms and to Massanutten in Virginia’s Shenandoah for impact aid. (4) The Congress included stringent time move forward and send Federal aid to Valley, he has devoted his time to his lines in the Hurricane Education Recovery the highest need areas in the shortest children and his grandchildren, with Act to ensure the money would quickly be amount of time possible. We supported some charity work along the way, and sent to the local educational agencies to help an innovative electronic reimburse- always some time for golf. the schools in need. ment proposal that would have enabled

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2968 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 parents and schools to bypass govern- tension Act, and thank Mr. BOUSTANY Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance ment bureaucracy and receive Federal for introducing this very important of my time. aid more quickly. measure. Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I have Mr. Speaker, in March of this year, no further speakers, and I am prepared b 1415 Democrats from the House Committee to close at this time. I want to thank Unfortunately, many of our col- on Education and the Workforce trav- my colleague, the gentlelady from New leagues opposed these efforts as a back- eled to New Orleans and surrounding York, for her support, and for all the door attempt to implement a voucher areas to survey and see firsthand the support of my colleagues across the system. Let me be emphatic: That was damage left by Hurricanes Katrina and aisle. I think this is an important piece not the case. This proposal would have Rita. The members of the delegation of legislation, because much of the prevented the delays we are now seeing were clear in their assessment: Until money that we have obligated has not in Federal support reaching our teach- you see the damage firsthand, it is reached where it needs to go, to those ers and students who most need it. very, very difficult to understand the students and schools in need. As an alternative, when Congress magnitude of these storms and what When I was back home just about 2 passed the Hurricane Education Recov- the devastation that they left behind months ago, I was at a school in Erath, ery Act in December, we included is. a small town that was devastated by stringent timelines to ensure the The school systems in the gulf coast flooding, and they were rebuilding the money would quickly be sent to local were hit particularly hard. The wind school. In fact, they had just reopened educational agencies to help schools in tore off roofs of schools, and storm some of the classrooms there. One of need. In addition, the U.S. Department surges brought additional water into the teachers showed me her bright new of Education accelerated the applica- classrooms, sometimes reaching over 10 shining classroom, freshly painted with tion process for these funds in order to feet. These school systems, both public a new bookshelf, and she had actually quickly release education-related re- and private, lost books, computers and spent $1,600 of her own money to do lief. Yet, Federal education aid is still desks. Teachers, principals and stu- that, because the Federal money that not reaching the ground in many Gulf dents lost their homes to the storms. we had obligated had not reached the States, including my home State of At the time of the delegation’s visit, ground level. So I am urging the States Louisiana. families had started to return to the to release the money that we have sent I recently visited Johnson Bayou area, and due to the leadership of local down so that we can get the money High School in my congressional dis- superintendents, principals and teach- where it needs to be to take care of trict in Cameron Parish hit directly by ers, students were returning to the those students in need and get those Hurricane Rita, and school officials classrooms. Across the country, school schools up and running. had yet to receive one penny in Federal systems in nearly every State opened With that, I strongly urge my col- assistance. This was only 3 to 4 weeks their doors to enroll displaced stu- leagues to support H.R. 5354. ago. A headline last month in the dents. They continued to educate these Mr. MCKEON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Baton Rouge Advocate read, ‘‘East children, expending their own re- support of H.R. 5354, the Hurricane Relief Ex- Baton Rouge Schools Await Hurricane sources to meet the increased enroll- tension Act. I thank my Education and the Funds.’’ At an April 26 Education and ments. Workforce Committee colleague, Mr. Workforce Committee hearing, edu- In spite of the pressures on schools to BOUSTANY, for his work on this measure—and cation leaders from throughout the reopen and enroll displaced students, it for his efforts on behalf of his constituents in gulf coast testified that Federal aid was not until December, nearly 5 the wake of last fall’s hurricanes. had yet to make its way to the local months after the levees broke, that Last year, the Gulf Coast endured one of level. Congress designated funds to assist the worst series of hurricanes in our nation’s This bill allows the Secretary to set schools along the gulf coast and the history. Students, workers, retirees, and fami- a date to obligate the funds for dis- schools that had taken in displaced lies from the region were impacted in ways placed students that is beyond the end students. And it appears Congress did seemingly incomprehensible before the storms of the school year because several dis- not live up to its own promise. The struck. tricts have indicated the difficulty in funds provided were less than what was The Education and the Workforce Com- meeting the current statutory July 31 promised, nearly one-third less. mittee and this Congress have been active in date. The extension of this date will H.R. 5354 does not fix the funding driving legislation to provide resources to give the districts the extra time needed problem, nor does it address the chal- schools and families as part of the recovery to ensure the funds are obligated to- lenges these same schools will have effort. Last year, led by Mr. BOUSTANY and his ward the allowable expenditures from next year, particularly those in New Louisiana colleague, Representative JINDAL, the 2005–2006 school year. Orleans, which expect their enrollment we passed legislation to reimburse public, in- The bill makes certain that the funds to double in the fall. H.R. 5354 will, cluding charter, and private schools that have can only be used for expenses from the however, resolve an immediate issue by enrolled displaced students and to help those 2005–2006 school year and that the funds extending the time in which funds are schools get supplies and equipment to help will not be extended into the 2006–2007 to be obligated for the current school educate those students. school year. These funds are des- year. Now, as the academic year during which perately needed by the districts to help H.R. 5354 also addresses a concern Katrina and Rita struck draws to a close, we with the costs associated with edu- heard by the delegation during its vis- want to ensure that available money will be cating the displaced students. its to schools that State educational used by the schools and districts. The bill be- Districts should not have to return agencies were delaying the distribution fore us today will allow the U.S. Secretary of the funds because they were not able to of these funds to local school systems. Education to extend the date by which these obligate them by the July 31 deadline. As such, H.R. 5354 includes a sense of funds must be obligated to beyond the end of Mr. Speaker, schools should not be pe- the Congress that urges States to expe- this school year. While the funds must still be nalized because bureaucratic red tape dite the release of these funds to local used on expenses for the 2005/2006 school has delayed the process on the State school districts. year, by extending the obligation date, the dis- level, which, to me, is very unaccept- Families are eager to return to their tricts and schools will be able to make sure able. communities, but will only do so if that funds are used on appropriate expenses Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my col- they can be assured that their children and do not have to be returned to the federal leagues to support H.R. 5354, the Hurri- can attend school. H.R. 5354 will assist government. It is not just a necessary move— cane Relief Extension Act of 2006. schools in their efforts to educate dis- but an appropriate one as well. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of placed students and reopen schools. Last month, the Education and the Work- my time. Again, I want to thank the gen- force Committee held a hearing highlighted by Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield tleman on the other side of the aisle, educators from across the Gulf Coast region. myself such time as I may consume. Mr. BOUSTANY, for bringing this bill to We listened as they discussed the challenges Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support the floor, and urge my colleagues to faced and successes achieved by Gulf Coast of H.R. 5354, the Hurricane Relief Ex- support it. schools in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2969 Rita. And we heard them provide their unique of the regional workforce investment boards Over 2,000 one-stop centers across the insights into what we have done well with re- provides the planning, oversight, and ac- Nation have connected millions of indi- gard to education in the Gulf Coast region, as countability of workforce strategies that viduals with the tools they need to find succeed in communities across the country: their next employment opportunity, well as what obstacles we still face. Now, therefore, be it Unfortunately, some officials testified that Resolved, That the House of Representa- while helping employers find the work- they have yet to receive their full, expected tives— ers they need. sum of federal impact aid dollars. And as we (1) supports the goals of National One-Stop The economy is dynamic, and re- consider this legislation today, I am especially Month; and search shows that the types of growing hopeful that some of the bureaucratic prob- (2) supports the efforts of the workforce in- industries are changing. The Nation’s lems we’ve witnessed in the past several vestment boards and One-Stop delivery sys- job training programs are critical to months will end—and end soon. tem in preparing the Nation’s workforce. our ongoing effort to equip Americans Mr. Speaker, the bottom line is this: as edu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- with the resources and skills they need cators, joined by parents and students from ant to the rule, the gentleman from to find a new or better job in today’s the region, work to rebuild an academic way Louisiana (Mr. BOUSTANY) and the gen- knowledge-based economy. Local work- of life, they ought to have all of the necessary tlewoman from New York (Mrs. force investment boards have re- tools at their disposal. The measure we are MALONEY) each will control 20 minutes. sponded to these challenges by creating considering today takes a major step toward The Chair recognizes the gentleman comprehensive services to assist our providing just that. And I urge my colleagues from Louisiana. workforce. to join me in supporting it. GENERAL LEAVE Approximately 5.2 million new jobs Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I ask have been created since August of 2003. back the balance of my time. unanimous consent that all Members With solid and consistent job growth in The SPEAKER pro tempore. The may have 5 legislative days in which to high-wage, high-skill occupations, re- question is on the motion offered by revise and extend their remarks on H. newing and strengthening the Federal the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Res. 808. investment in workforce development and job training is more critical than BOUSTANY) that the House suspend the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there rules and pass the bill, H.R. 5354. objection to the request of the gen- ever. Last year, this House approved legislation to reauthorize WIA and The question was taken; and (two- tleman from Louisiana? renew the one-stop delivery system, thirds having voted in favor thereof) There was no objection. and we hope for further action on that the rules were suspended and the bill Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I yield legislation to build upon the success al- was passed. myself such time as I may consume. ready attained. Yet in the interim, we A motion to reconsider was laid on Mr. Speaker, associations rep- know our local community leaders re- the table. resenting the local workforce develop- ment community have declared May main committed to providing the best f National One-Stop Month. I rise this services possible for the Nation’s job EXPRESSING SENSE OF HOUSE IN afternoon in support of H. Res. 808, seekers. I commend the chairman of the Sub- SUPPORT OF THE GOALS OF NA- which expresses the support of the committee on 21st Century Competi- TIONAL ONE-STOP MONTH House of Representatives for the goals of National One-Stop Month and sup- tiveness, Congressman RIC KELLER of Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I move ports the work of the Nation’s local Florida, for introducing this measure to suspend the rules and agree to the workforce investment boards. to highlight the critical assistance resolution (H. Res. 808) expressing the The one-stop delivery system this that the local boards and the one-stop sense of the House of Representatives resolution recognizes is a product of delivery system provide. in support of the goals of National One- the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Stop Month. or WIA. WIA consolidated numerous support this measure. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of The Clerk read as follows: Federal training programs and inte- H. RES. 808 my time. grated employment and training serv- Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Whereas national workforce professional ices at the local level in a more unified organizations and the local workforce invest- myself such time as I may consume. workforce development system. Local Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Na- ment boards will celebrate National One- business-led workforce investment Stop Month from May 1 to 31, 2006; tional One-Stop Month. For over 30 Whereas workforce investment boards and boards now direct the activities of the years, Congress has worked hard on a One-Stop delivery system were created under system. bipartisan basis to create a job train- the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and One of the hallmarks of WIA is the ing system that works well for both are designed to provide a full range of em- establishment of One-Stop Career Cen- employers and employees. ployment solutions to employers and job ters to provide re-employment services During the Clinton administration, seekers in a single location; and job training to individuals looking job training advocates developed the Whereas more than 600 workforce invest- for a new or better job. The centers idea of a universal system, a one-stop ment boards and 2,000 One-Stop Career Cen- were developed to increase access to ters are enhancing the productivity and com- job training system that would provide petitiveness of the Nation by providing Federal and State resources available needed job search, placement and workforce solutions for hundreds of thou- to help individuals obtain employment training services to all job seekers who sands of employers annually across the of their choice. walked through its doors. The system United States; While WIA funds are available for oc- would also be a one-stop system for Whereas, in the spirit of the Workforce In- cupational training, there are numer- employers, providing outreach and vestment Act, the cornerstones of maxi- ous other Federal programs that pro- matching services to enable employers mizing customer choice, employment and vide employment assistance. These to find workers with the job skills that training solutions, and universal access are programs, including adult education, they need. the primary missions of the One-Stop deliv- vocational rehabilitation, veterans em- ery system, allowing more than 14,000,000 job Approximately 2,000 one-stop centers seekers annually the opportunity to connect ployment programs and more, must and the workforce boards that oversee with the tools they need for their next career make their services available through them now exist in all of our commu- opportunity; the centers. WIA created One-Stop Ca- nities, providing a 21st century re- Whereas each year the One-Stop delivery reer Centers to provide a single point source for all. This system is an invest- system and regional workforce investment of access for individuals desiring serv- ment in our economy and in our coun- boards contribute to the competitiveness of ices through these programs. The one- try. the Nation’s workforce by providing training stop delivery system also provides But that investment is also under at- assistance through grants to job seekers and labor market information regarding tack. For the past 6 years, the adminis- employed workers and other programs to more than 400,000 Americans so they may up- the kinds of jobs currently available in tration and this Congress have been grade or acquire new skills; and a local area, data on growing industries cutting funding for the one-stop sys- Whereas, in the spirit of the Workforce In- and job listings to assist individuals in tem. The one-stops have not had a sin- vestment Act, the private sector leadership making informed career choices. gle inflation adjustment in 6 years. The

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2970 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 one-stops have actually had their budg- tury economy. Indeed, the 21st century is no SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. ets cut about $700 million since 2001. longer the age of machine and muscle but, (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as This Congress has failed to reauthorize rather, has become the age of the mind. the ‘‘Veterans’ Housing Opportunity and the one-stop system, and has insisted Benefits Improvement Act of 2006’’. And central to our efforts in crafting the (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- on opening it up to religious discrimi- Workforce Investment Act was the establish- tents for this Act is as follows: nation, which has never existed or been ment of the one-stop system. One-stop career Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. a problem for years. Most recently, in centers are aimed at providing a single, con- TITLE I—HOUSING MATTERS its 2007 budget request, the administra- venient, central location to offer job training Sec. 101. Adapted housing assistance for dis- tion proposed effectively eliminating and other employment-related services. And abled veterans residing tempo- the one-stop system and turning it into they have been remarkably successful for rarily in housing owned by fam- a voucher program run by the Gov- countless Americans. ily member. ernors. In my view, the establishment of one-stops Sec. 102. Adjustable rate mortgages. Democrats believe in job training to in 1998 was the single most important federal Sec. 103. Permanent authority to make di- help workers improve their skills and job training accomplishment in a generation. rect housing loans to Native find good-paying jobs to support their We brought dozens of disparate services American veterans. families. Democrats believe in helping Sec. 104. Extension of eligibility for direct under one roof, providing a better deal for job loans for Native American vet- employers find workers with the skills seekers and a better investment for American erans to a veteran who is the they need to compete in the global taxpayers. spouse of a Native American. economy. In order to truly help em- Last year, this House approved legislation to Sec. 105. Technical corrections to Veterans ployers and employees, we must ade- build upon the success of the one-stop sys- Benefits Improvement Act of quately fund the one-stops and our job tem, and as we hope for further congressional 2004. training system. action on that measure, we take time this TITLE II—EMPLOYMENT MATTERS b 1430 month to celebrate the achievements of those Sec. 201. Additional duty for the Assistant who have been involved in the one-stops—in- Secretary of Labor for Vet- This is a low-cost investment in our cluding those providing services and those erans’ Employment and Train- future. I urge my colleagues to support benefiting from them. ing to raise awareness of skills this resolution and to support im- Mr. Speaker, May is National One-Stop of veterans and of the benefits proved funding for a 21st-century job- of hiring veterans. Month, but for those seeking high-quality em- Sec. 202. Modifications to the Advisory Com- training system. ployment services, the one-stops are there for Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to mittee on Veterans Employ- them all year long. I applaud them, and I look ment and Training. support this resolution. for them to play an even bigger role in our job Sec. 203. Reauthorization of appropriations Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance training system in the decades to come. I for homeless veterans re- of my time. thank my colleague Mr. KELLER, the chairman integration programs. Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I am of the 21st Century Competitiveness Sub- TITLE III—LIFE AND HEALTH prepared to close at this time. We have committee, for bringing this resolution to the INSURANCE MATTERS no further speakers. Again, I thank my floor, and I urge my colleagues to support it. Sec. 301. Duration of Servicemembers’ colleague from New York for her sup- Mr. BOUSTANY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Group Life Insurance coverage port and the support of all Members back the balance of my time. for totally disabled veterans following separation from serv- across the aisle for this resolution. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Let me just close by saying that in ice. question is on the motion offered by Sec. 302. Limitation on premium increases the aftermath of Hurricanes Rita and the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Katrina, I personally visited some of for reinstated health insurance BOUSTANY) that the House suspend the of servicemembers released these one-stop shops in my district and rules and agree to the resolution, H. from active military service. was really impressed with the work Res. 808. Sec. 303. Preservation of employer-spon- that they were doing. The question was taken; and (two- sored health plan coverage for They were very successful in match- thirds having voted in favor thereof) certain reserve-component ing up those in need of jobs with avail- members who acquire the rules were suspended and the reso- TRICARE eligibility. able jobs. And so this is a worthy reso- lution was agreed to. TITLE IV—OTHER MATTERS lution. I urge all Members to support A motion to reconsider was laid on it. the table. Sec. 401. Inclusion of additional diseases and Mr. MCKEON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in conditions in diseases and dis- support of H. Res. 808, a measure expressing f abilities presumed to be associ- support for the goals of National One-Stop ated with prisoner of war sta- VETERANS’ HOUSING OPPOR- tus. Month. As we stand here today we find our- Sec. 402. Consolidation and revision of out- selves in an increasingly competitive job mar- TUNITY AND BENEFITS IM- PROVEMENT ACT OF 2006 reach authorities. ket, one in which the knowledge and skills of Sec. 403. Extension of annual report require- each job seeker play a critical role in deter- Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, ment on equitable relief cases. mining whether the individual will succeed. I move to suspend the rules and pass TITLE V—TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS And while our economy has created more the Senate bill (S. 1235) to amend title Sec. 501. Technical and clarifying amend- than 5.2 million new jobs since August 2003, 38, United States Code, to extend the ments to new traumatic injury we still have work ahead of us to provide the availability of $400,000 in life insurance protection coverage under resources and training workers need to claim coverage to servicemembers and vet- Servicemembers’ Group Life In- and keep these new jobs. erans, to make a stillborn child an in- surance. Testifying before the House Education and surable dependent for purposes of the Sec. 502. Terminology amendments to revise Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance references to certain veterans the Workforce Committee several years ago, in provisions relating to eligi- former Federal Reserve Board Chairman Alan program, to make technical correc- bility for compensation or de- Greenspan told Members of our panel that tions to the Veterans Benefits Im- pendency and indemnity com- providing ‘‘rigorous education and ongoing provement Act of 2004, to make perma- pensation. training to all members of our society’’ is es- nent a pilot program for direct housing Sec. 503. Technical and clerical amend- sential for future job growth and worker secu- loans for Native American veterans, ments. rity in the United States. His words ring all the and to require an annual plan on out- TITLE I—HOUSING MATTERS more true today, as our workforce takes on reach activities of the Department of SEC. 101. ADAPTED HOUSING ASSISTANCE FOR the new realities of an increasingly competitive Veterans Affairs, as amended. DISABLED VETERANS RESIDING The Clerk read as follows: TEMPORARILY IN HOUSING OWNED global economy. BY A FAMILY MEMBER. Eight years ago, when Congress passed the S. 1235 (a) ASSISTANCE AUTHORIZED.—Chapter 21 of Workforce Investment Act, we did so with an Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- title 38, United States Code, is amended by eye toward preparing our working men and resentatives of the United States of America in inserting after section 2102 the following new women for the challenges of a turn-of-the-cen- Congress assembled, section:

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‘‘§ 2102A. Assistance for veterans residing (1) INTERIM REPORT.—Not later than three (1) by striking ‘‘(B) The’’ and inserting temporarily in housing owned by a family years after the date of the enactment of this ‘‘(B)(i) Subject to clause (ii), the’’; and member Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to (2) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(a) PROVISION OF ASSISTANCE.—In the case Congress an interim report on the implemen- clause: of a disabled veteran who is described in sub- tation by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ‘‘(ii) The amount of a loan made by the section (a)(2) or (b)(2) of section 2101 of this of section 2102A of title 38, United States Secretary under this subchapter may not ex- title and who is residing, but does not intend Code, as added by subsection (a). ceed the maximum loan amount authorized to permanently reside, in a residence owned (2) FINAL REPORT.—Not later than five for loans guaranteed under section by a member of such veteran’s family, the years after the date of the enactment of this 3703(a)(1)(C) of this title.’’. Secretary may assist the veteran in acquir- Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to (e) TECHNICAL AMENDMENT.—Subsection ing such adaptations to such residence as are Congress a final report on the implementa- (c)(1)(A) of section 3762 of such title is determined by the Secretary to be reason- tion of such section. amended by inserting ‘‘veteran’’ after ‘‘Na- (f) TEMPORARY INCREASE IN CERTAIN HOUS- ably necessary because of the veteran’s dis- tive American’’. ING LOAN FEES.—For a subsequent loan de- ability. (f) CLERICAL AMENDMENTS.— scribed in subsection (a) of section 3710 of ‘‘(b) AMOUNT OF ASSISTANCE.—The assist- (1) SUBCHAPTER HEADING.—The heading for title 38, United States Code, to purchase or ance authorized under subsection (a) may subchapter V of chapter 37 of such title is construct a dwelling with 0-down or any not exceed— amended to read as follows: other subsequent loan described in that sub- ‘‘(1) $14,000, in the case of a veteran de- section, other than a loan with 5-down or 10- ‘‘SUBCHAPTER V—DIRECT HOUSING scribed in section 2101(a)(2) of this title; or down, that is closed during fiscal year 2007, LOANS FOR NATIVE AMERICAN VET- ‘‘(2) $2,000, in the case of a veteran de- the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall apply ERANS’’. scribed in section 2101(b)(2) of this title. section 3729(b)(2) of such title by sub- (2) SECTION HEADING.—The heading for sec- ‘‘(c) LIMITATION.—The assistance author- stituting ‘‘3.35’’ for ‘‘3.30’’. tion 3761 of such title is amended to read as ized by subsection (a) shall be limited in the SEC. 102. ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGES. follows: case of any veteran to one residence. Section 3707A(c)(4) of title 38, United ‘‘(d) REGULATIONS.—Assistance under this ‘‘§ 3761. Direct housing loans to Native Amer- States Code, is amended by striking ‘‘1 per- ican veterans; program authority’’. section shall be provided in accordance with centage point’’ and inserting ‘‘such percent- (3) SECTION HEADING.—The heading for sec- such regulations as the Secretary may pre- age points as the Secretary may prescribe’’. scribe. tion 3762 of such title is amended to read as SEC. 103. PERMANENT AUTHORITY TO MAKE DI- follows: ‘‘(e) TERMINATION.—No assistance may be RECT HOUSING LOANS TO NATIVE provided under this section after the end of AMERICAN VETERANS. ‘‘§ 3762. Direct housing loans to Native Amer- the five-year period that begins on the date (a) PERMANENT AUTHORITY.—Section 3761 of ican veterans; program administration’’. of the enactment of the Veterans’ Housing title 38, United States Code, is amended— (4) TABLE OF SECTIONS.—The table of sec- Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act (1) in subsection (a)— tions at the beginning of chapter 37 of such of 2006.’’. (A) by striking ‘‘establish and implement a title is amended by striking the items relat- (b) LIMITATIONS ON ADAPTED HOUSING AS- pilot program under which the Secretary ing to subchapter V and sections 3761 and SISTANCE.—Section 2102 of such title is may’’ in the first sentence; and 3762 and inserting the following new items: amended— (B) by striking ‘‘shall establish and imple- (1) in the matter in subsection (a) pre- ment the pilot program’’ in the third sen- ‘‘SUBCHAPTER V—DIRECT HOUSING LOANS FOR ceding paragraph (1)— tence and inserting ‘‘shall make such loans’’; NATIVE AMERICAN VETERANS (A) by striking ‘‘shall be limited in the (2) in subsection (b), by striking ‘‘In car- ‘‘3761. Direct housing loans to Native Amer- case of any veteran to one housing unit, and rying out the pilot program under this sub- ican veterans; program author- necessary land therefor, and’’; and chapter, the’’ and inserting ‘‘The’’; and ity. (B) by striking ‘‘veteran but shall not ex- (3) by striking subsection (c). ‘‘3762. Direct housing loans to Native Amer- ceed $50,000 in any one case—’’ and inserting (b) REPORTS.—Section 3762(j) of such title ican veterans; program admin- ‘‘veteran—’’; and is amended to read as follows: istration.’’. (2) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(j) The Secretary shall include as part of SEC. 104. EXTENSION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR DI- subsection: the annual benefits report of the Veterans RECT LOANS FOR NATIVE AMERICAN ‘‘(d)(1) The aggregate amount of assistance Benefits Administration information con- VETERANS TO A VETERAN WHO IS available to a veteran under sections 2101(a) cerning the cost and number of loans pro- THE SPOUSE OF A NATIVE AMER- and 2102A of this title shall be limited to vided under this subchapter for the fiscal ICAN. $50,000. year covered by the report.’’. (a) EXTENSION.—Subchapter V of chapter 37 ‘‘(2) The aggregate amount of assistance (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— of title 38, United States Code, is amended— available to a veteran under sections 2101(b) (1) SECTION 3762.—Section 3762 of such title (1) by redesignating section 3764 as section and 2102A of this title shall be limited to is amended— 3765; and $10,000. (A) in subsection (a), by inserting ‘‘under (2) by inserting after section 3763 the fol- ‘‘(3) No veteran may receive more than this subchapter’’ after ‘‘to a Native Amer- lowing new section: ican veteran’’; three grants of assistance under this chap- ‘‘§ 3764. Qualified non-Native American vet- (B) in subsection (b)(1)(E), by striking ‘‘the ter.’’. erans (c) COORDINATION OF ADMINISTRATION OF pilot program established under this sub- chapter is implemented’’ and inserting ‘‘(a) TREATMENT OF NON-NATIVE AMERICAN BENEFITS.—Chapter 21 of such title is further ‘‘loans under this subchapter are made’’; VETERANS.—Subject to the succeeding provi- amended by adding at the end the following sions of this section, for purposes of this sub- new section: (C) in subsection (c)(1)(B), by striking ‘‘carry out the pilot program under this sub- chapter— ‘‘§ 2107. Coordination of administration of chapter in a manner that demonstrates the ‘‘(1) a qualified non-Native American vet- benefits advisability of making direct housing loans’’ eran is deemed to be a Native American vet- ‘‘The Secretary shall provide for the co- in the second sentence and inserting ‘‘make eran; and ordination of the administration of programs direct housing loans under this subchapter’’; ‘‘(2) for purposes of applicability to a non- to provide specially adapted housing that are (D) in subsection (i)— Native American veteran, any reference in administered by the Under Secretary for (i) by striking ‘‘the pilot program provided this subchapter to the jurisdiction of a tribal Health and such programs that are adminis- for under this subchapter and’’ in paragraph organization over a Native American veteran tered by the Under Secretary for Benefits (1); is deemed to be a reference to jurisdiction of under this chapter, chapter 17, and chapter 31 (ii) by striking ‘‘under the pilot program a tribal organization over the Native Amer- of this title.’’. and in assisting such organizations and vet- ican spouse of the qualified non-Native (d) CLERICAL AMENDMENTS.—The table of erans in participating in the pilot program’’ American veteran. sections at the beginning of such chapter is in paragraph (2)(A) and inserting ‘‘under this ‘‘(b) USE OF LOAN.—In making direct loans amended— subchapter and in assisting such organiza- under this subchapter to a qualified non-Na- (1) by inserting after the item relating to tions and veterans with respect to such hous- tive American veteran by reason of eligi- section 2102 the following new item: ing benefits’’; and bility under subsection (a), the Secretary ‘‘2102A. Assistance for veterans residing tem- (iii) by striking ‘‘in participating in the shall ensure that the tribal organization per- porarily in housing owned by a pilot program’’ in paragraph (2)(E) and in- mits, and the qualified non-Native American family member.’’ serting ‘‘with respect to such benefits’’. veteran actually holds, possesses, or pur- chases, using the proceeds of the loan, joint- ; and (2) CONFORMING REPEAL.—Section 8(b) of ly with the Native American spouse of the (2) by adding at the end the following new the Veterans Home Loan Program Amend- qualified non-Native American veteran, a item: ments of 1992 (Public Law 102–547; 38 U.S.C. 3761 note) is repealed. meaningful interest in the lot, dwelling, or ‘‘2107 Coordination of administration of ben- (d) ESTABLISHMENT OF MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF both, that is located on trust land. efits.’’. LOANS.—Section 3762(c)(1)(B) of title 38, ‘‘(c) RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED BY TRIBAL OR- (e) GAO REPORTS.— United States Code, is amended— GANIZATIONS.—Nothing in subsection (b)

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2972 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 shall be construed as precluding a tribal or- employers by hiring veterans with such ‘‘(C) Not more than five individuals who ganization from imposing reasonable restric- training and skills, and to facilitate employ- are recognized authorities in the fields of tions on the right of the qualified non-Native ment of veterans and disabled veterans business, employment, training, rehabilita- American veteran to convey, assign, or oth- through participation in labor exchanges tion, or labor and who are not employees of erwise dispose of such interest in the lot or (Internet-based and otherwise), and other the Department of Labor.’’. dwelling, or both, if such restrictions are de- means.’’. (2) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Subsection signed to ensure the continuation in trust SEC. 202. MODIFICATIONS TO THE ADVISORY (d) of such section is amended— status of the lot or dwelling, or both. Such COMMITTEE ON VETERANS EMPLOY- (A) by striking paragraphs (3), (4), (8), (10), requirements may include the termination MENT AND TRAINING. (11), and (12); and of the interest of the qualified non-Native (a) COMMITTEE NAME.— (B) by redesignating paragraphs (5), (6), (7), American veteran in the lot or dwelling, or (1) CHANGE OF NAME.—Subsection (a)(1) of and (9) as paragraphs (3), (4), (5), and (6), re- both, upon the dissolution of the marriage of section 4110 of title 38, United States Code, is spectively. the qualified non-Native American veteran amended by striking ‘‘Advisory Committee (d) REINSTATEMENT AND MODIFICATION OF to the Native American spouse.’’. on Veterans Employment and Training’’ and REPORTING REQUIREMENT.—Subsection (f)(1) (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Section inserting ‘‘Advisory Committee on Veterans of such section is amended— 3765 of such title, as redesignated by sub- Employment, Training, and Employer Out- (1) by striking the first sentence and in- section (a)(1), is amended by adding at the reach’’. serting the following: ‘‘Not later than De- end the following new paragraph: (2) SECTION HEADING.—The heading of such cember 31 of each year, the advisory com- ‘‘(5) The term ‘qualified non-Native Amer- section is amended to read as follows: mittee shall submit to the Secretary and to ican veteran’ means a veteran who— ‘‘§ 4110. Advisory Committee on Veterans Em- the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the ‘‘(A) is the spouse of a Native American, ployment, Training, and Employer Out- Senate and House of Representatives a re- but reach’’. port on the employment and training needs of veterans, with special emphasis on dis- ‘‘(B) is not a Native American.’’. (3) TABLE OF SECTIONS.—The item relating abled veterans, for the previous fiscal year.’’; (c) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of to section 4110 in the table of sections at the (2) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ‘‘and sections at the beginning of chapter 37 of beginning of chapter 41 of such title is their integration into the workforce’’ after such title is amended by striking the item amended to read as follows: ‘‘veterans’’; relating to section 3764 and inserting the fol- ‘‘4110. Advisory Committee on Veterans Em- lowing new items: (3) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of subpara- ployment, Training, and Em- graph (B); ‘‘3764. Qualified non-Native American vet- ployer Outreach.’’. (4) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and erans. (4) REFERENCES.—Any reference to the Ad- (C) as subparagraphs (C) and (F), respec- ‘‘3765. Definitions.’’. visory Committee established under section tively; SEC. 105. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO VET- 4110 of such title in any law, regulation, (5) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the ERANS BENEFITS IMPROVEMENT map, document, record, or other paper of the following new subparagraph: ACT OF 2004. United States shall be considered to be a ref- ‘‘(B) an assessment of the outreach activi- (a) CORRECTIONS.—Section 2101 of title 38, erence to the Advisory Committee on Vet- ties carried out by the Secretary of Labor to United States Code, as amended by section erans Employment, Training, and Employer employers with respect to the training and 401 of the Veterans Benefits Improvement Outreach. skills of veterans and the advantages af- Act of 2004 (Public Law 108–454; 118 Stat. (b) EXPANSION OF DUTIES OF ADVISORY COM- forded employers by hiring veterans;’’; and 3614), is amended— MITTEE.—Subsection (a)(2) of such section is (6) by inserting after subparagraph (C), as (1) by redesignating subsection (c) as sub- amended— so redesignated, the following new subpara- section (d); (1) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ‘‘and graphs: (2) by inserting after subsection (b) a new their integration into the workforce’’ after ‘‘(D) a description of the activities of the subsection (c) consisting of the text of sub- ‘‘veterans’’; advisory committee during that fiscal year; section (c) of such section 2101 as in effect (2) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of subpara- ‘‘(E) a description of activities that the ad- immediately before the enactment of such graph (B); visory committee proposes to undertake in Act, modified— (3) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as the succeeding fiscal year; and’’. (A) in paragraph (1)— subparagraph (E); and SEC. 203. REAUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIA- (i) in the first sentence, by striking ‘‘para- (4) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the TIONS FOR HOMELESS VETERANS graph (1), (2), or (3)’’ and inserting ‘‘subpara- following new subparagraphs: REINTEGRATION PROGRAMS. graph (A), (B), (C), or (D) of paragraph (2)’’; ‘‘(C) assist the Assistant Secretary of Subsection (e)(1) of section 2021 of title 38, and Labor for Veterans’ Employment and Train- United States Code, is amended by adding at (ii) in the second sentence, by striking ing in carrying out outreach activities to the end the following new subparagraph: ‘‘the second sentence’’ and inserting ‘‘para- employers with respect to the training and ‘‘(F) $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 graph (3)’’; and skills of veterans and the advantages af- through 2009.’’. (B) in paragraph (2)— forded employers by hiring veterans; TITLE III—LIFE AND HEALTH INSURANCE (i) in the first sentence, by striking ‘‘para- ‘‘(D) make recommendations to the Sec- MATTERS graph (1)’’ and inserting ‘‘paragraph (2)’’; and retary, through the Assistant Secretary of (ii) in the second sentence, by striking SEC. 301. DURATION OF SERVICEMEMBERS’ Labor for Veterans’ Employment and Train- GROUP LIFE INSURANCE COVERAGE ‘‘paragraph (2)’’ and inserting ‘‘paragraph ing, with respect to outreach activities and FOR TOTALLY DISABLED VETERANS (3)’’; and the employment and training of veterans; FOLLOWING SEPARATION FROM (3) in subsection (a)(3), by striking ‘‘sub- and’’. SERVICE. section (c)’’ in the matter preceding subpara- (c) MODIFICATION OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE (a) SEPARATION OR RELEASE FROM ACTIVE graph (A) and inserting ‘‘subsection (d)’’. MEMBERSHIP.— DUTY.— (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments (1) MEMBERSHIP.—Subsection (c)(1) of such (1) EXTENSION OF PERIOD OF COVERAGE.— made by subsection (a) shall take effect as of section is amended to read as follows: Paragraph (1)(A) of section 1968(a) of title 38, December 10, 2004, as if enacted immediately ‘‘(c)(1) The Secretary of Labor shall ap- United States Code, is amended by striking after the enactment of the Veterans Benefits point at least 12, but no more than 15, indi- ‘‘shall cease’’ and all that follows and insert- Improvement Act of 2004 on that date. viduals to serve as members of the advisory ing ‘‘shall cease on the earlier of the fol- TITLE II—EMPLOYMENT MATTERS committee as follows: lowing dates (but in no event before the end ‘‘(A) Six individuals, one each from among of 120 days after such separation or release): SEC. 201. ADDITIONAL DUTY FOR THE ASSISTANT representatives nominated by each of the ‘‘(i) The date on which the insured ceases SECRETARY OF LABOR FOR VET- ERANS’ EMPLOYMENT AND TRAIN- following organizations: to be totally disabled. ING TO RAISE AWARENESS OF ‘‘(i) The National Society of Human Re- ‘‘(ii) The date that is— SKILLS OF VETERANS AND OF THE source Managers. ‘‘(I) two years after the date of separation BENEFITS OF HIRING VETERANS. ‘‘(ii) The Business Roundtable. or release from such active duty or active Subsection (b) of section 4102A of title 38, ‘‘(iii) The National Association of State duty for training, in the case of such a sepa- United States Code, is amended by adding at Workforce Agencies. ration or release during the period beginning the end the following new paragraph: ‘‘(iv) The United States Chamber of Com- on the date that is one year before the date ‘‘(8) With advice and assistance from the merce. of the enactment of Veterans’ Housing Op- Advisory Committee on Veterans Employ- ‘‘(v) The National Federation of Inde- portunity and Benefits Improvement Act of ment and Training, and Employer Outreach pendent Business. 2006 and ending on September 30, 2011; and established under section 4110 of this title, ‘‘(vi) A nationally recognized labor union ‘‘(II) 18 months after the date of separation furnish information to employers (through or organization. or release from such active duty or active meetings in person with hiring executives of ‘‘(B) Not more than five individuals from duty for training, in the case of such a sepa- corporations and otherwise) with respect to among representatives nominated by vet- ration or release on or after October 1, 2011.’’. the training and skills of veterans and dis- erans service organizations that have a na- (2) TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS.—Paragraph (1) abled veterans, and the advantages afforded tional employment program. of such section is further amended—

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2973 (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph of the person having become eligible for ‘‘(1) Plans for efforts to identify eligible (A), by striking ‘‘shall cease—’’ and inserting medical and dental care under chapter 55 of veterans and eligible dependents who are not ‘‘shall cease as follows:’’; and title 10 by reason of subsection (d) of section enrolled or registered with the Department (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘at’’ 1074 of that title but who subsequently does for benefits or services under the programs after ‘‘(B)’’ and inserting ‘‘At’’. not commence a period of active duty under administered by the Secretary. (b) SEPARATION OR RELEASE FROM CERTAIN the order to active duty that established ‘‘(2) Plans for informing eligible veterans RESERVE ASSIGNMENTS.—Paragraph (4) of such eligibility because the order is canceled and eligible dependents of modifications of such section is amended by striking ‘‘shall before such active duty commences, the pro- the benefits and services under the programs cease’’ the second place it appears and all visions of paragraph (1) relating to any ex- administered by the Secretary, including eli- that follows and inserting ‘‘shall cease on clusion or waiting period in connection with gibility for medical and nursing care and the earlier of the following dates (but in no the reinstatement of coverage under a health services. event before the end of 120 days after separa- plan shall apply to such person’s continued ‘‘(c) COORDINATION IN DEVELOPMENT.—In de- tion or release from such assignment): employment, upon the termination of such veloping the biennial plan under subsection ‘‘(A) The date on which the insured ceases eligibility for medical and dental care under (a), the Secretary shall consult with the fol- to be totally disabled. chapter 55 of title 10 that is incident to the lowing: ‘‘(B) The date that is— cancellation of such order, in the same man- ‘‘(1) Directors or other appropriate officials ‘‘(i) two years after the date of separation ner as if the person had become reemployed of organizations approved by the Secretary or release from such assignment, in the case upon such termination of eligibility.’’. under section 5902 of this title. of such a separation or release during the pe- TITLE IV—OTHER MATTERS ‘‘(2) Directors or other appropriate officials riod beginning on the date that is one year of State and local education and training before the date of the enactment of Vet- SEC. 401. INCLUSION OF ADDITIONAL DISEASES AND CONDITIONS IN DISEASES AND programs. erans’ Housing Opportunity and Benefits Im- DISABILITIES PRESUMED TO BE AS- ‘‘(3) Representatives of nongovernmental provement Act of 2006 and ending on Sep- SOCIATED WITH PRISONER OF WAR organizations that carry out veterans out- tember 30, 2011; and STATUS. reach programs. ‘‘(ii) 18 months after the date of separation Section 1112(b)(3) of title 38, United States ‘‘(4) Representatives of State and local vet- or release from such assignment, in the case Code, is amended by adding at the end the erans employment organizations. of such a separation or release on or after following new subparagraphs: ‘‘(5) Other individuals and organizations October 1, 2011.’’. ‘‘(L) Atherosclerotic heart disease or hy- that the Secretary considers appropriate. SEC. 302. LIMITATION ON PREMIUM INCREASES pertensive vascular disease (including hyper- ‘‘§ 6303. Outreach services FOR REINSTATED HEALTH INSUR- tensive heart disease) and their complica- EQUIREMENT TO ROVIDE ERVICES ANCE OF SERVICEMEMBERS RE- ‘‘(a) R P S .— tions (including myocardial infarction, con- In carrying out the purposes of this chapter, LEASED FROM ACTIVE MILITARY gestive heart failure and arrhythmia). SERVICE. the Secretary shall provide the outreach ‘‘(M) Stroke and its complications.’’. (a) PREMIUM PROTECTION.—Section 704 of services specified in subsections (b) through the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (50 ‘‘CHAPTER 63—OUTREACH ACTIVITIES (d). In areas where a significant number of U.S.C. App. 594) is amended by adding at the ‘‘6301. Purpose; definitions. eligible veterans and eligible dependents end the following new subsection: ‘‘6302. Biennial plan. speak a language other than English as their ‘‘(e) LIMITATION ON PREMIUM INCREASES.— ‘‘6303. Outreach services. principal language, such services shall, to ‘‘(1) PREMIUM PROTECTION.—The amount of ‘‘6304. Veterans assistance offices. the maximum feasible extent, be provided in the premium for health insurance coverage ‘‘6305. Outstationing of counseling and out- the principal language of such persons. that was terminated by a servicemember and reach personnel. ‘‘(b) INDIVIDUAL NOTICE TO NEW VET- required to be reinstated under subsection ‘‘6306. Use of other agencies. ERANS.—The Secretary shall by letter advise (a) may not be increased, for the balance of ‘‘6307. Outreach for eligible dependents. each veteran at the time of the veteran’s dis- ‘‘6308. Biennial report to Congress. the period for which coverage would have charge or release from active military, been continued had the coverage not been ‘‘§ 6301. Purpose; definitions naval, or air service (or as soon as possible terminated, to an amount greater than the ‘‘(a) PURPOSE.—The Congress declares after such discharge or release) of all bene- amount chargeable for such coverage before that— fits and services under laws administered by the termination. ‘‘(1) the outreach services program author- the Department for which the veteran may ‘‘(2) INCREASES OF GENERAL APPLICABILITY ized by this chapter is for the purpose of en- be eligible. In carrying out this subsection, NOT PRECLUDED.—Paragraph (1) does not pre- suring that all veterans (especially those the Secretary shall ensure, through the use vent an increase in premium to the extent of who have been recently discharged or re- of veteran-student services under section any general increase in the premiums leased from active military, naval, or air 3485 of this title, that contact, in person or charged by the carrier of the health care in- service and those who are eligible for read- by telephone, is made with those veterans surance for the same health insurance cov- justment or other benefits and services who, on the basis of their military service erage for persons similarly covered by such under laws administered by the Department) records, do not have a high school education insurance during the period between the ter- are provided timely and appropriate assist- or equivalent at the time of discharge or re- mination and the reinstatement.’’. ance to aid and encourage them in applying lease. ‘‘(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INFORMATION.—(1) The (b) TECHNICAL AMENDMENT.—Subsection for and obtaining such benefits and services (b)(3) of such section is amended by striking in order that they may achieve a rapid social Secretary— ‘‘if the’’ and inserting ‘‘in a case in which and economic readjustment to civilian life ‘‘(A) shall distribute full information to el- the’’. and obtain a higher standard of living for igible veterans and eligible dependents re- garding all benefits and services to which SEC. 303. PRESERVATION OF EMPLOYER-SPON- themselves and their dependents; and SORED HEALTH PLAN COVERAGE ‘‘(2) the outreach services program author- they may be entitled under laws adminis- FOR CERTAIN RESERVE-COMPO- ized by this chapter is for the purpose of tered by the Secretary; and NENT MEMBERS WHO ACQUIRE charging the Department with the affirma- ‘‘(B) may, to the extent feasible, distribute TRICARE ELIGIBILITY. tive duty of seeking out eligible veterans and information on other governmental pro- (a) CONTINUATION OF COVERAGE.—Sub- eligible dependents and providing them with grams (including manpower and training section (a)(1) of section 4317 of title 38, such services. programs) which the Secretary determines United States Code, is amended by inserting ‘‘(b) DEFINITIONS.—For the purposes of this would be beneficial to veterans. after ‘‘by reason of service in the uniformed chapter— ‘‘(2) Whenever a veteran or dependent first services,’’ the following: ‘‘or such person be- applies for any benefit under laws adminis- ‘‘(1) the term ‘other governmental pro- comes eligible for medical and dental care tered by the Secretary (including a request grams’ includes all programs under State or under chapter 55 of title 10 by reason of sub- for burial or related benefits or an applica- local laws as well as all programs under Fed- section (d) of section 1074 of that title,’’. tion for life insurance proceeds), the Sec- eral law other than those authorized by this (b) REINSTATEMENT OF COVERAGE.—Sub- retary shall provide to the veteran or de- title; and section (b) of such section is amended— pendent information concerning benefits and ‘‘(2) the term ‘eligible dependent’ means a (1) in paragraph (1)— health care services under programs admin- spouse, surviving spouse, child, or dependent (A) by inserting after ‘‘by reason of service istered by the Secretary. Such information parent of a person who served in the active in the uniformed services,’’ the following: shall be provided not later than three military, naval, or air service. ‘‘or by reason of the person’s having become months after the date of such application. eligible for medical and dental care under ‘‘§ 6302. Biennial plan ‘‘(d) PROVISION OF AID AND ASSISTANCE.— chapter 55 of title 10 by reason of subsection ‘‘(a) BIENNIAL PLAN REQUIRED.—The Sec- The Secretary shall provide, to the max- (d) of section 1074 of that title,’’; and retary shall, during the first nine months of imum extent possible, aid and assistance (in- (B) by inserting ‘‘or eligibility’’ before the every odd-numbered year, prepare a biennial cluding personal interviews) to members of period at the end of the first sentence; and plan for the outreach activities of the De- the Armed Forces, veterans, and eligible de- (2) by adding at the end the following new partment for the two-fiscal-year period be- pendents with respect to subsections (b) and paragraph: ginning on October 1 of that year. (c) and in the preparation and presentation ‘‘(3) In the case of a person whose coverage ‘‘(b) ELEMENTS.—Each biennial plan under of claims under laws administered by the De- under a health plan is terminated by reason subsection (a) shall include the following: partment.

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‘‘(e) ASSIGNMENT OF EMPLOYEES.—In car- in consultation with appropriate Federal de- TITLE V—TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS rying out this section, the Secretary shall partments and agencies, to determine the SEC. 501. TECHNICAL AND CLARIFYING AMEND- assign such employees as the Secretary con- most effective program design to carry out MENTS TO NEW TRAUMATIC INJURY siders appropriate to conduct outreach pro- the purposes of this chapter. PROTECTION COVERAGE UNDER SERVICEMEMBERS’ GROUP LIFE IN- grams and provide outreach services for ‘‘§ 6307. Outreach for eligible dependents homeless veterans. Such outreach services SURANCE. ‘‘(a) NEEDS OF DEPENDENTS.—In carrying may include site visits through which home- (a) SECTION 1980A.—Section 1980A of title out this chapter, the Secretary shall ensure less veterans can be identified and provided 38, United States Code, is amended as fol- that the needs of eligible dependents are assistance in obtaining benefits and services lows: fully addressed. that may be available to them. (1) Subsection (a) is amended to read as ‘‘(b) INFORMATION AS TO AVAILABILITY OF follows: ‘‘§ 6304. Veterans assistance offices OUTREACH SERVICES FOR DEPENDENTS.—The ‘‘(a)(1) A member of the uniformed services ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall es- Secretary shall ensure that the availability who is insured under Servicemembers’ Group tablish and maintain veterans assistance of- of outreach services and assistance for eligi- Life Insurance shall automatically be in- fices at such places throughout the United ble dependents under this chapter is made sured for traumatic injury in accordance States and its territories and possessions, known through a variety of means, including with this section. Insurance benefits under and in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as the Internet, announcements in veterans this section shall be payable if the member, the Secretary determines to be necessary to publications, and announcements to the while so insured, sustains a traumatic injury carry out the purposes of this chapter. The media. on or after December 1, 2005, that results in Secretary may maintain such offices on such ‘‘§ 6308. Biennial report to Congress a qualifying loss specified pursuant to sub- military installations located elsewhere as section (b)(1). the Secretary, after consultation with the ‘‘(a) REPORT REQUIRED.—The Secretary ‘‘(2) If a member suffers more than one Secretary of Defense and taking into ac- shall, not later than December 1 of every such qualifying loss as a result of traumatic count recommendations, if any, of the Sec- even-numbered year (beginning in 2008), sub- injury from the same traumatic event, pay- retary of Labor, determines to be necessary mit to Congress a report on the outreach ac- ment shall be made under this section in ac- to carry out such purposes. tivities carried out by the Department. cordance with the schedule prescribed pursu- ‘‘(b) LOCATION OF OFFICES.—In establishing ‘‘(b) CONTENT.—Each report under this sec- ant to subsection (d) for the single loss pro- and maintaining such offices, the Secretary tion shall include the following: viding the highest payment.’’. shall give due regard to— ‘‘(1) A description of the implementation (2) Subsection (b) is amended— ‘‘(1) the geographical distribution of vet- during the preceding fiscal year of the cur- (A) in paragraph (1)— erans recently discharged or released from rent biennial plan under section 6302 of this (i) by striking ‘‘issued a’’ and all that fol- active military, naval, or air service; title. lows through ‘‘limited to—’’ and inserting ‘‘(2) the special needs of educationally dis- ‘‘(2) Recommendations for the improve- ‘‘insured against traumatic injury under this advantaged veterans (including their need ment or more effective administration of the section is insured against such losses due to for accessibility of outreach services); and outreach activities of the Department.’’. traumatic injury (in this section referred to ‘‘(3) the necessity of providing appropriate (b) INCORPORATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS TO as ‘qualifying losses’) as are prescribed by outreach services in less populated areas. IMPROVE OUTREACH AND AWARENESS.—The the Secretary by regulation. Qualifying ‘‘§ 6305. Outstationing of counseling and out- Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall, to the losses so prescribed shall include the fol- reach personnel extent appropriate, incorporate the rec- lowing:’’; ommendations for the improvement of vet- ‘‘The Secretary may station employees of (ii) by capitalizing the first letter of the erans outreach and awareness activities in- the Department at locations other than De- first word of each of subparagraphs (A) cluded in the report submitted to Congress partment offices, including educational in- through (H); by the Secretary pursuant to section 805 of stitutions, to provide— (iii) by striking the semicolon at the end of the Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of ‘‘(1) counseling and other assistance re- each of subparagraphs (A) through (F) and 2004 (Public Law 108–454). garding benefits under this title to veterans inserting a period; and (c) REPEAL OF RECODIFIED PROVISIONS.— and other persons eligible for benefits under (iv) by striking ‘‘; and’’ at the end of sub- Subchapter II of chapter 77 of title 38, United this title; and paragraph (G) and inserting a period; States Code, is repealed. ‘‘(2) outreach services under this chapter. (B) in paragraph (2)— (d) CONFORMING AND CLERICAL AMEND- (i) by striking ‘‘subsection—’’ and insert- ‘‘§ 6306. Use of other agencies MENTS.— ‘‘(a) In carrying out this chapter, the Sec- ing ‘‘subsection:’’; (1) Subchapter III of chapter 77 of such (ii) by striking ‘‘the’’ at the beginning of retary shall arrange with the Secretary of title is redesignated as subchapter II. Labor for the State employment service to subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) and inserting (2) The table of sections at the beginning of ‘‘The’’; match the particular qualifications of an eli- such chapter is amended by striking the gible veteran or eligible dependent with an (iii) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘4 items relating to the heading for subchapter limbs;’’ and inserting ‘‘four limbs.’’; appropriate job or job training opportunity, II, sections 7721 through 7727, and the head- including, where possible, arrangements for (iv) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘; ing for subchapter III and inserting the fol- and’’ at the end and inserting a period; outstationing the State employment per- lowing: sonnel who provide such assistance at appro- (v) in subparagraph (C), by striking ‘‘1 priate facilities of the Department. ‘‘SUBCHAPTER II—QUALITY ASSURANCE’’. side’’ and inserting ‘‘one side’’; and ‘‘(b) In carrying out this chapter, the Sec- (3) The tables of chapters at the beginning (vi) by adding at the end the following new retary shall, in consultation with the Sec- of such title, and at the beginning of part IV subparagraph: retary of Labor, actively seek to promote of such title, are amended by inserting after ‘‘(D) The term ‘inability to carry out the the development and establishment of em- the item relating to chapter 61 the following activities of daily living’ means the inability ployment opportunities, training opportuni- new item: to independently perform two or more of the following six functions: ties, and other opportunities for veterans, ‘‘63. Outreach Activities ...... 6301’’. with particular emphasis on the needs of vet- ‘‘(i) Bathing. erans with service-connected disabilities and (e) CROSS-REFERENCE AMENDMENTS.— ‘‘(ii) Continence. other eligible veterans, taking into account (1) Section 3485(a)(4)(A) of title 38, United ‘‘(iii) Dressing. applicable rates of unemployment and the States Code, is amended by striking ‘‘sub- ‘‘(iv) Eating. employment emphases set forth in chapter 42 chapter II of chapter 77’’ and inserting ‘‘(v) Toileting. of this title. ‘‘chapter 63’’. ‘‘(vi) Transferring.’’; ‘‘(c) In carrying out this chapter, the Sec- (2) Section 4113(a)(2) of such title is amend- (C) in paragraph (3)— retary shall cooperate with and use the serv- ed by striking ‘‘section 7723(a)’’ and inserting (i) by striking ‘‘, in collaboration with the ices of any Federal department or agency or ‘‘section 6304(a)’’. Secretary of Defense,’’; any State or local governmental agency or (3) Section 4214(g) of such title is amended (ii) by striking ‘‘shall prescribe’’ and in- recognized national or other organization. by striking ‘‘section 7722’’ and ‘‘section 7724’’ serting ‘‘may prescribe’’; and ‘‘(d) In carrying out this chapter, the Sec- and inserting ‘‘section 6303’’ and ‘‘section (iii) by striking ‘‘the conditions under retary shall, where appropriate, make refer- 6305’’, respectively. which coverage against loss will not be pro- rals to any Federal department or agency or (4) Section 168(b)(2)(B) of the Workforce In- vided’’ and inserting ‘‘conditions under State or local governmental unit or recog- vestment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2913(b)(2)(B)) which coverage otherwise provided under nized national or other organization. is amended by striking ‘‘subchapter II of this section is excluded’’; and ‘‘(e) In carrying out this chapter, the Sec- chapter 77’’ and inserting ‘‘chapter 63’’. (D) by adding at the end the following new retary may furnish available space and office SEC. 403. EXTENSION OF ANNUAL REPORT RE- paragraph: facilities for the use of authorized represent- QUIREMENT ON EQUITABLE RELIEF ‘‘(4) A member shall not be considered for atives of such governmental unit or other or- CASES. the purposes of this section to be a member ganization providing services. Section 503(c) of title 38, United States insured under Servicemembers’ Group Life ‘‘(f) In carrying out this chapter, the Sec- Code, is amended by striking ‘‘December 31, Insurance if the member is insured under retary shall conduct and provide for studies, 2004’’ and inserting ‘‘December 31, 2009’’. Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance only

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2975 as an insurable dependent of another mem- Secretary concerned, shall certify to the Veterans Affairs the amount of funds the ber pursuant to subparagraph (A)(ii) or Secretary whether the member with respect Secretary of Veterans Affairs determines to (C)(ii) of section 1967(a)(1) of this title.’’. to whom the claim is submitted— be necessary to pay all costs related to pay- (3) Subsection (c) is amended to read as fol- ‘‘(1) was at the time of the injury giving ments to be made under that certification. lows: rise to the claim insured under Servicemem- Amounts received by the Secretary of Vet- ‘‘(c)(1) A payment may be made to a mem- bers’ Group Life Insurance for the purposes erans Affairs under this paragraph shall be ber under this section only for a qualifying of this section; and deposited to the credit of the revolving fund loss that results directly from a traumatic ‘‘(2) has sustained a qualifying loss.’’. in the Treasury of the United States estab- injury sustained while the member is cov- (7) Subsection (g) of such section is amend- lished under section 1969(d) of title 38, United ered against loss under this section and from ed— States Code. no other cause. (A) by inserting ‘‘(1)’’ after ‘‘(g)’’; (4) QUALIFYING LOSS.—For purposes of this ‘‘(2)(A) A payment may be made to a mem- (B) by striking ‘‘will not be made’’ and in- subsection, the term ‘‘qualifying loss’’ ber under this section for a qualifying loss serting ‘‘may not be made under the insur- means— resulting from a traumatic injury only for a ance coverage under this section’’; (A) a loss specified in the second sentence loss that is incurred during the applicable (C) by striking ‘‘the period’’ and all that of subsection (b)(1) of section 1980A of title period of time specified pursuant to subpara- follows through ‘‘the date’’ and inserting ‘‘a 38, United States Code, as amended by sub- graph (B). period prescribed by the Secretary, by regu- section (a); and ‘‘(B) For each qualifying loss, the Sec- lation, for such purpose that begins on the (B) any other loss specified by the Sec- retary shall prescribe, by regulation, a pe- date’’; retary of Veterans Affairs pursuant to the riod of time to be the period of time within (D) by designating the second sentence as first sentence of that subsection. which a loss of that type must be incurred, paragraph (2); (5) SECRETARY CONCERNED.—For purposes of determined from the date on which the mem- (E) by striking ‘‘If the member’’ and in- this subsection, the term ‘‘Secretary con- ber sustains the traumatic injury resulting serting ‘‘If a member eligible for a payment cerned’’ has the meaning given that term in in that loss, in order for that loss to be cov- under this section’’; paragraph (25) of section 101 of title 38, ered under this section.’’. (F) by striking ‘‘will be’’ and inserting United States Code. (4) Subsection (d) is amended by striking ‘‘shall be’’; and ‘‘losses described in subsection (b)(1) shall (G) by striking ‘‘according to’’ and all that (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— be—’’ and all that follows and inserting follows and inserting ‘‘to the beneficiary or (1) Section 1965 of title 38, United States ‘‘qualifying losses shall be made in accord- beneficiaries to whom the payment would be Code, is amended by striking paragraph (11). ance with a schedule prescribed by the Sec- made if the payment were life insurance (2) Section 1032(c) of Public Law 109–13 (119 retary, by regulation, specifying the amount under section 1967(a) of this title.’’. Stat. 257; 38 U.S.C. 1980A note) is repealed. of payment to be made for each type of (8) Subsection (h) of such section is amend- SEC. 502. TERMINOLOGY AMENDMENTS TO RE- qualifying loss, to be based on the severity of ed— VISE REFERENCES TO CERTAIN VET- the qualifying loss. The minimum payment (A) in the first sentence, by striking ERANS IN PROVISIONS RELATING TO that may be prescribed for a qualifying loss ‘‘member’s separation from the uniformed ELIGIBILITY FOR COMPENSATION is $25,000, and the maximum payment that service’’ and inserting ‘‘termination of the OR DEPENDENCY AND INDEMNITY COMPENSATION. may be prescribed for a qualifying loss is member’s duty status in the uniformed serv- $100,000.’’. ices that established eligibility for Service- Title 38, United States Code, is amended as (5) Subsection (e) is amended— members’ Group Life Insurance’’; follows: (A) by striking ‘‘of Veterans Affairs’’ each (B) by striking the second sentence; and (1) Section 1114(l) is amended by striking place it appears; (C) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘so helpless’’ and inserting ‘‘with such sig- (B) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘as the sentence: ‘‘The termination of coverage nificant disabilities’’. premium allocable’’ and all that follows under this section is effective in accordance (2) Section 1114(m) is amended by striking through ‘‘protection under this section’’; with the preceding sentence, notwith- ‘‘so helpless’’ and inserting ‘‘so significantly (C) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘Secretary standing any continuation after the date disabled’’. of the concerned service’’ and inserting specified in that sentence of Servicemem- (3) Sections 1115(1)(E)(ii), 1122(b)(2), ‘‘Secretary concerned’’; and bers’ Group Life Insurance coverage pursu- 1311(c)(2), 1315(g)(2), and 1502(b)(2) are amend- (D) by striking paragraphs (6), (7), and (8) ant to 1968(a) of this title for a period speci- ed by striking ‘‘helpless or blind, or so near- and inserting the following: fied in that section.’’. ly helpless or blind as to’’ and inserting ‘‘(6) The cost attributable to insuring (9) Such section is further amended by add- ‘‘blind, or so nearly blind or significantly members under this section for any month or ing at the end the following new subsection: disabled as to’’. other period specified by the Secretary, less ‘‘(j) Regulations under this section shall be prescribed in consultation with the Sec- SEC. 503. TECHNICAL AND CLERICAL AMEND- the premiums paid by the members, shall be MENTS. paid by the Secretary concerned to the Sec- retary of Defense.’’. retary. The Secretary shall allocate the (b) APPLICABILITY TO QUALIFYING LOSSES Title 38, United States Code, is amended as amount payable among the uniformed serv- INCURRED IN OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM follows: ices using such methods and data as the Sec- AND OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM BEFORE EF- (1) TYPOGRAPHICAL ERROR.—Section retary determines to be reasonable and prac- FECTIVE DATE OF NEW PROGRAM.— 1117(h)(1) is amended by striking ticable. Payments under this paragraph shall (1) ELIGIBILITY.—A member of the uni- ‘‘nothwithstanding’’ and inserting ‘‘notwith- be made on a monthly basis or at such other formed services who during the period begin- standing’’. intervals as may be specified by the Sec- ning on October 7, 2001, and ending at the (2) INSERTION OF MISSING WORD.—Section retary and shall be made within 10 days of close of November 30, 2005, sustains a trau- 1513(a) is amended by inserting ‘‘section’’ the date on which the Secretary provides no- matic injury resulting in a qualifying loss is after ‘‘prescribed by’’. tice to the Secretary concerned of the eligible for coverage for that loss under sec- (3) DELETION OF EXTRA WORDS.—Section amount required. tion 1980A of title 38, United States Code, if, 3012(a)(1)(C)(ii) is amended by striking ‘‘on ‘‘(7) For each period for which a payment as determined by the Secretary concerned, or’’. by a Secretary concerned is required under that loss was a direct result of a traumatic (4) CROSS REFERENCE CORRECTION.—Section paragraph (6), the Secretary concerned shall injury incurred in the theater of operations 3017(b)(1)(D) is amended by striking ‘‘3011(c)’’ contribute such amount from appropriations for Operation Enduring Freedom or Oper- and inserting ‘‘3011(e)’’. available for active duty pay of the uni- ation Iraqi Freedom. (5) STYLISTIC AMENDMENTS.—Section 3018A formed service concerned. (2) CERTIFICATION OF PERSONS ENTITLED TO is amended— ‘‘(8) The sums withheld from the basic or PAYMENT.—The Secretary concerned shall (A) by striking ‘‘of this section’’ in sub- other pay of members, or collected from certify to the life insurance company issuing sections (b) and (c); them by the Secretary concerned, under this the policy of life insurance for Servicemem- (B) by striking ‘‘of this subsection’’ in sub- subsection, and the sums contributed from bers’ Group Life Insurance under chapter 19 sections (a)(4), (a)(5), (d)(1) (both places it ap- appropriations under this subsection, to- of title 38, United States Code, the name and pears), and (d)(3); and gether with the income derived from any address of each person who the Secretary (C) by striking ‘‘of this chapter’’ in sub- dividends or premium rate adjustments re- concerned determines to be entitled by rea- section (d)(3) and inserting ‘‘of this title’’. ceived from insurers shall be deposited to the son of paragraph (1) to a payment under sec- (6) CROSS REFERENCE CORRECTION.—Section credit of the revolving fund established in tion 1980A of title 38, United States Code, 3117(b)(1) is amended— the Treasury of the United States under sec- plus such additional information as the Sec- (A) by striking ‘‘section 8’’ and inserting tion 1869(d)(1) of this title.’’. retary of Veterans Affairs may require. ‘‘section 4(b)(1)’’; and (6) Subsection (f) is amended to read as fol- (3) FUNDING.—At the time a certification is (B) by striking ‘‘633(b)’’ and inserting lows: made under paragraph (2), the Secretary con- ‘‘633(b)(1)’’. ‘‘(f) When a claim for benefits is submitted cerned, from funds then available to that (7) INSERTION OF MISSING WORD.—Section under this section, the Secretary of Defense Secretary for the pay of members of the uni- 3511(a)(1) is amended by inserting ‘‘sections’’ or, in the case of a member not under the ju- formed services under the jurisdiction of after ‘‘under both’’. risdiction of the Secretary of Defense, the that Secretary, shall pay to the Secretary of (8) SUBSECTION HEADINGS.—

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2976 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 (A) Sections 3461, 3462, 3481, 3565, 3680, and reached by the Senate and House Com- residence. Subparagraph (d) would require 3690 are each amended by revising each sub- mittees on Veterans’ Affairs on the fol- the Secretary to issue relevant regulations. section heading for a subsection therein (ap- lowing bills: Finally, subparagraph (e) would limit the pearing as a centered heading immediately S. 1235, as amended, which passed the program to 5 years after enactment. before the text of the subsection) so that Section 101(b) of H.R. 3665, as amended, such heading appears immediately after the Senate on September 28, 2005; H.R. 1220, would amend section 2102 of title 38, United subsection designation and is set forth in as amended, which passed the House on States Code, to allow a veteran to receive no capitals-and-small-capitals typeface, fol- July 13, 2005; H.R. 2046, as amended, more than three grants of assistance under lowed by a period and a one-em dash. which passed the House on May 23, 2005; chapter 21 of title 8, United States Code. The (B) Section 3461(c) is amended by inserting and H.R. 3665, as amended, which total value of all grants would not exceed after the subsection designation the fol- passed the House on November 10, 2005. $50,000 for the most severely disabled vet- erans and $10,000 for less severely disabled lowing: ‘‘DURATION OF ENTITLEMENT.—’’. Mr. Speaker, I will insert at this (C) Section 3462 is amended— veterans. However, a veteran who receives a point in the RECORD for the benefit of (i) in subsection (d), by inserting after the grant under section 2102(b) of title 38, United subsection designation the following: ‘‘PRIS- my colleagues a joint explanatory States Code, would still be allowed to receive ONERS OF WAR.—’’; and statement describing the compromise grants under section 2102(a) of title 38, (ii) in subsection (e), by inserting after the agreement we have reached with the United States Code, if he or she becomes eli- subsection designation the following: ‘‘TER- other body. gible. Section 101(c) would amend chapter 21 of MINATION OF ASSISTANCE.—’’. EXPLANATORY STATEMENT ON AMENDMENT TO title 38, United States Code, by adding at the (9) CROSS REFERENCE CORRECTION.—Section SENATE BILL, S. 1235, AS AMENDED 3732(c)(10)(D) is amended by striking ‘‘clause end a new section 2107 to provide that the S. 1235, as amended, the Veterans’ Housing (B) of paragraphs (5), (6), (7), and (8) of this Secretary shall coordinate the administra- Opportunity and Benefits Improvement Act subsection’’ and inserting ‘‘paragraphs (5)(B), tion of programs to provide specially adapt- of 2006, reflects a Compromise Agreement (6), (7)(B), and (8)(B)’’. ed housing that are administered by both the reached by the Senate and House Commit- Under Secretary for Health and the Under (10) DATE OF ENACTMENT REFERENCE.—Sec- tees on Veterans’ Affairs (the Committees) Secretary for Benefits under chapters 17, 21, tion 3733(a)(7) is amended by striking ‘‘the on the following bills reported during the and 31 of title 38, United States Code. date of the enactment of the Veterans Bene- 109th Congress: S. 1235, as amended (Senate Compromise Agreement.—Section 101 of fits Act of 2003’’ and inserting ‘‘December 16, Bill), H.R. 1220, as amended, H.R. 2046, as the Compromise Agreement generally fol- 2003’’. amended, and H.R. 3665, as amended (House lows the House language except in the case (11) REPEAL OF OBSOLETE PROVISIONS.—Sec- Bills). S. 1235, as amended, passed the Senate of veterans residing temporarily in housing tion 4102A is amended— on September 28, 2005; H.R. 2046, as amended, owned by a family member, veterans with (A) in subsection (c)(7)— passed the House on May 23, 2005; H.R. 3665, disabilities involving impairments of loco- (i) by striking ‘‘With respect to program as amended, passed the House on November motion may receive up to $14,000. Section 101 years beginning during or after fiscal year 10, 2005. would also increase the funding fee for a sub- 2004, one percent of’’ and inserting ‘‘Of’’; and The Committees have prepared the fol- sequent use of the VA home loan guaranty (ii) by striking ‘‘for the program year’’ and lowing explanation of S. 1235, as further with no money down by 5 basis points for the inserting ‘‘for any program year, one per- amended to reflect a compromise agreement period October 1, 2006 through September 30, cent’’; and between the Committees (Compromise 2007. (B) in subsection (f)(1), by striking ‘‘By not Agreement). Differences between the provi- Adjustable Rate Mortgages later than May 7, 2003, the’’ and inserting sions contained in the Compromise Agree- ‘‘The’’. Current Law.—Section 3707A(c)(4) of title ment and the related provision of the Senate 38, United States Code, limits the maximum (12) REPEAL OF OBSOLETE PROVISIONS.—Sec- Bill and the House Bills are noted in this tion 4105(b) is amended— increase or decrease of any single annual in- document, except for clerical corrections, terest rate adjustment after the initial con- (A) by striking ‘‘shall provide,’’ and all conforming changes made necessary by the tract interest rate adjustment to 1 percent- that follows through ‘‘Affairs with’’ and in- Compromise Agreement, and minor drafting, age point. serting ‘‘shall, on the 15th day of each technical, and clarifying changes. Senate Bill.—Section 201 of the Senate Bill month, provide the Secretary and the Sec- TITLE I—HOUSING MATTERS would give VA the flexibility to prescribe an retary of Veterans Affairs with updated in- appropriate annual rate adjustment cap for formation regarding’’; and Adapted Housing Assistance for Disabled VA hybrid Adjustable Rate Mortgage loans (B) by striking ‘‘and shall’’ and all that fol- Veterans Residing in Housing Owned by with an initial rate of interest fixed for 5 or lows through ‘‘regarding the list’’. Family Member more years. (13) CITATION CORRECTION.—Section 4110B is Current Law.—Chapter 21 of title 38, House Bills.—The House Bills contain no amended— United States Code, authorizes the Secretary comparable provision. (A) by striking ‘‘this Act’’ and inserting to provide grants to adapt or acquire suit- Compromise Agreement.—Section 102 of ‘‘the Workforce Investment Act of 1998’’; and able housing for certain severely disabled the Compromise Agreement follows the Sen- (B) by inserting ‘‘(29 U.S.C. 2822(b))’’ before veterans. The grant amounts are limited to ate language. the period at the end. $50,000 for severely disabled veterans with Permanent Authority To Make Direct Hous- (14) CROSS-REFERENCE CORRECTION.—Sec- impairments of locomotion or loss of func- ing Loans to Native American Veterans tion 4331(b)(2)(C) is amended by striking tion of both arms described in section 2101(a) Current Law.—Section 3761 of title 38, ‘‘section 2303(a)(2)(C)(ii)’’ and inserting ‘‘sec- of title 38, United States Code, and $10,000 to United States Code, establishes a pilot pro- tion 2302(a)(2)(C)(ii)’’. severely disabled veterans with loss of vision gram to make direct housing loans to Native (15) CAPITALIZATION CORRECTION.—Section or loss of function of both hands as described American veterans for homes on tribal lands. 7253(d)(5) is amended by striking ‘‘court’’ and in section 2101(b) of title 38, United States The authorization expires on December 31, inserting ‘‘Court’’. Code. Currently a veteran may receive a 2008. Section 3762 of title 38, United States The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- grant for specially adapted housing only Code, describes the administration of the ant to the rule, the gentleman from once. However, a veteran who has qualified program and limits the maximum loan Florida (Mr. MILLER) and the gen- for the smaller grant may nonetheless re- amount to $80,000, unless the Secretary al- tleman from Colorado (Mr. SALAZAR) ceive a higher grant if disabilities under that lows a larger amount due to higher housing each will control 20 minutes. provision later develop. costs in a particular geographic area. The Chair recognizes the gentleman Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no Senate Bill.—Section 203 of the Senate Bill comparable provision. contains a similar provision. from Florida. House Bills.—Section 101 (a) through (e) of House Bills.—Section 102 of H.R. 3665, as Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3665, as amended, would amend chapter amended, would make permanent the Native I yield myself such time as I may con- 21 of title 38, United States Code, by insert- American Veteran Housing Loan Program. It sume. ing a new section 2102A. Subparagraph (a) would also limit the Secretary’s discretion (Mr. MILLER of Florida asked and would authorize the Secretary of Veterans in approving a loan large than $80,000 to the was given permission to revise and ex- Affairs to conduct a program providing a loan limitation amount provided by the Fed- tend his remarks.) partial adapted housing grant to severely in- eral Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, jured veterans residing temporarily in hous- for a single-family residence. ing owned by a family member. Subpara- Compromise Agreement.—Section 103 of I rise in support of S. 1235, as amended, the Compromise Agreement follows the the Veterans’ Housing Opportunity and graph (b) would authorize the Secretary to provide up to a $10,000 grant for such vet- House language. Benefits Improvement Act of 2006. erans with disabilities involving impair- Extension of Eligibility for Direct Loans for S. 1235, as amended, the Veterans’ ments of locomotion and up to a $2,000 grant Native American Veterans to a Veteran Housing Opportunity and Benefits Im- for such veterans with visual impairments or Who Is The Spouse of a Native American provement Act of 2006, reflects a com- loss of function of both hands. Subparagraph Current Law.—Section 3761 of title 38, promise agreement that has been (c) would limit the assistance to one family United States Code, limits loans under the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2977

Native American Home Loan Program to plan to the House and Senate Veterans’ Af- TITLE III—LIFE AND HEALTH INSURANCE veterans who are Native Americans. Under fairs Committees not later than July 1, 2006. MATTERS current law, a veteran residing on tribal Compromise Agreement.—Section 201 of Duration of Servicemembers’ Group Life In- lands with a Native American spouse is not the Compromise Agreement generally fol- surance Coverage for Totally Disabled eligible to receive a home loan under this lows the House language, but does not in- Veterans Following Separation From program. clude the requirement that the Secretary of Service Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no Labor develop and transmit a transition Current Law.—Section 1968 of title 38, comparable provision. plan. United States Code, provides coverage at no House Bills.—Section 103 of H.R. 3665, as Modifications to the Advisory Committee on charge under the Servicemembers’ Group amended, would extend eligibility for the Veterans Employment and Training Life Insurance program for 1 year after the Native American Veteran Housing Loan Pro- Current Law.—Section 4110 of title 38, date of separation or release from active gram to non-Native American veterans who United States Code, establishes the Advisory duty if a veteran is rated totally disabled at are spouses of Native American eligible to be Committee on Veterans employment and the time of separation. Veterans may also housed on tribal land. The non-Native Amer- Training, its membership, and its duties. The convert their insurance coverage from ican veteran must be able to acquire a mean- Advisory Committee advises the ASVET on Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance to ingful interest in the property under tribal the employment and training needs of vet- Veterans’ Group Life Insurance, or to an in- law. erans and how the Department of Labor is dividual policy of insurance, during the 1- Compromise Agreement.—Section 104 of meeting those needs. No outreach efforts are year, post-separation period. the Compromise Agreement follows the required of the Advisory Committee in cur- Senate Bill.—Section 101 of the Senate Bill House language. rent law. would extend from 1 to 2 years, after separa- Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no Technical Corrections to Veterans’ Benefit tion from active duty service, the period Improvement Act of 2004 comparable provision. House Bills.—Section 203(a) of H.R. 3665, as within which totally disabled members may Current Law.—Section 2101 of title 38, amended, would amend section 4110 of title receive premium-free SGLI coverage. In ad- United States Code, provides for grants to 38, United States Code, by renaming the dition, such members would be eligible to adapt or acquire suitable housing for certain ‘‘Advisory Committee on Veterans Employ- convert their coverage to Veterans’ Group severely disabled veterans. Section 401 of ment and Training’’ to ‘‘Advisory Committee Life Insurance or an individual policy of in- Public Law 108–183 amended section 2101 to on Veterans Employment, Training, and Em- surance. authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs ployer Outreach’’. House Bills.—The House Bills contain no to provide adapted housing assistance to cer- Section 203(b) would modify the duties of comparable provision. tain disabled servicemembers who have not the Advisory Committee to include assisting Compromise Agreement.—Section 301 of yet been processed for discharge from mili- and advising the Assistant Secretary of the Compromise Agreement would extend tary service, but who will qualify for the Labor for Veterans’ Employment and Train- the post-separation coverage period from 1 to benefit upon discharge due to the severity of ing (ASVET) in carrying out outreach to em- 2 years until September 30, 2011, for all mem- their disabilities. However, this provision ployers. bers who are totally disabled when separated was inadvertently omitted from section 2101 Section 203(c) would modify the member- or released from active duty 1 year before of title 38, United States Code when changes ship of the Advisory Committee to include date of enactment of this Act. For members to that section were made by P.L. 108–454. representatives from the National Society of who are totally disabled when they separate Senate Bill.—Section 202 of S. 1235 would Human Resource Managers, The Business or are released on or after October 1, 2011, amend section 2101 of title 38, United States Roundtable, the National Association of the post-separation coverage period would be Code, to reinstate the authority of the Sec- State Workforce Agencies, the United States reduced to 18 months. retary to provide adapted housing assistance Chamber of Commerce, the National Federa- Limitation on Premium Increases for Rein- to certain members of the armed services tion of Independent Business, a nationally stated Health Insurance of and make other conforming amendments. recognized labor union or organization, vet- Servicemembers Released From Active The amendments made by this provision erans service organizations that have a na- Military Service would take effect on December 10, 2004, im- tional employment program, and recognized Current Law.—Section 704 of the mediately after the enactment of Public Law authorities in the fields of business, employ- Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) pro- 108–454. ment, training, rehabilitation, or labor. Sec- vides that a servicemember who is ordered to House Bill.—Section 4 of H.R. 2046, as tion 203(c) would also retain six nonvoting ex active duty is entitled, upon release from ac- amended, contains a similar provision. officio members of the Advisory Committee: tive duty, to reinstatement of any health in- Compromise Agreement.—Section 105 of Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Secretary of surance coverage in effect on the day before the Compromise Agreement contains this Defense, Director of the Office of Personnel such service commenced. Section 704 of the provision. Management, Assistant Secretary of Labor SCRA currently contains no express provi- TITLE II—EMPLOYMENT MATTERS for Veterans’ Employment and Training, As- sion regarding premium increases. sistant Secretary of Labor for Employment Additional Duty for the Assistant Secretary Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no and Training, and the Administrator of the of Labor for Veterans’ Employment and comparable provision. Small Business Administration. Training To Raise Awareness of Skills of House Bill.—Section 2 of H.R. 2046, as Setion 203(d) of H.R. 3665, as amended, amended, would amend section 704 of SCRA Veterans and of the Benefits of Hiring would require the Advisory Committee to Veterans by adding at the end a new subsection that submit a report to the Secretary of Labor on would limit health insurance premium in- Current Law.—Subsection (b) of section the employment and training needs of vet- creases. The amount charged for the cov- 4102A of title 38, United States Code, de- erans for the previous fiscal year. The report erage once reinstated would not exceed the scribes the duties to be carried out by the would include a description of the activities amount charged for coverage before the ter- Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans’ of the Advisory Committee during that fiscal mination except for any general increase for Employment and Training. year as well as suggested outreach activities persons similarly covered by the insurance Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no to be carried out by the Secretary of Labor during the period between termination and comparable provision. to employers with respect to the training the reinstatement. House Bills.—Section 202(a) of H.R. 3665, as and skills of veterans and the advantage af- Compromise Agreement.—Section 302 of amended, would add a new duty for the As- forded employers by hiring veterans. the Compromise Agreement follows the sistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans’ Em- Compromise Agreement.—Section 202 of House language. ployment and Training (ASVET) under sec- the Compromise Agreement follows the tion 4102A of title 38, United States Code, to House language. Preservation of Employer-Sponsored Health furnish information to employers (through Reauthorization of Appropriations for Home- Plan Coverage for Certain Reserve-Com- meetings with hiring executive of corpora- less Veterans Reintegration Programs ponent Members Who Acquire TRICARE Eligibility tions and otherwise) concerning the training Current Law.—Section 2021 of title 38, and skills of veterans and disabled veterans, United States Code, authorizes appropria- Current Law.—Section 4317 of title 38, and the advantages of hiring veterans. The tions for the Homeless Veterans Reintegra- United States Code, requires an employer to ASVET would also be required to facilitate tion Programs (HVRP) through fiscal year provide employees returning from active employment of veterans and disabled vet- 2006. duty with the same employer-sponsored erans through participation in labor ex- Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no health benefits they had when they reported changes (Internet-based and otherwise), and comparable provision. for active duty. However, section 4317 does by other means. House Bills.—Section 301 of H.R. 3665, as not preserve employer-sponsored health plan Section 202(b) of H.R. 3665, as amended, amended, would reauthorize HVRP for fiscal reinstatement rights for certain Reserve- would require the Secretary of Labor, acting years 2007 through 2009, and retain the max- component members who acquire health in- through the ASVET, to develop a transition imum authorization of $50 million per year. surance coverage under TRICARE prior to plan for the ASVET to assume certain duties Compromise Agreement.—Section 203 of entering active duty under section 1074(d) of and functions of the President’s National the Compromise Agreement follows the title 10, United States Code. This option be- Hire Veterans Committee and transmit the House language. came available by an amendment to the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2978 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 TRICARE authority enacted on November Extension of Reporting Requirements on Eq- Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no 24, 2003. uitable Relief Cases comparable provision. Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no Current Law.—Section 503 of title 38, House Bill.—Section 104 of H.R. 3665, as comparable provision. United States Code, authorizes the Secretary amended, would amend sections 1114(1), House Bills.—Section 3 of H.R. 2046, as of Veterans Affairs to provide monetary re- 1114(m), 1115(1)(E)(ii), 1122(b)(2), 1311(c)(2), amended, would amend section 4317 of title lief to persons whom the Secretary deter- 1315(g)(2), and 1502(b)(2) of title 38, United 38, United States Code, to preserve employer- mines were deprived of VA benefits by reason States Code, eliminating use of the obsolete sponsored health plan reinstatement rights of administrative error by a federal govern- term ‘‘helpless’’ when describing signifi- under the Uniformed Services employment ment employee. The Secretary may also pro- cantly disabled veterans. No substantive and Reemployment Rights Act for Reserve- vide relief which the Secretary determines is change is intended by these amendments. component members who acquire TRICARE equitable to a VA beneficiary who has suf- Compromise Agreement.—Section 502 of coverage prior to entering active duty. This fered loss as a consequence of an erroneous the Compromise Agreement follows the includes those Reserve Component members decision made by a federal government em- House language. whose active duty orders are canceled prior ployee. No later than April 1 of each year, LEGISLATIVE PROVISIONS NOT ADOPTED to reporting to active duty. the Secretary was required to submit to Con- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Claims gress a report containing a statement as to Compromise Agreement.—Section 303 of Current Law.—Section 501 of title 38, the disposition of each case recommended to the Compromise Agreement follows the United States Code, provides the Secretary the Secretary for equitable relief during the House language. of Veterans Affairs with the authority to preceding calendar year; the requirement for TITLE IV—OTHER MATTERS prescribe all rules and regulations necessary this report expired on December 31, 2004. Inclusion of Additional Diseases and Condi- Senate Bill.—Section 302 of the Senate Bill or appropriate to carry out the laws adminis- tions in Diseases and Disabilities Pre- would extend the equitable relief reporting tered by VA, including the methods of mak- sumed To Be Associated with Prisoner of requirement through December 31, 2009. ing medical examinations and the manner War Status House Bills.—The House Bills contain no and form of adjudications and awards. Senate Bill.—Section 304 would require VA Current Law.—Section 1112(b) of title 38, comparable provision. Compromise Agreement.—Section 403 of to develop and implement policy and train- United States Code, contains two lists of dis- ing initiatives to standardize the assessment eases that are presumed to be related to an the Compromise Agreement follows the Sen- ate language. of PTSD disability compensation claims. individual’s experience as a prisoner of war. House Bills.—The House bills contain no TITLE V—TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS The first presumptive list require no min- comparable provision. imum internment period and includes dis- Technical and Clarifying Amendments to eases associated with mental trauma or New Traumatic Injury Protection Cov- Increase in Rates of Disability Compensation acute physical trauma, which could plau- erage Under Servicemembers’ Group Life Paid to Certain Surviving Spouses With sibly be caused by a single day of captivity. Insurance Children The second list has a 30-day minimum in- Current Law.—Section 1032 of Public Law Current Law.—Under current law, a sur- ternment requirement. 109–13 (119 STAT. 257) established, effective viving spouse with one or more children Senate Bill.—Section 303 of the Senate Bill December 1, 2005, a new traumatic injury under the age of 18 is entitled to receive a would codify a June 28, 2005, VA regulation protection program within title 38, United transitional benefit of an additional $250 per which added atherosclerotic heart disease or States Code. Section 1980A provides month for the first two years of eligibility or hypertensive vascular disease (including hy- servicemembers enrolled in the dependency and indemnity compensation pertensive heart disease) and their complica- Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (DIC). tions (including myocardial infarction, con- (SGLI) program automatic coverage against Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no gestive heart failure and arrhythmia), and qualified traumatic injuries. In the event a comparable provision. stroke and its complications as presumptive servicemember sustains a qualified trau- House Bills.—Section 206 of H.R. 1220, as conditions for service-connection when re- matic injury, SGLI will pay the injured amended, would provide a cost-of-living ad- lated to the prisoner of war experience. servicemember between $25,000 to $100,000, justment for the $250 transitional DIC for These diseases would be included under the depending on the nature of the injury and in 2006. list requiring minimum 30-day internment accordance with a payment scheduled pre- Treatment of Stillborn Children as Insurable period. scribe by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Dependents Under Servicemembers’ House Bills.—The House Bills contain no Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no Group Life Insurance Program comparable provision. comparable provision. Current Law.—Section 1967 of title 38, Compromise Agreement.—Section 401 of House Bills.—Section 401 of H.R. 3665, as United States Code, provides coverage under the Compromise Agreement follows the Sen- amended, would make various technical and the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance ate language. clerical amendments to section 1980A of title program to the spouse and children of in- 38, United States Code. These technical sured, full-time, active duty servicemem- Consolidation and Revision of Outreach Ac- amendments more clearly specify the re- tivities bers, as well as covered members of the sponsibilities of the different uniformed Ready Reserve. Coverage for the spouse may Current Law.—Section 7722 of title 38, services who participate in the not exceed $100,000, and the servicemember United States Code, requires the Secretary Servicemembers’ Groups Life Insurance pro- may elect in writing not to insure a spouse. of Veterans Affairs to distribute full infor- gram: military services under the jurisdic- Coverage for each child, in the amount of mation to eligible servicemembers, veterans, tion of the Secretary of Defense, the United $10,000, is automatic. Coverage for the de- and dependents regarding all benefits and States Coast Guard under the Secretary of pendent begins immediately following a live services to which they may be entitled under Homeland Security, the Public Health Serv- birth. laws administered by the Department. ice under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of Senate Bill.—Section 102 of the Senate Bill Senate Bill.—Section 301 of the Senate Bill Health and Human Services, and the Na- would cover a member’s stillborn child as an would require the VA to prepare annually tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- insurable dependent under the Servicemem- (and submit to Congress) a plan governing an tion under the jurisdiction of the Secretary bers’ Group Life Insurance program. upcoming year’s outreach activities. Such a of Commerce. House Bills.—The House Bills contain no plan would incorporate the recommenda- The technical amendments in section 401 comparable provision. tions of the report mandated by Public Law are intended to clarify and to conform sec- Demonstration Project To Improve Business 108–454, and would be prepared after con- tion 1980A of title 38, United States Code, to Practices of Veterans Health Adminis- sultations with veterans service organiza- current provisions and are not intended to tration tions, State and local officials, and other in- make any substantive change in current law. terested groups and advocates. Compromrise Agreement.—Section 501 of Current Law.—There is no applicable cur- House Bills.—The House Bills contain no the Compromise Agreement follows the rent law. comparable provision. House language. Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no comparable provision. Compromise Agreement.—Section 402 of Terminlogy Amendments To Revise Ref- House Bills.—Section 5 of H.R. 1220, as the Compromise Agreement follows the Sen- erences to Certain Veterans in Provi- amended, would establish a demonstration ate language with modifications. VA out- sions Relating to Eligibility for Com- project to improve the Department of Vet- reach activities would be revised and con- pensation or Dependency and Indemnity erans Affairs’ (VA) collections from third- solidated in a new chapter 63 of title 38, Compensation party payers. United States Code. Additionally, VA would Current Law.—Sections 1114(1), 1114(m), be required to prepare biennially an outreach 1115(b)(2), 1122(b)(2), 1311 (c)(2), 1315(g)(2), and Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education, plan governing an upcoming 2 years of out- 1502(b)(2) of title 38, United States Code, con- and Clinical Centers reach activities, beginning on October 1, tain language that refers to ‘‘helpless vet- Current Law.—There is no applicable cur- 2007. Furthermore, VA would be required to erans’’ when relating to eligibility for com- rent law. report biennially on the execution of the pensation or dependency and indemnity com- Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no outreach plan, beginning on October 1, 2008. pensation. comparable provision.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2979 House Bills.—Section 6 of H.R. 1220, as It would also authorize up to three 1 year free of charge. Section 301 of the amended, would permanently authorize six separate specially adaptive housing bill would extend this coverage to 2 Parkinson’s disease Research Education and grants within the current maximum years through September 30, 2011, and Clinical Centers (PADRECCs), subject to ap- 18 months as of October 1, 2011. propriations, and give priority to the exist- amounts. ing PADRECCs for medical care and research Section 102 of this bill would give the Members then may convert to Vet- dollars, insofar as such funds are awarded to Secretary of Veterans Affairs the au- erans’ Group Life Insurance or a com- projects for research in Parkinson’s disease thority to prescribe an appropriate an- mercial policy. Section 302 would pro- and other movement disorders. nual rate adjustment cap for the VA hibit any increase in premiums for Extension of Operation of the President’s Hybrid Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loan health insurance after reinstatement National Hire Veterans Committee program. This provision brings VA except for any general increase in the Current Law.—Section 6 of the Jobs for ARMs in line with the mortgage indus- premiums being charged by the carrier Veterans Act, Public Law 107–288, estab- try and improves their value on the for persons similarly covered. lished the President’s National Hire Vet- secondary market. Currently, a servicemember who is erans Committee (PNHVC) within the De- Mr. Speaker, this bill would also ordered to active duty and terminated partment of Labor. The PNHVC furnishes in- make permanent the Pilot Program for their health insurance, employer-spon- formation to employers with respect to the sored insurance coverage upon release training and skills of veterans and disabled Housing Loans to Native American veterans and the advantages of hiring vet- Veterans; extend the eligibility for Na- from active duty is entitled to rein- erans. The Secretary of Labor provides staff tive American loans to certain non-Na- statement of their previous health in- and administrative support to the PNHVC to tive American veterans who have a surance coverage. assist it in carrying out its duties under this meaningful interest in the property Section 303 closes a current gap in section. The PNHVC also has the authority under tribal law and are the spouses of health insurance coverage for those Re- to contract with government and private servists who elect TRICARE coverage agencies to furnish information to employ- a Native American; and, finally, adjust the maximum loan to conform to the in advance of activation and allows ers. Under current law, the PNHVC termi- them to retain reinstatement rights nated on December 31, 2005. The PNHVC was Freddie Mac limits, similar to other authorized $3 million appropriated from the VA loans currently at $359,650. under their employer-sponsored health Unemployment Trust Fund through fiscal Title II of the bill would transition plan, even if they do not eventually re- year 2005. some of the President’s National Hire port to active duty. Since members of the Reserve com- Senate Bill.—The Senate Bill contains no Veterans Committee’s duties to the As- comparable provision. ponent play such an important role in sistant Secretary of Labor for Vet- House Bills.—Section 201 of H.R. 3665, as today’s military, these important erans’ Employment and Training, and amended, would amend section 6 of the Jobs changes to the law will protect the modifies the title of the Assistant Sec- for Veterans Act by extending, for up to 1 members and their families from loss year, the President’s National Hire Veterans retary’s advisory committee to the Ad- of coverage and unwarranted cost in- Committee until not later than December 31, visory Committee on Veterans Employ- 2006. Section 201 would also extend the au- creases. ment, Training, and Employer Out- Section 401 of the bill would codify a thorization for appropriations through fiscal reach, its membership and its duties to year 2006 and require an additional PNHVC June 2005 Department of Veterans Af- report to the House and Senate Veterans’ Af- improve employer outreach activities. fairs regulation to add heart disease fairs Committees in 2006. Taxpayers made a significant invest- and ensuing complications and stroke Mr. MILLER of Florida. The provi- ment in the work of the President’s to the list of diseases presumed serv- sions in this bill will directly or indi- National Hire Veterans Committee, ice-connected for former prisoners of rectly impact the lives of servicemem- and we feel strongly that some of the war that were interned for at least 30 bers, veterans, and their survivors. duties and products of the committee days. Several of them fall within the juris- should be adopted by the Veterans Em- Section 402 would revise and consoli- diction of the Subcommittee on Dis- ployment and Training Service at the date VA outreach activities into a new ability Assistance and Memorial Af- Department of Labor. chapter of title 38, United States Code, fairs, which I chair. Section 203 would reauthorize the to ensure that servicemembers, vet- The other provisions fall within the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Pro- erans, and their survivors are aware of jurisdiction of the Subcommittee on grams for fiscal years 2007 through the benefits and services to which they Economic Opportunity, which is 2009, and retain the maximum author- may be entitled. chaired by Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. BOOZMAN ization of $50 million per year. Mr. This section would further require is currently conducting a roundtable Speaker, we recognize that homeless- VA to prepare a biennial outreach plan, on employment in Michigan, so I will ness among veterans continues to be a as well as report to Congress every 2 describe his subcommittee’s provisions problem. While there are varying esti- years on the execution of that plan. I as well. mates about the total number of home- held a committee hearing on March 16 In title I of the bill, we provide addi- less veterans and the causes for home- of this year, and I was disappointed to tional flexibility to the Adapted Hous- lessness, there is no disagreement that learn that VA was no longer filing an ing Grant program and the Native a job is one of the keys to breaking the annual outreach report as mandated by American Home Loan program. These cycle of homelessness and that the law. provisions were originally in H.R. 3665, Homeless Veterans Reintegration Pro- It is our interpretation that by cre- introduced by Mr. BOOZMAN, and H.R. grams remain a valuable tool to assist ating this chapter, VA will put more of 1773, introduced by Ms. HERSETH. homeless veterans in finding gainful an emphasis on its outreach activities. Mr. Speaker, some of those wounded employment. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of in Iraq and Afghanistan return home I do want to emphasize that this is an my time. with significant disabilities. Many se- employment program managed by the Mr. SALAZAR. Mr. Speaker, I yield verely disabled servicemembers spend Veterans Employment and Training myself such time as I may consume. much of their convalescence at a fam- Service at the Department of Labor, Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong ily home before moving on to a home of and it is not a housing program. support of Senate bill 1235, as amended, their own. Under current rules, VA Title III of the bill would amend the the Veterans’ Housing Opportunity and cannot help adapt family homes to the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006. This veteran’s disability unless the veteran the Uniformed Services Employment bipartisan and bicameral benefit pack- has an ownership interest in that prop- and Reemployment Rights Act to pro- age incorporates a number of impor- erty. vide additional protections to service- tant measures aimed at improving the Section 101 would eliminate the own- members. Section 302 and 303 origi- quality of life for our servicemembers, ership requirement and would also pro- nated in H.R. 2046, introduced by Chair- veterans, and military families. vide a partial Adaptive Housing Assist- man BUYER. I would like to thank Chairman ance grant, ranging from $2,000 to Under current law, when a member is BUYER and Ranking Member LANE $13,000 depending on the level of dis- rated totally disabled at the time of EVANS for their leadership on the full ability to veterans temporarily in separation, Servicemembers’ Group committee and for their assistance in housing owned by a family member. Life Insurance coverage is provided for moving this bill to the floor today.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2980 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 I also want to express my apprecia- Nation have earned and deserve our According to the National Coalition for tion to the chairman and ranking best efforts here in Congress. As we ap- Homeless Veterans, a survey of their member of the Economic Opportunity proach Memorial Day today, I am very members revealed that the percentage Subcommittee, JOHN BOOZMAN and proud to support this long overdue leg- of women among homeless vets rose STEPHANIE HERSETH, respectively, for islation, and I am confident that it will from 2 percent in 1966 to 7 percent at their hard work and bipartisan leader- benefit the veterans of my home State the end of 2005. Women who have ship in this legislative package. of Colorado as well as other veterans served in the military are up to four around this country. b 1445 times more likely to become homeless I fully support Senate bill 1235, as when compared with their peers in the Additionally, I would like to thank amended, and urge my colleagues to do general population. These statistics the chairman and ranking member of the same. But before I reserve the bal- demonstrate the importance of passing the Disability Assistance and Memorial ance of my time, I would like to bring S. 1235. Affairs Subcommittee, JEFF MILLER attention to a matter of deep concern. At the forum last week, we heard and SHELLEY BERKLEY, for their dili- We learned today of the theft of 26.5 from a woman veteran, formerly home- gence and hard work on this bill. million veterans’ records from the less. Her story is one of a courageous Our Nation’s servicemembers and home of a career VA employee. I am person who fought for years to over- veterans have earned and their families very concerned about this theft be- come the problems that kept her home- deserve all of the benefits and opportu- cause the records include the name, So- less. At the Mary E. Walker House on nities provided under Senate bill 1235. cial Security number and date of birth the grounds of the VA Coatesville Med- In fact, they deserve much more. I am of every veteran in this country. ical Center in Pennsylvania, she finally pleased, however, that this legislative I would like to encourage veterans to was able to get the assistance she need- package takes a strong step in the visit www.firstgov.gov or call 1–800– ed to reestablish her life, regain her right direction, and I am sure the vet- FED–INFO, 333–4636. children and begin again. While testi- erans and military families in my Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of fying, tears came to her eyes. She said home State of Colorado will appreciate my time. they were tears of joy at what the VA Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, their efforts. program had helped her accomplish. I have no further requests for time, and Mr. Speaker, Senate bill 1235, as We heard also about the success of I reserve the balance of my time. amended, will enable severely disabled the Stand Downs, which began in my veterans to make necessary adapta- Mr. SALAZAR. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Cali- home town of San Diego in 1988 and tions to homes in which they are tem- provide a one-stop 3-day event to pro- porarily residing, and it will give to- fornia (Mr. FILNER). Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I thank vide all the services needed by home- tally disabled veteran servicemembers the gentleman for yielding me time, less vets; that is, counseling, clothing, who are leaving military service an ad- and I thank Mr. MILLER of Florida. food, medical and dental, assistance ditional year of Servicemembers’ I rise in strong support of this Vet- with job applications. Group Life Insurance coverage and erans’ Housing Opportunity and Bene- We know how to help our vets. We limit unjustified health premium in- fits Improvement Act that is before us. have to bring together all these serv- creases on activated National Guard This is bipartisan legislation and in- ices in one place. And rather than have members and Reservists. It will extend cludes several provisions introduced by 3-day Stand Downs around the country, the Homeless Veterans Reintegration both Democrats and Republicans. It we ought to have these services avail- Program which provides employment demonstrates what can be accom- able to our veterans everyday. In addi- opportunities for homeless veterans plished when we work together to de- tion, the Homeless Court Program, and improve the Department of Labor’s liver the best to our Nation’s veterans, which began a few years ago, brings the Veterans Employment and Training and again, I thank Chairman MILLER court to homeless shelters to assist Service. and all the Members on his side for homeless defendants in resolving out- In addition, the bill includes lan- bringing to us this bipartisan legisla- standing cases that prevent them from guage from H.R. 1773, the Native Amer- tion. getting jobs and moving forward. ican Veterans Home Loan Act, a meas- One of the most important parts of I would also like to call attention to ure introduced by Representative the bill is the reauthorization of appro- another important successful program STEPHANIE HERSETH of South Dakota. priations for the Labor Department’s not in this bill before us today, the VA This bill will make permanent the Na- Homeless Veterans Reintegration Pro- Homeless Grant and Per Diem program tive American Housing Loan Program gram (HVRP), through fiscal year 2009 which directs funding to providers of so that veterans residing on tribal land with a maximum level of $50 million housing and traditional services for can obtain an appropriate home loan. per year. This program has proven to homeless vets. I believe this program It will also provide housing opportu- be very successful in providing job should be given an authorized annual nities for veterans who are residing on training and other services that help spending level of $130 million for the tribal land with Native American our Nation’s veterans get back into next 5 years. This would mean that the spouses. productive lives. funding level would increase each year By all accounts, the pilot program Mr. Speaker, together with the rank- to reach by increments the $130 million has been a great success and, in fact, ing member, Mr. EVANS, I convened a level. has a negative subsidy; that is, it actu- homeless veterans forum just last Our colleagues on the Appropriations ally pays for itself. That is something Thursday, May 18. We heard some very Committee have authorized this pro- that is rarely done here at the Federal tough statistics, hard-to-hear statistics gram through September of 2007. I sug- level. Making this program permanent about our Nation’s veterans. Each gest our committee take steps to con- is the right thing to do for Native night as many as 200,000 veterans are tinue the authorization of this program American veterans and their families. sleeping in a doorway, under a bridge, through 2012. Mr. Speaker, we also know that vet- in an alley, in a box, in a barn or a car Mr. Speaker, we have heard of other erans who are former prisoners of war or homeless shelter. In fact, one out of important components of this bill, im- have been found to have dispropor- every three homeless males is a vet- provements in employment, life and tionate rates of heart disease and eran, most of those from Vietnam. A health insurance, adapted housing, and stroke. This bill will assure that they hard-to-believe fact is that the number housing loans to Native American vet- will be compensated for these condi- of homeless Vietnam-era veterans is erans. I would like to thank Chairman tions by codifying a current regulation. greater, Mr. Speaker, than the number BUYER, Ranking Member EVANS, and Finally, this bill will improve the De- of servicemembers who died during the chairman and ranking members of partment of Veterans Affairs’ outreach that war. This is almost unbelievable, the subcommittees and their staff who to veterans and their families in an or- and Congress must renew efforts to diligently worked to make this bill a ganized fashion. fight this plague. reality. I urge the passage of this bill. Mr. Speaker, the servicemembers, Women veterans, unfortunately, are Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, veterans and military families of this also joining the ranks of the homeless. I reserve the balance of my time.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2981 Mr. SALAZAR. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 Ranking Member EVANS, Chairman Members of the Reserve and National minutes to the gentleman from Amer- BOOZMAN, Ranking Member BERKLEY Guard today play roles of unprecedented im- ican Samoa, ENI FALEOMAVAEGA. and Ranking Member HERSETH for portance in our national security and must be (Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA asked and their leadership on crafting this bill. I accorded commensurate protections. was given permission to revise and ex- also want to recognize Chairman CRAIG In provisions originally introduced by H.R. tend his remarks.) and Ranking Member AKAKA of the 2046, which I sponsored, title three of the bill Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee increases job security among veterans by im- I rise today in support of Senate bill and the staff on both sides of the aisle proving the Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act, 1235, the Veterans Housing Opportunity for their hard work. SCRA, and the Uniformed Services Employ- and Benefits Improvement Act of 2006, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ment and Reemployment Rights Act, and I thank my colleagues for includ- support Senate bill 1235, as amended. USERRA. Servicemembers who are activated ing my provision which makes it pos- Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I offer this state- and drop their commercial health insurance sible for Samoan or Hawaiian or Native ment in support of S. 1235, as amended, the are now entitled to reinstatement of that policy American veterans to qualify for VA Veterans’ Housing Opportunity and Benefits upon their return from active duty. This bill home loans. Improvement Act of 2006. prohibits premium increases after reinstate- In 1992, as a result of the leadership Working together with the Senate Com- ment other than such increases charged by of the chairman and ranking members mittee on Veterans’ Affairs, we have reached that insurer for other policy holders similarly of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee of a compromise that will provide significant im- covered. both Houses, we were able to establish provements in veterans’ benefits, for those Some reservists choose to enroll in a pilot program in 1992 which became who have served this country and for those TRICARE before they are activated, for exam- Public Law 102–547, making it possible who will follow in their footsteps. ple in anticipation of activation; and S. 1235 for Native Americans, Native Hawai- Under title one, this bill will increase the as amended preserves their reinstatement ians and American Samoans to qualify flexibility enjoyed by the Adapted Housing rights under the provision detailed in the pre- for VA home loans. Grant Program and the Native American ceding paragraph, even if they ultimately do One of the problems that was encoun- Home Loan Program. I commend Mr. not serve on active duty. tered by the thousands of Native Amer- BOOZMAN and Ms. HERSETH for their leader- Section 301 of the bill would, until Sep- icans, Native Hawaiians and American ship in originally introducing these provisions, tember 30, 2011, double to 2 years the provi- Samoans was the fact that they were in H.R. 3665 and H.R. 1773, respectively. sion of Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance not able to get any commercial loans As they return home to convalesce from coverage free of charge when a member is because they lived in reservations for medical care, many injured or wounded rated totally disabled at separation. From Oc- Native Americans; they lived in res- servicemembers spend time in a family mem- tober 2001 forward, the limit will be 18 months ervations for Native Hawaiians. They ber’s home before returning to their own of free SGLI coverage. lived in homestead lands. For my peo- home. This legislation authorizes the Depart- Former prisoners of war experience great ple, they lived in communally owned ment of Veterans Affairs to equip a family hardships that often manifest themselves in lands. What this legislation does is it member’s home with necessary adaptive ailments years after interment. Section 401 of simply allows these people to partici- equipment. Further, it provides a partial adapt- the bill would codify the VA’s June 2005 regu- pate in this important program. I espe- ive housing allowance grant of between lation that added heart disease and ensuing cially want to thank Chairman STEVE $2,000 and $14,000 to accomplish that adap- complications, as well as stroke, to those dis- BUYER and Ranking Member LANE tation. eases presumptively service-connected for EVANS of the Committee on Veterans’ This bill also helps Native American vet- former prisoners of war who were captive for Affairs and also Chairman JOHN erans and their families by making it easier for at least 30 days. BOOZMAN and Ranking Member STEPH- them to own their own home. We do that by Outreach to veterans is a perennial criticism ANIE HERSETH of the Subcommittee on making permanent a housing loan pilot pro- Economic Opportunity, and Mary Ellen leveled at VA by the Congress. Veterans can- gram for Native American veterans and extend McCarthy, Democratic Staff Director not access benefits they don’t know about. eligibility for Native American loans to non-na- for Disability Assistance and Memorial This bill will increase accountability by causing Affairs, for their support and tireless tive American veterans who are spouses of a outreach activities to be collected into a dis- efforts in making this possible. Native American and who have a meaningful crete chapter of title 38, facilitating manage- I also want to thank the VA for as- interest in the property under tribal law. We ment and oversight of outreach and require sisting the Veterans’ Affairs Com- also increase the maximum loan amount avail- VA to prepare a biennial outreach plan and re- mittee and my office in drafting the able on tribal lands from $80,000 to the max- port to Congress on its performance of that appropriate language to make this a imum limit used for Freddie Mac loans, now plan every two years. go. over $417,00. Mr. Speaker, I commend and thank Ranking Mr. Speaker, as we approach Memo- Finally, under title one, we authorize the Member LANE EVANS, Chairman BOOZMAN, rial Day to remember and honor our Secretary of Veterans Affairs to prescribe an- Chairman MILLER, Ranking Member BERKLEY, military men and women who have nual rate adjustment caps for VA’s hybrid ad- and Ranking Member HERSETH for their work died in serving our Nation during a justable rate mortgage loans, thus bringing bringing in this legislation to the Congress an time of war, I believe Senate bill 1235 is these ARMs into line with the mortgage indus- ultimately to the cause of service to our vet- a fitting tribute to the veterans who try and enhancing their value on the sec- erans. I also recognize my counterpart, Sen- are still with us. And I am especially ondary market. ator LARRY CRAIG, chairman of the Senate pleased that this legislation provides Mr. Speaker, title two of the bill would mi- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and Ranking my district’s veterans with the housing grate some of the sunsetted President’s Na- Member AKAKA, for their leadership on this im- opportunities and other benefits that tional Hire Veterans Committee duties to the portant legislation. they deserve. For this reason, I again Veterans’ Employment and Training Service of Mr. CASE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in full support thank my colleagues and I sincerely the Assistant Secretary of Labor. Further, to of S. 1235, the Veterans’ Benefits Act, which ask my colleagues to approve this leg- improve employer outreach, the bill modifies addresses a multitude of important issues fac- islation. membership and duties to the Department of ing our nation’s veterans: life and health insur- Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, Labor’s newly named Advisory Committee on ance, housing for our disabled and Native I reserve the balance of my time. Veterans Employment, Training and Outreach. American veterans, adjustable rate mortgages, Mr. SALAZAR. Mr. Speaker, I would Title two also reauthorizes the Homeless POW diseases, Tricare, homeless veterans, like today to let folks know that this Veterans Reintegration Program for fiscal and veterans outreach. is a great step in the right direction in years 2007 through 2009, retaining the max- Section 104 of S. 1235 provides permanent making sure that we keep our promise imum authorization of $50 million per year. authority for the Native American Direct Home to our veterans. Winning the fight against homelessness Loan Program and extends eligibility for such Mr. Speaker, I have no further re- means finding homeless veterans good jobs, loans to non-Native American spouses of Na- quests for time, and I yield back the and that is what this program, managed by the tive Americans living on Native American trust balance of my time. Department of Labor, is intended to do. It is lands. H.R. 3665, which I cosponsored and Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, therefore a critical component of our program which passed the House last November, also I want to thank Chairman BUYER, to end chronic homelessness among veterans. contained this important provision.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2982 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 The Native American Direct Home Loan being our Nation’s veterans and their families. through the end of the subsection and insert- Program has been a highly successful vet- This legislation will increase the availabilty and ing the following: ‘‘Secretary for expenditure erans effort, particularly in my Hawaii where it amount of coverage for life insurance, assist in on activities associated with commemo- applies to veterans living on lands held in trust rating the bicentennial of the Lewis and stabilizing low mortgage rates, require edu- Clark Expedition, as follows: under this Congress’ Hawaiian Homes Com- cational outreach by the VA to better inform ‘‘(1) NATIONAL COUNCIL OF THE LEWIS AND mission Act of 1920. our veterans of services available to them. CLARK BICENTENNIAL.—1⁄2 to the National The majority of these Hawaiian home lands As our brave service men and women con- Council of the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial. are in my 2nd Congressional District, on the tinue to serve in harm’s way, it is important ‘‘(2) MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY.—1⁄2 to islands of Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Maui, Hawaii, that we always honor their sacrifices and sup- the Missouri Historical Society.’’; and Lanai. port their families. They return home as vet- (2) by redesignating subsection (b) as sub- Since the inception of this program, which erans and join the ranks of many who have section (c); and was spearheaded by Hawaii Senator Spark selflessly served our Nation. These brave men (3) by inserting after subsection (a) the fol- Matsunaga, and continued by Senator DANIEL lowing new subsection: and women have given so much so that the ‘‘(b) TRANSFER OF UNEXPENDED FUNDS.— AKAKA, Native Hawaiian veterans have suc- American people and our values would remain Any proceeds referred to in subsection (a) cessfully utilized this direct home loan pro- safe. that were dispersed by the Secretary and re- gram for their acute housing needs, and, I am As they faithfully upheld their duty to defend main unexpended by the National Council of proud to say, with nominal delinquency. Over our flag and all that it stands for—now we the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial or the Mis- $20 million has been approved for over 200 have a duty to stand strong for them. souri Historical Society as of June 30, 2007, loans in Hawaii, with 106 loans, totaling $7.5 I urge passage of this legislation. shall be transferred to the Lewis and Clark million, pending. Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, Trail Heritage Foundation for the purpose of This is an incredible help not only with the I yield back the balance of my time. establishing a trust for the stewardship of needs of many veterans who would likely oth- the Lewis and Clark National Historic The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Trail.’’. erwise be precluded from quality housing, but question is on the motion offered by The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- with Hawaii’s overall housing crisis. the gentleman from Florida (Mr. MIL- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Due to its success over the last 13 years, LER) that the House suspend the rules Iowa (Mr. LEACH) and the gentlewoman the Native American Direct Home Loan Pro- and pass the Senate bill, S. 1235, as from New York (Mrs. MALONEY) each gram, which initially started out as a pilot pro- amended. gram, was twice extended by Congress, but is The question was taken. will control 20 minutes. currently set to expire on December 31, 2005. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the The Chair recognizes the gentleman It is vital to understand why this program is opinion of the Chair, two-thirds of from Iowa. so important to our Native American veterans those present have voted in the affirm- GENERAL LEAVE and why we should make the program perma- ative. Mr. LEACH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- nent, as S. 1235 purposes. Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, imous consent that all Members may Of course, the most basic reason is the suc- on that I demand the yeas and nays. have 5 legislative days within which to cess of the overall program in honoring our The yeas and nays were ordered. revise and extend their remarks and in- commitment to our nation’s veterans. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- sert extraneous material on this legis- Beyond that, Congress found some years ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the lation. ago that, during the entire history to that date Chair’s prior announcement, further The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there of the program, not a single Native American proceedings on this question will be objection to the request of the gen- veteran living on Indian trust lands or Hawai- postponed. tleman from Iowa? ian home lands had received a VA home loan f There was no objection. under the VA’s traditional home loan program. Mr. LEACH. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- The reason for that was that the unique GENERAL LEAVE self such time as I may consume. trust status of native lands did not lend itself Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. to conventional lending practices because I ask unanimous consent that all Mem- 5401, the Lewis and Clark Commemora- banks and other financial institutions did not bers may have 5 legislative days within tive Coin Correction Act introduced by recognize those lands as valid collateral. which to revise and extend their re- the gentlewoman from Missouri (Mrs. As part of our obligation to all of our Na- marks and include extraneous material EMERSON). This is a technical correc- tion’s veterans is to ensure that they are all on Senate bill 1235, as amended. tion which addresses language in legis- able to tap fully into VA programs, the Native The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there lation that authorized the minting and American Direct Home Loan Program ad- objection to the request of the gen- sale of a commemorative coin recog- dressed this unique and discrete challenge tleman from Florida? nizing the bicentennial of the great facing many Native American veterans and af- There was no objection. Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery ex- forded them the same opportunity of home- pedition. ownership availed their comrades-in-arms. f This bill recognizes and improves upon the LEWIS AND CLARK COMMEMORA- b 1500 clear success of this effort, and I ask my col- TIVE COIN CORRECTION ACT The original legislation was spon- leagues to vote in favor of S. 1235. Mr. LEACH. Mr. Speaker, I move to Mahalo. sored by a former colleague, the gen- suspend the rules and pass the bill Mr. CANTOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tleman from Nebraska (Mr. Bereuter), (H.R. 5401) to amend section 308 of the support of the Veterans Benefits Improvement and the coin was issued in the year Lewis and Clark Expedition Bicenten- Act. 2004. For more then 10 years, Congress has nial Commemorative Coin Act to make That bill specified that the surcharge taken unprecedented steps to support our vet- certain clarifying and technical income from the sale of the coins be di- erans and the families. The American veteran amendments. vided between the National Lewis and is the model of integrity. They have given this The Clerk read as follows: Clark Bicentennial Council and the Na- Nation so much and ask for so little in return. H.R. 5401 tional Park Service to be used for They symbolize all that is great about Amer- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- events commemorating the bicenten- ica. resentatives of the United States of America in nial. Unfortunately, the Park Service Since 1995, Congress has increased the Congress assembled, has no capacity to raise the private Department of Veterans Affairs’ healthcare SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. funding necessary to satisfy the match- budget by 80 percent, drastically increased This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Lewis and ing funds requirement of statutes guid- coverage and benefits, and taken great steps Clark Commemorative Coin Correction Act’’. ing the issuance of commemorative to better the lives of families left behind. This SEC. 2. LEWIS AND CLARK COMMEMORATIVE coins. COIN AMENDMENTS. This legislation, which has broad bi- legislation continues to help our veterans, and Section 308 of the Lewis and Clark Expedi- it is my privilege to cast a vote in favor of our tion Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act partisan support, corrects that problem veterans. (31 U.S.C. 5112 note) is amended— and will allow disbursement of the Today, Congress takes another step in our (1) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘Sec- funds in ways that support the Lewis on-going effort to better the lives and well retary as follows:’’ and all that follows and Clark exhibit that has made its

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2983 way around the country and opened 2 York and friend and gentleman from A motion to reconsider was laid on weeks ago at the Smithsonian’s Mu- Iowa for their support on this bill. the table. seum of Natural History. This is an ex- Mr. Speaker, several years ago, I f traordinarily educational exhibit with hosted a small breakfast for the well- many items from personal collections known historian Stephen Ambrose, and PROVIDING FOR PARTICIPATION that have not been together since the I asked him what it was that made OF JUDICIAL BRANCH EMPLOY- expedition itself. America so great. Now, I fully expected EES IN LEAVE TRANSFER PRO- Mr. Speaker, this is a technical cor- him to mention the westward move- GRAM FOR DISASTERS AND rection with no cost to the govern- ment of American pioneer families in EMERGENCIES ment. The cause is deserving. Amer- the 1800s. Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I move to ican history has many elements, but Instead, Mr. Ambrose replied, ‘‘Look suspend the rules and pass the Senate the Lewis and Clark expedition is at Russia. They have abundant natural bill (S. 1736) to provide for the partici- unique to our development as a Nation. resources and a hearty workforce. But pation of employees in the judicial The courageous trek deserves celebra- they never had a George Washington, a branch in the Federal leave transfer tion because it helps define the innate John Adams and a Thomas Jefferson. program for disasters and emergencies. sense of adventure which is such an in- It was Thomas Jefferson who had the The Clerk read as follows: tegral part of the American spirit. wisdom and the foresight to appoint S. 1736 Mr. Speaker, I ask for its immediate Merriweather Lewis and William Clark Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- passage and would simply note the to explore the Louisiana Territory.’’ resentatives of the United States of America in wonderful support on both sides of the I am pleased that we are considering Congress assembled, aisle as symbolized by the gentle- this legislation that will continue to SECTION 1. LEAVE TRANSFER PROGRAM IN DIS- woman from New York (Mrs. ASTERS AND EMERGENCIES. honor the historic achievements of Section 6391 of title 5, United States Code, MALONEY), a good friend. Lewis and Clark, and I want to thank Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of is amended— my good friend, JO ANN EMERSON, for (1) by redesignating subsection (f) as sub- my time. introducing the bill; and I appreciate section (g); and Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield the support of Financial Services Com- (2) by inserting after subsection (e) the fol- myself such time as I may consume. mittee Chairman MIKE OXLEY and lowing: Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. ‘‘(f) After consultation with the Adminis- Ranking Member BARNEY FRANK. 5401, the Lewis and Clark Commemora- trative Office of the United States Courts, This bill will designate the National tive Coin Correction Act. This tech- the Office of Personnel Management shall Council of the Lewis and Clark Bicen- nical correction to the Lewis and Clark provide for the participation of employees in Expedition Bicentennial Commemora- tennial and the Missouri Historical So- the judicial branch in any emergency leave tive Coin Act redirects a portion of the ciety as beneficiaries of proceeds from transfer program under this section.’’. proceeds of sales of the Lewis and the sale of the Lewis and Clark com- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Clark silver dollars from the National memorative coin. These nonprofit or- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Park Service to the Missouri Historical ganizations have raised nearly $5 mil- Connecticut (Mr. SHAYS) and the gen- Society. lion to conduct Lewis and Clark Bicen- tlewoman from New York (Mrs. The Park Service does not want to tennial promotional activities. They MALONEY) each will control 20 minutes. and cannot receive the one-third share will use funds from the sale of the coin The Chair recognizes the gentleman of the surcharge funds originally allo- to further historic investments in the from Connecticut. cated to it since it has no mechanism Lewis and Clark Heritage Trail and to GENERAL LEAVE to raise the required matching funds. promote additional Lewis and Clark bi- Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- The Missouri Historical Society, in centennial celebrations. imous consent that all Members may contrast, has to date raised matching This legislation has been endorsed by have 5 legislative days within which to funds equal to over half of the sur- the National Council of the Lewis and revise and extend their remarks and in- charge funds. The other share has been Clark Bicentennial and the Lewis and clude extraneous material on the bill raised by the National Council of the Clark Trail Heritage Foundation, under consideration. Lewis and Clark Bicentennial. which includes representation from all The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Under the bill proposed today, the the States along the Missouri River objection to the request of the gen- National Council and the Missouri His- basin. tleman from Connecticut? torical Society would each receive half It is with a note of interest, Mr. There was no objection. of the surcharge funds. Any funds not Speaker, that the Missouri River flows Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- expended by these two organizations right by my hometown of Lexington, self such time as I may consume. would go to the Lewis and Clark Herit- Missouri, and as Lewis and Clark went Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support age Foundation for the establishment up that river in that historic year 1804, of S. 1736, legislation to allow judicial of a trust for the stewardship of the they went by the bluffs which now con- branch employees to participate in the Lewis and Clark Historical Trail. tain my hometown of Lexington, Mis- Federal leave transfer program in the I am happy to say the coin has been souri. So it is special to those of us event of disasters and emergencies. very successful and raised almost $5 that do live along the river that we In 1997, Congress authorized the cre- million to date. I understand that this continue to honor the work, the cour- ation of an emergency leave transfer resolution is supported by Congres- age of Lewis and Clark on their very, program that allowed employees of the sional Representatives from many of very courageous journey. executive branch, as well as the Gov- the States along the trail and by the Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I have ernment Accountability Office, to board of the national council, which no further speakers, and I yield back transfer portions of their annual leave has members from all of the Lewis and the balance of my time. to other executive branch employees Clark States. Mr. LEACH. Mr. Speaker, I thank who are adversely affected by a natural It is a sensible way to assure that very much the gentlewoman from New disaster or emergencies. The 1997 legis- funds raised by this coin are used for York and, of course, the gentleman lation was built upon special proce- activities that preserve and honor the from Missouri; and I yield back the bal- dures that were developed to assist achievements of the Lewis and Clark ance of my time. Federal employees in the wake of the expedition. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Fed- Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he question is on the motion offered by eral Building in Oklahoma City, Okla- may consume to the gentleman from the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. LEACH) homa, on April 19, 1995. the great State of Missouri (Mr. SKEL- that the House suspend the rules and In the aftermath of Hurricane TON), the lead Democratic cosponsor of pass the bill, H.R. 5401. Katrina, the Administrative Office of this bill and the ranking member of the The question was taken; and (two- the United States Courts petitioned Armed Services Committee. thirds having voted in favor thereof) Congress to consider extending the ex- Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the rules were suspended and the bill isting emergency leave transfer pro- my friend and gentlewoman from New was passed. gram to cover employees of the judicial

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2984 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 branch. S. 1736, introduced last Sep- SCOTT REED FEDERAL BUILDING tucky in 1976. He was considered a tember by Homeland Security and Gov- AND UNITED STATES COURT- strict interpreter of Kentucky’s con- ernmental Affairs Committee Chair HOUSE stitution and a staunch advocate of the SUSAN COLLINS, was passed by the Sen- Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I move separation of the judiciary from the ate last October. While it may be too to suspend the rules and pass the bill other branches of government. In 1979, he was named U.S. district late to benefit the approximately 400 (H.R. 4530) to designate the Federal judge for the Eastern District of Ken- judicial branch employees displaced by building and United States courthouse tucky. He served as a U.S. district Hurricane Katrina, this authority will located at 101 Barr Street in Lex- judge until he retired in 1990. be available to judicial branch employ- ington, Kentucky, as the ‘‘Scott Reed ees should disaster strike again. His opinions from the Supreme Court Federal Building and United States of Kentucky have received national ac- Mr. Speaker, this legislation dem- Courthouse’’. onstrates to our hardworking and dedi- claim for their scholarly content, and The Clerk read as follows: he has been recognized by many in a cated Federal workforce that the Con- H.R. 4530 gress of the United States is com- comparable light to Brandeis, Holmes, Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- and Marshall. mitted to their safety and security. I resentatives of the United States of America in urge all of my colleagues to support Congress assembled, b 1515 this important legislation. SECTION 1. DESIGNATION. I support this measure and urge my Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of The Federal building and United States colleagues to do the same. my time. courthouse located at 101 Barr Street in Lex- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield ington, Kentucky, shall be known and des- my time. myself such time as I may consume. ignated as the ‘‘Scott Reed Federal Building Mr. CHANDLER. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this and United States Courthouse’’. myself such time as I may consume. legislation. On September 2, 2005, the SEC. 2. REFERENCES. I first want to thank the gentleman President authorized the Office of Per- Any reference in a law, map, regulation, from Pennsylvania (Mr. SHUSTER) for document, paper, or other record of the sonal Management to establish an his working with me on this bill. He United States to the Federal building and has been very helpful throughout the emergency leave transfer program for United States courthouse referred to in sec- executive branch employees affected by tion 1 shall be deemed to be a reference to process. Hurricane Katrina. The Judicial Con- the ‘‘Scott Reed Federal Building and United Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4530 is a bill to des- ference of the United States subse- States Courthouse’’. ignate the Federal building and United States courthouse located at 101 Barr quently requested legislative authority The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Street in Lexington, Kentucky, as the to do the same. ant to the rule, the gentleman from Scott Reed Federal Building and The judicial circuits and districts af- Pennsylvania (Mr. SHUSTER) and the United States Courthouse. I can think fected by Hurricane Katrina have thus gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. CHAN- of no other individual more deserving, far only been able to grant weather DLER) each will control 20 minutes. no other public servant more worthy emergency-related administrative The Chair recognizes the gentleman and no other action more appropriate leave to their employees. Administra- from Pennsylvania. tive leave for judicial employees will than naming the Federal courthouse in GENERAL LEAVE Lexington after the Honorable Scott be curtailed as the courts slowly re- Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I ask sume operations. Reed. unanimous consent that all Members A prominent central Kentucky attor- S. 1736 will ensure an emergency may have 5 legislative days in which to ney, first Chief Justice of the Ken- leave transfer program is in place to revise and extend their remarks and in- tucky Supreme Court and Federal assist approved judicial branch leave clude extraneous material on H.R. 4530. judge, Scott Reed exemplifies the defi- recipients as their need for donated The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there nition of honor and integrity. Born in leave increases when affected courts objection to the request of the gen- Lexington, Kentucky, on July 3, 1921, resume operations and many of the em- tleman from Pennsylvania? Scott Reed graduated with distinction ployees who evacuated in response to There was no objection. from the University of Kentucky. Hurricane Katrina remain unable to re- Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield While in college, he was editor-in-chief turn to work. myself such time as I may consume. of the Kentucky Law Journal and I join Senators COLLINS and H.R. 4530 was introduced by the gen- awarded the Order of the Coif, the LIEBERMAN in supporting this bill. tleman from Kentucky (Mr. CHAN- highest academic award that can be Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance DLER). The bill designates the Federal given to a law graduate. He was also a of my time. building and United States courthouse member of the Phi Delta Phi Frater- Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- located at 101 Barr Street in Lex- nity. self such time as I may consume. ington, Kentucky, as the Scott Reed He achieved many honors at the Uni- I just want to say that I should not Federal Building and United States versity of Kentucky culminating, upon have left out Senator LIEBERMAN. Sen- Courthouse. graduation, as the recipient of the ator LIEBERMAN and Senator COLLINS Judge Scott Reed was born in Lex- Algernon Sydney Sullivan Medallion, both worked very closely on a bipar- ington, Kentucky, on July 3, 1921. He an extremely prestigious award given tisan basis to move forward important graduated from Henry Clay High to individuals who ‘‘exhibit ideals of legislation. I think this is important School and the University of Kentucky heart, mind and conduct as evince a legislation, and I join with my col- College of Law, where he received spirit of love for and helpfulness to league, the gentlewoman from New many honors. other men and women.’’ York (Mrs. MALONEY), in urging pas- During his years as a private attor- Prior to his service on the bench, sage of this legislation. ney, he distinguished himself as a trial Scott Reed was County Attorney. He Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance lawyer of great integrity. His career as was retained as counsel for the Fayette of my time. a jurist began in 1964 when he became County School Board and distinguished The SPEAKER pro tempore. The a Fayette Circuit Court judge. Five himself as a trial lawyer with great in- question is on the motion offered by years later, he was elected to the Ken- tegrity. He served from 1948 through the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. tucky Court of Appeals, where he sat 1956 as an acting associate professor at SHAYS) that the House suspend the for over 7 years. the University of Kentucky College of rules and pass the Senate bill, S. 1736. During the mid-1970s, Kentucky’s ju- Law, and from 1964 until 1969, he was The question was taken; and (two- dicial system experienced a significant judge of the First Division of the Fay- thirds having voted in favor thereof) reorganization with the creation of the ette County Circuit Court, which is the the rules were suspended and the Sen- new Kentucky Supreme Court. Judge highest trial court in the Common- ate bill was passed. Reed played an instrumental role in wealth of Kentucky. He then was elect- A motion to reconsider was laid on the reorganization and was elected to ed to the Kentucky Court of Appeals, the table. serve as the first chief justice of Ken- at that time Kentucky’s highest court.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2985 As Chief Judge of the Kentucky tinguished himself as a trial lawyer of great in- (2) by inserting after subsection (f) the fol- Court of Appeals, Judge Reed oversaw tegrity. During this time, he also taught at the lowing: the most comprehensive judicial re- University of Kentucky College of Law. ‘‘(g) STANDARDS FOR STATE AND LOCAL EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS OPERATIONAL form in our State’s history. It included From 1964 to 1969, Judge Reed was judge PLANS.—In approving standards for State passage of a constitutional amendment of the First Division of the Fayette Circuit and local emergency preparedness oper- that unified and modernized Ken- Court. From 1969 until 1976, he served on the ational plans pursuant to subsection (b)(3), tucky’s court system. As part of the Court of Appeals, 5th Appellate District. In the Director shall ensure that such plans modernization, the Court of Appeals 1976, Judge Reed became the Chief Justice take into account the needs of individuals became the Kentucky Supreme Court, of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, a position with household pets and service animals fol- and Scott Reed was elected by his fel- which holds equal rank with the Governor. His lowing a major disaster or emergency.’’ low justices to be the first Chief Jus- opinions from the Supreme Court of Kentucky The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tice of Kentucky. have received national attention for their ant to the rule, the gentleman from As Chief Justice, he then oversaw the scholarly content and careful judicial rea- Pennsylvania (Mr. SHUSTER) and the implementation of the reform that has soning. gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. CHAN- led Kentucky into having one of the In August 1979, Judge Reed was nominated DLER) each will control 20 minutes. most efficient and modern court sys- by President Carter to the federal bench. He The Chair recognizes the gentleman tems in the country. The Chief Justice was confirmed later that year and served until from Pennsylvania. of the Commonwealth holds equal rank his death in 1994. During his confirmation GENERAL LEAVE with the Governor, the latter being the hearing for the federal bench, Judge Reed Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I ask head of the executive branch and the was characterized as possessing a great unanimous consent that all Members Chief Justice serving as head of the ju- sense of fairness and objectivity, practical may have 5 legislative days in which to diciary. legal experience, and great respect for the law revise and extend their remarks and in- He was elected as a fellow in the Na- and its responsibility to our Nation’s citizens. clude extraneous material on H.R. 3858. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tional College of the Judiciary in 1965 Both Senator Huddleston and Senator Ford objection to the request of the gen- and Judge Reed was a voting member participated in Judge Reed’s confirmation of the American Law Institute, a body tleman from Pennsylvania? hearing in October 1979. There was no objection. of scholarly people who shape the laws Judge Reed enjoyed a rich and rewarding Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield of our Nation. The opinions written by career. His contributions to the American judi- myself such time as I may consume. Scott Reed during his time on the Su- cial system are exceptional. It is fitting that the H.R. 3858, originally sponsored by preme Court of Kentucky have received Lexington courthouse bears his name to honor Representative LANTOS of California national acclaim for their scholarly his distinguished career and enduring legacy. and Representative SHAYS of Con- content. He has been viewed as one of I support H.R. 4530 and urge its passage. necticut amends the Robert T. Stafford Kentucky’s most accomplished and Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I have Disaster Relief and Emergency Assist- erudite jurists. no further requests for time, and I ance Act to require the Director of Judge Reed was a frequent lecturer yield back the balance of my time. FEMA to ensure that State and local to the National College of Trial Judges The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. emergency preparedness operational and has achieved the highest honors CAMPBELL of California). The question plans take into account the needs of in- that can be bestowed on a member of is on the motion offered by the gen- dividuals with household pets and serv- his profession. Scott Reed was named tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. SHU- ice animals following a major disaster to the University of Kentucky College STER) that the House suspend the rules or emergency. of Law Hall of Distinguished Alumni and pass the bill, H.R. 4530. During the evacuation of the gulf on April 11, 1980. He crowned his career The question was taken; and (two- coast region last fall, we learned of the with 10 years on the Federal bench. thirds having voted in favor thereof) difficulty of evacuating household pets In 1989, he took senior status while the rules were suspended and the bill and service animals. Concerns over battling the onset of Alzheimer’s, was passed. whether pets would be permitted to ac- which eventually took his life on Feb- A motion to reconsider was laid on company their owners made some vic- ruary 17, 1994. Judge Scott Reed’s fine the table. tims reluctant or unwilling to evac- legacy to his hometown of Lexington f uate, choosing to wait out the disaster. and to his home State of Kentucky will PETS EVACUATION AND TRANS- The PETS Act would help ensure that always be a proud part of our heritage. household pets and service animals are Mr. Speaker, as the sponsor of H.R. PORTATION STANDARDS ACT OF 2005 considered by State and local emer- 4530, I strongly urge its passage. gency preparedness plans. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I move I would like to recognize my col- of my time. to suspend the rules and pass the bill league, Mr. LANTOS, who introduced Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I appre- (H.R. 3858) to amend the Robert T. this bill soon after Hurricane Katrina ciate the gentleman working on this, Stafford Disaster Relief and Emer- devastated the gulf coast. Mr. LANTOS, and just to let the gentleman know, I gency Assistance Act to ensure that a founding member of the Congres- have a Henry Clay Township in Penn- State and local emergency prepared- sional Friends of Animals Caucus, has sylvania, which happens to be in Fay- ness operational plans address the been an outspoken champion for ani- ette County, Pennsylvania, so Pennsyl- needs of individuals with household mals. vania and Kentucky have more in com- pets and service animals following a I would also like to commend Mr. mon than one would think. major disaster or emergency. SHAYS for his dedication in moving this Mr. OBERSTAR. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4530 is The Clerk read as follows: legislation and strong desire to resolve a bill to designate the Federal building located H.R. 3858 flaws in our Nation’s emergency man- at 101 Barr Street in Lexington, Kentucky, as Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- agement system made apparent by the Scott Reed Federal Building and United resentatives of the United States of America in Hurricane Katrina. I was lucky to have States Courthouse. The bill was introduced by Congress assembled, the opportunity to work with Mr. the Gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. CHANDLER) SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. SHAYS on the Katrina investigation and his Kentucky colleague (Mr. ROGERS). This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Pets Evacu- committee. Scott Reed was born in Lexington, Ken- ation and Transportation Standards Act of Both Mr. LANTOS and Mr. SHAYS have tucky, in 1921. He attended local schools and 2005’’. been champions of this issue and have graduated from the University of Kentucky SEC. 2. STANDARDS FOR STATE AND LOCAL worked to ensure that owners don’t College of Law in 1945. While at the Univer- EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS OPER- ATIONAL PLANS. have to make a choice between their sity, Reed received many awards and honors, Section 613 of the Robert T. Stafford Dis- personal safety and their pets’ safety. including the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Medal- aster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of lion for Excellence. (42 U.S.C. 5196b) is amended— my time. The first years of Judge Reed’s career were (1) by redesignating subsection (g) as sub- Mr. CHANDLER. Mr. Speaker, I yield spent in private practice during which he dis- section (h); and myself such time as I may consume.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2986 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support the International Relations Committee panions often refused rescuers’ help. If of H.R. 3858, the Pets Evacuation and from Kentucky (Mr. CHANDLER). I want evacuees know that their pets, who ob- Transportation Standards Act of 2005. to thank Mr. SHUSTER for his extraor- viously are considered members of This legislation amends the Robert T. dinarily gracious gesture. I also want their family, are in good hands, they Stafford Disaster Relief and Emer- to express my appreciation to Chair- will be willing to cooperate with au- gency Assistance Act to require the Di- man YOUNG and Ranking Member thorities. rector of FEMA to ensure that State OBERSTAR of the Transportation and According to the Humane Society of and local emergency preparedness Infrastructure Committee and the the United States, Mr. Speaker, there operational plans address the needs of ranking member on that sub- are 65 million dogs and 77 million cats individuals with household pets and committee, ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON. owned as pets by American families. service animals following a major dis- I particularly want to thank my dear Thousands of visually impaired people aster or an emergency. friend and colleague of many years, depend on guide dogs to get around. It must be a top priority of our Na- CHRIS SHAYS, for again joining with me These faithful pet owners and visually tion to save citizens from any disaster, in sponsoring a significant and major impaired citizens must be able to evac- yet we should not underestimate the humane piece of legislation. But my uate if in the path of harm, and they importance of rescuing pets to our abil- most sincere thanks go to my wife, An- must know that all members of their ity to help citizens in a disaster. None nette, who has been my guiding light family will be safe. of us should be faced with the choice of on all humane pieces of legislation I Since the gulf coast hurricanes, this abandoning our beloved pets and criti- have had the privilege of working on. Nation has endured other weather cally needed service animals or risking Mr. Speaker, the work of my col- events. In many cases, local authori- our own personal safety. leagues, along with the Herculean ef- ties made impromptu plans for people As we witnessed during the after- forts of all the animal welfare organi- with pets or service animals. This dem- math of Hurricane Katrina, a signifi- zations, will ensure not only the safety onstrates that authorities are capable cant number of people chose not to of household pets and service animals of making effective plans for people abandon their pets and risked their but of their owners in moments of po- with pets and service animals. But we lives to stay with their animals. Some tential fatal danger. Families will be cannot let the lessons learned from the areas of Florida where hurricanes are a able to prepare and evacuate from a gulf coast hurricanes be forgotten. Our yearly occurrence have long recognized disaster with more confidence and se- PETS Act will ensure that years from saving animals saves people and in- curity knowing that all of their family now States will continue to plan for clude a place for animals in emergency members and their pets will be secure. their pet and service animal popu- plans. And now, in the wake of Hurri- Mr. Speaker, the devastation in Lou- lations. This will ensure a smooth and cane Katrina, a few areas and other isiana, Mississippi and Alabama safe evacuation for all members of the Gulf Coast States, including Harrison brought unbelievable images into every family and their pets and service ani- County, Mississippi, will have its first American home night after night. mals. pet-friendly shelter in place for the 2006 I strongly urge all of my colleagues b 1530 hurricane season. to join me in supporting this poten- However, unfortunately, for most of The loss of life and property was tially life-saving legislation, life-sav- the gulf coast and indeed the rest of staggering. But on top of all of that, ing with respect to the animals we the country, the issue is still unre- the sight of evacuees having to choose love, and life-saving with respect to solved unless legislation like this is ap- between being rescued or remaining members of our families. proved today. All of us saw many hor- with their pets, perhaps even having to Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield rible scenes of abandoned pets wan- leave behind their service animals they such time as he may consume to the dering through the flooded city of New rely on every day, was just heart- gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Orleans. In addition to the humani- breaking. SHAYS). tarian issue of forcing people to choose I was watching television one night, Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I want to between their own safety and leaving Mr. Speaker, and I saw a 7-year-old lit- thank Mr. SHUSTER, Mr. CHANDLER, Mr. their pets behind, there are serious tle boy with his dog. His family lost ev- YOUNG and Mr. OBERSTAR. I wanted to problems, including health and safety erything, and all they had left was defer my opportunity to go before Mr. risks to the disaster area, that are ex- their dog. And since legislation such as LANTOS because it needs to be clear acerbated by the abandoning of pets. ours was not yet on the statute books, this began in the heart and mind of Mr. We know that many of these prob- the dog was taken away from this little LANTOS’ wife, and we are merely in- lems can be mitigated or even elimi- boy. To watch his face was a singularly struments of her goodness. nated through proper emergency plan- revealing and tragic experience. I rise, in support of H.R. 3858, the ning. Fortunately, legislation like this This legislation was born that mo- Pets Evacuation and Transportation helps increase the awareness of law- ment. Many pieces of legislation we Standards Act, which we do refer to as makers and emergency officials to rec- pass in this body are the result of the PETS Act, which Congressman ognize what animal advocates already months and years of study and research LANTOS and I, as co-chairmen of the know, that pets figure strongly in a and preparation. Not this bill. This bill Friends of Animals Caucus, introduced. person’s decision to evacuate to safety. was born the moment the 7-year-old This commonsense bill requires State And we certainly want to encourage little fellow had to give up his dog be- and local preparedness planners to in- our citizens to do just that. cause there was no provision to provide clude plans for evacuation of pet own- Mr. Speaker, this is a good bill. I ap- shelter for his pet. ers, pets and service animals, as has al- plaud Mr. LANTOS and Mr. SHAYS for all The Pet Evacuation and Transpor- ready been described by previous of their efforts on this bill, and I urge tation Standards Act will put an end to speakers. its support. all of this. Until today, accommodating Hurricane Katrina left so many vic- Mr. Speaker, I think that Mr. SHU- families with pets or disabled citizens tims in its wake, including an esti- STER has already mentioned Mr. LAN- with service animals was never consid- mated 600,000 animals that either lost TOS’ interest in the welfare of animals. ered an essential part of any evacu- their lives or were left without shelter. It is heartfelt. I have had the oppor- ation plan. Our PETS Act requires Hurricane Katrina taught us the hard tunity to work with Mr. LANTOS on the State and local emergency prepared- lesson that, as we prepare for future International Relations Committee, ness authorities to include in their emergencies, it is important we incor- and I have the great privilege today of evacuation plans provisions to accom- porate pet owners and their pets in our introducing him and yielding to him modate pets or service animals in case plans. such time as he may consume to speak of a disaster. Many pet owners had to choose be- on this very important piece of legisla- The lack of planning in the past tween their safety and the safety of tion. interfered with disaster operations in their pets, and anyone who owns a pet Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I want to New Orleans where people who were understands the difficult decisions that thank my good friend and colleague on worried about losing their animal com- they had to make.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2987 In order to qualify for Federal Emer- ing their well-known humanitarian in- the federal government to respond to its citi- gency Management Agency funding, a stincts to the welfare of animals. I also zens in need as we did with Hurricane Katrina. jurisdiction is required to submit a want to thank Mr. SHAYS and Mr. SHU- H.R. 5316 ensures that FEMA’s core func- plan detailing their disaster prepared- STER for all of their work on this bill. tions of preparedness, response, recovery, ness plan. The PETS Act would simply Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance and mitigation will once again coexist and require State and local emergency pre- of my time. work to complement each other in an inde- paredness authorities to plan for how Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield pendent FEMA, and not be separated and dis- they would accommodate household myself the balance of my time. mantled as they have been in the Department pets and service animals when pre- I also want to thank Mr. LANTOS and of Homeland Security. senting these plans to FEMA. Animals Mr. SHAYS for their work on this bill. Mr. Speaker, the bill we have before us is do not go before people, but animals The PETS Act would help ensure a much-needed first step in a longer process will have a place in this plan. that household pets and service ani- of reforming our emergency management sys- The human horror and devastation in mals are considered by State and local tem. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama emergency preparedness plans because 3858. was a tragedy we are addressing, but it there are people in this country, myself Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in was also heartbreaking to hear stories included, I have a dog Chloe that has a support of H.R. 3858, the Pets and Evacuation of forcing evacuees to choose between close relationship with my family, and and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act of being rescued or remaining with their I know people throughout this country 2005. This is a sample, focused piece of legis- pets. have pets that are near and dear to lation that will require local and state emer- This bipartisan legislation is nec- their hearts. gency preparedness authorities to include in essary because when asked to choose When you go to a rooftop, as we saw their evacuation plans how they will accommo- between abandoning their pets or their down in New Orleans as Mr. SHAYS and date household pets and/or service animals in personal safety, many pet owners chose Mr. LANTOS pointed out, people are un- case of a disaster. It deserves our support. to risk their lives and would continue willing to get aboard a boat or heli- Hurricanes Katrina and Rita revealed gaping today to risk their lives and remain copter if they have to leave their be- holes in our capacity to effectively manage the with their pets. The plight of the ani- loved pet behind. Once again, this is so aftermath of large-scale disasters. Our failures mals left behind was truly tragic. This States and local emergency prepared- in emergency response and evacuation were is not just an animal protection issue; ness plans take into consideration situ- numerous, and they varied in both size and this is a public safety issue. Roughly ations that might occur if someone has importance. One problem with our response two-thirds of American households own to abandon their pets. I urge my col- was a blind spot in our disaster planning re- pets. We need to ensure the pets and leagues to support this bill. garding the evacuation of pets and service their pet owners are protected. Mr. OBERSTAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise in animals. For too many caring animal owners, I urge my colleagues to support pas- strong support of H.R. 3858, the Pets Evacu- the opportunity to escape danger means sepa- sage of this legislation. I, too, want to ation and Transportation Standards (PETS) ration from a beloved pet. More grievous, the make reference to that young man; I Act of 2005. This bill amends the Stafford Act evacuation of many residents of the Gulf Re- guess he was around 7 years old. I to ensure that state and local emergency pre- gion who are dependent on service animals think of him and think this young man paredness plans account for the needs of indi- was complicated by inflexible regulations that may have lost his home, he may have viduals with household pets and service ani- did not take their special needs into account. lost everything he owned, but he had mals following a major disaster or emergency. H.R. 3858 is commonsense legislation that his pet. As long as he had his pet, he There were many tragedies from Hurricane will ensure planning for future disaster pro- could deal with it. To see this pet being Katrina that will not soon be forgotten. Some vides for the needs of pet owners. This bill is grabbed from him, to me it was the of the most indelible images were the ones of support by the Humane Society of the United height of cruelty that I still have a people being forced to choose between leav- States, the American Society for the Preven- hard time understanding and appre- ing their pets behind or being evacuated to tion of Cruelty to Animals, the Doris Day Ani- ciating. safety. In many cases, these loyal animals mal League and the Best Friends Animal Soci- When my mom and dad moved when had stayed with their owners for days on roof- ety. I was 8 or 9 years old to another place, tops waiting to be rescued, only to be aban- Mr. Speaker, I encourage all of my col- our pet dog, Mack, kept running back doned because the rescuers refused to carry leagues to join in support of H.R. 3858. to the original house, and we lost him. the pets to safety with their owners. In other Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield For 2 years, I didn’t have a pet, but I cases, people chose not to be rescued—put- back the balance of my time. grew up with a pet. Then we moved to ting themselves in further danger—because The SPEAKER pro tempore. The a new home and my parents could af- they simply could not bear to leave their pets question is on the motion offered by ford nothing else. They told me no behind. the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Christmas presents. There would be no A person should not have to leave their see- SHUSTER) that the House suspend the Christmas presents. My Christmas ing-eye dog behind in order to save her own rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3858. present was a new home, a brand new life—as we saw in Hurricane Katrina. Nor The question was taken. room, and I dealt with that. I thought, should a child, who has already been trauma- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the this year, no Christmas presents. tized by the devastation of a disaster, have to opinion of the Chair, two-thirds of They were gone Christmas Eve day, abandon his beloved pet in order to be trans- those present have voted in the affirm- and they came home that night. They ported to safety—as we saw in Hurricane ative. didn’t tell me where they had been, Katrina. As the June 1st start of the next hurri- Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, on that I which was very unusual. I was with my cane season approaches, it’s important that demand the yeas and nays. three older brothers. Then my parents this bill becomes law and that state and local The yeas and nays were ordered. asked me to come down into the ga- officials start to plan for the evacuation of pets The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- rage. As I did, they were walking up and service animals. ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the holding a beautiful collie pup. That There are, of course, other issues in the Chair’s prior announcement, further night I slept on the floor with Lance, wake of Hurricane Katrina that this Congress proceedings on this question will be my collie pup. should address. Last week, the Transportation postponed. I will never forget the joy I had. It and Infrastructure Committee and the Govern- f was the best Christmas I ever had, and ment Reform Committee favorably ordered re- RECESS it was just one little gift, a pet that re- ported H.R. 5316, the Restoring Emergency mained in our household for years. Services to Protect our Nation from Disasters The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- This is an important bill, and I urge (RESPOND) Act to the House. The RE- ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair its passage. SPOND Act not only restores FEMA as an declares the House in recess until ap- Mr. CHANDLER. Mr. Speaker, I yield independent, cabinet-level agency, but it also proximately 6:30 p.m. today. myself the balance of my time. reforms and strengthens our national emer- Accordingly (at 3 o’clock and 42 min- I want to thank Mr. LANTOS and his gency preparedness system so that we never utes p.m.), the House stood in recess wife, Annette, in particular for extend- again have to witness such a dismal failure by until approximately 6:30 p.m.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2988 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 b 1832 Cantor Herger Napolitano Udall (CO) Wasserman Wexler Capito Higgins Neal (MA) Udall (NM) Schultz Whitfield AFTER RECESS Capps Hobson Neugebauer Upton Watson Wilson (NM) Cardin Hoekstra Ney Van Hollen Watt Wilson (SC) The recess having expired, the House Cardoza Holden Northup Vela´ zquez Waxman Wolf was called to order by the Speaker pro Carnahan Holt Norwood Visclosky Weiner Woolsey Carson Honda Nunes Weldon (FL) Wu tempore (Mrs. BIGGERT) at 6 o’clock Walden (OR) Carter Hooley Obey Walsh Weldon (PA) Wynn and 32 minutes p.m. Weller Young (AK) Case Hostettler Olver Wamp Castle Hoyer Ortiz Westmoreland Young (FL) f Chabot Hulshof Osborne NOT VOTING—61 REPORT ON H.R. 5441, DEPART- Chandler Hyde Otter Chocola Inslee Pallone Andrews Herseth Owens MENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Clay Israel Pascrell Baird Hinchey Oxley APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2007 Cleaver Jackson (IL) Pastor Becerra Hinojosa Peterson (PA) Clyburn Jackson-Lee Paul Berman Hunter Pickering Mr. LEWIS of California, from the Coble (TX) Payne Brown, Corrine Inglis (SC) Platts Committee on Appropriations, sub- Cole (OK) Jefferson Pearce Camp (MI) Issa Pombo mitted a privileged report (Rept. No. Conaway Jindal Pelosi Cannon Istook Pryce (OH) Conyers Johnson (CT) Pence Capuano Jenkins Rehberg 109–476) on the bill (H.R. 5441) making Davis (FL) Jones (OH) Cooper Johnson (IL) Peterson (MN) Reyes appropriations for the Department of DeGette Keller Costa Johnson, E. B. Petri Reynolds Doolittle Kennedy (RI) Homeland Security for the fiscal year Costello Johnson, Sam Pitts Ruppersberger Cramer Jones (NC) Poe Evans Kilpatrick (MI) ending September 30, 2007, and for Sa´ nchez, Linda Crenshaw Kanjorski Pomeroy Foley Kolbe T. other purposes, which was referred to Crowley Kaptur Porter Forbes Larson (CT) Sanchez, Loretta the Union Calendar and ordered to be Cubin Kelly Price (GA) Ford Lewis (GA) Snyder printed. Cuellar Kennedy (MN) Price (NC) Gallegly Lowey Gibbons McKinney Strickland The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Culberson Kildee Putnam Cummings Kind Radanovich Graves Moran (VA) Sweeney ant to clause 1, rule XXI, all points of Davis (AL) King (IA) Rahall Green (WI) Murtha Taylor (NC) order are reserved on the bill. Davis (CA) King (NY) Ramstad Gutierrez Nussle Waters Davis (IL) Kingston Rangel Hastings (FL) Oberstar Wicker f Davis (KY) Kirk Regula Davis (TN) Kline Reichert b 1859 ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Davis, Jo Ann Knollenberg Renzi So (two-thirds of those voting having PRO TEMPORE Davis, Tom Kucinich Rogers (AL) Deal (GA) Kuhl (NY) Rogers (KY) responded in the affirmative) the rules The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- DeFazio LaHood Rogers (MI) were suspended and the Senate bill, as ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings Delahunt Langevin Rohrabacher amended, was passed. will resume on motions to suspend the DeLauro Lantos Ros-Lehtinen The result of the vote was announced rules previously postponed. DeLay Larsen (WA) Ross Dent Latham Rothman as above recorded. Votes will be taken in the following Diaz-Balart, L. LaTourette Roybal-Allard The title of the Senate bill was order: Diaz-Balart, M. Leach Royce amended so as to read: ‘‘An Act to S. 1235, by the yeas and nays, Dicks Lee Rush amend title 38, United States Code, to Dingell Levin Ryan (OH) H.R. 3858, by the yeas and nays. Doggett Lewis (CA) Ryan (WI) improve and extend housing, insurance, The first electronic vote will be con- Doyle Lewis (KY) Ryun (KS) outreach, and benefits programs pro- ducted as a 15-minute vote. The second Drake Linder Sabo vided under the laws administered by vote will be a 5-minute vote. Dreier Lipinski Salazar Duncan LoBiondo Sanders the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to f Edwards Lofgren, Zoe Saxton improve and extend employment pro- Ehlers Lucas Schakowsky grams for veterans under laws adminis- VETERANS’ HOUSING OPPOR- Emanuel Lungren, Daniel Schiff tered by the Secretary of Labor, and TUNITY AND BENEFITS IM- Emerson E. Schmidt Engel Lynch Schwartz (PA) for other purposes.’’. PROVEMENT ACT OF 2006 English (PA) Mack Schwarz (MI) A motion to reconsider was laid on The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Eshoo Maloney Scott (GA) the table. Etheridge Manzullo Scott (VA) pending business is the question of sus- Everett Marchant Sensenbrenner f pending the rules and passing the Sen- Farr Markey Serrano ate bill, S. 1235, as amended. Fattah Marshall Sessions PETS EVACUATION AND TRANS- Feeney Matheson Shadegg PORTATION STANDARDS ACT OF The Clerk read the title of the Senate Ferguson Matsui Shaw bill. Filner McCarthy Shays 2005 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Fitzpatrick (PA) McCaul (TX) Sherman The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by Flake McCollum (MN) Sherwood Fortenberry McCotter Shimkus pending business is the question of sus- the gentleman from Florida (Mr. MIL- Fossella McCrery Shuster pending the rules and passing the bill, LER) that the House suspend the rules Foxx McDermott Simmons H.R. 3858. and pass the Senate bill, S. 1235, as Frank (MA) McGovern Simpson The Clerk read the title of the bill. Franks (AZ) McHenry Skelton amended, on which the yeas and nays Frelinghuysen McHugh Slaughter The SPEAKER pro tempore. The are ordered. Garrett (NJ) McIntyre Smith (NJ) question is on the motion offered by The vote was taken by electronic de- Gerlach McKeon Smith (TX) the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. vice, and there were—yeas 372, nays 0, Gilchrest McMorris Smith (WA) Gillmor McNulty Sodrel SHUSTER) that the House suspend the not voting 61, as follows: Gingrey Meehan Solis rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3858, on [Roll No. 177] Gohmert Meek (FL) Souder which the yeas and nays are ordered. Gonzalez Meeks (NY) Spratt This will be a 5-minute vote. YEAS—372 Goode Melancon Stark Abercrombie Berkley Boswell Goodlatte Mica Stearns The vote was taken by electronic de- Ackerman Berry Boucher Gordon Michaud Stupak vice, and there were—yeas 349, nays 24, Aderholt Biggert Boustany Granger Millender- Sullivan not voting 60, as follows: Akin Bilirakis Boyd Green, Al McDonald Tancredo Alexander Bishop (GA) Bradley (NH) Green, Gene Miller (FL) Tanner [Roll No. 178] Allen Bishop (NY) Brady (PA) Grijalva Miller (MI) Tauscher YEAS—349 Baca Bishop (UT) Brady (TX) Gutknecht Miller (NC) Taylor (MS) Abercrombie Barrett (SC) Bishop (GA) Bachus Blackburn Brown (OH) Hall Miller, Gary Terry Ackerman Barrow Bishop (NY) Baker Blumenauer Brown (SC) Harman Miller, George Thomas Aderholt Bartlett (MD) Bishop (UT) Baldwin Blunt Brown-Waite, Harris Mollohan Thompson (CA) Akin Barton (TX) Blumenauer Barrett (SC) Boehlert Ginny Hart Moore (KS) Thompson (MS) Alexander Bass Blunt Barrow Boehner Burgess Hastert Moore (WI) Thornberry Allen Bean Boehlert Bartlett (MD) Bonilla Burton (IN) Hastings (WA) Moran (KS) Tiahrt Baca Beauprez Boehner Barton (TX) Bonner Butterfield Hayes Murphy Tiberi Bachus Berkley Bonilla Bass Bono Buyer Hayworth Musgrave Tierney Baker Biggert Bonner Bean Boozman Calvert Hefley Myrick Towns Baldwin Bilirakis Bono Beauprez Boren Campbell (CA) Hensarling Nadler Turner

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2989 Boozman Green, Gene Miller (NC) Udall (CO) Watson Wilson (SC) 1235 (Veterans’ Benefits Improvement Act of Boren Grijalva Miller, Gary Udall (NM) Watt Wolf 2005) and ‘‘yea’’ on H.R. 3858 (Pets Evacu- Boswell Gutknecht Miller, George Upton Waxman Woolsey Boucher Hall Mollohan Van Hollen Weiner Wu ation and Transportation Standards Act of Boustany Harman Moore (KS) Vela´ zquez Weldon (FL) Wynn 2005). Boyd Harris Moore (WI) Visclosky Weldon (PA) Young (AK) f Bradley (NH) Hart Moran (KS) Walden (OR) Weller Young (FL) Brady (PA) Hastert Murphy Walsh Wexler Brady (TX) Hastings (WA) Musgrave Wasserman Whitfield PERSONAL EXPLANATION Brown (OH) Hayes Myrick Schultz Wilson (NM) Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of California. Mr. Brown (SC) Hayworth Nadler Brown-Waite, Hefley Napolitano NAYS—24 Speaker, today I was unavoidably absent and Ginny Hensarling Neal (MA) Berry McHenry Putnam missed rollcall votes Nos. 177 and 178. Had Burgess Herger Ney Blackburn Miller (FL) Shadegg I been present, I would have voted: ‘‘Yea’’ on Burton (IN) Higgins Northup Buyer Miller (MI) Sodrel Butterfield Hinchey Nunes Feeney Neugebauer Tancredo rollcall No. 177, S. 1235, the ‘‘Veterans’ Bene- Calvert Hobson Obey Flake Norwood Terry fits Improvement Act of 2005’’ and ‘‘yea’’ on Campbell (CA) Hoekstra Olver Garrett (NJ) Paul Tiahrt rollcall No. 178, H.R. 3858, the ‘‘Pets Evacu- Cantor Holden Ortiz Gohmert Pitts Wamp ation and Transportation Standards Act of Capito Holt Osborne King (IA) Poe Westmoreland Capps Honda Otter 2005.’’ NOT VOTING—60 Cardin Hooley Pallone f Cardoza Hostettler Pascrell Andrews Hastings (FL) Oxley Carnahan Hoyer Pastor Baird Herseth Peterson (PA) PERSONAL EXPLANATION Carson Hulshof Payne Becerra Hinojosa Pickering Carter Hyde Pearce Berman Hunter Platts Ms. KILPATRICK of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, Case Inslee Pelosi Brown, Corrine Inglis (SC) Pombo official business requires my absence from Castle Israel Pence Camp (MI) Issa Pryce (OH) legislative business scheduled for today, Mon- Chabot Jackson (IL) Peterson (MN) Cannon Istook Rehberg day, May 22, 2006. Had I been present I Chandler Jackson-Lee Petri Capuano Jenkins Reyes Davis (FL) Jones (OH) Chocola (TX) Pomeroy Reynolds would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on S. 1235, the Vet- DeGette Kennedy (RI) Clay Jefferson Porter Ruppersberger erans’ Benefits Improvement Act of 2005 (roll- Doolittle Kilpatrick (MI) Cleaver Jindal Price (GA) Sa´ nchez, Linda Clyburn Johnson (CT) Price (NC) Edwards Kolbe call No. 177) and ‘‘yea’’ on H.R. 3858, Pets T. Coble Johnson (IL) Radanovich Evans Larson (CT) Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act Sanchez, Loretta Cole (OK) Johnson, E. B. Rahall Foley Lewis (GA) Snyder of 2005 (rollcall No. 178). Conaway Johnson, Sam Ramstad Forbes Lowey Strickland Conyers Jones (NC) Rangel Ford McKinney f Cooper Kanjorski Regula Gallegly Moran (VA) Sweeney Costa Kaptur Reichert Gibbons Murtha Taylor (NC) PERSONAL EXPLANATION Graves Nussle Waters Costello Keller Renzi Mr. FOLEY. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Nos. Cramer Kelly Rogers (AL) Green (WI) Oberstar Wicker Crenshaw Kennedy (MN) Rogers (KY) Gutierrez Owens 177 and 178 I was unavoidably detained. Had Crowley Kildee Rogers (MI) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE I been present, I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on Cubin Kind Rohrabacher both measures. Cuellar King (NY) Ros-Lehtinen The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Culberson Kingston Ross the vote). Members are advised 2 min- f Cummings Kirk Rothman utes remain in this vote. Davis (AL) Kline Roybal-Allard PERSONAL EXPLANATION Davis (CA) Knollenberg Royce b 1907 Davis (IL) Kucinich Rush Mr. POMBO. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to Davis (KY) Kuhl (NY) Ryan (OH) So (two-thirds of those voting having vote today on the House floor. I take my re- Davis (TN) LaHood Ryan (WI) responded in the affirmative) the rules sponsibility to vote very seriously and would Davis, Jo Ann Langevin Ryun (KS) like my intentions included in the CONGRES- Davis, Tom Lantos Sabo were suspended and the bill was passed. Deal (GA) Larsen (WA) Salazar The result of the vote was announced SIONAL RECORD. DeFazio Latham Sanders as above recorded. I had been present, I would have voted Delahunt LaTourette Saxton A motion to reconsider was laid on ‘‘yea’’ on S. 1235, Veterans’ Benefits Improve- DeLauro Leach Schakowsky DeLay Lee Schiff the table. ment Act of 2005. Dent Levin Schmidt f Additionally, had I been present, I would Diaz-Balart, L. Lewis (CA) Schwartz (PA) have voted ‘‘yea’’ on H.R. 3858, the Pets Diaz-Balart, M. Lewis (KY) Schwarz (MI) PERSONAL EXPLANATION Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act Dicks Linder Scott (GA) Dingell Lipinski Scott (VA) Mr. GREEN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I of 2005. Doggett LoBiondo Sensenbrenner was absent from Washington on Monday, May f Doyle Lofgren, Zoe Serrano 22, 2006. As a result, I was not recorded for Drake Lucas Sessions PERSONAL EXPLANATION Dreier Lungren, Daniel Shaw rollcall votes No. 177 and No. 178. Had I been Duncan E. Shays present, I would have voted ‘‘aye’’ on rollcall Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, on the Ehlers Lynch Sherman legislative day of Monday, May 22, 2006, the Emanuel Mack Sherwood No. 177 and No. 178. Emerson Maloney Shimkus f House had a vote on rollcall 177, on S. 1235, Engel Manzullo Shuster the Veterans’ Benefits Improvement Act, Had English (PA) Marchant Simmons PERSONAL EXPLANATION I been present, I would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Eshoo Markey Simpson Etheridge Marshall Skelton Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, I The House also had a vote on rollcall 178, Everett Matheson Slaughter would like to submit this statement for the on H.R. 3858, the Pets Evacuation and Trans- Farr Matsui Smith (NJ) RECORD and regret that I could not be present portation Standards Act. Had I been present, Fattah McCarthy Smith (TX) I would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Ferguson McCaul (TX) Smith (WA) today, Monday, May 22, 2006, to vote on roll- Filner McCollum (MN) Solis call votes Nos. 177 and 178 due to a family f Fitzpatrick (PA) McCotter Souder medical emergency. Fortenberry McCrery Spratt PERSONAL EXPLANATION Fossella McDermott Stark Had I been present, I would have voted: Foxx McGovern Stearns ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall vote No. 177 on passage of Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, I regret that I Frank (MA) McHugh Stupak S. 1235, the Veterans’ Benefits Improvement was unavoidably detained in my district due to Franks (AZ) McIntyre Sullivan Act of 2005, and ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall vote No. 178 congressional business. Had I been present, I Frelinghuysen McKeon Tanner Gerlach McMorris Tauscher on passage of H.R. 3858, the Pets Evacuation would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 177 Gilchrest McNulty Taylor (MS) and Transportation Standards Act of 2005. and ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 178. Gillmor Meehan Thomas Gingrey Meek (FL) Thompson (CA) f f Gonzalez Meeks (NY) Thompson (MS) Goode Melancon Thornberry PERSONAL EXPLANATION ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Goodlatte Mica Tiberi Mr. ANDREWS. Mr. Speaker, I regret that I PRO TEMPORE Gordon Michaud Tierney Granger Millender- Towns missed two votes on May 22, 2006. Had I The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Green, Al McDonald Turner been present I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on S. KUHL of New York). Pursuant to clause

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2990 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 8 of rule XX, the Chair will postpone ‘‘SEC. 620K. LIMITATION ON ASSISTANCE TO THE ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (a) shall not further proceedings today on the mo- PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY. apply with respect to the following: ‘‘(a) LIMITATION.—Except as provided in tion to suspend the rules on which a re- ‘‘(A) ASSISTANCE TO INDEPENDENT ELEC- subsection (e), assistance may be provided TIONS COMMISSIONS.—Assistance to any Pal- corded vote or the yeas and nays are under this Act to the Palestinian Authority estinian independent election commission if ordered, or on which the vote is ob- only during a period for which a certification the President transmits to Congress a cer- jected to under clause 6 of rule XX. described in subsection (b) is in effect. tification that contains a determination of Any record vote on the postponed ‘‘(b) CERTIFICATION.—A certification de- the President that— question will be taken tomorrow. scribed in this subsection is a certification ‘‘(i) no member of such commission is a transmitted by the President to Congress member of, affiliated with, or appointed by a f that contains a determination of the Presi- foreign terrorist organization; and PALESTINIAN ANTI-TERRORISM dent that— ‘‘(ii) each member of such commission is ACT OF 2006 ‘‘(1) no ministry, agency, or instrumen- independent of the influence of any political tality of the Palestinian Authority is con- party or movement. Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I trolled by a foreign terrorist organization ‘‘(B) ASSISTANCE TO SUPPORT THE MIDDLE move to suspend the rules and pass the and no member of a foreign terrorist organi- EAST PEACE PROCESS.—Assistance to the Of- bill (H.R. 4681) to promote the develop- zation serves in a senior policy making posi- fice of the President of the Palestinian Au- ment of democratic institutions in tion in a ministry, agency, or instrumen- thority for non-security expenses directly re- areas under the administrative control tality of the Palestinian Authority; lated to facilitating a peaceful resolution of ‘‘(2) the Palestinian Authority has— the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or for the of the Palestinian Authority, and for ‘‘(A) publicly acknowledged Israel’s right other purposes, as amended. personal security detail of the President of to exist as a Jewish state; and the Palestinian Authority if the President The Clerk read as follows: ‘‘(B) recommitted itself and is adhering to transmits to Congress a certification that H.R. 4681 all previous agreements and understandings contains a determination of the President Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- by the Palestine Liberation Organization that— resentatives of the United States of America in and the Palestinian Authority with the Gov- ‘‘(i) such assistance is critical to facili- Congress assembled, ernment of the United States, the Govern- tating a peaceful resolution of the Israeli- ment of Israel, and the international com- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Palestinian conflict; munity, including agreements and under- ‘‘(ii) the President of the Palestinian Au- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Palestinian standings pursuant to the Performance- thority is not a member of or affiliated with Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006’’. Based Roadmap to a Permanent Two-State a foreign terrorist organization and has re- SEC. 2. LIMITATION ON ASSISTANCE TO THE PAL- Solution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict jected the use of terrorism to resolve the ESTINIAN AUTHORITY. (commonly referred to as the ‘Roadmap’); Israeli-Palestinian conflict; (a) DECLARATION OF POLICY.—It shall be the and ‘‘(iii) such assistance will not be used to policy of the United States— ‘‘(3) the Palestinian Authority has taken provide funds to any individual who is a (1) to support a peaceful, two-state solu- effective steps and made demonstrable member of or affiliated with a foreign ter- tion to end the conflict between Israel and progress toward— rorist organization or who has not rejected the Palestinians in accordance with the Per- ‘‘(A) completing the process of purging the use of terrorism to resolve the Israeli- formance-Based Roadmap to a Permanent from its security services individuals with Palestinian conflict; and Two-State Solution to the Israeli-Pales- ties to terrorism; ‘‘(iv) such assistance will not be retrans- tinian Conflict (commonly referred to as the ‘‘(B) dismantling all terrorist infrastruc- ferred to any other entity within or outside ‘‘Roadmap’’); ture, confiscating unauthorized weapons, ar- of the Palestinian Authority except as pay- (2) to oppose those organizations, individ- resting and bringing terrorists to justice, de- ment for legal goods or services rendered. uals, and countries that support terrorism stroying unauthorized arms factories, ‘‘(2) ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS.—Assist- and violence; thwarting and preempting terrorist attacks, ance described in paragraph (1) may be pro- (3) to urge members of the international and fully cooperating with Israel’s security vided only if the President— community to avoid contact with and refrain services; ‘‘(A) determines that the provision of such from financially supporting the terrorist or- ‘‘(C) halting all anti-Israel incitement in assistance is important to the national secu- ganization Hamas or a Hamas-controlled Palestinian Authority-controlled electronic rity interests of the United States; and Palestinian Authority until Hamas agrees to and print media and in schools, mosques, and ‘‘(B) not less than 30 days prior to the obli- recognize Israel, renounce violence, disarm, other institutions it controls, and replacing gation of amounts for the provision of such and accept prior agreements, including the these materials, including textbooks, with assistance— Roadmap; materials that promote tolerance, peace, and ‘‘(i) consults with the appropriate congres- (4) to promote the emergence of a demo- coexistence with Israel; sional committees regarding the specific pro- cratic Palestinian governing authority ‘‘(D) ensuring democracy, the rule of law, grams, projects, and activities to be carried that— and an independent judiciary, and adopting out using such assistance; and (A) denounces and combats terrorism; other reforms such as ensuring transparent ‘‘(ii) submits to the appropriate congres- (B) has agreed to and is taking action to and accountable governance; and sional committees a written memorandum disarm and dismantle any terrorist agency, ‘‘(E) ensuring the financial transparency that contains the determination of the Presi- network, or facility; and accountability of all government min- dent under subparagraph (A). (C) has agreed to work to eliminate anti- istries and operations. ‘‘(3) DEFINITION.—In this subsection, the Israel and anti-Semitic incitement and the ‘‘(c) RECERTIFICATIONS.—Not later than 90 term ‘appropriate congressional committees’ commemoration of terrorists in Palestinian days after the date on which the President means— society; transmits to Congress an initial certification ‘‘(A) the Committee on International Rela- (D) has agreed to respect the sovereignty under subsection (b), and every six months tions and the Committee on Appropriations of its neighbors; thereafter— of the House of Representatives; and (E) acknowledges, respects, and upholds ‘‘(1) the President shall transmit to Con- ‘‘(B) the Committee on Foreign Relations the human rights of all people; gress a recertification that the requirements and the Committee on Appropriations of the (F) implements the rule of law, good gov- contained in subsection (b) are continuing to Senate. ernance, and democratic practices, including be met; or ‘‘(f) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: conducting free, fair, and transparent elec- ‘‘(2) if the President is unable to make ‘‘(1) FOREIGN TERRORIST ORGANIZATION.— tions in compliance with international such a recertification, the President shall The term ‘foreign terrorist organization’ standards; transmit to Congress a report that contains means an organization designated as a for- (G) ensures institutional and financial the reasons therefor. eign terrorist organization by the Secretary transparency and accountability; and ‘‘(d) CONGRESSIONAL NOTIFICATION.—Assist- of State in accordance with section 219(a) of (H) has agreed to recognize the State of ance made available under this Act to the the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 Israel as an independent, sovereign, Jewish, Palestinian Authority may not be provided U.S.C. 1189(a)). democratic state; and until 15 days after the date on which the ‘‘(2) PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY.—The term (5) to continue to support assistance to the President has provided notice thereof to the ‘Palestinian Authority’ means the interim Palestinian people. Committee on International Relations and Palestinian administrative organization that (b) AMENDMENTS.—Chapter 1 of part III of the Committee on Appropriations of the governs part of the West Bank and all of the the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. House of Representatives and to the Com- Gaza Strip (or any successor Palestinian 2351 et seq.) is amended— mittee on Foreign Relations and the Com- governing entity), including the Palestinian (1) by redesignating the second section mittee on Appropriations of the Senate in Legislative Council.’’. 620G (as added by section 149 of Public Law accordance with the procedures applicable to (c) APPLICABILITY TO UNEXPENDED FUNDS.— 104–164 (110 Stat. 1436)) as section 620J; and reprogramming notifications under section Section 620K of the Foreign Assistance Act (2) by adding at the end the following new 634A(a) of this Act. of 1961, as added by subsection (b), applies section: ‘‘(e) EXCEPTIONS.— with respect to unexpended funds obligated

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2991 for assistance under the Foreign Assistance grams, projects, and activities to be carried section 620L of the Foreign Assistance Act of Act of 1961 to the Palestinian Authority be- out using such assistance; and 1961, as added by subsection (a), in providing fore the date of the enactment of this Act. ‘‘(ii) submits to the appropriate congres- assistance to nongovernmental organizations (d) REPORT BY COMPTROLLER GENERAL.— sional committees a written memorandum for the West Bank and Gaza under any provi- Not later than 180 days after the date of the that contains the determination of the Presi- sion of law other than the Foreign Assist- enactment of this Act, the Comptroller Gen- dent under subparagraph (A) and an expla- ance Act of 1961. eral of the United States shall submit to the nation of how failure to provide the proposed SEC. 4. UNITED NATIONS AGENCIES AND PRO- appropriate congressional committees a re- assistance would be inconsistent with fur- GRAMS. port that contains a review of the proposed thering the national security interests of the (a) REVIEW AND REPORT.— procedures by which United States assist- United States. (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 60 days ance to the Palestinian Authority under the ‘‘(3) DEFINITION.—In this subsection, the after the date of the enactment of this Act, Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 will be au- term ‘appropriate congressional committees’ the President shall— dited by the Department of State, the United means— (A) conduct an audit of the functions of the States Agency for International Develop- ‘‘(A) the Committee on International Rela- entities specified in paragraph (2); and ment, and all other relevant departments tions and the Committee on Appropriations (B) transmit to the appropriate congres- and agencies of the Government of the of the House of Representatives; and sional committees a report containing rec- United States and any recommendations for ‘‘(B) the Committee on Foreign Relations ommendations for the elimination of such improvement of such procedures. and the Committee on Appropriations of the entities and efforts that are duplicative or (e) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of Senate.’’. fail to ensure balance in the approach of the Congress that the President should be guided (b) OVERSIGHT AND RELATED REQUIRE- United Nations to Israeli-Palestinian issues. by the principles and procedures described in MENTS.— (2) ENTITIES SPECIFIED.—The entities re- section 620K of the Foreign Assistance Act of (1) OVERSIGHT.—For each of the fiscal years ferred to in paragraph (1) are the following: 1961, as added by subsection (b), in providing 2007 and 2008, the Secretary of State shall (A) The United Nations Division for Pales- direct assistance to the Palestinian Author- certify to the appropriate congressional tinian Rights. ity under any provision of law other than the committees not later than 30 days prior to (B) The Committee on the Exercise of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. the initial obligation of amounts for assist- Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People. ance to nongovernmental organizations for (C) The United Nations Special Coordi- SEC. 3. LIMITATION ON ASSISTANCE FOR THE the West Bank or Gaza under the Foreign As- WEST BANK AND GAZA. nator for the Middle East Peace Process and sistance Act of 1961 that procedures have Personal Representative to the Palestine (a) AMENDMENT.—Chapter 1 of part III of been established to ensure that the Comp- Liberation Organization and the Palestinian the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. troller General of the United States will 2351 et seq.), as amended by section 2(b)(2) of Authority. have access to appropriate United States fi- (D) The NGO Network on the Question of this Act, is further amended by adding at the nancial information in order to review the end the following new section: Palestine. use of such assistance. (E) The Special Committee to Investigate ‘‘SEC. 620L. LIMITATION ON ASSISTANCE FOR (2) VETTING.—Prior to any obligation of Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights THE WEST BANK AND GAZA. amounts for assistance to nongovernmental of the Palestinian People and Other Arabs of ‘‘(a) LIMITATION.—Except as provided in organizations for the West Bank or Gaza the Occupied Territories. subsection (d), assistance may be provided under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, the (F) Any other entity the Secretary deter- under this Act to nongovernmental organiza- Secretary of State shall take all appropriate mines results in duplicative efforts or fund- tions for the West Bank and Gaza only dur- steps to ensure that such assistance is not ing or fails to ensure balance in the approach ing a period for which a certification de- provided to or through any individual or en- to Israeli-Palestinian issues. scribed in section 620K(b) of this Act is in ef- tity that the Secretary knows, or has reason (b) IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS fect with respect to the Palestinian Author- to believe, advocates, plans, sponsors, en- BY PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE.— ity. gages in, or has engaged in, terrorist activ- (1) IN GENERAL.—The United States Perma- ‘‘(b) MARKING REQUIREMENT.—Assistance ity. The Secretary shall, as appropriate, es- nent Representative to the United Nations provided under this Act to nongovernmental tablish procedures specifying the steps to be shall use the voice, vote, and influence of the organizations for the West Bank and Gaza taken in carrying out this paragraph and United States at the United Nations to seek shall be marked as assistance from the Gov- shall terminate assistance to any individual the implementation of the recommendations ernment of the United States unless the Sec- or entity that the Secretary has determined contained in the report required under sub- retary of State or the Administrator of the advocates, plans, sponsors, or engages in ter- section (a)(1)(B). United States Agency for International De- rorist activity. (2) WITHHOLDING OF FUNDS.—Until the velopment determines that such marking (3) PROHIBITION.—No amounts made avail- President certifies to the Congress that such will endanger the lives or safety of persons able for any fiscal year for assistance to non- recommendations have been implemented, delivering or receiving such assistance or governmental organizations for the West the Secretary of State should withhold from would have a material adverse effect on the Bank or Gaza under the Foreign Assistance United States contributions to the regular implementation of such assistance. Act of 1961 may be made available for the assessed budget of the United Nations for a ‘‘(c) CONGRESSIONAL NOTIFICATION.—Assist- purpose of recognizing or otherwise honoring biennial period amounts that are propor- ance made available under this Act to non- individuals or the families of individuals who tional to the percentage of such budget that governmental organizations for the West commit, or have committed, acts of ter- are expended for such entities. Bank and Gaza may not be provided until 15 rorism. (c) GAO AUDIT.—The Comptroller General days after the date on which the President (4) AUDITS.— shall conduct an audit of the status of the has provided notice thereof to the Com- (A) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator of the implementation of the recommendations mittee on International Relations and the United States Agency for International De- contained in the report required under sub- Committee on Appropriations of the House velopment shall ensure that independent au- section (a)(1)(B). of Representatives and to the Committee on dits of all contractors and grantees, and sig- (d) WITHHOLDING OF FUNDS WITH RESPECT Foreign Relations and the Committee on Ap- nificant subcontractors and subgrantees, TO THE PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY.— propriations of the Senate in accordance that receive amounts for assistance to non- (1) ASSESSED CONTRIBUTIONS.—The Sec- with the procedures applicable to reprogram- governmental organizations for the West retary of State should withhold from United ming notifications under section 634A(a) of Bank or Gaza under the Foreign Assistance States contributions to the regular assessed this Act. Act of 1961 are conducted to ensure, among budget of the United Nations for a biennial ‘‘(d) EXCEPTIONS.—Subsection (a) shall not other things, compliance with this sub- period amounts that are equal to the apply with respect to the following: section. amounts of such budget that are expended by ‘‘(1) ASSISTANCE TO MEET BASIC HUMAN (B) AUDITS BY INSPECTOR GENERAL OF any United Nations affiliated or specialized HEALTH NEEDS.—The provision of food, water, USAID.—Of the amounts available for any fis- agency for assistance directly to the Pales- medicine, sanitation services, or other as- cal year for assistance to nongovernmental tinian Authority. sistance to directly meet basic human health organizations for the West Bank or Gaza (2) VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS.—The Sec- needs. under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, up retary of State shall withhold from United ‘‘(2) OTHER TYPES OF ASSISTANCE.—The pro- to $1,000,000 for each such fiscal year may be States contributions to the voluntary budget vision of any other type of assistance if the used by the Office of the Inspector General of of the United Nations for a biennial period President— the United States Agency for International amounts that are equal to the amounts of ‘‘(A) determines that the provision of such Development for audits, inspections, and such budget that are expended by any United assistance will further the national security other activities in furtherance of the re- Nations affiliated or specialized agency for interests of the United States; and quirements of subparagraph (A). Such assistance directly to the Palestinian Au- ‘‘(B) not less than 25 days prior to the obli- amounts are in addition to amounts other- thority. gation of amounts for the provision of such wise available for such purposes. (3) DEFINITION.—For the purposes of this assistance— (c) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of section, the term ‘‘amounts of such budget ‘‘(i) consults with the appropriate congres- Congress that the President should be guided that are expended by any United Nations af- sional committees regarding the specific pro- by the principles and procedures described in filiated or specialized agency for assistance

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2992 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 directly to the Palestinian Authority’’ does or with funds provided by, the Palestinian arming of militias and the elimination of all not include— Authority or the Palestine Liberation Orga- instruments of terror; and (A) amounts expended during any period nization during any period for which a cer- (4) recognizes and accepts all previous for which a certification described in section tification described in section 620K(b) of the agreements and understandings between the 620K(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (as added by State of Israel and the Palestine Liberation (as added by section 2(b)(2) of this Act) is in section 2(b)(2) of this Act) is not in effect Organization and the Palestinian Authority. effect with respect to the Palestinian Au- with respect to the Palestinian Authority. SEC. 11. DEFINITIONS. thority; or (b) ENFORCEMENT.— In this Act: (B) amounts expended for assistance of the (1) ATTORNEY GENERAL.—The Attorney (1) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- type of assistance described in section 104(c), General shall take the necessary steps and TEES.—The term ‘‘appropriate congressional 104A, 104B, or 104C of the Foreign Assistance institute the necessary legal action to effec- committees’’ means— Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2151b, 2151b–2, 2151b–3, tuate the policies and provisions of sub- (A) the Committee on International Rela- or 2151b–4) and which would, if provided by section (a), including steps necessary to tions and the Committee on Appropriations the Government of the United States, be per- apply the policies and provisions of sub- of the House of Representatives; and mitted under such sections, or under chapter section (a) to the Permanent Observer Mis- (B) the Committee on Foreign Relations 4 of part II of such Act (22 U.S.C. 2346 et seq.) sion of Palestine to the United Nations. and the Committee on Appropriations of the to carry out the purposes of such sections, by (2) RELIEF.—Any district court of the Senate. reason of the application of section 104(c)(4) United States for a district in which a viola- (2) PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY.—The term of such Act. tion of subsection (a) occurs shall have au- ‘‘Palestinian Authority’’ has the meaning SEC. 5. DESIGNATION OF TERRITORY CON- thority, upon petition of relief by the Attor- given the term in section 620K(e)(2) of the TROLLED BY THE PALESTINIAN AU- ney General, to grant injunctive and such Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (as added by THORITY AS TERRORIST SANC- other equitable relief as it shall deem nec- section 2(b)(2) of this Act). TUARY. essary to enforce the provisions of sub- It is the sense of Congress that, during any section (a). The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- period for which a certification described in (c) WAIVER.— ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from section 620K(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act (1) AUTHORITY.—The President may waive Florida (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN) and the of 1961 (as added by section 2(b)(2) of this the application of subsection (a) for a period gentleman from California (Mr. LAN- Act) is not in effect with respect to the Pal- of 180 days if the President determines and TOS) each will control 20 minutes. estinian Authority, the territory controlled certifies to the appropriate congressional Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I by the Palestinian Authority should be committees that such waiver— rise to claim the time in opposition. I deemed to be in use as a sanctuary for ter- (A) is vital to the national security inter- rorists or terrorist organizations for pur- ests of the United States and provides an ex- am opposed to the bill. poses of section 6(j)(5) of the Export Admin- planation of how the failure to waive the ap- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is the istration Act of 1979 (50 U.S.C. App. 2405(j)(5)) plication of subsection (a) would be incon- gentleman from California (Mr. LAN- and section 140 of the Foreign Relations Au- sistent with the vital national security in- TOS) opposed to the motion? thorization Act, Fiscal Years 1988 and 1989 terests of the United States; and Mr. LANTOS. No, Mr. Speaker, I (22 U.S.C. 2656f). (B) would further the achievement of the strongly support the motion. SEC. 6. DENIAL OF VISAS FOR OFFICIALS OF THE requirements outlined in the certification The SPEAKER pro tempore. On that PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY. described in section 620K(b) of the Foreign basis, the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. (a) IN GENERAL.—A visa shall not be issued Assistance Act of 1961 (as added by section BLUMENAUER) will control the time in to any alien who is an official of, affiliated 2(b)(2) of this Act). opposition to the motion. with, or serving as a representative of the (2) RENEWAL.—The President may renew Palestinian Authority during any period for the waiver described in paragraph (1) for suc- The Chair recognizes the gentle- which a certification described in section cessive 180-day periods if the President woman from Florida. 620K(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 makes the determination and certification Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I (as added by section 2(b)(2) of this Act) is not described in such paragraph for each such pe- ask unanimous consent that debate on in effect with respect to the Palestinian Au- riod. this matter be extended by 80 minutes, thority. SEC. 9. INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL INSTITU- equally divided. (b) WAIVER.—Subsection (a) shall not TIONS. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there (a) UNITED STATES POLICY.—It shall be the apply— objection to the request of the gentle- (1) if the President determines and cer- policy of the United States that the United tifies to the appropriate congressional com- States Executive Director at each inter- woman from Florida? mittees, on a case-by-case basis, that the national financial institution shall use the There was no objection. issuance of a visa to an alien described in voice, vote, and influence of the United Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I such subsection is important to the national States to prohibit assistance to the Pales- yield half of my time to the gentleman security interests of the United States; or tinian Authority unless a certification de- from California (Mr. LANTOS), and I ask (2) with respect to visas issued in connec- scribed in subsection (b) is in effect with re- unanimous consent that he be per- tion with United States obligations under spect to the Palestinian Authority. mitted to control that time. the Act of August 4, 1947 (61 Stat. 756) (com- (b) CERTIFICATION.—A certification de- scribed in this subsection is a certification The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there monly known as the ‘‘United Nations Head- objection to the request of the gentle- quarters Agreement Act’’). transmitted by the President to Congress that contains a determination of the Presi- woman from Florida? SEC. 7. TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS ON OFFICIALS AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE dent that the requirements of paragraphs (1), There was no objection. PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY AND THE (2), and (3)(A), (B), (C), and (E) of section GENERAL LEAVE PALESTINE LIBERATION ORGANIZA- 620K(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I TION STATIONED AT THE UNITED (as added by section 2(b)(2) of this Act) are NATIONS IN NEW YORK CITY. being met by the Palestinian Authority. ask unanimous consent that all Mem- The President shall restrict the travel of (c) DEFINITION.—In this section, the term bers may have 5 legislative days to re- officials and representatives of the Pales- ‘‘international financial institution’’ has the vise and extend their remarks, and in- tinian Authority and of the Palestine Lib- meaning given the term in section 1701(c)(2) clude extraneous material on the bill eration Organization who are stationed at of the International Financial Institutions under consideration. the United Nations in New York City to a 25- Act. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there mile radius of the United Nations head- SEC. 10. DIPLOMATIC CONTACTS WITH PALES- objection to the request of the gentle- TINIAN TERROR ORGANIZATIONS. quarters building during any period for woman from Florida? which a certification described in section It shall be the policy of the United States 620K(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 that no officer or employee of the United There was no objection. (as added by section 2(b)(2) of this Act) is not States Government shall negotiate or have Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I in effect with respect to the Palestinian Au- substantive contacts with members or offi- yield such time as he may consume to thority. cial representatives of Hamas, Palestinian the gentleman from Texas (Mr. SEC. 8. PROHIBITION ON PALESTINIAN AUTHOR- Islamic Jihad, the Popular Front for the Lib- DELAY). ITY REPRESENTATION IN THE eration of Palestine, al-Aqsa Martyrs Bri- Mr. DELAY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the UNITED STATES. gade, or any other Palestinian terrorist or- gentlewoman for bringing this resolu- (a) PROHIBITION.—Notwithstanding any ganization, unless and until such organiza- tion to the floor and to the gentleman other provision of law, it shall be unlawful to tion— establish or maintain an office, head- (1) recognizes Israel’s right to exist; from California for his support for this quarters, premises, or other facilities or es- (2) renounces the use of terrorism; resolution. It is incredibly important tablishments within the jurisdiction of the (3) dismantles the infrastructure necessary that we bring this resolution to the United States at the behest or direction of, to carry out terrorist acts, including the dis- floor today, and I rise in strong support

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2993 of the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act bate. But I am also struck by how we moderate Palestinian legislators or which reaffirms America’s support for are seeing elements of that vibrant de- government officials who oppose our allies in Israel and protects Amer- bate within the American pro-Israeli Hamas. It would prevent the PLO, of ican interests. community over the bill that is before which Hamas isn’t a member, and It also brings an end to the dan- us this evening. which was not impacted by the election gerously infantilization of the Pales- As someone committed to Israel’s se- of Hamas, from having representatives tinian people, who through this legisla- curity and to the vision of the two in Washington or at the United Na- tion will finally be held responsible for states living side by side in peace, I re- tions. I am afraid that this legislation their political decisions. luctantly oppose the legislation this may well backfire by actually In and of itself, January’s Pales- evening, despite my deep respect for strengthening the hands of extremists. tinian election was a victory for the my colleagues who are bringing it for- Remember, this past winter, the civilized world in the war on terror. ward on both sides of the aisle. House, in our wisdom, voted to demand The elections were fair, nonviolent, The bill before us is one that the ad- that the Palestinians prevent Hamas and added further evidence in support ministration does not need nor want. It from running in the legislative elec- of democracy’s fundamental compat- sets permanent and inflexible limits on tions, telling the Palestinian people to ibility with Middle Eastern culture. the United States, whether or not reject them. I don’t think it was any The outcome of that election, the as- Hamas is in power. It could potentially accident that Hamas election banners cendancy of the unrepentant terrorist limit the United States’ ability to help had: ‘‘Israel and America say ‘no’ to organization Hamas, was another story our friend Israel if Israel decides in the Hamas. What do you say?’’ all together. The Palestinian people future that working with a non- I can’t help think that any objective have made their choice; and while we Hamas-controlled Palestinian Author- appraisal would suggest that the must respect their God-given right to ity is in their best interests. United States Congress, telling them self-determination, the choice they Remember in 1995, Israeli Prime Min- what they could do, may well have pro- made has consequences, chief among ister Itzhak Rabin asked the United vided that extra boost for Hamas’ pros- them the immediate end of foreign as- States to support a flawed Palestinian pects at the election. Authority because he felt it was impor- sistance to the Palestinian Authority. This bill provides no diplomatic hori- tant for Israel’s security. Had the American aid to the Palestinian peo- zon, no sunset. It is in perpetuity. It stringent conditions in this bill been in ple must be predicated on their rejec- does little to prioritize on the basis of place, we would have had to have said tion of terrorism. And as long as our strategic interest and provides no no. prospect for Palestinian reform coming Hamas seeks the destruction of Israel In 2003, Israeli Prime Minister Ariel through the process of negotiations. In and the murder of innocent Israelis, Sharon asked the United States to sup- so doing, it weakens the hands of those the United States cannot financially port the Palestinian Prime Minister, who advocate for peace negotiations support the Palestinian Authority. Mahmoud Abbas. Had the stringent When the day comes that Palestinian conditions in this bill been in place, we and supports those extremists who be- leaders reject violence, break apart would have had to say no. lieve in violence. their terrorist infrastructure, embrace Should a future Israeli leader come Democracy is a complex process in freedom, and seek membership in the and ask us to support the Palestinian the Middle East and all too rare in the civilized world, we will welcome them. Authority, after Hamas is forced from Middle East. The election of Hamas Until that day, not a dime. power, we shouldn’t allow the condi- shows that for the kinds of democ- Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I tions in this bill to force us to say no. racies we want to see, elections aren’t yield myself such time as I may con- Unfortunately, this bill defines the enough. We need to promote the kinds sume. Palestinian Authority to include the of democratic institutions, free civil Everybody on this floor wants to Palestinian legislative counsel, as long society, conducive to sustainable, lib- send the same loud and clear message: as members of Hamas are in the Pales- eral democracy in Palestinian terri- that Congress is united in its opposi- tinian Parliament. We would have to tories. tion to terror and we are all deeply say no to Israel’s request. The President needs to be free to do concerned about the future and secu- As has been pointed out with Libya, just that, with congressional oversight, rity of our close friend and ally, Israel. the debate over Libya, sometimes we not congressional prohibitions and This debate is not about our shared allow diplomatic relations with imper- micromanagement. I understand the revulsion at those who would murder fect regimes because progress can best sincere concern that many people who innocent citizens or sow terror for po- be made through engagement instead support this legislation have, but it is litical purposes. of isolation. This bill goes far beyond too onerous and burdensome on an ad- ministration that needs to practice di- b 1915 the ramifications of January’s election and Hamas’ rise to power. plomacy. It is not about current law, which It would restrict relations with and Democracy is a continuing process prohibits any assistance to Hamas or a support for Palestinian groups and in- that helps transform those who prac- Hamas-controlled government, which stitutions that have nothing to do with tice it. I agree with the rabbi from my Congress unanimously reaffirmed ear- terror or rejectionism. It places sanc- district who wrote that, ‘‘change is ev- lier this year. For many people, we will tions on the Palestinian leaders and erything in politics, no matter how find tonight that this is a very per- parts of Palestinian civil society who bleak the situation currently is,’’ in sonal issue. For anyone who has visited support peace with Israel, oppose ter- expressing his opposition to this legis- Israel, you understand. rorism and who, if the two-state vision lation. We cannot support Hamas or When I first visited Jerusalem, I comes to pass, will form the backbone other terrorist groups, but neither couldn’t help but be struck by how of a democratic society. should we close the door on change. close the holy sites of the three great There is, in this legislation, no rec- Most of the Members of this body religions are, less than the distance of ognition that Palestinian society is consider themselves to be strong a Tiger Woods 5-iron shot. I will always deeply divided, and that it makes no friends and supporters of Israel. So do cherish the opportunity in a more opti- sense to put sanctions on President I. That is why I will urge a ‘‘no’’ vote mistic time, to visit a security check- Abbas, reformers, even activists for de- on this resolution. point outside Ramallah, jointly mocracy, peace and coexistence. The Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of manned by Israelis and Palestinians. bill would prohibit the assistance we my time. The possibility of that moment, its fra- give to schools that teach peace, to Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in gility and the ramifications of failure, democratic and peaceful political orga- strong support of this legislation and have been brought home to me repeat- nizations, to groups promoting co- yield myself as much time as I may edly in recent years. operation with Israel on shared envi- consume. I was and am impressed by the diver- ronmental challenges. During the course of this debate, I sity of opinions in Israel, by its vibrant It would even punish the democratic will rebut point-by-point the items tradition of democracy and heated de- opposition by prohibiting visas for raised by my good friend from Oregon,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2994 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 for whom I have great respect and ment of suicide attacks on both Amer- nounced just yesterday to release $11 great affection. But let me just say ican and Israeli citizens. million and let these funds be used for that while I am convinced that his po- Now, despite the pathetically naive medicine and equipment for Pales- sition is motivated by the best of in- hopes of some that Hamas would tinian hospitals, bypassing entirely the tentions, he totally misrepresents the change its stripes upon assuming terrorist government of Hamas. nature of our legislation. power, if anything, the anti-Israel rhet- Mr. Speaker, representatives of the Mr. Speaker, it was my great pleas- oric has only been stepped up. The for- United States have been meeting with ure to join my friend and distinguished eign minister of the terrorist govern- their counterparts from Russia, the colleague, ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN, in in- ment, Mahmoud al-Zahar, recently told United Nations and the European troducing the Palestinian Anti-Ter- the world that he dreams of, and I am Union to discuss the financial crisis rorism Act. It has also been an honor quoting again, Mr. Speaker, ‘‘hanging a that Palestinians have faced since to work with the chairman of the com- huge map of the world on the wall at Hamas came to power. Our bill is fully mittee, HENRY HYDE, in bringing the my Gaza home, which does not show consistent with the positions and poli- bill to the floor in its present form. I Israel on it, because there is no place cies of the so-called quartet. would like to thank all 295 of my col- for the State of Israel on this land.’’ Mr. Speaker, we in this Congress are leagues who are cosponsors of this bill, So much for moderation. sickened by the fact that the Palestin- which was reported out of the Inter- Mr. Speaker, such statements by ians chose Hamas as their leader, and national Relations Committee on a bi- Hamas government officials make we are sickened and appalled by every- partisan vote of 36–2. I repeat, the leg- crystal clear the rationale for our leg- thing that Hamas stands for. Our bill, islation was reported out of the Inter- islation. We must isolate the new ter- H.R. 4681, demonstrates that America national Relations Committee rep- rorist authority in the West Bank and will stand firm in the fight against ter- resenting the broadest spectrum of Gaza. The situation in the Middle East rorism, while remaining true to the views and positions by a vote of 36–2. is alarming. The Palestinian Authority hope for a peaceful Middle East. Our This is a bill that enjoys the broadest is now governed by a group of killers, legislation will serve as a model for the bipartisan support. like Iranian President Ahmadinejad, right policy to take against terrorists, Mr. Speaker, a little more than a who believes that Israel, quote, should however they take power, and on be- month ago, a 16-year-old boy from be wiped off the map. half of the democratic ally that is the Florida, Daniel Wultz, arrived in Israel It is therefore incumbent upon us, target of suicide bombings by a govern- with his family. They were celebrating Mr. Speaker, as the ally and long-time mentally-organized campaign. Passover, which commemorates Jewish supporter of the democratic State of Allow me a personal word, Mr. liberation from brutality long ago. On Israel, to do everything we can to dem- Speaker. As all of my colleagues know, a pleasant evening in Tel Aviv, Daniel onstrate the bankruptcy of Hamas’ vi- I am the only Holocaust survivor ever met his father for dinner at a popular sion and to ensure that Hamas receives elected to the Congress of the United falafel restaurant in a working-class no help from the United States in im- States. My family was wiped out by a neighborhood. plementing its evil plans. government that systematically Moments later, a Palestinian ter- Our bill does exactly that. We will sought to eliminate an entire people. rorist detonated 30 pounds of explosives end all assistance to the Palestinian I am here today to tell you that what just a few feet from the father and son. Authority with exceptions for humani- Hamas has in mind is a holocaust on Daniel suffered severe internal inju- tarian aid. We will also end all contact the installment plan. I repeat, I am ries, and his leg had to be amputated. between U.S. diplomats and the here today to tell you that what Hamas After a valiant struggle for survival, Hamas-controlled Palestinian Author- has in mind is a holocaust on the in- Daniel died last week. As for his father, ity. stallment plan. It is being done one he faces a long and painful recovery atrocity at a time. As long as support b 1930 physically; the psychological repercus- continues to flow to Hamas, this holo- sions one can only speculate on. Our goal, Mr. Speaker, is not to pun- caust on the installment plan will con- This tragedy was compounded several ish the Palestinian people. Our goal is tinue, and ultimately, it might suc- times over, Mr. Speaker. In this one to demonstrate to them, and to their ceed. But our bill will stop it. terrorist incident, perpetrated by government, that hatred, murder, as- I strongly urge my colleagues to join Hamas, 10 people were murdered, more sassination and non-recognition of me in supporting this important, vital, than 60 were injured, and hundreds of neighbors is unacceptable in a civilized bipartisan piece of legislation. loved ones are suffering the atrocities, world. Accordingly, we want to make Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of the effects of these atrocities for the sure that the U.S. taxpayer will not my time. rest of their lives. supply one penny of aid for which the Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. Speaker, during the murderous Hamas government can claim any cred- yield 6 minutes to the gentlewoman Intifada, orchestrated, planned and it, and we want to make sure that from Minnesota (Ms. MCCOLLUM). perpetrated by Hamas, more than 1,000 Hamas and its government are ac- Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Israelis were killed in incidents like corded absolutely no legitimacy by the Speaker, tonight we should be working this recent one, barbarous, random, United States or our diplomatic rep- to ensure security and peace for Israel sneak attacks on men, women and chil- resentatives. and for more hope, opportunity and dren, just going about their lives. Our bill, of course, recognizes that peace for the Palestinian people. Given its comparatively small popu- humanitarian emergencies will arise Among our colleagues in the U.S. lation, less than 6 million, the loss of and that we should be supportive of ap- House, there is unanimous intolerance 1,000 innocent lives in Israel is the propriate NGO activities. Just to cite and condemnation for the current equivalent of losing 50,000 here in the one example, Mr. Speaker, I wrote Sec- Hamas-led government of the Pales- United States. I wonder how many of retary of State Condoleezza Rice re- tinian Authority. The refusal of the po- our colleagues would stand up for the cently asking that the United States litical leadership of Hamas to recog- terrorists if we had lost 50,000, not 3,000 provide funding to assist the Palestin- nize the State of Israel, renounce vio- on 9/11. ians in dealing with the serious out- lence and terrorism and agree to pre- What was the response of the Hamas break of avian flu in the Gaza Strip, vious agreements and obligations of government to the restaurant bomb- and I am pleased that our government the Palestinian Authority is unaccept- ing? The spokesman for Hamas said has been responsive to my request. I able, and, therefore, they must con- that it was, and I quote, Mr. Speaker, think we would all agree on continuing tinue to be isolated by the inter- ‘‘legal.’’ This monstrous act, the most the U.S. tradition of dealing with the national community. recent terrorist attack, killed 10 peo- humanitarian needs of any people, in- Congress should be here tonight ple, and Hamas leadership says, it’s cluding the Palestinian people. unanimously passing a bill that sup- legal. No condemnation, no promise of I am sure that all of my colleagues ports Secretary of State Rice as she pursuing the perpetrators of this vi- will join me in praising the govern- leads the international community to cious crime; just a blanket endorse- ment of Israel for the plan it an- keep firm pressure on Hamas until

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2995 they agree to internationally recog- Palestinian families and children Israel has been fighting a war on ter- nized and civilized standards of con- must not be targeted. They must not ror for more than 60 years. Presently, duct. At the same time, Congress be deprived of their basic human needs Israel finds itself in the unique position should be working to support the Bush by this Congress. Instead, this House of facing a terrorist organization that administration and the international should assure that Palestinian families is hiding behind the legitimacy of the community to avoid a serious humani- and children will be treated in a fash- Palestinian Authority. Some have cho- tarian crisis among the Palestinian ion that reflects our values and the be- sen to recognize Hamas, a terrorist or- people. lief that their lives are valuable. ganization, as a legitimate governing On May 9, 2006, Secretary Rice said NGOs with significant experience in body for the Palestinian Authority. We as she announced $10 million of med- delivering humanitarian assistance in the United States Congress find this ical assistance to the Palestinian peo- have expressed serious concerns with unacceptable. ple, ‘‘We will continue to work and the lack of flexibility in this bill. On Hamas believes that terrorism is a le- look for ways to assist the Palestinian April 6, 2006, a letter from the United gitimate tool of political negotiation. people and will encourage other coun- States Conference of Catholic Bishops Hamas does not hide from its endorse- tries to join us in this effort.’’ She goes to Chairman HYDE expressing concerns ment of homicide bombings or its de- on to say, ‘‘We will not, however, pro- regarding this bill states, ‘‘The legisla- sire to use this tactic to achieve its vide support to a Hamas-led govern- tion provides for the urgent needs of goal of destroying Israel. ment that refuses to accept the calls of the Palestinian people. A further dete- Make no mistake about it: Hamas the Quartet and the broader inter- rioration of the humanitarian and eco- kills. It murders. It maims. It orphans, national community to renounce terror nomic situation of the Palestinian peo- and it robs. It blunts the future of in- and to become a partner for peace.’’ ple compromises human dignity and nocence. It takes away the happiness of I strongly support her efforts, and it serves the long-term interests of nei- children, and it tears apart families. is unfortunate that the bill tonight ther the Palestinians nor of Israelis Hamas believes that this behavior is could not have been drafted to come to who long for peace.’’ somehow acceptable. the floor that would be supported by In its present form, this bill will not Today, we must send a message to the State Department. The State De- allow NGOs to properly carry out the Hamas and President Abbas that the partment’s comment regarding H.R. very assistance determined to be nec- free nations of the world reject their 4681 is, ‘‘this bill is unnecessary.’’ essary by Secretary Rice, ensuring suf- desire to be recognized as legitimate Instead of advancing the U.S. inter- fering and misery to the Palestinian leaders of their people. Both Hamas ests, H.R. 4681 does not recognize the people. and Fatah’s al-Aksa Martyrs Brigade three criteria set forth by President Later this week in this Chamber, we have a record of terror and their lead- Bush, demanded by President Bush and will be honored by the presence of ers have a demonstrated lack of hu- the international community, for Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. In manity by allowing these murderous Hamas to commence any form of en- an interview last week, Prime Minister activities. gagement and to work with the U.S. Olmert said the Palestinians ‘‘are the Mr. Speaker, today the United States and the international community. victims of their own extremist, fun- House of Representatives sends a H.R. 4681 sets an elevated threshold damentalist, religious, inflexible and which makes U.S. leadership for peace unyielding leadership, and we will do strong message that our government in the Middle East nearly impossible, everything in our power to help these does not and will not deal with terror- even if Hamas does agree to recognize innocent people.’’ ists, nor in this Congress should we or Israel, does renounce terrorism and I strongly associate myself with the will we allow American taxpayer dol- does agree to abide by all previous honest and courageous comments of lars to fund the terrorist activities. agreements. the prime minister and his desire for Israel is engaged in a war on terror. The outcome of this bill, if it were to security and peace. I oppose this bill It is a war that is part of that which is become law, would be to isolate Pales- because it is a missed opportunity to worldwide and in which we find our- tinian leaders who have been com- keep pressure on Hamas. selves engaged as well. mitted to advancing the peace process, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I b 1945 isolate leaders who have denounced yield such time as he may consume to Make no mistake about it, the very terrorism and isolate leaders who are the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. CAN- freedoms that we hold dear are at working with Israel for peace and a TOR), the chief deputy majority whip. stake, and we must never stop fighting permanent two-state solution. How Mr. CANTOR. Mr. Speaker, first of this war until the last terrorist on does this advance the U.S. goals in the all, I would like to salute the region? It does not. gentlelady from Florida on her unbe- Earth is in a cell or a cemetery. This bill’s real result will be to iso- lievable leadership in bringing this bill Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, I stand late the U.S. among the members of to the floor and her tireless efforts in before you as the violence and pain of the international community that are the promotion of freedom and the re- Palestinian terror was felt by my fam- working for peaceful solutions between jection of terror around the world. I ily. As Mr. LANTOS, the gentleman Israel and the Palestinians. thank her for that. from California has said, last week, One of our partners in isolating I also would like to salute and thank Daniel Wultz died of wounds he suf- Hamas and delivering humanitarian as- Chairman HYDE for his leadership in fered in a homicide bombing in Tel sistance to the Palestinian people is bringing this bill to the floor, and cer- Aviv in April. Daniel was my cousin. the United Nations. A section in this tainly the gentleman from California He and his family were visiting Israel bill calls for the withholding of a por- for his dedication to the rejection of celebrating the Jewish holiday of Pass- tion of the U.S. contribution to the terror and the promotion of freedom in over. United Nations, as if this valuable such a tireless way and such an articu- Daniel and his father were eating partner were an enemy. For this bill to late manner here on the House floor. I lunch at a cafe in Tel Aviv, when a target the United Nations, a member of thank the gentleman as well. homicide bomber blew himself up at the quartet, in such a fashion is a clear Mr. Speaker, I do rise today in strong the restaurant. For 27 days Daniel signal that this bill’s intent is to un- support of H.R. 4681, the Palestinian fought for his life, but last Sunday he dermine the Bush administration’s Anti-Terrorism Act. The policy behind died as a result of his wounds. Daniel multilateral leadership. this piece of legislation is identical to was passionate about his family, This bill places extreme constraints that which undergirds the Bush doc- friends and the community around on the delivery of humanitarian assist- trine. It is simple: Terrorism is evil him. He was an excellent student and a ance by non-governmental organiza- and will not be tolerated. Murderous member of the varsity basketball team tions to the Palestinian people. This acts carried out by the terrorists must at the David Posnack Hebrew Day bill’s unnecessary obstacles have the be stopped, and those who perpetuate School in Plantation, Florida. potential for very negative human con- this evil deserve nothing less than con- He was active in the Chabad sequences and would exacerbate a demnation and destruction. That is Lubavitch of Weston and hoped to pur- human crisis. why this legislation must pass. sue his religious studies further after

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2996 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 high school. He was a handsome, witty ready has ample authority to impose medicine. But it makes no provision and compassionate young man, and did all its restrictions, and constrains the for other forms of humanitarian assist- not hesitate to speak out against any executive branch’s flexibility to use ance, such as aid for the homeless or injustice he encountered in his daily sanctions as appropriate as tools to ad- displaced families and orphans. life. dress rapidly changing circumstances. Mr. Speaker, some have pointed to He was devoted to the laws and These are the words of the adminis- Presidential waiver authority in the teachings of Judaism and Tikun Olam, tration. And I think the Congress bill and suggested that it would allow the Jewish ideal that we must work to would do well to consider them. critical assistance to reach Palestin- make the world a better place. Daniel Mr. Speaker, I yield 51⁄2 minutes to ians. Not so. Unfortunately, all aid be- was a young man with a bright future. the gentleman from North Carolina yond health-related humanitarian as- Now he is gone, robbed of his bright (Mr. PRICE). sistance would be prohibited unless the and promising future. (Mr. PRICE of North Carolina asked President, on a case-by-case basis, were Daniel is survived by his parents, and was given permission to revise and to certify that assistance is required by Sheryl and Tuly Wultz, and his sister, extend his remarks.) U.S. national security. Amanda. I join my colleagues in send- Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. And then he would have to consult ing our deepest sympathies. Speaker, almost exactly a year ago, I with Congress 25 days in advance and Mr. Speaker, I want to again salute joined a bipartisan group of Members submit a written memorandum ex- the gentlewoman from Florida and her in visiting the Hope Flowers School in plaining why such assistance benefits efforts on this bill and want to say that the Palestinian village of al Khader, U.S. security. How many projects I wholeheartedly supported her bill in just outside of Bethlehem on the West would survive such a gauntlet? Think its original form as well. Bank. about the kinds of aid programs that Mr. Speaker, I would draw the Hope Flowers teaches its students a would be cut off, projects that focus on House’s attention to page 8 of the bill curriculum promoting tolerance, non- building democratic institutions and and section 2 in which we speak about violence, democracy and peaceful coex- civil society, projects that promote the exceptions to the prohibition of as- istence. Our bipartisanship delegation economic development to stabilize the sistance in the Palestinian Authority, witnessed the signing of a USAID territories, projects that ensure that especially to section 620K of the law in agreement to renovate several class- school curricula provide students with which the bill provides for an exception rooms and other key facilities at the a progressive education rather than to fund the President of the Pales- school. fundamentalist propaganda, curricula tinian Authority for nonsecurity ex- Projects like this are supported by that teach tolerance and conflict reso- penses. the United States throughout the Pal- lution skills. Surely programs like this It is this provision, Mr. Speaker, that estinian territories. Other projects are are in our interest. I hope that we will be able to limit and paying for modern school books to en- Mr. Speaker, they are exactly what remove in the conference with the Sen- sure that fundamentalist propaganda we need to reduce violence, to build the ate. Hamas must renounce terrorism, has no place in Palestinian schools; po- capacity of Palestinian civil society, destroy all terrorist organizations that table water projects to prevent the and make progress toward a peaceful are allowed to operate in the Pales- spread of disease, economic develop- resolution; and yet they are exactly tinian Territory, and it must recognize ment to improve job prospects for Pal- the programs that would be eliminated Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state. estinian youth, and construction of in this bill. Mr. Speaker, there are other prob- Hamas and the Palestinian President, hospitals, schools, sewers, power grids lems with the bill as well. It would sig- Mr. Abbas, must understand that we in and business centers. nificantly handicap any effort to en- These types of projects are critical to the United States Congress are serious gage the moderate elements in the Pal- our interests, to Israel, and to the pros- about this policy. estinian Authority, such as Palestinian We must make it clear to the world pects for peace. They help prevent hu- Authority President Abbas, by oppos- that the U.S. does not see terrorism as manitarian crises and diminish popular ing restrictions on visas, travel, and of- discontent, and they also inculcate val- a viable tool for negotiations. This is a ficial Palestinian Authority represen- ues like those taught at Hope Flowers. first step in the process. And I would tation in the U.S. like to bring to the attention of the They train peacemakers; they im- Mr. Speaker, because of these funda- House that I strongly disagree with one prove America’s standing in the Middle mental flaws in the legislation, it is op- of the speakers from the opposition East. Why would we want to eliminate posed by several leading voices for who stated that this bill does not pro- programs like these? Are they not Israel and Middle East peace, including vide for humanitarian efforts for emer- needed now more than ever? And yet the Israel Policy Forum, Brit Tzedek, gency aid for the people in the Pales- that is exactly what H.R. 4681 would Americans for Peace Now, Churches for tinian Authority. It does. do. It would cut off U.S. assistance to Middle East Peace, a broad Protestant Mr. Speaker, I look forward to work- the West Bank and Gaza. coalition, and the U.S. Conference of ing with the gentlewoman, to working Mr. Speaker, I stress, despite the way Catholic Bishops. with Chairman HYDE and the gen- some proponents are trying to frame The Bush administration also op- tleman from California to strengthen this debate tonight, the issue is not aid poses this bill. In a paper delivered to this bill. I urge passage of this bill, and to Hamas or to the Hamas-controlled the House International Relations note that we all must stand for the ab- Palestinian Authority. Nobody on this Committee, the State Department solute rejection of terrorism and abso- floor tonight has any tolerance for calls the bill unnecessary and says it lutely no U.S. taxpayer dollar being Hamas. unduly constrains the Executive’s spent for terrorist activities. The issue is rather the bill’s ban on flexibility. Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I aid to all nongovernmental groups, pri- Mr. Speaker, there is no denying that yield myself 45 seconds. vate groups, and organizations, many Hamas’s election victory was a signifi- Mr. Speaker, invoking the Bush doc- of whom are diametrically opposed to cant step backward in the quest for a trine, the previous speaker talks about Hamas’s philosophy. Let me clarify peaceful resolution to this conflict. humanitarian assistance. One of the some further misconceptions about There is no disagreement here tonight concerns that the Bush administration this legislation. I am not speculating that we should send Hamas a strong has in not supporting this bill is that it here, Mr. Speaker; I am referring to message that the world will not tol- is too narrowly drawn, talking about page 12 of the bill. I invite colleagues erate its violent and irresponsible be- ‘‘health,’’ and not broader humani- to read it. havior. tarian assistance. Mr. Speaker, some have suggested But this bill goes far beyond sending Mr. Speaker, I will discuss that later the bill contains sufficient exceptions that message. Instead, it sends the in the course of the evening. Due to the to allow humanitarian assistance to message that the U.S. wants to punish mandatory nature of the bill, its lack pass through. Not so. The bill makes the Palestinian people for Hamas’s ac- of a general waiver, the executive an exception for health-related human- tion, a message that serves no good branch thinks it is unnecessary. It al- itarian aid, such as food, water and purpose.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2997 We can unanimously support, and ment before. There are a lot of dif- racy and transparency, although their that is what we should be doing to- ferences, but there is one common immediate benefit is a little unclear in night, my colleagues, we can unani- thing. the Middle East right now. But I be- mously support legislation blocking as- When this House helped override the lieve that if there were a strict inter- sistance to Hamas, and to a Hamas- veto of Ronald Reagan against sanc- pretation of this criteria, we could not controlled Palestinian Authority. tions against the hateful, racist regime have helped the Camp David Peace But if we adopt legislation that pun- of South Africa, we were told by many Agreement with Egypt which was nei- ishes the Palestinian people, instead of that we would be hurting the people of ther democratic nor transparent, nor is isolating the terrorists, we lose the South Africa, and that was true. The Jordan, nor was the PLO and the PLA moral high ground. Let us reclaim the average South African, the average before Hamas. moral high ground, signal our resolute black South African who was victim- Let me put it this way: If Abbas’ opposition to terrorism and also our ized by apartheid was, in the short team had won instead of Hamas, I be- support for those Palestinian individ- term, victimized by sanctions. And we lieve there might have been an argu- uals and groups who are working for a did not apply sanctions only against ment that they don’t meet the criteria. peaceful and democratic future. the racists who ran the government; we So I would ask the gentleman from Mr. Speaker, we should defeat this applied sanctions against the whole California, how strictly are we going to bill and ask the IR Committee to bring country. interpret these criteria? Can he give back a bill truly reflective of American It is sometimes the case that appro- me some assurance that these criteria interests and values. priate public policy will have short- will not be so strictly interpreted that Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 7 term negative effects. But here is our you would make it impossible to deal minutes to my good friend and our dis- problem, as I say. We have been told with the very imperfect regimes that tinguished colleague from Massachu- that Hamas won that election in part we are going to have to deal with? setts (Mr. FRANK). because of its skill at delivering goods Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, will the Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. I and services. That means if you sup- gentleman yield? thank the ranking member. port peace, it is very much in your in- Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. I yield Mr. Speaker, first the criticism of terest not to aid Hamas’s ability to de- to the gentleman from California. the procedure. This is a difficult and liver goods and services. Mr. LANTOS. If I may take the floor, complex bill. It has no business being So I fully support the part of the bill I fully agree with the interpretation of before us under suspension of the rules. that says, no aid for Hamas. I have to my friend from Massachusetts. We are It ought to be subject to amendment say to some of my friends, I do also not looking for protection from Hamas. and unrestricted debate. It’s not like want to warn the President, as some of There is no perfection in any of the we didn’t have enough time. my liberal friends have come here to governments with which we have diplo- And to show our commitment to de- defend his right for flexibility in the matic relations and which we support mocracy by muffling it here serves no foreign policy, please be warned that with huge amounts like the govern- good purpose. But we do have the bill that is a very temporary alliance. ment of Egypt. We are merely asking before us. I plan to vote for it after for minimal standards of civilized be- some conversation in which I hope I b 2000 havior, the termination of suicide can be joined by the gentleman from Mr. President, please don’t assume bombings and the acceptance of their California. that your allies here arguing for your neighbor in peace. Mr. Speaker, let me explain my basic flexibility will last much longer than Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. I reason. We were told when Hamas won tonight. But I also am very skeptical of thank the gentleman. Reclaiming my that election, tragically, when the ma- those who say, well, let’s give the time, I hope as this process goes for- jority of the people of Israel were ready money so they can have better schools. ward in the less restricted other body to make significant concessions, had Let’s give the money so they can learn that we can clarify that and sharpen it. already begun to do that, an historic reconciliation, et cetera. No, I don’t I will say that with regard to the inter- moment when Israel was ready to think a Hamas government is going to national financial institutions over make significant concessions for peace, allow that. So I am very much in favor which the committee on which I serve they were totally repudiated. We were of this bill insofar as it says, no, we has jurisdiction, we struck from the told, well, don’t overinterpret that will not contribute to the further polit- bill the requirement of democracy as a election, because the victory of Hamas, ical growth of Hamas. I want that gov- prerequisite for peace in the Middle which in percentage terms wasn’t as ernment to fail and fall. And that does East. great as in the Parliament for a vari- mean, as it did with sanctions in South Let me also note, by the way, I was ety of reasons, but we were told that Africa, some short-term pain, although struck, the gentleman from Virginia victory for Hamas was not simply from this bill, more than it has been de- lamented the inclusion in the provision people who agreed with their scribed by its opponents, does allow for in this bill which some of the oppo- rejectionist, hateful philosophy; but it humanitarian aid. nents have denied existed. It is kind of was probably because they were so Let me say for those of my liberal an odd thing. The poor provision is at- much better than Fatah at delivering friends who mourn for the President’s tacked by people who don’t like it and services. flexibility: Don’t you know that when- denied by people who do. That is the To some extent, we got the expla- ever we grant waivers, no matter how provision allowing aid to the president nation, frankly, for congressional ear- complicated the process, they are of the Authority. The bill does provide marks. Why do Members here like to waived? There is nothing about a re- that the aid can go to President Abbas earmark? Because they can go deliver quirement of a Presidential waiver to make peace, not just for his personal the goods to people back home and that ever stops the President from security. then get votes from people who don’t doing what he has done. The President So I disagree with the gentleman agree with them. That is, we all know, can certify that Abbas was pregnant if from Virginia. It is that amendment why we have earmarks. he had to to get the bill through, and and some of the other amendments Well, I don’t want Hamas getting any he would do it. The history of waivers that we have had in there. So I will be more earmarks. I don’t want to con- is they have been no obstacle to what voting for the bill at this point in the tribute to a situation where Hamas can policy is. spirit the gentleman from California deliver the goods because they are well But here is my problem, and I would has mentioned, namely that, yes, we funded, and then can convert the good ask the gentleman from California to say ‘‘no’’ to Hamas because we have no will they earned with that money into respond in this way, I agree that we interest in funding Hamas so it be- votes for rejection. shouldn’t aid Hamas. But this bill says comes more politically popular in sup- That is why I fully support a strict we should only aid any entity if it be- port of its rejectionism. But we do not refusal to fund Hamas. And people say, comes democratic or has taken steps to interpret this bill as being an obstacle well, you will be punishing the Pales- become democratic and to become to negotiations of the sort that we tinian people. I have heard the argu- transparent. Now, I am all for democ- have with Egypt, with Jordan, with

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H2998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 Arafat, certainly no winner of the civil ion, and this serious debate tonight of this Congress, and I speak my heart- liberties award from anybody. about which there are serious dif- felt condolences to Daniel’s family. With that assurance of the gen- ferences that I deeply respect, this de- May we act in such a way that Daniel tleman and the hope that we can refine bate tonight about the future of Amer- and his loss will soon, some day soon, this as it goes forward, I will vote for ican financial assistance to the Pales- be simply a part of a history of a time this bill. tinian Authority is such a debate. gone by, a history that will be remem- Mr. LANTOS. We appreciate the gen- Let us say plainly, Hamas is a ter- bered as other violent pages of the his- tleman’s support. rorist organization that advocates for tory of mankind have been remem- ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE its political ideology the murder of in- bered, with respect, with grief but rep- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. nocent civilians. This Congress, this resentative of a time that is past. And KUHL of New York). The Chair would President, his administration and the that will be my prayer. remind Members to direct their re- American people have been clear, the Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I marks to the Chair, not the President. United States does not support, nego- yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I tiate or fund terrorist organizations, Michigan (Mr. DINGELL), the Dean of yield such time as he may consume to even those that have won a majority of the House. the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. a legislature. Tonight we will say (Mr. DINGELL asked and was given PENCE), a member of the International clearly in this Palestinian Anti-Ter- permission to revise and extend his re- Relations Committee. rorism Act: Not one penny for Hamas. marks.) (Mr. PENCE asked and was given per- The Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, this leg- mission to revise and extend his re- promotes, however, a democratic Pal- islation should be considered under an marks.) estinian Authority that denounces and open rule with lengthy debate and full Mr. PENCE. I thank the gentle- combats terrorism, de-arms and dis- opportunity to discuss it, not at 8 woman for yielding, and more to the mantles terrorist agencies, networks o’clock at night with the corporal’s point, I thank Representative ROS- and facilities, and works to eliminate guard here on the floor. LEHTINEN for her extraordinary leader- anti-Israel and anti-Semitic incite- I yield to no man in my support for ship of the Subcommittee on the Mid- ment and the commemoration of ter- Israel. I have voted for hundreds of bil- dle East and Central Asia where it is rorists; one that agrees to respect the lions of dollars for it over the years I my privilege to serve. My heartfelt ap- sovereignty of its neighbors and ac- have served here. And I yield to no man my position to terror and terrorism preciation to Chairman Henry Hyde to knowledges, respects and upholds the and terrorists. But that is not what is demonstrate that the lion still roars. human rights; and one at its very core His leadership in bringing this legisla- at issue here tonight. that has agreed to recognize our cher- The administration says this bill is tion to the floor is meaningful and of ished ally, the State of Israel, as an not necessary. It points out that this global significance. And to my mentor independent, sovereign, Jewish, demo- bill constrains the administration in and friend, the ranking member, the cratic state. delivering meaningful diplomatic effort gentleman from California (Mr. LAN- Now, there are criticisms tonight to resolve the problems of the Middle TOS) I rise with gratitude for your well spoken and no doubt well inten- East. The Middle East’s problems and tioned that say that the administra- moral leadership again demonstrated the problems of the Palestinians and tion and our country will lack the on this floor this evening with your el- the Israelis will not be resolved by oquent and powerful words. flexibility to meet the humanitarian starving the Palestinians or by cre- I rise today in strong support of the needs on the ground. But I must say, ating additional hardship. They are Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act. As an Mr. Speaker, with the clear language of desperate people, incarcerated in walls, original co-sponsor of the act, I come this legislation that I would argue oth- afflicted with high unemployment, suf- to this floor tonight saddened. I am erwise; that this legislation excludes fering from health and other problems. saddened at what seems to be a dimin- funding for ‘‘basic human health The non-governmental organizations ishing opportunity for peace. In the needs.’’ There is also the allowance of point out that this will strip them in wake of a world hopeful with the elec- security for President Abbas, and then substantial part of contributing to tion of President Abbas, we saw it fol- perhaps the broadest exception that this. It will in large part almost totally lowed with the election of a legislative has even met with some criticism to- strip the United States from the abil- majority within the Palestinian Au- night, an exception for nonsecurity ex- ity to address the needs of the Pales- thority of a terrorist organization penses that are ‘‘related to the facilita- tinian people and to address the hu- known as Hamas. I am saddened to- tion of a peaceful resolution of the con- manitarian concerns which we have night by the story of Daniel whose flict between the Palestinian people about them. family’s loss will be remembered, not and Israel.’’ Peace in the Middle East is not going just as it was poignantly this evening Back in southern Indiana, we call to be achieved at gunpoint. It is going by Congressman CANTOR on this floor that a hole that you could drive a to be achieved by negotiations, by peo- as he spoke of his own flesh and blood, truck through, and it is precisely the ple working together; and that process but will be remembered later this week kind of flexibility that we need in these may be ugly, dirty and slow, but it is as the Prime Minister of Israel comes uncertain days. In these days, even in the only process that will work. To cre- with some of Daniel’s family at his the last 24 hours, where we have seen ate additional hardship and suffering side. nascent evidence of even a civil war for the Palestinians is simply going to The gentleman from California (Mr. emerging within the Palestinian Au- guarantee more desperate, angry men LANTOS) reminded us of the human cost thority, as much as I might like a who are fully determined that they will about which we debate tonight, and the much more narrowly construed bill, I go forth to kill Israelis or Americans policies and the messages that we will am prepared to endorse this legisla- or anybody else. Our purpose here to- send from this well to a waiting world tion, carefully crafted for the exigen- night should be to look to the well- will speak to real human loss, a loss of cies of our time. I pray for the peace of being of the United States, craft a pol- opportunity, a loss of promise, to the Jerusalem and for all the people that icy which is good for this country. And loss of Daniel. It has been said many live there. that policy can only be one which is times tonight, and I take my col- Mr. Speaker, the Palestinian Anti- good for Israel and for the Palestinian leagues at their word, that the State Terrorism Act sends a clear signal once people, one which is fair to all, one Department has said that this legisla- again that the United States will not which puts the United States as a tion is ‘‘unnecessary.’’ tolerate terrorism, and we take a crit- friend and an honest broker of peace to But let me say, as one of 435 Rep- ical stand at this moment in history in both parties where we can be so accept- resentatives in the United States advocating for meaningful reform to ed. House of Representatives, that the the very center of the Hamas charter. I world waits for the leadership of this salute my colleagues, both Democrat b 2015 Congress and this Nation, and they and Republican, for bringing this crit- To take some other course is simply wait for moral leadership that is clar- ical and moral legislation to the floor to assure continuing hardship and a

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2999 continuing poisonous, hateful relation- If this legislation is signed into law we will Hamas. Having taken over the govern- ship amongst the parties in the area. lose once and for all the Palestinian people. ment of the Palestinian Authority, When this Congress realizes that and Our rejection of them will create one clear vic- Hamas has reiterated its commitment when we, this Congress and the others tor—the government of Iran. If we pass this to violence and the destruction of here, will recognize that that is the legislation, Iran will win by default. Instead of Israel. The charter of Hamas is quite way peace is achieved, then there will textbooks for Palestinian children being written clear about this. I have read that char- be a real prospect for peace. We can ex- by USAID they will be written by the Iranian ter time and time again. It is unaccept- pect that the Palestinians will receive Revolutionary Council. Schools will be built able, and it is the duty of all nations to the justice that they seek. We can ex- with Iranian oil money and our ability to influ- keep pressure on Hamas to renounce pect that the Israelis will achieve the ence peace will be weaker as a result. terrorism and recognize the State of security that they need and they want What I find so strange is that this legislation Israel. and they deserve and that we want is being championed by people who believe The resolution before us today is an them to have. themselves to be the staunchest supporters of effective and noteworthy vehicle for This legislation will do none of that. Israel. Mr. Speaker, in order to strengthen the Congress of the United States to This legislation promises further angry Israel peace needs to prevail in the region. In send this message. The United States men, more bitterness, more hate, more order to guarantee Israel’s survival the Pal- will not give assistance, financial or ill-will; and it assures that the thing estinians need to find prosperity and view the otherwise, to Hamas or any Hamas- which we must use to bring this miser- United States as a friend. This bill will only controlled entity. Terrorism cannot be able situation to an end, honest, honor- stymie those efforts. I ask my colleagues to tolerated. We will not treat this gov- able, face-to-face negotiation, will ei- vote no. ernment as legitimate as long as their ther not occur or will be moved many Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am very current dangerous policies and rhetoric years into the future. pleased to yield 4 minutes to the gen- remain in place. Think about it. The needs of Israel tleman from New Jersey (Mr. Many of us in the House are in favor are not served by this resolution. The PASCRELL), my good friend. of a peaceful, two-state solution to the needs of the United States are not (Mr. PASCRELL asked and was given Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but this served by this resolution. The needs of permission to revise and extend his re- will be unattainable while Hamas re- the Palestinian people are not served marks.) fuses to renounce terror. by this resolution. Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I We do not want to punish the Pales- Let us vote it down and get some- thank the ranking member. tinian people. We know that the over- thing which makes sense and which I am going to support this resolution whelming majority of Palestinians and serves the interests of all concerned. when it comes to a vote tomorrow. I the overwhelming majority of Amer- Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to want to take this opportunity, if I ican Palestinians and Palestinian the resolution on the floor. I oppose Hamas. I may, to speak about some of the issues Americans do not adhere to the de- oppose what they stand for. I oppose their use that have been raised during this very structive philosophy of Hamas. Hamas of violence, their targeting of civilians; their vi- important debate, very critical debate. must reject its charter which calls for sion for the Palestinian people; their rejection We have lowered our voices, really, and the destruction of Israel. Nothing less of Israel; and most of all I deplore their rejec- raised our commitment on all sides of is acceptable. tion of peaceful reconciliation. this issue. For all these reasons, and many more, I do The United States must encourage I represent one of the most diverse not think that Hamas is a true partner for the meeting between Israeli Prime districts in the United States of Amer- peace. But while Hamas may not be, the Pal- Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian ica. When I was mayor of the city that estinian people are. The vast majority of Pal- Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, was the center of my district, estinians want peace. The vast majority value planned for next week, a very critical Paterson, where I have lived all my peace, follow the law, oppose violence—and time for this legislation, as an impor- legislation like this only hurts the vast majority life, Jews and Arabs and Muslims and tant way to keep a dialogue going be- we need for peace. Palestinians, we worked together, we tween the Israelis and the Palestinians. I understand the House’s desire to ostracize prayed together, and we still do. I will vote for this legislation be- Hamas. But I do not understand how we keep The conflict is very serious, we know cause I feel strongly that the loudest making the same mistakes by punishing the that. Building bridges is part of my message practicable must be sent to very people we all say we want to help. The bone marrow. You learn that when you Hamas. restrictions on aid in this bill will not hurt are a mayor. Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I Hamas, they will receive plenty of money from The conflict in Israel is the axis on yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman Iran, but this will hurt the Palestinian people. which much of the Middle East and from California (Mrs. CAPPS). Under this bill assistance will be limited only much of the Middle East politics spins, (Mrs. CAPPS asked and was given to ‘‘basic health’’, a restriction we reject for al- but let us not forget that what we do permission to revise and extend her re- most every other nation. This bill would stop and say here has major implications marks.) economic development assistance, sanitation across the globe. This is true in the Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I thank assistance, environmental assistance—and Congress, as well as when the President my colleague from Oregon for yielding. most ironically, at a time when we are criti- speaks. Mr. Speaker, let me begin by paying cizing their choice of government—democracy The United States is strongly com- special tribute to Chairman HYDE. This assistance. mitted to the security of Israel as a may be his last year of service in this Make no mistake about it; their vote was to Jewish state. There is no question that House, but his legacy of trying to bring get back at our own repeatedly misguided at- our friend and ally has every right to peace to Israel and the Palestinians tempts to punish rather than cajole, to batter defend itself against those who oppose will live on for many years to come. rather than build trust, and to impoverish rath- freedom and democracy. Mr. Speaker, I must rise in opposi- er than to uplift. When we provided Mahmoud The record will show very clearly, tion to this bill. Abbas no deliverables and only hardships, it Mr. Speaker, that I have not put my Let there be no mistake, Hamas is a made Hamas’s promises hard to ignore. signature on every one of those pieces ruthless terrorist organization. Unless Our actions emboldened the Hamas, and of legislation over the past 10 years, Hamas recognizes Israel’s right to exist we are about to do it again. My friends, pas- but I think this is different. Many of and renounces terror, the Palestinian sage of this legislation will create yet another those pieces of legislation I think exac- Authority should receive no direct U.S. failed state and humanitarian catastrophe in erbated the situation in the Middle assistance. Direct aid to the Hamas- the Middle East. However, this one, unlike East. The ranking member and I have controlled PA has been cut off. The Iraq, will be surrounded by our staunchest ally talked about that many times. Not this basic goal of this bill has already been in that region. If we destabilize Palestine we time. This is a clear denunciation of accomplished. will destabilize Israel. If we help create chaos Hamas, an organization motivated by But H.R. 4681 goes well beyond this we weaken the chance for finding peace be- hate, not pride. objective. It is a punitive measure tween Israel and her neighbors—and even The world community harbors deep aimed at punishing the Palestinian threaten the very viability of the Jewish state. trepidation regarding the rise of people. It will undermine U.S. national

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H3000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 interests. It will do nothing to carefully crafted and aimed at the ter- Hamas recognizes Israel’s rights to strengthen Israel security. rorist organization called Hamas. exist, renounces terrorism, agrees to I have two main objections with this I did not know, Mr. Speaker, when I abide by previous PLO and PA agree- bill. First, it places nearly insurmount- spoke about the 16-year-old young ments with Israel and the United able efforts to future U.S. efforts to en- American citizen who was killed by States, and does not have a member of gage Palestinians and Israel in peace- Hamas that he is the cousin of one of a foreign terrorist organization in a making. It lacks the normal Presi- our colleagues, and I would like to ex- senior policy-making position. dential national security waiver; and tend my condolences to my friend from And despite the prohibition of direct unbelievably, it would limit United Virginia who suffered this personal assistance, the bill includes exceptions, States diplomatic contact with mod- loss. as it should. For example, the Presi- erate, non-Hamas Palestinian officials. The avalanche of misrepresentations dent still may provide assistance for Why is this? These are the very leaders can only be ascribed to a sloppy read- nonsecurity expenses directly related who recognize Israel and who support ing of this legislation. It is extremely to facilitating a peaceful resolution of peace, and it makes absolutely no carefully crafted, and if, in fact, the the conflict. Furthermore, the bill re- sense for us to undercut them at this issue would not be as serious, I would stricts indirect assistance through non- critical time. find it ludicrous that some of the governmental organizations unless the Second, except for very limited cir- sharpest critics of the Bush adminis- certification described above is made cumstances, this bill will cut off hu- tration have suddenly found great af- by the President. manitarian aid to the Palestinian peo- fection for the Bush administration be- However, let me add, this provision ple at the very moment when a horren- cause, like all other administrations, it contains an unqualified exception for dous humanitarian disaster is looming. wants total flexibility. basic human health needs, such as The United States, our Quartet part- It is ludicrous that the most virulent food, water, medicine and sanitation ners, and Israel are all hard at work at critics of the Bush administration sud- services. I tell some of my friends, if present to avoid catastrophe and to de- denly find themselves in bed with the that were not in here, I would have res- liver assistance around Hamas to cred- Bush administration. This is, to say ervations, but those basic services are ible and transparent NGOs. H.R. 4681 the least, unseemly. fully excepted in this legislation. Mr. Speaker, this bill is, I think, goes in the opposite direction. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the measured and balanced and dem- I simply cannot see how denying gentleman from Maryland (Mr. HOYER), onstrates the refusal of the United chemotherapy treatment for Pales- the distinguished Democratic whip, my States to reward terrorists for ter- tinian children increases Israel’s secu- good friend. rorism. It should not be, and I think it rity or advances U.S. national inter- Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank is not, punitive as it relates to the Pal- ests. the gentleman for yielding. estinian people. It provides, as I said, Mr. Speaker, there is significant op- Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Mr. for health needs, food, water, medicine position to this bill in the pro-Israel LANTOS and Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN for and sanitation services. They are in community, and I highlight again, re- bringing this legislation to the floor. need of those services, and we ought to spected national groups like Americans The premise of this bill is eminently provide them. for Peace Now, Israel Policy Forum, reasonable, in my opinion, and one But what we ought not to do and and Brit Tzedek strongly oppose this with which the American people, I what we ought never to do is to give legislation. They tell us voting ‘‘no’’ on think, strongly agree. In short, the aid and comfort to terrorists or to ter- this bill is a pro-Israel vote. United States of America should not, rorist organizations or to terrorist gov- Groups like Churches for Middle East indeed it must not, provide assistance ernments. Because if we do so, that Peace and the Conference of Catholic to a government run by terrorists will encourage others to commit hei- Bishops, with decades of experience whose very policy and purpose is the nous acts of terrorism, as were done providing humanitarian relief, they op- destruction of another nation. here, as are done in Israel, and have pose it as well. All of us are concerned about the been done around the world. The State Department also opposes plight of the Palestinian people, who Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I the bill, calling it unnecessary and have suffered tragically for decades am pleased to yield 4 minutes to the criticizing its provisions as objection- under the leadership of Arafat and now gentleman from Illinois (Mr. LAHOOD). able. Hamas. (Mr. LAHOOD asked and was given On Wednesday, we will welcome I share those concerns. I have been to permission to revise and extend his re- Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to Gaza. I have been to the West Bank. I marks.) this Chamber. Yesterday, this is what have met with President Abbas and Mr. LAHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I thank he told his Cabinet: ‘‘We have no inten- other Palestinian officials, and I have the gentleman for the time. I think tion of helping the Palestinian govern- seen the deprivation, the frustration, this is not a carefully crafted bill. I ment, but I say we will render such as- and the lack of opportunity in the Pal- think this is, as much as I respect the sistance as may be necessary for hu- estinian territories. chairman and the ranking member, and manitarian needs.’’ He also dispatched I think there is not one of us on this I do respect the chairman, I have his top two ministers for a substantive floor who is not concerned about their known the chairman for the 20 years I meeting with Palestinian President plight, as we should be. However, our have been in politics, and I respect the Mahmoud Abbas. legitimate concerns for the Palestinian ranking member, but I think the ap- If this policy of shutting the door on people must not obscure the fact that proach that is offered in this bill is Hamas but opening it to Palestinian the Palestinian Authority is now con- what I would characterize as a meat- moderates and the Palestinian people trolled by Hamas, an organization des- axe approach. themselves is good enough for the ignated as a terrorist entity by the This does not help common ordinary Prime Minister of Israel, it should be United States and by the European citizens. What it does is it hurts com- good enough for the U.S. House of Rep- Union. No one here, I understand, mon ordinary citizens. There is no resentatives. stands to defend Hamas; but it is a other way around it. You can protest So I urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ movement that is committed to the de- as much as you want about Mrs. CAPPS on H.R. 4681. struction of another nation, in this and what she said, but she is right. Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield case our ally Israel. Common ordinary citizens, common or- myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I believe this balanced dinary Palestinians are going to be Before yielding time, I would like to legislation is warranted. hurt by this, because the funding is just say a word about the avalanche of going to be cut off for educational serv- misrepresentations which we have b 2030 ices, for health services, for the serv- heard on this floor. Among other provisions, it prohibits ices that these people need very badly. This legislation does not in any sense direct financial transfers to the Pales- And what we have now, it looks to provide any punishment for the Pales- tinian Authority. That is our policy: me like at least a couple hundred Sec- tinian people, just the opposite. It is until the President certifies that retaries of State, as reflected in this

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3001 bill. Do you all know more than the like to yield half of my time to Mr. Israel. I support this bill because Secretary of State? Do you know more LANTOS, and ask unanimous consent Hamas has claimed responsibility for than the President? Do you think your that he be permitted to control that the murder of 26 American citizens. policy is better than the administra- time. Those American citizens include: David tion’s policy? Yes, you do. Well, I don’t The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Applebaum of Ohio; Nava Applebaum, happen to agree with that. I really objection to the request of the gentle- also of Ohio; Alan Beer of Ohio; Marla don’t. woman from Florida? Bennet of California; Benjamin And I ask Members, I may be the There was no objection. Blutstein of Pennsylvania; David Boim only Republican to vote against this. I Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I of New York; Yael Botwin of Cali- am obviously going to be the only Re- yield such time as he consume to the fornia; Dina Carter of North Carolina; publican to speak against it, but I ask gentleman from Illinois (Mr. KIRK). Janis Ruth Coulter of Massachusetts; Members who representat large Arab Mr. KIRK. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Sara Duker of New Jersey; Matthew populations in their districts to think gentlewoman, the chairwoman of our Eisenfeld of Connecticut; Tzvi Gold- about this. This hurts the Palestinian committee, and I want to applaud her stein of New York; Judith Greenbaum people. There is no other way to put it. and Congressman LANTOS, two Mem- of New Jersey; David Gritz of Massa- And I do not know why you are doing bers who cut through the partisan ran- chusetts; Dina Horowitz of Florida; Eli this. In the name of protecting Israel? cor of this institution to act with clar- Horowitz of Illinois; Tehilla Nathanson I just think this is a bad idea, and I ity against murderous intolerance. of New York; Malka Roth of New York; don’t understand why it is being done. Mr. Speaker, we sometimes may ask Mordechai Reinitz of New York; I would say this: The new prime min- the question: If I was alive in 1939, Yitzhak Reinitz of New York; Malka ister of Israel is in this country. In a what would I have done? If I was alive Roth of New York; Leah Stern of New day or two, he will be walking down in 1939, would I have recognized the Jersey; Goldie Taubenfeld of New York; this middle aisle. And if he were able to coming danger to America? If I was Shmuel Taubenfeld of New York; vote and have a card that would allow alive in 1939, would I have seen the Nachshon Wachsman of New York; Ira him to vote as he walks down, he would seeds of genocide? But we do not live in Weinstein of New York; and Yitzhak vote against this bill. He has recog- 1939. We live in 2006, and many of the Weinstock of California. nized that it is a bad bill. And if he had dangers we see today have parallels in My colleague from New York talked the opportunity to put his voting card history. about the common people that this as he walks down, he would vote Across the sea now, there is an intol- would hurt. Common Americans have against it, as would a large part of this erant dictator rising who says that one been killed by Hamas, and their blood administration. Why? Because it hurts Holocaust is not enough. The people in is on the fingers of Hamas leaders. It is common ordinary people. That is why. Israel rightly fear a new intolerant Is- time for us to call it as we see it: intol- If you are going after Hamas, go after lamic mullah who might say that an- erant murderous leaders, people who in them, but don’t restrict the funding other 6 million should be murdered. other uniforms at other times we have that helps people. The reason that The Iranians have many allies in the seen before; and for us to cut off their Hamas won the election is the Pal- world. None of their allies are better funding, to say that the only Hamas estinians didn’t have the right people than Hamas, leaders trained by ty- moderate is a Hamas radical out of on the ballot and didn’t work the bal- rants, funded by murderers and utterly money and bullets, and for us to say lot in order to do it. And Hamas has clear in their political program. One of that we wish this government, this gone out into those communities and the lessons of history is that dictators Hamas government to fail, that in its provided services, and they have en- say what they are going to do and then place a more moderate government deared themselves to the Palestinian do what they said. And Hamas has told will rise, and at that time, it will be people while the leadership of Pal- us that they are for killing innocent ci- the time for the United States to sup- estine has been pocketing a lot of vilians, and they have done that. They port it and not a minute before that. money. That’s the reason they won the tell us that they support international And I want to take one more per- elections. They ran better elections. terrorist attacks, and they have done sonal privilege to say to the gentleman But why fault the people for that? And that, too. Hamas has told us that they from California, Mr. LANTOS: Thank why take this kind of funding away wish to drive our democratic allies in you. Thank you for your leadership. from common ordinary citizens? Israel into the sea, and we cannot let Thank you for your history. And thank Now, for all of you that come out on them do that. you for cutting through all of the rhet- this floor all the time and talk about Democracies are best when they de- oric and giving us clear direction to what we should be doing and what we fend each other, and the best way to use your eyes and your experience to are cutting and what we are not cut- defend our allies is to support mod- teach us of how the past can inform the ting, this is an opportunity to say to erate Arabs willing to join in peace. So future so that it does not happen again. common ordinary citizens in Palestine: we did that. The United States, the Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, be- We care about you. We care about your Congress, this House over the last fore I recognize the gentleman from health care. We care about education. many fiscal years, provided hundreds of Ohio, I would yield myself 5 minutes, We care about your opportunity for millions of taxpayer dollars to support because I have been sitting here re- jobs and to really be able to do the moderate Arabs. flecting on my good friend from Cali- things you want to do. We in this House funded the rise of fornia’s comments about people who But if you vote for this, we say: The Yasir Arafat. We created the Pales- suddenly are the best friend of the ad- heck with you. We care more about tinian Authority. We embraced the in- ministration who have been critical of sending a message to Hamas leadership effective government of Mahmoud them. than we do about the people of Pal- Abbas. And each of these efforts, at a Well, I have only been here 10 years, estine. I think that is what the mes- cost of hundreds of millions of tax- not as long as my distinguished friend, sage is. This will not hurt the leader- payer dollars from the United States, but one of the things I have tried to do ship of Hamas. It will not. Because have failed. And so now we see Hamas with Republican and Democratic ad- they are going to have the money and taking power, a Hamas that what it ministrations alike, when it comes to the resources that they need, and they does not get politically is taking mili- foreign policy, is to attempt to be sup- will say what they want, but it will tarily. Yesterday, Hamas tried to as- portive when I agree but to be clear hurt common ordinary people. sassinate a top key official who works that when I disagree, when I think they Vote ‘‘no’’ on this resolution. for President Abbas. A civil war is are wrong, to stand up. Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I breaking out on the West Bank because I take a back seat to no one in terms ask unanimous consent that debate on Hamas does not have enough power yet of my opposition to this administra- this matter be extended by 60 minutes, and is willing to kill anyone in their tion’s reckless conduct in Iraq. I have equally divided. Perhaps the opponents way. been consistent on that from the begin- of the bill would have an opportunity Mr. Speaker, I do not support this ning. One of the concerns I had about to read the legislation. And I would bill just because I support our allies in this administration was their disdain

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H3002 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 for nation-building. You will recall the wants flexibility. They do not want regrettable. It is imperative that the inter- rhetoric of then Governor Bush. congressional restraints. national community (including the U.S.) But part of our obligation as Mem- Our legislation provides for re- make a concerted and coordinated effort to bers of this chamber is to be supportive straints because we are a co-equal pressure Hamas. However, H.R. 4681 rep- resents a case of Congress using a blunt in- when we can. Because in the conduct of branch of government, and we wish to strument where a surgical tool is needed. In foreign policy, it would be nice if it did express the policies that we want to see doing so, the bill risks undercutting such ef- stop at the water’s edge. I appreciate our government pursue. forts, harming U.S. national security, and that the administration has changed To claim that on this issue the ad- undermining those Palestinian officials and its position on nation-building and has ministration should have total flexi- activists who recognize Israel, reject terror, actually requested more assistance bility is contrary to the interests of and support a two-state solution to the than it looks like this Congress is the Congress as a body. Israeli-Palestinian conflict. going to give them for foreign aid. Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, to This legislation is fundamentally flawed respond to my distinguished colleague, and deserves to be rejected by the House. b 2045 nowhere here have I said I want the ad- APN urges Members—including those who When they were willing to work with have cosponsored and/or plan to vote for the ministration to have unrestrained measure—to speak out on the House floor us in water and sanitation, I embraced flexibility. Not once. And I am not ex- and submit statements for the record draw- that. I think we should reinforce posi- pressing delight that we are on the ing attention to the many serious problems tive things that we can agree on. That same side. with H.R. 4681. is what the American public wants. I What I said was when I find I am in APN talking points on H.R. 4681: do not think we should be reflexive and agreement, I look forward to ways to H.R. 4681 unnecessarily risks U.S. national negative. work with them. When I see them move security. The U.S. can maintain a tough line The administration has raised a le- in directions I wish they had done with against Hamas without compromising our gitimate concern about flexibility, Afghanistan and Iraq, for heaven’s own national security or unreasonably tying about being able to implement it, and the President’s hand in the conduct of for- sake, I am going to move in this direc- eign policy. Rejecting terrorism is not in- these are consistent with Republican tion with the stakes so high. With all compatible with ensuring that U.S. national and Democratic administrations in the due respect, it is not a question of giv- security interests remain the primary con- past in terms of not wanting sanctions ing unlimited flexibility to the admin- cern of U.S. foreign policy. to go on forever and wanting to have istration. I have never said that, am H.R. 4681, however, irresponsibly and un- the flexibility to respond, not after 25 not interested in it. necessarily subjugates U.S. national security days of consultation according to very, There is a framework here in terms interests to political grandstanding. It does narrow little channels, but to be able of the sanctions that we are talking so by eliminating the President’s authority to act responsibly to practice diplo- about, things like extending beyond to waive sanctions in the interests of U.S. national security—a waiver that is a stand- macy. the narrow definition of health to deal ard component of virtually all U.S. sanctions The history of this House of Rep- with humanitarian assistance and envi- legislation. This waiver, which has only rare- resentatives is not very illustrious ronmental cleanup. There are a whole ly been invoked, represents minimal flexi- when it comes to many of these ques- host of things that could have been bility for the President to waive sanctions tions. Congress has sort of flitted dealt with here in the ambit of this leg- on assistance when U.S. national security in- around and has been subjected to the islation. terests are at stake. It is unfathomable that pressures of the moment and has not I share with my good friend an inter- Congress would decide that, in the wake of always been a constructive ally. est in having this administration be the Hamas election, the President no longer As we know, this House passed a more accountable to Congress and needs or can be trusted with such authority. Indeed, it is not difficult to imagine sce- draft by only one vote immediately be- come forward and answer our ques- narios under which U.S. national security fore World War II. Lots of simple, com- tions. I would like oversight about might clearly call for direct, quick assist- monsense straight-ahead solutions that what is going on in Iraq and what is ance—for instance, following new Pales- we have been involved with have not going on in Afghanistan. Heaven knows tinian elections or in the wake of a natural always been the best and most care- I would. disaster. Moreover, the Bush Administration fully crafted. But that does not mean that we has already put in place tough new restric- I come forward not being a fan of this ought to have unnecessarily restrictive tions on aid to the Palestinians, clearly indi- administration in many areas, in many and burdensome activities that are cating the uncompromising stance this Ad- ministration is taking in response to the areas, but in this one, as I listen to going to work against what I think are Hamas victory. APN urges Congress to de- them, as I look at the requested flexi- the interests of the Israeli people, the mand that a real national security waiver be bility, as I look at independent experts, Palestinians and citizens of the United added to this bill, enabling the President to as I hear from religious leaders back States. waive the various sanctions if he deems it to home and the National Conference of Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the be in the national security interests of the Catholic Bishops, I see a wide range of gentleman from Ohio (Mr. KUCINICH). U.S. to do so. people that support the concerns that (Mr. KUCINICH asked and was given H.R. 4681 risks undermining Palestinian the administration share with us. permission to revise and extend his re- moderates and strengthening extremists. In marks, and include extraneous mate- response to the Hamas victory, we should Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, will the seek to strengthen those Palestinians who gentleman yield? rial.) Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I thank reject violence, recognize Israel, and support Mr. BLUMENAUER. I yield to the a two-state solution. In doing so, we put gentleman from California. the gentleman for yielding me this pressure on Hamas to reform, and we Mr. LANTOS. I appreciate my good time, and I include for the RECORD a strengthen those Palestinians who, we hope, friend yielding, and allow me to point statement by Americans for Peace Now will replace Hamas if it fails to reform. out the fatal flaw in your logic. We are relative to H.R. 4681 and also a state- H.R. 4681, however, undermines these posi- not discussing the fact that some of us ment by Brit Tzedek v’Shalom, the tions and the Palestinians who hold them, by occasionally support the administra- Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace. providing no political horizon for an alter- native leadership to strive to reach. Under tion, and you just expressed great de- [From Americans for Peace Now] this bill, the PA—even if replaced by more light that on this issue you find your- H.R. 4681: GRANDSTANDING ABOUT PALESTIN- welcome leadership—will likely be unable to self on the side of the administration. IANS, AT THE EXPENSE OF U.S. AND ISRAELI meet the reform requirements in the short- The issue logically is flexibility. The INTERESTS. or medium-term, especially outside the con- people who have criticized this admin- Tomorrow the House is expected to sus- text of progress towards a peace agreement. istration most vigorously over the pend the rules and take up H.R. 4681, the Thus, even if new elections were held and years have claimed that the adminis- ‘‘Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006.’’ won by a different party, all sanctions would tration is riding roughshod over the This legislation would impose sweeping sanc- remain in place until the other reform re- tions against the Palestinians in response to quirements had been met. APN urges Con- Congress, not asking for more flexi- the victory of Hamas In the January Pales- gress to demand that a ‘‘sunset clause’’ be bility. This is a spurious argument. tinian legislative elections. added to H.R. 4681, providing a political hori- This is a phony argument. This admin- Hamas’ victory in the elections for the zon for moderate, reasonable Palestinian po- istration, as do all administrations, Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) was litical leaders and activists, and sending a

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3003 signal of real support and hope to the Pales- APN urges Congress to reject this bill’s velop Palestinian civil society. A humani- tinian people. [A sunset clause is like an ‘‘ex- misguided effort to attack the UN, especially tarian crisis in the Palestinian territories piration date’’ for legislation, stipulating a at a time when Israel is asking the UN to will only increase support for extremism, date or event after which Congress will ei- play a greater role in providing services to thereby endangering Israel and further de- ther let the legislation lapse, renew the leg- the Palestinians. This attack has nothing to stabilizing the region. islation, or amend it in some way.] do with the Hamas election or UN activities H.R. 4681 restricts US diplomatic relations H.R. 4681 loses sight of the real priorities. in the West Bank and Gaza, and instead risks by prohibiting visas and travel (with limited H.R. 4681 seeks to precondition U.S. relations sending the message that the real goal of waivers) for all members of the PA and the with the PA—and impose sweeping sanc- this bill is to assail Palestinians in every PLO regardless of whether or not they have tions—based on the demand that the PA possible forum. APN is the premier Jewish, connections to Hamas. In this respect, the meet a list of requirements that include Zionist organization working to enhance bill prevents the US from fully engaging and wide-ranging reforms unrelated to the elec- Israel’s security through peace. APN believes bolstering moderate Palestinian leaders, tion of Hamas. Important as these reforms that strong U.S. leadership is the best hope such as President Mahmoud Abbas, who rec- may be, neither the U.S. nor Israel has ever for reducing Israeli-Palestinian violence and ognize and support peace with Israel. Exist- considered them a prerequisite for engaging bringing about a political process that can ing US law already forbids members of with the PA (or, for that matter, the PLO, eventually pave the way for security and Hamas and other foreign terrorist organiza- Jordan, or Egypt, in the context of their peace for Israelis and Palestinians. tions from obtaining visas or having diplo- agreements with Israel). Adding these re- matic relations with the United States. forms as preconditions for engagement loses Brit Tzedek v’Shalom—Jewish Alliance for As American Jews, we share profound dis- sight of real priorities—like saving lives— Justice and Peace may at the election of Hamas to the Pales- and undermines the incentive for the most Brit Tzedek v’Shalom urges representa- tinian Authority. Yet in this challenging critical demands to be taken seriously. For hour, we urge you to maintain a cautious ap- example, under this bill, if Hamas renounced tives to vote no on H.R. 4681. Brit Tzedek v’Shalom, the Jewish Alliance for Justice proach to the new Palestinian government, terror, changed its charter, acted decisively so as to preserve the future possibility of against other terrorist organizations, dis- and Peace, is the nation’s largest Jewish grassroots peace organization with a net- bringing Israelis and Palestinians back to armed its own militants, and recognized the negotiating table—which is the only Israel, but had not yet made substantial work of over 34,000 supporters who are com- mitted to Israel’s well-being through a nego- path to achieve true peace and security for progress toward replacing all textbooks with both peoples. ‘‘materials to promote tolerance, peace, and tiated two-state resolution of the Israeli- Palestinian conflict. Vote No on H.R. 4681. coexistence with Israel,’’ all sanctions would Mr. KUCINICH. I want to extend my remain in place. APN urges Congress to re- H.R. 4681, the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism ject preconditioning U.S. relations with the Act of 2006, fails to serve the long-term in- condolences to the family of our col- Palestinians on requirements that are unre- terests of either the United States or Israel. league Mr. CANTOR and also thank Ms. lated to the specific issues raised by the Despite improvements over the original ROS-LEHTINEN for her leadership and Hamas election; rather, Congress should set version, H.R. 4681 weakens moderate pro- her commitment to attempting to cre- peace Palestinians and emboldens extrem- focused, meaningful performance bench- ate peace, as well as to speak directly marks. ists, ties the President’s hands in dealing with emergency security crises, and dras- to my dear friend, Mr. LANTOS. H.R. 4681 loses sight of U.S. strategic inter- I think it is fair to say Israel has no ests. A serious response to the Palestinian tically cuts critical US assistance to the Pal- elections should clearly target Hamas and estinian people. While there is international greater champion in the Congress, and its control of the Palestinian Authority. Ef- consensus that Ramas must renounce ter- the American people have no greater fective sanctions should clearly differentiate rorism, recognize Israel, and abide by all pre- champion for human rights than Mr. such targets from, for example, elected mem- vious agreements, this legislation goes well LANTOS. His escape from the Holocaust bers of the Palestinian Legislative Council beyond those demands and undermines the is a story worthy of being taught in all (PLC) who are not affiliated with Hamas or U.S. role in bringing Israelis and Palestin- of our schools. any other terrorist organization—political ians back to the negotiating table towards the end of achieving a two-state resolution I am here to ask: Is the past pro- leaders and activists who, running on plat- logue? Is war and violence inevitable, forms that included rejection of terror, rec- of the conflict. ognition of Israel, and support for a two- Specifically, H.R. 4681: Obstructs a return or do we have the ability to create a state solution, beat Hamas candidates in the to negotiations. H.R. 4681 requires an impos- new future where nonviolence, peace January election. sible-to-achieve Presidential certification, and reconciliation are possible through However, H.R. 4681 not only fails to distin- composed of an overly extensive number of the work of our own hearts and hands? guish between Hamas and the PA, and the requirements, in order to bypass the bill’s I would not take issue with my friend non-Hamas members of the PLC, it explic- many sanctions. This standard of certifi- Mr. LANTOS’ informed experience, and I itly defines the PA as including the entire cation goes well beyond the Quartet’s de- join him in defense of Israel’s right to PLC—extending sanctions to longtime sup- mands, setting unprecedented preconditions porters of peace with Israel (like PLC mem- for U.S. engagement with the Palestinians. survive. Mr. LANTOS is my brother. The ber Salam Fayyad). Moreover, the bill in- Because these demands are unachievable in Israelis are our brothers and sisters. cludes extraneous sanctions that, while os- the near term or outside the context of a The Palestinians are our brothers and tensibly aimed at Hamas, will in fact have peace process, they prevent a return to nego- sisters. When our brothers and sisters zero impact on Hamas, but only serve to tiations and provide little incentive for are in conflict, when violence engulfs punish Palestinians who recognize Israel and Hamas to moderate its stance towards Israel. them, it is our responsibility to help reject terror, and make it difficult or impos- Without the Presidential certification, our brothers and sisters end the vio- sible for the U.S. to talk to them. These in- whose requirements as noted above are near- lence, reconcile and fulfill the biblical clude restrictions on visas (Hamas members ly impossible to meet, this bill prohibits all are already barred by law from obtaining direct aid to the Palestinian Authority (PA), injunction to turn hate to love, to beat visas), limits on freedom of movement for of- with the small exception of a very limited swords into plowshares and spears into ficials of the PLO in the U.S. and sanctions Presidential waiver for funds to support pruning hooks. on PLO representation in the United States independent elections and the peace process. These are universal principles that (Hamas is not a member of the PLO a group Current law already forbids direct U.S. fund- speak to the triumph of hope over fear. that recognizes and has signed agreements ing to the PA but allows the President much We must call upon Hamas to renounce with Israel), and an entirely superfluous at- broader discretion in waiving this prohibi- terror. We must call upon Hamas to tack on the United Nations that does not tion in the interests of national security. disavow any intention for the destruc- even make the pretense of having anything Limiting this waiver undercuts the Adminis- to do with Hamas. In the interests of U.S. tration’s ability to offer the PA incentives in tion of Israel. national security, including our concern for addition to sanctions or to respond to unex- This ought to be a principle of nego- Israeli security, it is vital to open the door pected security or humanitarian crises. tiation with Hamas, not separation for dialogue and engagement with alter- At a time when the UN is reporting an im- from the aspirations of the Palestinian native leaders and representatives of the pending humanitarian disaster in the West people to survive. Palestinians. APN urges Congress to reject Bank and Gaza, H.R. 4681 restricts U.S. as- I think we can speed the cause of provisions of this bill that will have no real sistance to the Palestinian people delivered peace by calling upon Israel to accept impact on Hamas—except, perversely, to through non-governmental organizations the Palestinians’ right to self-deter- strengthen them while undermining mod- (NGOs). While the bill makes a small exemp- mination and economical survival and erate Palestinian political leaders and activ- tion for ‘‘basic human health needs,’’ it still ists, and making it more difficult for the creates onerous pre-notification require- humanitarian relief, for food, medical U.S. to engage with alternatives to a Hamas- ments for all other NGO assistance to the care, for jobs. led government, like President Mahmoud Palestinian people. These NGOs address I ask, how can we arrive at a two- Abbas or the PLO. pressing humanitarian needs and help de- stage solution if we attempt to destroy

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H3004 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 one people’s government’s ability to to this measure by good intentions, not afford to send that message, even provide? A two-state solution, I be- false claims and by shrill prophecies of in the smallest, most unintentional lieve, can be achieved with our mutual, doom. way. thoughtful patience and support. A ‘‘no’’ vote on this bill will not ben- Let us recall for a moment just what At a time when the U.N. is reporting efit the Palestinian people. Read the the international community has de- a pending humanitarian disaster in the bill. The bill already allows humani- manded of Hamas, three words. All West Bank and Gaza, I believe this leg- tarian aid to flow under congressional Hamas has to do is to say three words: islation would restrict U.S. assistance scrutiny. And with the President’s Israel, peace and agreement. Israel, to the Palestinian people delivered judgment, it can continue to go to non- Hamas has to accept the existence, just through nongovernmental organiza- governmental groups. the existence, of a U.N. member state. tions. We know that, today, up to 80 A ‘‘no’’ vote will not benefit Pales- percent of all Palestinians, particu- tinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The Peace, that there has to be two states larly in parts of the Gaza strip, live at bill already creates a clear opening to for two people and that they will live or below the poverty line. Unemploy- keep him relevant and involved to be- side by side in peace and agreement. ment stands at 53 percent of the total coming a channel for pursuing peace. Hamas has to accept the resolution of workforce. A ‘‘no’’ vote will not support the the conflict, which will only be Just as I join my good friends on peace camp in Israel. Israelis just went achieved by peaceful means and that both sides of the aisle in speaking out to the polls and put Prime Minister agreement will be honored. against violence against Israel, I object Olmert into power with a government This is not a difficult list, three in the strongest terms to any measure that strongly supports congressional words. Hamas could win the inter- that will increase the humanitarian efforts to sanction and block assistance national community over. Hundreds of crisis of the Palestinian people. It is to the Hamas-led Palestinian Author- millions of dollars would begin to flow true that the recent Palestinian legis- ity. to the Palestinian people. Salaries lative elections have created a tense could be made, projects could be start- b 2100 situation in the international commu- ed, roads could be built, schools could nity. It is a situation that demands I sat here in amazement as my good be constructed. Before you say no, thoughtful and deliberate action in friend from Illinois (Mr. LAHOOD) said those few people in the House who will, pursuit of peace. Despite the best in- things that were absolutely unbeliev- ask yourself why they will not say tentions of those who wrote this legis- able. The politician people, what do those three words. Why won’t they? they have to do with Hamas? Duh. lation, I do not believe this legislation The answer is that Hamas thinks They elected them. will advance peace between the Pales- that their religion forbids it. They be- Elections have consequences. People tinian and the Israeli people. lieve that they are engaged in a holy have to live with that. They can’t elect There are people in this Congress of war that can only be resolved with the a terrorist government whose purpose goodwill and good intention who want destruction of Israel and the Jewish is to destroy another people and then to see both the Palestinian people and people and to put their population in say they have nothing to do with it. the Israeli people survive. Let us con- exile or subjugation. tinue to work towards that end. That makes no sense at all. A ‘‘no’’ Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am very vote will not impress our allies in the There can be no compromise, accord- pleased to yield 10 minutes to the gen- Quartet either. The United States and ing to them, of their view. Cease-fires, tleman from New York (Mr. ACKER- other members of the Quartet remain temporary borders, negotiations for MAN), my good friend and a distin- in lock-step in rejecting any funding Hamas or just way stations on their guished senior member of the Com- for the Hamas-led PA and are working, path to the ultimate destruction of mittee on International Relations. as this bill does, to find alternative ap- Israel and the Jewish people. They will Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I proaches to assist the Palestinian peo- not waiver, and we must not waiver. want to thank Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN and ple, and that is who we intend to help. Hamas has made clear again and the chairman of the subcommittee for For someone to say that the Prime again that they will not be held an- bringing this measure to the floor. Minister of Israel is going to walk swerable for the hundreds of innocent As for Mr. LANTOS, the distinguished down this aisle, and if he had a voting civilians they slaughtered with bombs. ranking member, I have to say I abso- card would vote for Hamas is an ab- They will not be held accountable for lutely marvel at his eloquence in the surdity. It defies the imagination. their overt racism and vile anti-Se- opening statement that he made. It is one of the many things that op- mitic bigotry. They will not be pun- The very fact that he is, is impor- ponents of this legislation carefully, ished for all the times they shatter the tant. The very fact that he is and is carefully constructed, have been saying fragile peace or destroy a nascent here is proof positive that if people of mischaracterizing this bill. If you trust. goodwill are determined to stand up to think that the Prime Minister of Israel All they have to do is say those three the forces of evil, that the forces of would vote to give aid to Hamas, then words. A ‘‘no’’ vote tells them they good can win out, and not unless that you must be on another planet, and don’t have to. A ‘‘no’’ vote says hold happens. you should vote ‘‘no.’’ fast. A ‘‘no’’ vote reassures them that And those forces of evil, whether A ‘‘no’’ vote will do only one thing. It they will not have to say Israel, peace they be called the Nazi Party or the will give hope to the terrorist Hamas. and agreement. Hamas Party, each of which came to It will give them hope that the wall of power in uncontested democratic elec- opposition in the West is cracking. It Until they do, we must assure that tions, each of which have in common will give them hope that their embrace they bear the full brunt of responsi- the destruction of an entire people and of terrorism will not have to be aban- bility forever the condition of the Pal- were uncompromising in their attitude, doned in order to govern. It will give estinian people. Not a humanitarian in their philosophy, in their belief; how them hope that support for Israel is crisis, but a firm sanction of the do we compromise with the notion of not as strong as it seems. It will give United States against the government administrations and evil forces whose them hope that with tenacity and will born of terror, bred on violence, and goal is the destruction of another peo- their terrorist objectives will succeed. bound for ruin. Contrary to this lead- ple? Where do you begin to compromise No Member of this House wants to ing report, this bill absolutely cannot unless they denounce those goals, send that message. No Member of this and will not be used to deny humani- which has not happened in either case? House supports Hamas. But make no tarian aid. Mr. Speaker, with 295 cosponsors of mistake. A ‘‘no’’ vote will be used The bill will not allow, with proper this bill, there is not really much of a again and again to show that the path oversight, the Presidential confirma- question about how the House is going of Hamas is correct and that com- tion that it serves our national secu- to act. The bill will pass overwhelm- promise will come only from the West, rity interest, continued assistance ingly. The only question is how many and there is no price to be paid by through properly screened and audited Members will be lured into opposition those who espouse terrorism. We can- nongovernmental organizations. The

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3005 bill provides a clear channel for Presi- H.R. 4681 subjugates U.S. national se- estinian reformers by denying democ- dent Mahmoud Abbas to show our con- curity interests to political grand- racy. No, quite the opposite. That it tinued appreciation for his vocal sup- standing. It does so by eliminating the has unbearable roadblocks to non- port for the peaceful two-state solu- President’s authority to waive sanc- government organizations to provide tion. This bill constitutes a carefully tions in the interests of United States assistance to the Palestinian people. crafted balance. national security, a waiver that is a Absolutely not. Some wanted it stronger; others standard component of virtually all The bill requirements are to ensure wanted it more flexible. But the bill is U.S. sanctions legislation. that humanitarian aid goes to the in- strong enough to prevent American H.R. 4681 risks undermining Pales- tended recipients for the intended pur- money from subsidizing a government tinian moderates and strengthening ex- poses, oversight. The United States run by terrorists and flexible enough to tremists by providing no political hori- must make it unambiguously clear allow the administration to engage zon that an alternate Palestinian lead- that we will not support such a ter- with Palestinians who are willing to ership can strive to reach. rorist regime, that we will not directly seek peace. H.R. 4681 preconditions U.S. relations or indirectly allow American taxpayer Members will have a choice. Let the with the Palestinian Authority and im- funds to be used to perpetuate the lead- perfect be the enemy of the good, and poses sanctions based on criteria that ership of an Islamic jihadist group that in doing so undermine the peace they are unrelated to the issues raised by is responsible for the murder of hun- seek, or stand firm against doing busi- the Hamas elections, and 4681 makes it dreds and the wounding of scores of in- ness as usual with a governing entity more difficult for the United States to nocent Israeli civilians, of U.S. citizens controlled by a terrorist organization. engage with alternatives to a Hamas- and other foreigners throughout the I know some Members are conflicted. led government like President years. There have been mixed signals, even Mahmoud Abbas or the PLO. This pro- It has been almost 4 months, Madam misleading information about this leg- posal, unfortunately, is itself extreme, Speaker, since this Islamic jihadist ex- islation. I want to be perfectly clear. and as such, I believe, would do no tremist won a majority of seats in the The pro-Israel vote is ‘‘yes.’’ The pro- good. Palestinian parliamentary elections. Palestinian vote is ‘‘yes.’’ The pro- Rather, it will strengthen the posi- We have made our conditions clear, but peace vote is ‘‘yes.’’ The pro-engage- tion of extremists and increase the vio- Hamas’ commitment to bloodshed has ment vote is ‘‘yes.’’ I thank the House lence and destruction which has be- remained unabated. for their attention. come more prevalent as the result of Mr. BLUMENAUER. Madam Speaker, b 2115 the expression and implementation of as I yield the gentleman from New policies such as those contained in H.R. Hamas’ leaders have expressed their York 4 minutes, I would give myself 30 4681. support for rockets being launched seconds to make two observations. I believe that we should defeat this from Gaza into Israel, and stated that One, there will be no aid to Hamas, proposed legislation and instead focus the recent attack, a bombing that whether this bill passes or not. It is on something that would be more pro- killed nine innocent people and wound- against United States law to give as- ductive to achieve the kinds of solu- ed 60 at a Tel Aviv restaurant, was sistance to a terrorist organization. ‘‘justified.’’ Their words, not mine. Second, I would reference the exact tions that we need to the problems Since the elections, the leaders of language of the word where the exemp- that exist in the Middle East. Hamas have officially expressed their tion is assistance to meet basic human Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speak- refusal to change a single word in its health needs, not broad humanitarian. er, I yield myself such time as I may charter. Their hate-filled covenant is The language of the bill is actually consume. Hamas’ most valued document. It fo- quite clear. Madam Speaker, Hamas’ political Madam Speaker, I yield to my friend, victory in the January election pre- cuses on killing Jews and destroying Israel. Mr. HINCHEY, for 4 minutes. sented an opportunity for this Islamic Mr. HINCHEY. Madam Speaker, I jihadist group to lay down its arms, to I would like to read some of the want to express my appreciation to the renounce terrorism, to recognize the words that are included in the charter gentleman from Oregon for yielding me State of Israel, and to dismantle its of Hamas and that accurately depict this time. militant infrastructure, to become an the group’s violent views: ‘‘The time of I also want to express my admira- entity that could lead the Palestinian Muslim unity will not come until Mus- tion, respect and affection for the gen- people to peace, to prosperity, to secu- lims will fight the Jews and kill them; tleman from California, who is the rity with the Jewish nation. until the Jews hide behind rocks and sponsor of this legislation. But I do dis- But, unfortunately, much like its trees, which will cry, ‘O Muslims, there agree with him on the effects that this predecessor, who never missed an op- is a Jew behind me. Come on and kill legislation would have. portunity to miss an opportunity, him.’’’ I am a strong supporter of the State Hamas has instead continued its vio- The Islamic extremists running the of Israel. As such, I believe it is impor- lence, has aligned itself with pariah Palestinian Authority have made it tant to maintain independent and prin- states and with state sponsors of ter- very clear, crystal clear, that they do cipled positions on Middle East issues. rorism that seek to extend their ex- not intend to moderate their vicious I believe that that requires a ‘‘no’’ vote tremist, hateful ideology throughout views nor seek a peace agreement with on resolution 4681. the region and, indeed, throughout the Israel. They may speak of a long-term Hamas’ victory in the elections for world. Hamas has chosen to dedicate cease-fire, but this is only a temporary the Palestinian legislative council was its resources and its energy to sup- means to regroup and rearm for yet indeed regrettable, and Hamas govern- porting continued terrorist attacks more terrorism. ment’s failure to condemn, much less against Israel rather than to helping A two-state solution envisioned and take steps to prevent acts of terrorism the Palestinian people. proposed by the Quartet is not part of is abhorrent. It is appropriate that the It is its choice, so Hamas can spend Hamas’ agenda, because it runs con- international community, including, of its money on suicide and homicide at- trary to the core principles of this ter- course, the United States, make a con- tacks; but it is up to the United States ror group that says, ‘‘The land of Pal- certed and coordinated effort to pres- to support and provide for the needs of estine from the river to the sea is con- sure Hamas. the Palestinian people. It is our respon- sidered an Islamic endowment, and no However, H.R. 4681 risks undermining sibility, instead of Hamas’. Muslim has the right to cede any part such efforts, harming United States na- Previous speakers in opposition to of it.’’ tional security and undermining those the bill have said, Madam Speaker, So our actions here tonight and the Palestinian officials and activists who that this bill will deny chemotherapy vote tomorrow must be clear and it do recognize Israel, who do reject ter- to cancer victims. It is preposterous; it must be firm. We must work toward ror, and who do support a two-state so- does not. That it would hurt the com- eradicating such Islamist jihadist ha- lution to the Israeli-Palestinian con- mon Palestinian citizen. No, it does tred and the extremist ideology that flict. not. That it would undermine the Pal- feeds it, or we will compromise our own

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H3006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 immediate as well as long-term secu- There was no objection. gle man, a single individual, as a sym- rity interests and the stability and the Mr. BLUMENAUER. Madam Speaker, bol to the West. security of our allies in the region. I yield 6 minutes to the gentlewoman I thought about the ‘‘Refuseniks’’ in In an effort to promote U.S. national from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR). the Soviet Union, how we connected security and foreign policy priorities Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I with them, helping them to publish and to help ensure that U.S. taxpayer would like to thank the gentleman their works, helping to hear a voice dollars do not reach the hands of from Oregon, Mr. BLUMENAUER, for from inside a closed society, and I Hamas and other Palestinian terror yielding me this time, and to thank asked myself, in this situation, what groups, I introduced, with my good Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, a staunch supporter are the parallels? What are the par- friend the ranking member of the of human rights, for coauthoring this allels? House International Relations Com- legislation with our dear, dear and re- In this bill, no one wants to support mittee, Mr. TOM LANTOS, this bill that spected colleague from the State of Hamas. All we are asking for is the is before us tonight, Madam Speaker. California, Congressman TOM LANTOS, right to amend this bill to find other It has 295 cosponsors, and it opposes who is the once and future chair of this non-governmental groups that we can the provision of assistance or political committee, I am sure, some day, and to help to support, to help educate, to recognition to any entity under the tu- say, as many others have stated this help inform, to help teach, in the hope, telage of a terrorist organization such evening, we respect your life. Many of even though we are all walking as Hamas. us love you and love your family. through the tunnel and we see no light This bill does prohibit direct assist- Perhaps some of us have a deeper un- at the end of the tunnel, that we give ance to the Palestinian Authority, but derstanding of some of the tribulation the ordinary person, the moderate, and it has exceptions, and we have talked that you have faced in your own life there are some moderates, some hope, about them. Many of the people who because our families have faced the some ability to connect. have spoken here tonight want to over- same. We had relatives in what is now I read from the statement of the U.S. look those exceptions. It does seek to the nation of Ukraine, but in the So- Conference of Catholic Bishops, who prohibit travel to the United States by viet Union, our uncles, who were sent say in opposition to the current form members or associates of terrorist enti- to the gulag for over 20 years by Joseph of this bill, ‘‘A further deterioration of ties, it provides for the United States Stalin. One died and one survived, mi- the humanitarian and economic situa- to withhold contributions to the raculously, after 20 bitter years. So I tion of the Palestinian people com- United Nations proportional to the think our family shares a deep personal promises human dignity and serves the long-term interests neither of Palestin- amounts the United Nations provides understanding of what despotism and ians nor of Israelis who long for a just to these duplicative Palestinian-re- terror is. I rise this evening because I have to peace. lated entities that are directly tied to ‘‘Non-governmental organizations say that this act, the Palestinian Anti- the Palestinian Authority, and it calls have a long history of helping the Terrorism Act, I fear will result not in for the Palestinian Authority to be world’s most vulnerable people. Their less terrorism, but in more. I do not designated as a terrorist sanctuary humanitarian role should be respected. really believe it is in the interest of the under the 9/11 bill. While this work is not easy,’’ and sure- United States, of Israel or the world to But it is not just about what is right ly the gentleman from California further radicalize elements in the Pal- for the U.S. in terms of our priorities knows it is not easy, surely the estinian population, and I do believe and our allies, Madam Speaker. It also gentlelady from Florida knows it is not this bill will do exactly that. is about honoring the memory of all easy, ‘‘it is essential. It deserves Con- It is not in the interest of the govern- who have died at the hands of Hamas gress’ continued support.’’ and other Palestinian jihadist groups. ment of the United States nor Israel I would hope that with the Prime That is why tonight we have spoken nor the world to make it impossible for Minister of Israel coming here this about and we have given our condo- Palestinians to become more educated week, that we would have a proposal lences to our good friend from Virginia, and to learn how to govern an emerg- that would take the Quartet and actu- Mr. CANTOR, whose 16-year-old cousin, ing nation. Indeed, if our current poli- ally somehow have discussions, even a Daniel Wultz from South Florida, close cies as a world were so intelligent, they resolution, to try to restart the failed to my congressional district, died 2 would not have yielded a Hamas to the peace process between Israel and the weeks ago after suffering these fatal point where it actually won an election Palestinian Authority. Wouldn’t that injuries caused by an April 17 suicide and other elements of Palestinian soci- be a great moment? Wouldn’t it be bombing in Tel Aviv while he was hav- ety were so crippled and so inept and so worth being here and serving here? We ing lunch with his father. Daniel disorganized that they were not able to need resolutions that will not fought courageously for 27 days for his govern in a way that an emerging na- radicalize, that will not divide, that life, but the injuries were far too se- tion state would. will make peace possible. vere. I have asked myself during the grue- Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, before Our thoughts and our prayers go not some Soviet period, what glimmers did yielding, I want to thank my good just to Daniel, but also to all who have we have, what connections did we have, friend from Ohio, Ms. KAPTUR, for her lost family members and friends to what elements were we able to nurture thoughtful and very serious comments, Hamas and other jihadist groups, and that even provided a road forward? as I want to express my appreciation to the list is, unfortunately, too long for I think of our family’s East European all of my colleagues who have spoken us to mention all of their names. We heritage in Poland and enduring the against this resolution. want to pass this legislation to help en- most repressive times in Poland. This Madam Speaker, I am very pleased to sure that we in Congress have done ev- country found a way to support a non- yield 5 minutes to my good friend the erything possible to prevent another governmental organization in the form gentleman from New York (Mr. ENGEL), Daniel Wultz from dying at the hands of Solidarity, and there were church the distinguished senior member of the of these extremists. groups working and there were other International Relations Committee. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues groups that provided just small glim- Mr. ENGEL. Madam Speaker, I thank to render their full support to this leg- mers of light. my colleague for yielding to me, and I islation. I remember a dear, dear friend, Rev- would say that all the compliments Madam Speaker, I yield 8 minutes to erend Martin Hernati born in the that have been heaped upon him and the gentleman from California (Mr. homeland of Congressman LANTOS, who Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN during this debate LANTOS), and I ask unanimous consent said to me, ‘‘MARCY, I am walking are certainly well-deserved. that he be permitted to control that through a tunnel. It is very dark in the Madam Speaker, some of our col- time. tunnel and I see no light at the end of leagues here who say they are voting The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. the tunnel, but I must keep walking.’’ ‘‘no’’ also tell us that they are good DRAKE). Is there objection to the re- I remember Cardinal Mindszenty in friends of Israel. Well, to Israel, I quest of the gentlewoman from Flor- the nation of Hungary, locked up in the would say that with friends like that, ida? U.S. embassy for many years, as a sin- she certainly doesn’t need any enemies.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3007 Israel and the civilized world and the it and therefore we should go along. 1993 Oslo Accord, the United States has United States do have enemies. The The administration opposed the Syria given more than $1.8 billion to the Pal- enemy is called terrorism. And in the Accountability Act, and ultimately we estinians. In that same time we have Middle East, terrorism has another persuaded it to go along and support given over $130 million directly to the name. It is called Hamas. the bill. Palestinian Authority. We have to deal with things, Madam This bill passed, as was pointed out, After decades of aid and billions of Speaker, as they are, not as what we in the International Relations Com- dollars, it boggles my mind that there wish them to be. The Palestinians mittee 36–2. I was proud to be one of is no economic self-sufficiency and no elected a terrorist organization, those 36 people. And I think that to- improvement to the quality of life for Hamas, to run their government and be morrow this bill will pass overwhelm- the Palestinian people. Why is this? their leaders. We are told by people ingly. This Congress has got to send a Because the desperation of the Pales- who oppose this bill, oh, the poor Pal- strong message that it opposes terror. tinian people is not about money, it is estinian people. This legislation hurts It opposes terror whether it is Hamas, about the Palestinian Authority failing the poor Palestinian people. it opposes terror whether it is al- to do what any responsible government Well, let me tell you what hurts the Qaeda, it opposes terror whether it is would have done with several billion poor Palestinian people: The govern- Hezbollah. All terrorist groups must be dollars, provide security for its people, ment they elected, Hamas. That is opposed. That is what this legislation build infrastructure, improve health what hurts the Palestinian people. does. That is what this legislation care, provide economic opportunities, This bill has been called inflexible says. improve education and move their peo- and stringent and other such nonsense. The United States and Israel are ple into the 21st century. Not true at all. And I am proud to be strong allies in the fight against ter- The money is not going to housing. an original cosponsor of this bill. This ror, and this legislation will go a long Palestinians continue to live in bill is flexible. Humanitarian aid is al- way in saying to Hamas, we will not do wretched conditions in refugee camps lowed. Some of us have some questions anything with you or help you in any with corrugated roofs in dilapidated about that, quite frankly, because way as long as you do not renounce ter- ramshackle huts. The money is not money is fungible and can be moved ror. going to schools. If it was, the Pales- around, and we don’t want money that Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I tinian children would be sitting in is being given under the guise of hu- yield to the gentlewoman from Nevada classrooms being trained as the next 3 generation of doctors and engineers manitarian aid to be transferred and (Ms. BERKLEY) 5 ⁄4 minutes. used for other things, and we know Ms. BERKLEY. Madam Speaker, I who would lead their people in the 21st Hamas is capable of doing that. want to also express my gratitude to century. The money is not going to security. We are told by some of the opponents Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, my very dear friend Rather than imposing security, the that the bill has consequences. Sure it on the other side of the aisle, and of Palestinian Authority forces first at- does. Elections have consequences. No- course my very special friend and men- tacked the Israelis, now they are at- body denies that the Palestinian people tor, Mr. LANTOS. His eloquence was al- tacking each other as Gaza is close to went to the polls and voted for Hamas. most matched today by Mr. ACKERMAN civil war. and Mr. ENGEL. They did a remarkable But when you vote for someone, there The Palestinian Authority under job. And I do not believe I can equal are consequences, and this is the con- Fattah was corrupt and morally bank- theirs, but I would like to speak on be- sequence of electing a terrorist organi- rupt. Is there any wonder that the Pal- half of this piece of legislation. zation as your leadership. estinian people turned to Hamas, the Madam Speaker, I rise in strong sup- most dangerous terrorist organization b 2130 port of this bill and I am hoping for its operating today, to have their basic Now we are asking Hamas to do three immediate passage. Like some of my things, it has been said many times needs met? colleagues, I also want to express my Year after year, we have given hun- here before. I want to repeat them. sincerest sympathy to my colleague dreds of millions of dollars to the Pal- Three things. They have to say that and good friend on the other side of the estinians despite no accountability, no they are opposed to terror, that they aisle, Mr. CANTOR, for the unnecessary modern financial controls, no trans- are ending their support for terror. loss of his 16-year-old cousin, Daniel. I parency, and no actual knowledge of They have to recognize Israel’s right am heartsick about that, and did not where our tax dollars are going, and to exist. They have to recognize pre- know until this evening that he had the continued attacks on innocent vious agreements that were signed by died. Israeli women and children. previous Palestinian governments. This bill, Madam Speaker, is not I am an original cosponsor of this What is so difficult about that? How about punishing the Palestinian peo- legislation. However, it is substantially can we ask Israel to sit and negotiate ple. This bill is about reasonable de- weaker than the one that I originally with a group that does not recognize mands for United States assistance. authored. In my opinion, we should be their right to exist, with a group that There are three requirements on the eliminating all aid to the Palestinian wants to destroy them and kill them, Hamas-led PA to receive and to con- Authority, not granting the adminis- and have another Holocaust? This is tinue to receive financial aid from the tration broad-based exemptions to con- nonsense. United States. tinue to fund this regime. All this bill does is simply say that You must recognize Israel’s right to The legislation grants direct aid to we will be cutting off aid to Hamas. exist. They must denounce and combat Abu Mazen for nonsecurity expenses. It And for my colleagues who say that terrorism, and they must accept the also grants direct aid for his personal the administration does not want it roadmap and other past agreements. security detail. Abu Mazen is a power- now, we should not do it because the These are the three simple require- less and ineffective leader. Since being administration does not want it, Ms. ments that must be met in order to re- elected president, he has had every op- ROS-LEHTINEN and I were sponsors of ceive continued financial aid from the portunity to create peace with the the Syria Accountability Act. United States. Israelis and establish a Palestinian The administration at first opposed The problem the Palestinians have, State. it. Do you know why? Administrations as I have said so many times before is When he had the power he would not always oppose bills like that because not money, the problem has been and or could not take the first step to dis- administrations do not think that Con- continues to be a complete failure of arm the terrorists and end the violence gress should play any role in the con- leadership. against Israel. Now he is the President ducting of foreign policy. If one was tuning in tonight and lis- of nothing. Why is the United States Well, we do. We are here. We have a tened to some of my colleagues, they continuing to prop him up? Why are right to pass laws that express the de- would think that the United States has our tax dollars being used to support sires of this Congress and the desires of been rather stingy with the Palestin- this guy in the first place? the American people. So it is nonsense ians. But I would like to enlighten This bill also grants a broad-based to say that the administration opposes those that do not know, that since the exemption for indirect aid through the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H3008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 NGOs within the West Bank and the power. And that is a mistake. It goes b 2145 Gaza. Why should Americans be forced far beyond dealing with the ramifica- But there is one other accolade be- to foot the bill when the PA is unable tions of January’s elections, and cause Mr. LANTOS is a professor, and I to provide us an accounting for lit- Hamas’s rise to power, essentially Pal- appreciate the scholarly approach he erally billions of dollars that we have estinian moderates and institutions brings that tempers his experience and spent? that have nothing to do with Hamas. his emotion that makes this a learning Madam Speaker, it is time for the Most independent observers feel that experience. And I truly believe that as Palestinian leadership and the Pales- that is counterproductive and it may a result of his input this evening that tinian people to stop blaming Israel well end up backfiring and actually this has been a valuable learning expe- and the United States for their utter providing further strength to the ex- rience for me, and I think it has en- failure to provide for their own needs. tremists. I listened to the delightful riched the record. Whatever happens exchange between Mr. LANTOS and Mr. Yassar Arafat stole millions of dollars with this legislation as it goes through FRANK on the floor earlier. I always from his own people. the course of the legislature, as I do marvel watching two parliamentary If Hamas needs money to provide not doubt that it will pass tomorrow, masters go back and forth. I listened to basic services for the Palestinian peo- that we will all be a little more knowl- Mr. FRANK’s argument tying it back to ple, let them hunt down Yassar Ara- edgeable as a result of this, and I earmarking. And it was a thoughtful fat’s widow and get the millions of dol- think, in the long run, we will be able and amazing argument. lars that her husband stole from his to do our jobs better, and for that, I own people. The problem is a lack of But one of the concerns I have, given the nature of Hamas, and listening thank him. leadership, a lack of vision, a lack of Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- very carefully to Mr. FRANK’s words, is hope for the future, lack of civilized be- ance of my time. they are going to claim credit any way havior, not a lack of money. Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, before they can for anything that happens, Until Hamas agrees to recognize yielding the balance of our time to my much as we see political processes gen- Israel’s right to exist, denouncing and good friend from Texas, let me express combating terrorism and accepts the erally do that. It is important that in our desire to my deepest appreciation to my friend roadmap and other past agreements, from Florida, who has done her usual not only should we not be giving one stop Hamas from either assistance or a foothold for claiming credit, that we extraordinary job, for her principled more dime, we should be asking for a statement and impeccable logic. We refund from the Palestinian Authority. are very surgical about what we do for the Palestinian people, and the ability are all in her debt. Mr. BLUMENAUER. Madam Speaker, I want to express my deep apprecia- to move forward with peace. I yield myself such time as I may con- tion to my very good friend from Or- sume. Madam Speaker, I think it is impor- tant for us to review the administra- egon for his unduly gracious comments Madam Speaker, as I prepare to con- which I deeply appreciate. And I want clude my presentation and yield back tion’s concerns. They have stated that they feel it is unnecessary, as the exec- to thank all of my colleagues who have my time this evening, I truly have en- spoken on all sides of this issue. This joyed the give and take that we have utive branch already has ample author- ity to impose all its restrictions. It has been an excellent debate, and it is had this evening under the leadership does constrain the executive’s ability appropriate that it should be wound up of our subcommittee chair, Ms. ROS- in the flexibility to use sanctions as by one of our best debaters, my friend LEHTINEN, the work that has been done appropriate to address rapidly chang- from Texas, SHEILA JACKSON-LEE. I by staff members on both sides of the ing circumstances, which we all sin- yield her the balance of our time. aisle, the passion, the emotion, the cerely hope happen for the positive in The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- concern, and the professionalism that 1 this troubled area of the world. tlewoman is recognized for 3 ⁄4 minutes. we have witnessed. Their concerns about the mandatory Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. The I personally have appreciated it. I nature of the bill’s sanctions, the rel- gentleman is very kind. Before I start, think it is a healthy give-and-take that ative absence that relates to activities may I ask for additional time from the we have had. I think it is an important absent an unachievable certification, a distinguished gentlelady from Florida, debate. It is not the last word that we lack of a general waiver authority on 11⁄2 minutes. I thank the distinguished are going to enjoy. I would simply its key ban on assistance, and that gentlelady very much. make a couple of points in closing. I these limitations should be time lim- Madam Speaker, let me thank Mr. continue to be concerned that we not ited. LANTOS for his extreme kindness to talk past one another. There is going The administration has also raised yield to, in essence, a non-member of to be, under existing United States the concern that the exemption for this great committee this time. Let me law, no aid for Hamas. It is illegal to ‘‘basic human health needs’’ is too nar- acknowledge my good friend from Flor- give assistance to a terrorist organiza- row and should be broadened to ‘‘basic ida for her leadership, and also I might tion. Hamas certainly is. human needs’’. Indeed both sides on the add my appreciation to the distin- And they are not going to be entitled floor this evening often used those two guished gentleman from Oregon for to aid regardless of what happens with terms interchangeably, but they are bringing his vast perspective to this de- this bill. I continue to be concerned very different under the bill. bate. I believe this is what democracy that the language of the bill is not, as But I do think we have reached the is all about. some of my friends who have spoken on point where both my leg and my store Certainly I could not stand here to- the other side of the aisle refer to, of information here has been ex- night and not add my appreciation for talking about how humanitarian aid hausted. I wanted to make one last Chairman HYDE who I believe has can go through. That is not what the point, because there has been reference worked over the years to seek a level bill says. It is health that is the auto- this evening to the joy of serving with and a plateau and a place of, if you matic pass-through. Mr. LANTOS. will, harmony and bipartisanship. Education, as has been referenced, is I never cease to marvel, when we are Tonight is a very difficult time for not a part of the automatic exemption. in the midst of this, that he adds a di- many of us. And, in fact, I think we This lack of flexibility is one of the mension to the debate that I think is have had an enormously thoughtful de- reasons why this bill is opposed by very important. I never cease to learn bate. We find ourselves this evening, as Americans for Peace Now, the Israel something in the course of what hap- I offer my sympathy to the family of Policy Forum, Brit Tzedek, Shalom, pens in the committee or here on the Congressman CANTOR for his loss, we Churches for Middle East Peace, and floor. Reference has been made to him find ourselves on the piercing horns of the United States Conference of Catho- as the only Holocaust survivor who has dilemma, and they are piercing out- lic Bishops. walked these halls. side. That is that we find ourselves The bill sets permanent and inflexi- And it adds a dimension, not just to fighting for peace between the Pales- ble limits on the United States’s abil- this debate, but one that carries tinian Authority and Israel, and we ity to be involved with Israel and Pal- through in activities in Asia, in Africa, find ourselves fighting for the exist- estine, whether or not Hamas is in in the bigger picture across the world. ence and recognition of the State of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3009 Israel and the acceptance by the world and they can be read clearly that Palestinian governing authority that denounces of a two-state position that has been health and humanitarian needs can be and combats terrorism, upholds human rights authored and supported by so many, in- taken care of and educational needs for all people, and has agreed to recognize cluding the now ailing former Prime can be taken care of with the consulta- Israel as an independent Jewish state. Minister Sharon. tion of this Congress. This is a very dif- The Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006 I was in Israel just a few months ago ficult time. There are hard choices to would freeze aid to the Palestinian Authority visiting Prime Minister Sharon at the make and I would argue that the Arab (PA) and nongovernmental agencies (NGOs) Hadassah Hospital, listening to a vari- League has been, if you will, absent unless for educational needs and overridden ety of individuals pontificate about the from the team. The Arab League has by the President, operating in the West Bank pending election and having some been absent from this process. and Gaza so long as Hamas, or any other ter- small iota of hope that Hamas, if elect- So as I close, let me say that there is rorist group, is a part of the Palestinian gov- ed, would assume the realm of leader- fault everywhere. We can blame anyone ernment. The Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act ship and stand up and acknowledge we and everyone. But it is clear what has puts in place a stringent benchmark that must want two states, we reject terrorism, to be done. That is the denouncing of be met by the PA before America resumes and we reject any idea that Israel violence. I want to say to our friends aid. The aid will not be resumed until the should not exist. Unfortunately, this here in America, Palestinian friends President certifies that the PA is not controlled did not happen. and others, you can be part of this so- by and does not include terrorist groups and This reminds me of the time that Dr. lution. We are not here to undermine that the PA has demonstrated substantial King led as he moved into the time the children of Palestine or the women progress towards a number of specified goals. when more groups began to circle and or the families or those who are sick, I know we can have peace if people of good intervene in ‘‘the movement’’ as we but we are here to heal the land and to will—no matter what their faith help denounce called it; and he welcomed the young- cause an opportunity for peace so that violence and begin to work for two peaceful sters and those who had provocative two states can live along with each states. and different thoughts. He knew that other. I hope that this bill will not be misinterpreted the ultimate end was what they all I cannot be a hypocrite tonight, and as stifling the Palestinian Authority or harming cherished, and that is the elimination as I cry out for Sudan, I must cry out the Palestinian people. This bill has been of the shackles of segregation and rac- for peace between Israel and the Pal- carefully written to make a compelling state- ism and the divide of this country that estinians. I hope this legislation will ment against any government that would chal- was then black and white. But Dr. King begin the debate, and I hope the Arab lenge the sovereignty of another nation, and had to make a very important decision, League and others will join us in this yet preserve the international aid and support whether or not this movement required fight for freedom. to a people in need of stability. his standing firm on denouncing vio- Madam Speaker, I rise today to support, We welcome Prime Minister Ehud Olmert lence. So he had to reject some of the and express my views, on H.R. 4681, the Pal- this week to address a Joint Meeting of Con- gress. I hope that, while he is here, we may groups who came to the circle of the estinian Anti-Terrorism Act. movement. He had to stand for non- For the last few months, we have watched discuss actions that will serve to dissuade violence. He had to stand for the move- the Middle East transform once again, and stakeholders from violence, and actions that ment being one that we could seek the every day, we have witnessed history in the will be a catalyst toward peace and stability in the Middle East. plateau of freedom without violence. making. One event occurred this week that fills me And so I stand here today because I Israel experienced the end of an era when with hope: Deputy Prime Minister Shimon want to at least express the fact that the Honorable Ariel Sharon was disabled by a Peres and Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni met those of us who argue for the opportu- powerful stroke. Israel also resurrected its with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on nities around the world, for the peace government into an entity focused on stability the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in around the world, for the elimination and the necessity of safety. The Palestinian Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt, achieving the highest- of the shackles of the Sudanese people Authority successfully elected a new govern- level public talks between Israel and the Pal- and who claim that we want that kind ment in the spirit of democracy. estinian Authority in months. While the discus- of fierce and absolute pressure on gov- I had the opportunity this past January to sion focused on ideas for alleviating Pales- ernment, have to be able to understand visit Israel, to once again tread the soil of the tinian humanitarian problems, both sides said this legislation. I want divestiture and Holy Land, and meet with state officials to dis- it could lead to a first Olmert-Abbas summit. I sanctions in Sudan. And so, clearly, I cuss the ramifications of Mr. Sharon’s illness, am pleased that conversations between the have to understand that there are and prospects of peace in the Middle East. At governments continue, and I hope that we do, times when we must intervene in order the time, apprehension toward the upcoming indeed, see such a summit in the coming to make the point so that freedom Palestinian elections was tangible, and the months. might live. Israeli elections were not too far in the future. Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speak- I hope President Abbas will meet All of Israel and the Middle East knew that this er, I yield myself the balance of my with the prime minister, the new prime was a turning point. time. minister of Israel. I hope that they will Now, however, we have a conundrum. Madam Speaker, I thank all of my find a common ground and a way to Where we want to encourage and celebrate a colleagues who have participated in promote peace. But at the same time, I democratic election, we are dismayed that the this debate and most especially my think it is important that we make a party elected has a history that disappoints dear friend from California (Mr. LAN- firm stand to find in our hearts and our hopes of peace and a mutually beneficial res- TOS). He is always on the right side of minds the ability to stand up to Hamas olution in the near future. all of these issues. Thank you, Mr. and ask them to reject violence but Until we can achieve a two-state solution LANTOS, for your friendship and your also to say these three words: Israel with lasting peace, we must address the fact leadership. can exist. That is what we are asking that the government now in power has not met Madam Speaker, Hamas has a choice for tonight. the baseline requirements for returning to the to make. It can be part of our broader I guess I speak as one who has a great discussion table. post-9/11 policy of being with peace-lov- kinship and friendship with many Mus- Over the last few months, we have seen the ing, freedom-loving, democratic na- lims around this Nation and this world. Palestinian people elect a government that tions, or it can be with the Islamic ter- Particularly, I speak tonight to those promised more organization and resilient pub- rorists. Yet, this is what Hamas’ choice Palestinian Americans who are frus- lic administration, as well as less corruption has been. trated and confused by legislation such and abuse of its citizens. However, the charter On its commitment to terrorism, the as this. I beg of them to link arms with of Hamas remains committed to the destruc- security forces head says, ‘‘We have all of us and demand of the Hamas that tion of the nation of Israel, and the supremacy only one enemy, they are Jews. I will they rid themselves of this violence so of the Islamic faith around the world. The Pal- continue to carry the rifle and pull the their children can learn, so the sick estinian Authority is struggling to deliver the trigger whenever required to defend my and the feeble can be taken care of. But stability it promised on the campaign trail. people.’’ I do thank the authors of this legisla- H.R. 4681 states that it shall be U.S. policy On refusing to recognize Israel, the tion for putting these exceptions in, to promote the emergence of a democratic Hamas spokesman says, ‘‘I believe that

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H3010 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 the question of recognizing Israel will Marshall Plan after World War II. By rebuilding meet, Madam Speaker, given our need to en- never be at any time on the agenda of Europe, America continues to be stronger. sure that such projects do not in any way ben- the Hamas movement, the PLC or the Yes, there were communist factions that the efit Hamas, either politically or economically. Palestinian government.’’ United States deplored, but we knew the need Nor, Madam Speaker, is it too much to ask The foreign minister has said, ‘‘Even was real, and punishing the whole for the acts that the consultation period be a bit longer if the U.S. gave us all its money in re- of the few was wrongheaded in the extreme. than usual—25 days instead of 15—given this turn for recognizing Israel and giving Today, our actions must be motivated only unprecedented situation, in which we would up one inch of Palestine, we would by our intense desire to achieve a just and provide aid to a people whose government is never do so even if this costs us our lasting peace. The compassion and charity of controlled by terrorists. This is new territory, lives. Our right to pursue the resist- the American people should be reflected in and we owe it to the taxpayers to proceed ance will remain as long as the occupa- this legislation, though sadly, they are si- cautiously. Indeed, we cannot be sure that the tion continues over our lands and our lenced. new Hamas-controlled Palestinian Authority holy sites.’’ Madam Speaker, make no mistake, a vote will not exert control over schools and other This is the leadership of Hamas. So cast in favor of H.R. 4681 is not a vote for institutions currently run by non-governmental we have a choice, Madam Speaker. peace, it is not a vote for America and it is not organizations. Allow American taxpayer dollars to a vote that I will cast. In this unusual and potentially explosive sit- help support Hamas and other Islamic I urge my colleagues to cast their votes uation, it seems to me the very least we extremists or prevent such a manipula- against this unwise and unproductive resolu- should ask is that our assistance to the Pales- tion of U.S. funds and ensure that they tion. tinian people clearly further our national secu- help promote our U.S. interests. I hope Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Madam rity interests. This is our minimal obligation to that our colleagues make the right de- Speaker, I rise in strong support of this legisla- our constituents. cision tomorrow, and I hope that they tion. We will insist on this basic standard, Madam will help us pass this bill. Earlier this year we watched as the Pales- Speaker, and we will give assistance for ap- Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today tinian people went to the polls and voted into propriate purposes—and I am quite sure the to urge my colleagues to exercise restraint power a group that has employed car bomb- level of our assistance will continue to be and perspective in our consideration of H.R. ings, suicide bombings, mortar attacks, greater than that of any Arab nation, including 4681. Qassam rocket attacks, and assassinations to those who have been wallowing in ever-in- President Bush’s Administration has already achieve its stated goal of destroying Israel. creasing windfall profits over the past three stated the bill is ‘‘unnecessary as the Execu- Last January, Hamas—the radical Islamic years. tive branch already has ample authority to im- Palestinian organization that has sought to Also, Madam Speaker, H.R. 4681 cuts off pose all its restrictions and it constrains the expel Jews and destroy the state of Israel to U.S. contact with those who represent ter- Executive branch’s flexibility to use sanctions, establish an Islamic Palestinian state based rorism, not those who represent democracy. if appropriate, as tools to address rapidly on Islamic law—won a majority of the seats in H.R. 4681 establishes a policy that the U.S. changing circumstances.’’ With that kind of en- the Palestinian Legislative Council. should not negotiate or have substantive con- dorsement, we must ask ourselves what this This group has been recognized by the tacts with terrorist organizations such as legislation seeks to accomplish. United States and the European Union as a Hamas or Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Additionally, the so-called Anti-Terrorism Act terrorist organization, and has committed hun- H.R. 4681 explicitly recognizes that working of 2006 limits diplomatic visas to members of dreds of acts of terrorism against Israeli citi- with Palestinian moderates is in U.S. interest the Palestinian Authority and would tie the zens since its creation in 1987. by allowing assistance to be provided to Presi- I fully support the democratic process, but hands of the foreign policy community when it dent Abbas to facilitate a peaceful resolution the views of Hamas are at odds with that comes time to negotiate peace between the of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. PA and Israel. How many times has peace process and its principles, and I do not believe H.R. 4681 allows travel to the UN and gives been brokered on American soil? Eliminating we should continue providing funding to a the President an authority to waive this restric- dialogue does not help to advance peace in group that’s stated purpose is the destruction tion to allow Palestinian moderates who are in the region. Peace only comes through mutual of another democratic country. the Palestinian Legislative Council to come to understanding. This legislation sends a message to Hamas, the United States to visit. Reasonable, even intelligent people can, but protects humanitarian assistance for the I urge all my colleagues to support H.R. and frequently do, disagree on how best to Palestinian people by continuing U.S. assist- 4681. achieve peace in the Middle East, but, peace ance through NGOs and USAID. must be the goal of our foreign policy tools, H.R. 4681 also gives the President authority Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, I at- whether they be by the stick or by the carrot. to waive many of the provisions of the bill if tach an exchange of letters between Chairman Peace cannot come from punishing the Pal- Hamas changes its stance or a new Pales- HYDE and Chairman OXLEY concerning the bill estinian people. Even Israel’s Foreign Minister tinian Authority government emerges. H.R. 4681 ‘‘Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act of knows that. He states in Reuters, that, ‘‘Israel We cannot allow U.S. taxpayer dollars to 2006.’’ is prepared to release Palestinian tax reve- get in the hands of a Hamas-controlled gov- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, nues into a proposed aid mechanism being ernment to be used against Israel, and this bill COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL SERVICES, Washington, DC, May 15, 2006. will prevent that from happening while pro- set up by Middle East mediators to avert the Hon. HENRY J. HYDE, collapse of the Palestinian health sector . . .’’ tecting humanitarian aid to the Palestinian Chairman, Committee on International Rela- Instead, this legislation seeks to accomplish people. tions, House of Representatives, Wash- exactly what President Bush’s Administration Madam Speaker, we need to send Hamas a ington, DC. and the Israeli Foreign Minister realize is message that we will not stand by while it con- DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: I am writing to con- counterproductive. I can tell you that after 30 tinues to endorse terrorism and violence. firm our mutual understanding with respect years in Congress, I have seen legislation I urge my colleagues to join me in sup- to the consideration of H.R. 4681, the Pales- succeed and fail. This legislation is rigid, and porting H.R. 4681. tinian Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006. This bill Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, in conclu- was introduced on February 1, 2006, and re- unnecessary. ferred to the Committees on International To put it plainly, when you take from people sion I reject the claim that our bill does not Relations, Judiciary and Financial Services. who already have nothing, you breed trouble, allow our government to support worthwhile I understand that committee action has al- you don’t combat it. How easy will it be for Al- projects for the Palestinians in the West Bank ready taken place on the bill. Qaeda to tell a man whose child is dying that and Gaza. In fact, it makes every possible al- Section 9 of the bill as introduced falls the doctors are no longer there because the lowance for such projects, consistent with U.S. within the jurisdiction of this Committee Americans took them away? How easy will it national interests. and could be the subject of a markup. How- be to recruit a whole new generation of list- First of all, our legislation makes an explicit ever, in response to a request from this Com- less, impoverished youths? exception for supporting the basic human mittee, I thank you for your agreement to support in moving this legislation forward Madam Speaker, I reject the idea that this health needs of the Palestinian people. the modification of section 9 to remove from legislation will combat terrorism. I reject it be- Second, it includes a waiver that requires the certification requirement for inter- cause we have history as our teacher. the President only to certify that such assist- national financial institutions a determina- The best nation-building, goodwill act that ance furthers our national security interests. tion of the President that the Palestinian the United States has ever produced was the That is not an unreasonably high standard to Authority has taken effective steps and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3011 made demonstrable progress toward ‘‘ensur- lenge. The bill which is before the House because they support terror, but because they ing democracy, the rule of law, and an inde- today is based on a proposal by our col- were desperate for a better quality of life. pendent judiciary, and adopting other re- leagues, ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN and TOM LAN- Hamas was providing basic services that their forms such as ensuring transparency and ac- countable governance.’’ Given the impor- TOS. existing government was, for whatever reason, tance and timeliness of the Palestinian Anti- The fact that the Palestinians voted, albeit unable to provide. Terrorism Act, and your willingness to work by a plurality and not a majority, to put Hamas I would like to take this opportunity to say with us regarding these issues, further pro- in power in the Palestinian Authority does not that supporting this bill is not a rejection of the ceedings on this bill in this Committee will mean that the United States has to support Palestinian people. America’s position is clear: no longer be necessary. However, I do so only that government. The Palestinian people must we support a two-state solution in accordance with the understanding that this procedural live with their own decisions; the United States with the Roadmap. route should not be construed to prejudice need not, and should not, deal with, let alone the jurisdictional interest of the Committee And although we cannot and should not on Financial Services on these provisions or support, terrorists—whether elected or not. support Hamas, we must not abandon the Pal- any other similar legislation and will not be The legislation we have before us today estinian people. We must continue to support considered as precedent for consideration of provides a series of firewalls to prevent fund- humanitarian aid—including health, education, matters of jurisdictional interest to my com- ing under the Foreign Assistance Act from and civil society initiatives—to ensure that the mittee in the future. Furthermore, should flowing to the Palestinian Authority, from which next generation of Palestinian children can these or similar provisions be considered in a it could support, or be seen to be supporting, know something other than violence, despera- conference with the Senate, I would expect the Hamas’ terrorist leadership of the Pales- members of the Committee on Financial tion, and hatred. Only then will we have any Services be appointed to the conference com- tinian Authority. It also provides for ways, sub- hope of achieving true peace. mittee on these provisions. ject to appropriate findings and consultation Mr. FOSSELLA. Madam Speaker, I rise in Finally, I would ask that you include a with the Congress, to get funding to the Pales- strong support of H.R. 4681, the Palestinian copy of our exchange of letters in the Con- tinian people through the funding of non-gov- Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006. I was deeply con- gressional Record during the consideration ernmental organizations. of this bill. If you have any questions regard- cerned when I learned that the Hamas party We have provided exceptions, subject to was elected to take control of the Palestinian ing this matter, please do not hesitate to certain certification and consultation require- call me. I thank you for your consideration. Authority. In FY 2005, the United States ap- Yours truly, ments, for—among other things—assistance propriated $275 million to the West Bank and MICHAEL G. OXLEY, to the President of the Palestinian Authority. Gaza, with $50 million of that funding going di- Chairman. Mahmoud Abbas, the current Palestine Presi- rectly to the Palestinian Authority. But now, dent, is clearly not a terrorist, and having with Hamas in control of the Palestinian Au- COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL RE- worked with him, we must make it possible for thority, not one dollar of taxpayer money LATIONS, HOUSE OF REPRESENTA- him to be protected, if required, and to be an TIVES, should go to this terrorist organization. The effective negotiator. He still has a lot of institu- Palestinian people have every right to elect a Washington, DC, May 15, 2006. tional power under the Palestinian constitution, Hon. MICHAEL G. OXLEY, terrorist organization to control their govern- Chairman, House Committee on Financial Serv- and he should be encouraged and enabled in ment—and the United States has every right ices, Washington, DC. exercising that power responsibly. to eliminate any financial assistance for it. Under the Foreign Assistance Act, it will be DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: Thank you for your Under H.R. 4681, the Hamas-led Palestinian letter concerning H.R. 4681, the Palestinian possible to provide assistance, even to a ter- Authority would become eligible for United Anti-terrorism Act of 2006. As you noted, rorist-dominated Palestinian Authority, to deal States foreign assistance only when Hamas this bill has been referred to both of our with health emergencies such as avian flu. renounces violence, dismantles the terrorist in- committees as well as the Committee on the That sort of assistance should flow, and in- Judiciary. The Committee on International frastructure in the West Bank and Gaza, rec- deed flows today. Relations has filed its report on the bill (109– ognizes Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state Finally, we establish, by statute, a policy 462, Part I). I concur that provisions within and accepts all previous Israeli-Palestinian that officials of the United States should not Section 9 of the bill, as introduced, fall with- agreements. in the jurisdiction of this Committee and negotiate with members of terrorist organiza- could be the subject of a markup in your tions such as Hamas and that our government Hamas is responsible for countless homi- committee. In order to expedite consider- should oppose funding the Palestinian Author- cide bombings that have killed hundreds of ation of the bill by the House, I am willing ity, under the current circumstances, through Israeli citizens. They have waged a terror war to modify language in Section 9 relating to International Financial Institutions. with the sole intent of murdering innocent peo- international financial institutions. ple. Hamas is responsible for some of the Based on the agreement to modify the With that brief outline of the bill’s key points, Madam Speaker, I would like to express my most horrific terrorist attacks in recent years, manager’s amendment to reflect our under- including the March 2002 Passover Massacre standing, I appreciate your willingness to thanks to Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN and Mr. LANTOS forgo a committee markup of the bill. I un- for their efforts. that killed 30 people; the June 2002 Patt Junc- derstand that this waiver should not be con- Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. tion Massacre which killed 19 people; and the strued to prejudice the jurisdictional inter- Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of this 2003 Jerusalem Bus attack which killed 23 est of the Committee on Financial Services bill and in support of peace and prosperity for people. And recently, Hamas backed the Apri1 on these provisions or any other similar leg- all the people of the Middle East. 2006 bombing of a Tel-Aviv restaurant that islation and will not be considered as prece- For years, the international community has killed 9 people. dent for consideration of matters of jurisdic- The Hamas Charter reads: ‘‘Israel will exist tional interest to your committee in the fu- tried to work with Israelis and Palestinians to ture. I also agree that, should these or simi- forge a lasting peace in the Middle East. But and will continue to exist until Islam will oblit- lar provisions be considered in a conference the election of Hamas to control the Pales- erate it, just as it obliterated others before it.’’ with the Senate, I will request the Speaker tinian Parliament was a shock to all of us, and Hamas’ victory further jeopardizes the to name members of the Committee on Fi- the announcement that their party would rule peace process and creates greater instability nancial Services to the conference com- alone disheartening. in the region. I have no confidence in Hamas mittee on these provisions. It remains to be seen whether participation as a responsible leader of the Palestinian Au- As requested, I am inserting a copy of our thority nor do I believe the terrorist group exchange of letters in the Congressional in the democratic process can truly have a Record during the deliberation on this bill. I moderating effect on organizations that have wants peace with Israel. I urge the new gov- thank you for your consideration. supported terror. But until we see evidence to ernment to proceed with caution and exercise Sincerely, that effect, we are forced to deal with the restraint as it assumes power. Any provo- HENRY J. HYDE, world as it is—and in that world, Hamas is a cation on their part will rightly be met with Chairman. terrorist organization. fierce resistance by the Israeli people. Mr. HYDE. Madam Speaker, the election of Hamas uses violence against the innocent H.R. 4681 does allow for humanitarian as- Hamas to a majority within the Palestinian to further its political objectives. It does not ac- sistance, including providing funds to Fattah Legislative Council and to the formation of a cept the Roadmap, and it does not recognize party member Mahmoud Abbas, President of terrorist organization-led government in the the right of Israel to exist. Clearly, we cannot the Palestinian Authority. Under this bill, the Palestinian Authority poses a serious chal- support—with our words or with our deeds— Palestinian People may be eligible for addi- lenge to the United States and its allies. The such an organization. tional aid on a case-by-case basis. While Committee on International Relations has At the same time, we must recognize that strong against Hamas, this bill is not need- crafted an excellent response to that chal- most Palestinian people voted for Hamas not blind to the people of Palestine. Just recently,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 H3012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 22, 2006 the United States sent $10 million worth of House Republicans are focused on their come addicted to alcohol than someone pharmaceuticals to local clinics in the Gaza concerns and are working very hard to who starts drinking at age 21 or later. Strip on May 10. lower the costs of gasoline over the Prevention efforts have been, I would Mr. SHAYS. Madam Speaker, the founding mid and long term. say, very minimal. The Federal Gov- charter of Hamas reads, ‘‘Israel will rise and Republicans introduced and passed ernment currently spends about 25 will remain erect until Islam eliminates it as it the Gasoline for America’s Security times more annually to combat youth had eliminated its predecessors.’’ Madam Act which will ban price gouging and drug use than to prevent underage al- Speaker, when your enemy says he is going increase U.S. fuel supply by encour- cohol use. to kill you, you better pay attention. aging new refineries while at the same Alcohol is a gateway drug. Usually The Hamas victory in Palestinian parliamen- time promoting conservation efforts. those who begin to use cocaine, heroin, tary elections is of great concern to me and The bill passed the House but still and methamphetamine do not start many others and presents a major challenge needs immediate attention in the with those drugs. They start with alco- to the peace process. Hamas ran a campaign United States Senate. hol. Television ads for alcohol products primarily based on cleaning out the corruption Republicans also passed the Energy outnumber responsibility messages by of the Fatah party. The Palestinian people re- Policy Act which reduces the cost of 32–1. In other words, those ads that pro- sponded to this pledge, but sadly in the proc- energy, reduces our reliance on foreign mote the consumption of alcohol are 32 ess elected a terrorist government. oil sources, encourages the use of alter- times more prevalent than those ads Unless Hamas recognizes the State of native power sources and improves our that urge restraint, responsible drink- Israel’s right to exist, ceases incitement and electricity transmission capability. ing or discourage underage drinking. permanently disarms and dismantles their ter- The bill also provides relief to our From 2001 to 2003, the industry spent rorist infrastructure, there is no hope for hardworking farmers by providing tax $2.5 billion on television advertising peace. The bottom line is neither our govern- incentives and money for research and and promoting their product and only ment nor Israel can meet with or provide as- development by ethanol and biodiesel $27 million, a mere fraction, on respon- sistance to a government led by this terrorist energy sources. sibility programs. organization. In addition, House Republicans have Underage drinkers currently account Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speak- repeatedly supported legislation to for 17 percent of all alcohol sales in the er, I yield back the balance of my time. open up the Arctic National Wildlife United States, and that is a huge mar- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Refuge to oil and gas exploration. gin. In my State, Nebraska, underage question is on the motion offered by The Democrats, on the other hand, drinking accounts for 25 percent of all the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. have opposed building new refineries, alcohol sales, and of course, those sales ROS-LEHTINEN) that the House suspend have opposed drilling in ANWR and, in are all illegal. the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4681, as fact, voted against both of these bills. Recent studies have found that heavy amended. Madam Speaker, Republicans have exposure of the adolescent brain to al- The question was taken. worked hard to address America’s en- cohol interferes with brain develop- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the ergy needs. And the Democrats? They ment. In other words, drinking at age opinion of the Chair, two-thirds of vote ‘‘no’’ on every solution. 10 is qualitatively and quantitatively those present have voted in the affirm- f different than drinking at 21 or 25 or 30 or 35 or whatever because of develop- ative. b 2200 Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, mental aspects. on that I demand the yeas and nays. SPECIAL ORDERS This is a brain scan showing a brain The yeas and nays were ordered. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. scan of two 15-year-old young men. The The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- DRAKE). Under the Speaker’s an- scan on the right is a 15-year-old male, ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the nounced policy of January 4, 2005, and heavy drinker, a binge drinker, the per- Chair’s prior announcement, further under a previous order of the House, son who is sober at the time of the proceedings on this question will be the following Members will be recog- brain scan, drinks regularly, binge postponed. nized for 5 minutes each. drinker. The 15-year-old young person f f brain scan on the left is someone who The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a is an abstainer, someone who does not REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- drink at all. These young people were VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF previous order of the House, the gen- tleman from Oregon (Mr. DEFAZIO) is asked to perform memory tests, and H.R. 5384, AGRICULTURE, RURAL you see the brain scan on the right DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG recognized for 5 minutes. (Mr. DEFAZIO addressed the House. showing minimal brain activity, as ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED compared to the young person doing AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS His remarks will appear hereafter in the Extensions of Remarks.) the same memory test on the left. So ACT, 2007 we see what excessive exposure to alco- f Mr. HASTINGS of Washington (dur- hol does to brain function. ing debate on H.R. 4681), from the Com- UNDERAGE DRINKING Many young people drop out of mittee on Rules, submitted a privi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a school, who do not perform well in leged report (Rept. No. 109–477) on the previous order of the House, the gen- school, are simply people who are resolution (H. Res. 830) providing for tleman from Nebraska (Mr. OSBORNE) is heavy drinkers. An estimated 3 million consideration of the bill (H.R. 5384) recognized for 5 minutes. teenagers are full-blown alcoholics at making appropriations for Agriculture, Mr. OSBORNE. Madam Speaker, un- the present time, and that is about six Rural Development, Food and Drug Ad- derage drinking flies under the radar times more than those who are ad- ministration, and Related Agencies for screen for most people. Alcohol is legal dicted to other kinds of drugs. the fiscal year ending September 30, and widely accepted by adults, and yet Alcohol kills six times more young 2007, and for other purposes, which was many times we do not realize the dev- people than all illicit drugs combined, referred to the House Calendar and or- astation that this is causing for young all other illicit drugs. Underage drink- dered to be printed. people. ing costs the United States roughly $53 f The average at which young people billion annually. So this is something, begin drinking is 12.7 years of age, and again, that I mention that ofttimes REPUBLICANS OFFERING ENERGY that age is declining annually. people are simply not aware of. SOLUTIONS Binge drinking is something that is The bill that we have introduced in (Ms. FOXX asked and was given per- very common among young people. On the House that we think is relevant to mission to address the House for 1 average, teenagers drink more by dou- this problem is called the Sober Truth minute.) ble what adults drink per sitting and on Preventing Underage Drinking Act, Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, many per consumption. the STOP Act, and what it would do is Americans are concerned about gaso- Teens who start drinking before age create a Federal Interagency Coordi- line prices. They can rest assured that 15 are four times more likely to be- nating Committee to coordinate efforts

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3013 directed at underage drinking. Right commemoration of this anniversary, and for Seven days later, the defenders of Crete— now, we have multiple programs aimed the benefit of future generations, I will share a though clinging to their rocky defensive posi- at different types of substance abuse brief account of these events as they un- tions—knew that they would soon be overrun. alcohol is one of those. Some of those folded. The evacuation order was given, and nearly programs are in the Department of In early April 1941, the German army 18,000 men were rescued. These valiant sur- Justice, some are in Education, some rushed to the aid of their defeated ally, Italy, vivors had bought the Allies a week’s precious are in Health and Human Services, but and invaded Greece. Following a valiant strug- time free of Nazi air and sea attacks based there is practically no coordination of gle, Greek forces had been pushed entirely off from Crete. More importantly, they inflicted se- these programs. Sometimes they dupli- the continent and were forced to take refuge vere losses on the German airborne forces, cate each other. Sometimes these pro- on the island of Crete. the showpieces of the Nazi army. Although grams do not work well, and so we feel The German army then looked covetously well-armed and thoroughly equipped, the Ger- there needs to be some coordinating across the sea to Crete because of the British mans didn’t break the Cretans’ love of free- commission that coordinates all of airfields on the island, which could be used by dom. these programs, particularly those that the Allies for air strikes against the oil field of Although the Germans captured the island are aimed at alcohol abuse by young Rumania, thereby denying this vital war com- in 10 days, they paid a heavy price. Of the people. modity to Hitler’s forces now preparing for 8,100 paratroopers involved in this operation, It also authorizes a national media their attack on Russia. If captured, it would close to 4,000 were killed and 1,600 were campaign directed at adults. You say, also provide air and sea bases from which the wounded. So injured were the German units well, why would you direct it to adults. Nazis could dominate the eastern Mediterra- that they never again attempted an airborne Well, the main thing is that the atti- nean and launch air attacks against Allied assault of the magnitude launched at Crete. tude of parents is the number one pre- forces in northern Africa. In fact, the Nazi high Hitler may have won the Battle of Crete, but dictor as to whether a young person command envisioned the capture of Crete to he lost the war. The German victory proved a will abuse alcohol as an underage be the first of a series of assaults leading to hollow one, as Crete became the graveyard of drinker or not, and so many parents the Suez Canal. Hitler intended a short, one the German parachute troops. In fact, it is a many times feel if a young person is month, campaign, starting in March. On suc- lesson taught in almost every major military using alcohol, that pretty much pre- cessful completion, his troops would be reas- academy in the world on what not to do. vents them from being involved with signed to Russia. In retaliation for the losses they incurred, Crete’s defenses at the time had been badly heroin or cocaine or methamphet- the Nazis spread punishment, terror and death neglected due to the deployment of Allied amine, when exactly the opposite is on the innocent civilians of the island. More forces in North Africa. GEN Bernard Freyberg true. Someone who starts abusing alco- than 2,000 Cretans were executed during the of the New Zealand Division was appointed by hol at an early age is much more apt to first month alone and thousands more later. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill as be addicted to all kinds of substance, Despite these atrocities, for the 4 years fol- commander of a small contingent of Allied and therefore, we feel there is a lot of lowing the Allied withdrawal from the island, troops which had been dispatched to the is- drug awareness that has to occur with the people of Crete put up a courageous guer- land a few months before and re-enforced by drugs. rilla resistance, aided by a few British and Al- additional troops who had retreated from the It also provides additional resources lied officers and troops who remained. Those Greek mainland. to communities and colleges and uni- Early on the morning of May 20, 1941, involved were known as the Andartes (the versities to prevent underage drinking. Crete became the theater of the first and larg- Rebels). At the present time, annually 1,700 est German airborne operation of the war. The Cretan people of all ages joined or aided young people, college students, die skies above Crete were filled with more than the Andartes. Children would pile rocks in the each year on the college campus be- 8,000 Nazi paratroopers, landing in a massive roads to slow down the German convoys. cause of alcohol abuse. It is the leading invasion of the island, which was subjected to They even carried messages in their school- cause of death on the college campus. heavy bombing and attacks in what became books because it was the only place that the This is double the rate that we have known as ‘‘Operation Mercury.’’ German soldiers never looked. These mes- had for deaths in Iraq. So we feel that Waves of bombers pounded the Allied posi- sages contained information critical to the this is critical. tions followed by a full-scale airborne assault. Andartes who were hiding in the mountains Also, it increases Federal research Elite paratroopers and glider-borne infantry and would come down for midnight raids or and data collection on underage drink- units fell upon the rag-tag Allied soldiers and daytime sabotages. ing. were met with ferocious resistance from the The German terror campaign was meant to f Allied troops and the Cretan population. break the fighting spirit and morale of the Andartes. Besides the random and frequent THE SIXTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY Although General Freyberg had decided not to arm the Cretans because they were be- executions, German soldiers used other OF THE HEROIC BATTLE OF means to achieve their goal. They leveled CRETE lieved to be anti-royalist, they fought bravely with whatever was at hand during the inva- many buildings in the towns and villages, de- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. sion. As soon as the battle broke out, the peo- stroyed religious icons, and locked hundreds FOXX). Under a previous order of the ple of Crete volunteered to serve in the militia. of Cretans in churches for days without food House, the gentleman from Florida Centuries of oppression and several revolts or water, but nothing worked. These actions (Mr. BILIRAKIS) is recognized for 5 min- against Venetians and Turks had taught them only made the Cretans more ferocious in their utes. that freedom is won and preserved by sac- quest for freedom. Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise rifice, and there was hardly a family without a Even in the face of certain death while proudly today to celebrate the 65th anniver- gun stashed somewhere in the house. For the standing in line to be executed, Cretans did sary of the Battle of Crete, a World War II first time, the Germans met stiff partisan re- not beg for their lives. This shocked the Ger- event of epic proportions that profoundly im- sistance. man troops. Kurt Student, the German para- pacted on the determination of many countries War-seasoned men joined the regular trooper commander who planned the invasion, to resist the aggression of Nazi Germany. This troops in the effort to repel the invader. Old said of the Cretans, ‘‘I have never seen such is a story of the sacrifices made by a battered men, women and children participated and a defiance of death.’’ but brave group of individuals thrown together used whatever makeshift weapons they could Finally, the Cretan people participated in in a combined effort to halt the domination of find. The pointed their antiquated guns at the one of the most daring operations that brought a smaller, weaker nation by a larger, more descending German paratroopers. They used shame and humiliation to the German occupa- powerful aggressor. sticks, sickles and even their bare hands to tion forces and exhilaration and hope to the Amidst the cataclysm that engulfed the fight those soldiers already on the ground. enslaved peoples of Europe. Major-General countries of Europe at the time, it seems now Most of them were illiterate villagers but their Von Kreipe, commander of all German forces preposterous that a small island dared to intuition, honed by the mortal risk they were in Crete, was abducted from his own head- stand up to the aggressor to preserve its free- facing, led them to fight with courage and quarters in April 1944 and transferred to a dom and defend its honor. Today, more than bravery. ‘‘Aim for the legs and you’ll get them POW camp in England. half a century later, the heroic events that took in the heart,’’ was the popular motto that sum- The German troops had never encountered place in the Battle of Crete remain etched in marized their hastily acquired battle experi- such resistance. Hitler had initially sent 12,000 the memory of people around the world. In ence. troops to Crete, thinking that the occupation

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would be swift. By the end of the 31⁄2 years of However, to ensure the integrity of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a occupation, Hitler had sent a total of 100,000 our elections, we must verify those previous order of the House, the gen- troops, to confront a little more than 5,000 who vote are actually registered voters tleman from North Carolina (Mr. Cretan Andarte fighters. These German troops and the person they claim to be. Pre- MCHENRY) is recognized for 5 minutes. could have been deployed somewhere else. venting election fraud and taking rea- (Mr. MCHENRY addressed the House. More German troops were lost during the oc- sonable precautions to do so are funda- His remarks will appear hereafter in cupation of Crete than in France, Yugoslavia mental in reassuring us all that our the Extensions of Remarks.) election results are a legitimate ex- and Poland combined. f pression of the will of the people. Most importantly, as a result of the battle in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Crete, Hitler’s master plan to invade Russia Last year, Madam Speaker, the Geor- gia legislature passed, and Governor previous order of the House, the gen- before the coming of winter had to be post- tleman from New Jersey (Mr. PALLONE) poned, which resulted in the deaths of many Sonny Perdue signed into law a com- prehensive voter identification bill. is recognized for 5 minutes. German troops who were not properly pre- (Mr. PALLONE addressed the House. pared to survive the harsh Russian winter. This bill requires an individual to produce a photo ID in order to vote His remarks will appear hereafter in As we Americans know from our history, the Extensions of Remarks.) freedom does not come without a price. For rather than 1 of 17 different forms, in- their gallant resistance against the German in- cluding utility bills, bank statements, f vasion and occupation of their island, Cretans mail, and various non-photo licenses, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a which in no way guarantee that the paid a stiff price. Within the first 5 months of previous order of the House, the gen- possessor of the document is actually the Battle of Crete, 3,500 Cretans were exe- tleman from Indiana (Mr. BURTON) is the identified person. recognized for 5 minutes. cuted and many more were killed in the ensu- Madam Speaker, this law hit a slight ing 31⁄2 years of occupation. (Mr. BURTON of Indiana addressed speed bump when a Federal appeals the House. His remarks will appear Mr. Speaker, there are historical reasons court maintained an injunction on the why we Americans appreciate the sacrifices of hereafter in the Extensions of Re- voter ID law pending certain changes. marks.) the Cretan people in defending their island Thankfully in the opening weeks of during the Battle of Crete. We have a history this year’s legislative session, the f replete with similar heroic events starting with Georgia legislature and the governor The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a our popular revolt that led to the birth of our quickly passed a bill making all the previous order of the House, the gentle- Nation more than two centuries ago. necessary changes ensuring every woman from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) is rec- We must always remember that as long as Georgian can obtain a free photo ID in ognized for 5 minutes. there are people willing to sacrifice their lives each and every one of Georgia’s 159 (Ms. KAPTUR addressed the House. for the just cause of defending the integrity counties. Her remarks will appear hereafter in and freedom of their country, there is always Madam Speaker, this path to reform the Extensions of Remarks.) hope for a better tomorrow. May we take in- has not been an easy one. Legislators f spiration from the shining example of the peo- on both sides of this issue feel very pas- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a ple of Crete in ensuring that this is indeed the sionately, and throughout this debate, previous order of the House, the gen- case. emotions ran high, and they will prob- tleman from California (Mr. ROHR- f ably continue to run high until these ABACHER) is recognized for 5 minutes. reforms are enacted and the law’s oppo- FORMER STATE SENATOR JOE (Mr. ROHRABACHER addressed the nents can see these reforms actually BURTON AND GEORGIA’S VOTER House. His remarks will appear here- help, not hinder, voters. ID LAW While this law may have a few more after in the Extensions of Remarks.) Mr. GINGREY. Madam Speaker, I legal tests to pass, it has been reviewed f ask unanimous consent to speak out of by the Department of Justice through- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a turn for 5 minutes. out the process. I remain confident previous order of the House, the gen- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there that, given a fair hearing, this law will tleman from Ohio (Mr. BROWN) is rec- objection to the request of the gen- stand all legal tests and will provide all ognized for 5 minutes. tleman from Georgia? Georgians with a more fair electoral (Mr. BROWN of Ohio addressed the There was no objection. process. House. His remarks will appear here- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Madam Speaker, strengthening voter after in the Extensions of Remarks.) previous order of the House, the gen- confidence in the electoral process will f tleman from Georgia (Mr. GINGREY) is only encourage more people to vote. I The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a recognized for 5 minutes. know this, and I know Senator Burton previous order of the House, the gen- Mr. GINGREY. Madam Speaker, I knew this when he helped lay the foun- tleman from Michigan (Mr. STUPAK) is rise today to congratulate my State of dation for this reform in the Georgia recognized for 5 minutes. Georgia on its new voter ID law which Senate. Now, with a Republican major- (Mr. STUPAK addressed the House. hopefully will be fully implemented ity in the Georgia legislature and a Re- His remarks will appear hereafter in soon. Additionally, I rise today to publican governor, these nonpartisan the Extensions of Remarks.) honor a friend and former Republican reforms will become a reality to colleague in the Georgia State Senate, strengthen the integrity of our elec- f Joe Burton of DeKalb County. tions for the sake of all Georgians. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Though retired, Senator Burton was f previous order of the House, the gen- one of the legislature’s greatest pro- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a tleman from Tennessee (Mr. DUNCAN) is ponents of voter identification reform, previous order of the House, the gen- recognized for 5 minutes. as well one of the legislative architects tleman from California (Mr. GEORGE (Mr. DUNCAN addressed the House. of this reform. While he may no longer MILLER) is recognized for 5 minutes. His remarks will appear hereafter in be in the Georgia State Senate, the (Mr. George MILLER of California the Extensions of Remarks.) passage of this voter ID reform legisla- addressed the House. His remarks will f tion can be directly attributed to his appear hereafter in the Extensions of efforts. Remarks.) LEAVE OF ABSENCE Madam Speaker, Senator Burton, f By unanimous consent, leave of ab- like most of us, realized open and fair The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a sence was granted to: elections are critical to the preserva- previous order of the House, the gen- Mr. BECERRA (at the request of Ms. tion of our democratic form of govern- tleman from Illinois (Mr. EMANUEL) is PELOSI) for today. ment. Every citizen has not only the recognized for 5 minutes. Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida (at the right but, in many ways, the obligation (Mr. EMANUEL addressed the House. request of Ms. PELOSI) for today and to choose their leaders through the His remarks will appear hereafter in May 23 on account of official business electoral process. the Extensions of Remarks.) in the district.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:02 May 26, 2006 Jkt 000000 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 D:\FIX-CR\H22MY6.REC H22MY6 May 22, 2006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3015 Mr. CAPUANO (at the request of Ms. 7598. A letter from the Director, Office of to the Committees on Ways and Means and PELOSI) for today on account of his Congressional Affairs, Nuclear Regulatory Energy and Commerce. son’s graduation from Boston College. Commission, transmitting the Commission’s f final rule — List of Approved Spent Fuel Mr. LARSON of Connecticut (at the re- Storage Casks: FuelSolutions (TM) Cask REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON quest of Ms. PELOSI) for today and May System Revision 4 (RIN: 3150-AH86) received PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS 23 on account of a family medical April 25, 2006, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. emergency. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of Mr. REYES (at the request of Ms. Commerce. committees were delivered to the Clerk PELOSI) for today on account of official 7599. A letter from the Deputy Director, for printing and reference to the proper business. Regulations and Rulings Division, Alcohol calendar, as follows: and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, trans- Mr. RUPPERSBURGER (at the request Mr. BARTON of Texas: Committee on En- mitting the Bureau’s final rule — Adminis- ergy and Commerce. H.R. 5359. A bill to of Ms. PELOSI) for today on account of trative Changes to Alcohol, Tobacco and business in the district. amend the automobile fuel economy provi- Firearms Regulations Due to the Homeland sions of title 49, United States Code, to au- Mr. SNYDER (at the request of Ms. Security Act of 2002 [T.D. TTB-44] (RIN: 1513- thorize the Secretary of Transportation to PELOSI) for today. AA80) received April 26, 2006, pursuant to 5 set fuel economy standards for passenger Mr. GIBBONS (at the request of Mr. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on automobiles based on one or more vehicle at- BOEHNER) for today and May 23 until Ways and Means. tributes (Rept. 109–475). Referred to the Com- 5:00 p.m. on account of personal rea- 7600. A letter from the Administrator, Of- mittee of the Whole House on the State of fice of Workforce Security, Department of the Union. sons. Labor, transmitting the Department’s final Mr. GRAVES (at the request of Mr. Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky: Committee on rule — Changes to UI Performs — received Appropriations. H.R. 5441. A bill making ap- BOEHNER) for today on account of per- April 4, 2006, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); sonal reasons. propriations for the Department of Home- to the Committee on Ways and Means. land Security for the fiscal year ending Sep- 7601. A letter from the Federal Register Mr. REHBERG (at the request of Mr. tember 30, 2007, and for other purposes (Rept. Certifying Officer, Department of the Treas- BOEHNER) for today through 5:00 p.m. 109–476). Referred to the Committee of the ury, transmitting the Department’s final May 23 on account of personal reasons. Whole House on the State of the Union. rule — Withholding of District of Columbia, Mr. HASTINGS of Washington: Committee f State, City and County Income or Employ- on Rules. House Resolution 830. Resolution ment Taxes by Federal Agencies (RIN: 1510- providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. SPECIAL ORDERS GRANTED AB06) received January 6, 2006, pursuant to 5 5384) making appropriations for Agriculture, U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on By unanimous consent, permission to Rural Development, Food and Drug Adminis- Ways and Means. address the House, following the legis- tration, and Related Agencies for the fiscal lative program and any special orders 7602. A letter from the Chief, Publications and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue year ending September 30, 2007, and for other heretofore entered, was granted to: Service, transmitting the Service’s final rule purposes (Rept. 109–477). Referred to the (The following Members (at the re- — Announcement of Rules Implementing House Calendar. quest of Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas) to American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 Section Mr. SENSENBRENNER: Committee on the revise and extend their remarks and in- 415 Modifications of the Subpart F Treat- Judiciary. H.R. 9. A bill to amend the Voting clude extraneous material:) ment of Aircraft and Vessel Leasing Income Rights Act of 1965; with an amendment [Notice 2006-48] received May 4, 2006, pursu- (Rept. 109–478). Referred to the Committee of Mr. DEFAZIO, for 5 minutes, today. the Whole House on the State of the Union. Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California, for ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee 5 minutes, today. on Ways and Means. f 7603. A letter from the Chief, Publications Mr. EMANUEL, for 5 minutes, today. and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Mr. PALLONE, for 5 minutes, today. Service, transmitting the Service’s final rule Under clause 2 of rule XII, public Ms. KAPTUR, for 5 minutes, today. — Administrative, Procedural, and Miscella- bills and resolutions were introduced Mr. BROWN of Ohio, for 5 minutes, neous (Rev. Proc. 2006-20) received April 7, and severally referred, as follows: today. 2006, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the By Mr. BARTON of Texas (for himself Mr. STUPAK, for 5 minutes, today. Committee on Ways and Means. and Mr. DINGELL): (The following Members (at the re- 7604. A letter from the Chief, Publications and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue H.R. 5438. A bill to amend the Public quest of Mr. GINGREY) to revise and ex- Service, transmitting the Service’s final rule Health Service Act to transfer the National tend their remarks and include extra- — Low-Income Housing Credit (Rev. Rul. Disaster Medical System to the Department neous material:) 2006-14) received April 17, 2006, pursuant to 5 of Health and Human Services, and for other Mr. BURTON of Indiana, for 5 minutes, U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on purposes; to the Committee on Energy and May 23, 24, 25, and 26. Ways and Means. Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Homeland Security, for a period to be Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania, for 5 7605. A letter from the Regulations Coordi- subsequently determined by the Speaker, in minutes, May 24. nator, CMS, Department of Health and Human Services, transmitting the Depart- each case for consideration of such provi- Mr. BILIRAKIS, for 5 minutes, May 23, ment’s final rule — Medicare Program; Con- sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the 24, and 25. ditions for Payment of Power Mobility De- committee concerned. Mr. ROHRABACHER, for 5 minutes, vices, including Power Wheelchairs and By Mr. SMITH of Texas: today. Power-Operated Vehicles [CMS-3017-F] (RIN: H.R. 5439. A bill to amend title 17, United Mr. GINGREY, for 5 minutes, today. 0938-AM74) received April 5, 2006, pursuant to States Code, to provide for limitation of Mr. DUNCAN, for 5 minutes, today. 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); jointly to the Commit- remedies in cases in which the copyright tees on Energy and Commerce and Ways and owner cannot be located, and for other pur- f Means. poses; to the Committee on the Judiciary. ADJOURNMENT 7606. A letter from the Regulations Coordi- By Mr. SMITH of Texas: nator, CMS, Department of Health and H.R. 5440. A bill to amend title 28, United Mr. GINGREY. Mr. Speaker, I move Human Services, transmitting the Depart- States Code, to clarify the jurisdiction of the that the House do now adjourn. ment’s final rule — Medicare Program; Medi- Federal courts, and for other purposes; to The motion was agreed to; accord- care Graduate Medical Education Affiliation the Committee on the Judiciary. ingly (at 10 o’clock and 13 minutes Provisions for Teaching Hospitals in Certain By Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky: p.m.), under its previous order, the Emergency Situations [CMS-1531-IFC] (RIN: H.R. 5441. A bill making appropriations for 0938-A035) received April 12, 2006, pursuant to the Department of Homeland Security for House adjourned until tomorrow, Tues- 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); jointly to the Commit- the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and day, May 23, 2006, at 9 a.m., for morn- tees on Ways and Means and Energy and for other purposes. ing hour debate. Commerce. By Mr. EHLERS (for himself, Mr. f 7607. A letter from the Regulations Coordi- HOLT, Mrs. BIGGERT, and Mr. BOEH- nator, CMS, Department of Health and LERT): EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, Human Services, transmitting the Depart- H.R. 5442. A bill to amend the Elementary ETC. ment’s final rule — Medicare Program; Pay- and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to re- ment for Respiratory Assist Devices With Bi- quire the use of science assessments in the Under clause 8 of rule XII, executive level Capability and a Backup Rate [CMS- calculation of adequate yearly progress, and communications were taken from the 1167-F] (RIN: 0938-AN02] received January 30, for other purposes; to the Committee on Speaker’s table and referred as follows: 2006, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); jointly Education and the Workforce.

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By Mr. NEY (for himself, Ms. WATERS, DAVIS of Tennessee, Mr. FORD, Mr. Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky, Mr. THOMAS, Mr. Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, and Mr. HERGER, Mr. SCHWARZ of Michigan, MURTHA, Mr. MCNULTY, Mr. PLATTS, Mr. SHAYS): Ms. FOXX, Mr. POE, Mrs. JO ANN MCCOTTER, Mr. COLE of Oklahoma, Mr. POR- H.R. 5443. A bill to reform the housing DAVIS of Virginia, Mrs. MYRICK, Mr. TER, Mr. MCKEON, Mr. CHABOT, Mr. ISTOOK, choice voucher program under section 8 of STEARNS, Mr. BUYER, Mr. GOHMERT, Mr. KING of New York, Mrs. JOHNSON of Con- the United States Housing Act of 1937; to the Mr. DOOLITTLE, Mr. CANNON, Mr. necticut, Mr. EHLERS, and Mr. ROGERS of Committee on Financial Services. MCKEON, Mr. BURTON of Indiana, Mr. Michigan. By Mr. KNOLLENBERG: JENKINS, and Mr. ALEXANDER): H.R. 2939: Mr. MARSHALL. H.R. 5444. A bill to amend title 38, United H. Con. Res. 411. Concurrent resolution H.R. 2963: Ms. MCKINNEY. States Code, to provide for annual cost-of- commemorating the anniversary of, com- H.R. 3063: Ms. LEE. living adjustments to be made automatically mending, and reaffirming the national motto H.R. 3282: Mr. CRENSHAW. by law each year in the rates of disability of the United States on the 50th anniversary H.R. 3547: Ms. CARSON. compensation for veterans with service-con- of its formal adoption; to the Committee on H.R. 4023: Mr. JEFFERSON, Ms. MCKINNEY, nected disabilities and the rates of depend- the Judiciary. Mr. PASTOR, Mr. COBLE, Mr. SALAZAR, Mr. ency and indemnity compensation for sur- By Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN (for herself, CRAMER, and Mr. MCGOVERN. vivors of certain service-connected disabled Ms. BERKLEY, Mr. WEXLER, Mr. H.R. 4033: MR. LAHOOD, Mr. FERGUSON, Mr. veterans; to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- MCCOTTER, Mr. PENCE, Mr. CANTOR, GERLACH, Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky, Mr. fairs. Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey, Mr. BUR- LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. FOSSELLA, Mr. By Mr. PRICE of Georgia (for himself, TON of Indiana, Mr. POMBO, Mr. KING CARDIN, Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California, Mr. BACHUS, and Mr. SCOTT of Geor- of Iowa, Mr. RYUN of Kansas, Mr. Mr. DELAHUNT, Mr. COBLE, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. gia): MCHENRY, Mr. ENGEL, Mrs. JO ANN CUELLAR, Mr. SOUDER, Mr. FRANKs of Ari- H.R. 5445. A bill to provide clarification re- DAVIS of Virginia, Mr. CROWLEY, Mr. zona, Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois, Mr. MCIN- lating to credit monitoring services; to the CANNON, Mr. CHANDLER, Mr. CHABOT, TYRE, Mrs. EMERSON, Mr. PLATTS, Mr. Committee on Financial Services. and Mr. ACKERMAN): LANGEVIN, Mr. KING of New York, Ms. By Mr. JINDAL: H. Con. Res. 412. Concurrent resolution SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. LUCAS, Mr. GONZALEZ, H.R. 5446. A bill to direct the Adminis- commemorating the thirty-ninth anniver- Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. SULLIVAN, and Mr. EHLERS. trator of the National Oceanic and Atmos- sary of the reunification of the city of Jeru- H.R. 4197: Mr. ABERCROMBIE and Mr. pheric Administration to report to the Con- salem; to the Committee on International SERRANO. gress on the effects of Hurricanes Katrina, Relations. H.R. 4259: Mr. HIGGINS. Rita, and Wilma on the fisheries and fish By Ms. KAPTUR: H.R. 4704: Ms. LEE. habitat of the United States; to the Com- H. Res. 831. A resolution to support the H.R. 4747: Mr. RAMSTAD, Mr. GENE GREEN of mittee on Resources. goals of an annual National Time-Out Day to Texas, Mr. SHERWOOD, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. By Mr. JINDAL: promote patient safety and optimal out- GEORGE MILLER of California, Mr. PLATTS, H.R. 5447. A bill to amend the Magnuson- comes in the operating room; to the Com- Mrs. DAVIS of California, Ms. CARSON, Mr. Stevens Fishery Conservation and Manage- mittee on Energy and Commerce. SHAYS, Mr. GOODE, Ms. DELAURO, Ms. MCKIN- ment Act to authorize the Secretary of Com- NEY, Mrs. JONES of Ohio, and Mr. merce to establish a regional economic tran- f FORTENBERRY. sition program to provide immediate dis- ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 4755: Mr. FORD. aster relief assistance to the fishermen, H.R. 4854: Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. charter fishing operators, United States fish Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 4890: Mr. CRENSHAW and Mr. HYDE. processors, and owners of related fishery in- were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 4942: Mr. DAVIS of Kentucky. frastructure affected by a catastrophic re- tions as follows: H.R. 4953: Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. gional fishery disaster, and for other pur- H.R. 4974: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. poses; to the Committee on Resources. H.R. 98: Mr. UDALL of Colorado. H.R. 4982: Ms. HART. By Mr. JINDAL: H.R. 115: Mr. DOYLE. H.R. 4992: Mr. EDWARDS. H.R. 5448. A bill to establish the Louisiana H.R. 136: Mr. WHITFIELD. H.R. 4997: Mr. MCDERMOTT. Hurricane and Flood Protection Council for H.R. 202: Mr. SANDERS. H.R. 5067: Mr ALEXANDER. the improvement of hurricane and flood pro- H.R. 558: Ms. MATSUI. H.R. 5134: Mr. SOUDER, Ms. BALDWIN, and tection in Louisiana; to the Committee on H.R. 559: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois and Ms. ZOE Mr. LANGEVIN. Transportation and Infrastructure. LOFGREN of California. H.R. 5150: Mr. CONYERS, Mr. DAVIS of Illi- By Mr. LATOURETTE: H.R. 676: Mr. DOYLE and Mr. MEEHAN. nois, Mr. FARR, and Mr. PETERSON of Min- H.R. 5449. A bill to amend title 49, United H.R. 713: Mr. FORD. nesota. States Code, to modify bargaining require- H.R. 745: Mr. EDWARDS. H.R. 5159: Mr. PLATTS and Mr. BRADLEY of ments for proposed changes to the personnel H.R. 759: Mrs. MCCARTHY. New Hampshire. management system of the Federal Aviation H.R. 881: Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. H.R. 5201: Mr. HEFLEY. Administration; to the Committee on Trans- H.R. 1227: Mr. TANCREDO, Mr. PASCRELL, H.R. 5230: Mr. WELDON of Florida. portation and Infrastructure. Mr. WALDEN of Oregon, and Mr. MILLER of H.R. 5249: Mr. FERGUSON. H.R. 5250: Mr. FOSSELLA, Mr. CLYBURN, Mr. By Mr. EHLERS (for himself, Mr. North Carolina. GRIJALVA, Mr. MILLER of North Carolina, Mr. BOEHLERT, and Mr. GILCHREST): H.R. 1249: Mr. FITZPATRICK of Pennsyl- H.R. 5450. A bill to provide for the National vania. KENNEDY of Minnesota, and Mr. CRAMER. H.R. 5289: Mr. ALEXANDER. Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, H.R. 1315: Mr. CONAWAY. H.R. 5291: Mrs. BLACKBURN and Mr. ALEX- and for other purposes; to the Committee on H.R. 1425: Mr. RANGEL. ANDER. Science, and in addition to the Committee H.R. 1548: Mrs. CUBIN, Mr. MILLER of North H.R. 5316: Mr. BUTTERFIELD. on Resources, for a period to be subsequently Carolina, Ms. LEE, and Mr. PRICE of Georgia. H.R. 5333: Ms. SCHWARTZ of Pennsylvania, determined by the Speaker, in each case for H.R. 1558: Mr. YOUNG of Alaska. Mr. SNYDER, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. FORTENBERRY, consideration of such provisions as fall with- H.R. 1578: Mr. FARR. and Mr. GONZALEZ. in the jurisdiction of the committee con- H.R. 1598: Mr. BOSWELL. H.R. 5346: Mrs. SCHMIDT. H.R. 1749: Mr FORD. cerned. H.R. 5347: Ms. HARRIS and Mr. RENZI. By Mrs. MILLER of Michigan (for her- H.R. 2121: Ms. HOOLEY. H.R. 5399: Mr. MORAN of Virginia, Mr. self and Mr. REHBERG): H.R. 2328: Mr. ISTOOK. LOBIONDO, and Mrs. EMERSON. H.R. 5451. A bill to prevent congressional H.R. 2498: Mr. BOOZMAN. H.R. 5401: Mr. POMEROY and Mr. CARNAHAN. reapportionment distortions; to the Com- H.R. 2808: Mr. KLINE, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. SABO, H.R. 5423: Mr. TOWNS. mittee on Government Reform. Mrs. CUBIN, Mr. KENNEDY of Minnesota, Mr. H. Con. Res. 338: Mr. PENCE, Ms. HARRIS, By Mr. DUNCAN (for himself, Mr. WAMP, Mr. BARRETT of South Carolina, Mr. Mr. CROWLEY, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, PITTS, Mr. GINGREY, Mrs. BLACKBURN, BUYER, Mr. CHOCOLA, Mr. BRADLEY of New Mr. POMBO, and Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky, Mr. WAMP, Hampshire, Mr. SAXTON, Mr. HOLDEN, Mr. H. Con. Res. 380: Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Mr. GOODE, Mr. SULLIVAN, Mr. SES- GUTKNECHT, Mr. LINDER, Mrs. MCCARTHY, Mr. California and Mr. MEEKS of New York. SIONS, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, DOYLE, Mr. STUPAK, Mr. TERRY, Mr. H. Con. Res. 393: Mr. SCOTT of Virginia and Mr. HAYES, Mr. WELDON of Florida, FORTENBERRY, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. Ms. MCKINNEY. Mr. TANCREDO, Mr. LEWIS of Ken- BOUSTANY, Mr. WU, Mr. AL GREEN of Texas, H. Con. Res. 401: Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. LEWIS tucky, Mr. KING of Iowa, Mr. Mr. TANNER, Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky, Mr. of Georgia, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. HINOJOSA, and HOSTETTLER, Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. JENKINS, Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mr. TIBERI, Ms. Ms. ESHOO. TERRY, Mr. RYUN of Kansas, Mr. HART, Mr. WALSH, Mr. BLUNT, Mr. BURGESS, H. Con. Res. 408: Mr. BROWN of South Caro- WESTMORELAND, Mr. MILLER of Flor- Mr. PITTS, Mr. SMITH of Texas, Ms. PRYCE of lina, Mr. FORTUN˜ O, Mr. WILSON of South ida, Mr. SHIMKUS, Mr. TIAHRT, Mr. Ohio, Mr. BROWN of South Carolina, Mr. Carolina, Mr. BASS, Mr. MANZULLO, Mr. KUHL of New York, Mr. CHABOT, Mr. PETRI, Mr. BROWN of South Carolina, Mr. ENGEL, Mr. TIAHRT, Mrs. MILLER of Michi- PICKERING, Mr. JONES of North Caro- PETRI, Mr. STEARNS, Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN, gan, Mr. MCCOTTER, and Mr. KUHL of New lina, Mr. EVERETT, Mr. SOUDER, Mr. Mr. REGULA, Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, York.

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H. Res. 466: Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. minister the National Animal Identification a premium reduction under such section for H. Res. 763: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. System. the 2006 reinsurance year. H. Res. 784: Mr. PAYNE. H.R. 5384 H.R. 5384 H. Res. 785: Mr. WAXMAN. OFFERED BY: MR. KENNEDY OF MINNESOTA H. Res. 790: Ms. MCKINNEY. OFFERED BY: MR. LATHAM H. Res. 799: Mr. LANTOS, Mr. ENGEL, and AMENDMENT NO. 17: Page 9, line 10, insert AMENDMENT NO. 16: Strike section 741 (page Mr. MCNULTY. after the first dollar amount the following: 78, lines 8 through 17), and insert the fol- H. Res. 826: Mr. WOLF and Mr. SABO. ‘‘(reduced by $500,000)’’. lowing new section: Page 19, line 8, insert after the first dollar f SEC. 741. None of the funds appropriated or amount the following: ‘‘(increased by AMENDMENTS otherwise made available by this Act shall $500,000)’’. be used to pay salaries and expenses of per- H.R. 5384 Under clause 8 of rule XVIII, pro- sonnel who implement or administer section posed amendments were submitted as 508(e)(3) of the Federal Crop Insurance Act (7 OFFERED BY: MR. HOLT follows: U.S.C. 1508(e)(3)) or any regulation, bulletin, AMENDMENT NO. 18: Page 5, line 15, after policy, or agency guidance issued pursuant the dollar amount, insert the following: ‘‘(re- H.R. 5384 to such section for the 2007 and the 2008 rein- duced by $3,145,000)’’. OFFERED BY: MR. PAUL surance years, except that funds are avail- Page 17, line 14, after the dollar amount, AMENDMENT NO. 15: At the end of the bill able to administer such section for policies insert the following: ‘‘(increased by (before the short title), insert the following for those producers who, before the date of $3,145,000)’’. new sections: the enactment of this Act, had in effect a Page 17, line 24, after the dollar amount, SEC. ll. None of the funds made available crop year 2006 crop insurance policy from a insert the following: ‘‘(increased by in this Act may be used to implement or ad- company eligible for the opportunity to offer $3,145,000)’’.

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